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Tennis Grips and Overgrips

Tennis grips and overgrips are small but essential components of your game, giving you better control, comfort, and feel with every shot. Whether you’re looking to replace a worn-out grip, reduce hand fatigue, or customise your racket’s feel, the right grip makes a significant difference in how you perform. Since 1988, we’ve been supplying players across the UK with high-quality grips and overgrips that suit every style, condition, and playing level.

Why the Right Tennis Grip Matters

A good grip enhances your connection to the racket, supporting technique and preventing slippage or blisters. Choosing the right tennis grip helps you:

  • Improve comfort and absorb shock on impact

  • Maintain a secure, tacky hold even in hot or humid conditions

  • Prevent blisters, slipping, or loss of control

  • Fine-tune grip size without changing rackets

  • Customise feel, sweat absorption, or cushioning depending on preference

Buying Guide: Tennis Grips vs Overgrips

TypeInstalled OverMain Purpose
Replacement GripDirectly on the racket handleForms the base grip; used to replace the original grip
OvergripOn top of the base gripAdds tackiness, sweat absorption, or comfort without changing the handle shape much

Key Grip Features to Consider

FeatureWhat It Does
TackinessImproves hold in sweaty or wet conditions
CushioningAdds comfort and reduces vibrations
Dry FeelIdeal for players with sweaty hands
DurabilitySome grips last longer under frequent play
ThicknessThicker grips increase handle size; thinner grips maintain precision
PerforationEnhances breathability and moisture management

Subcategory Breakdown

Replacement Grips

Thicker and more durable, applied directly to the handle to provide cushioning and base tack.

Overgrips

Thin, wrap-over grips that modify feel and absorb moisture. Great for regular replacement and fine-tuning.

Tacky Overgrips

Offer a sticky feel for enhanced grip and racket control — ideal for aggressive hitters or humid play.

Dry Feel Overgrips

Used by players with very sweaty hands — focus on moisture absorption and a soft finish.

Cushioned Grips

Provide added padding to reduce shock, protect joints, and improve comfort over long matches.

Perforated Grips

Include small holes to increase ventilation and help hands stay cool and dry.

Expert Tips for Choosing & Installing Grips

  • Use tacky overgrips for hot summer matches or if your racket slips easily

  • Choose dry-feel overgrips if you sweat heavily — they won’t become slick

  • Replace overgrips every 8–12 hours of play for optimal performance

  • Build up grip size using extra overgrips or cushioned options if your grip feels too small

  • Always wrap starting at the butt of the handle, overlapping evenly as you go up

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Replacing an overgrip instead of a worn-out base grip

  • ❌ Using too many overgrips to adjust grip size — it affects control

  • ❌ Ignoring signs of wear — fraying, slick feel, or loss of cushioning

  • ❌ Wrapping grips incorrectly — results in bunching or uneven pressure

  • ❌ Assuming one grip suits all — adjust for weather, court conditions, and personal comfort

Bestselling Tennis Grips and Overgrips

  1. Wilson Pro Overgrip – Ultra-thin, tacky and favoured by pros worldwide

  2. Tourna Grip Original – Dry feel, excellent for sweat management

  3. Babolat Syntec Pro – Durable replacement grip with good tack and comfort

  4. HEAD XtremeSoft Overgrip – Great value and long-lasting tackiness

  5. Yonex Super Grip – Excellent all-round grip with superior absorption

  6. Tecnifibre ATP Pro Contact – High-tack grip with anti-slip surface

  7. Luxilon Elite Dry Overgrip – High performance in hot or humid conditions

  8. Prince ResiPro – Soft base grip ideal for control and shock absorption

  9. Karakal PU Super Grip – Ultra-cushioned and known for vibrant colours

  10. HEAD Hydrosorb Comfort Grip – Perforated, shock-absorbing replacement grip for maximum comfort

Tennis Grips and Overgrips – FAQs

1. What’s the difference between a grip and an overgrip?
A grip (or base grip) is the main layer directly on the racket handle. An overgrip is a thin layer wrapped on top to enhance feel, tackiness, or absorption.

2. How often should I replace my overgrip?
Typically, every 8–12 hours of play, or sooner if it becomes slick, torn, or loses its feel.

3. Do I need to remove the original grip to use an overgrip?
No, overgrips are meant to go on top of your base grip. Only remove the base grip when it’s worn out or being replaced.

4. What grip should I use if I sweat a lot?
Use a dry-feel or absorbent overgrip like Tourna Grip or Luxilon Elite Dry to manage moisture.

5. Can overgrips change my grip size?
Yes — slightly. Adding multiple overgrips can increase grip size, but too many can reduce feel and control.

6. Which grip is best for tennis elbow?
Look for cushioned or shock-absorbing grips like HEAD Hydrosorb Comfort or Babolat Syntec Pro to reduce vibration.

7. Do overgrips come pre-wrapped?
No — they’re supplied flat and must be wrapped manually. Most come with finishing tape to secure the end.

8. How do I install a tennis grip or overgrip?
Start at the base of the handle (butt cap) and wrap upward with a slight overlap. Finish with grip tape or adhesive.

9. What if my grip feels too small?
Try adding an overgrip or switching to a thicker replacement grip. You can also use a heat-shrink sleeve to increase the grip size permanently.

10. Can I reuse overgrips?
Not recommended. Overgrips are designed for single use and wear down quickly, especially in hot or competitive play.

Final Thoughts

Tennis grips and overgrips are key to comfort, performance, and racket control, no matter your skill level. A fresh grip can instantly improve your feel, reduce hand fatigue, and help prevent blisters or slips. Whether you’re a casual weekend player or preparing for match day, we stock the UK’s leading grips and overgrips from the most trusted brands in tennis, with options to suit every hand, condition, and court.

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