How to Choose the Right Tennis Racket for Your Child

Why the Right Racket is a Game-Changer

Selecting the correct racket for a child is the foundation of their success, comfort, and safety. At InsideOut Tennis Academy, we often see how an unsuitable racket—one that is too heavy or the wrong size—can frustrate a young player and even lead to avoidable injuries.

Whether you are attending our courses in Schlieren, Dietikon, or Zurich City, having the right equipment ensures your child enjoys every minute on the court. In this guide, we leverage our partnership with Head to help you navigate the technical criteria for the perfect choice.

Size: The Most Essential Criterion

Size is the non-negotiable factor. An adult model is never suitable for a child, especially a beginner. A racket that is too small lacks power, while one that is too large hinders technical development and puts physical strain on the arm.

How to Determine the Ideal Racket Size

To find the perfect fit for your junior player, use these two reliable methods:

1. The Static Test: Have the child stand straight, holding the racket at their side with a relaxed arm. The head of the racket should just graze the ground. If they have to bend their arm, it’s too short; if it hits the ground heavily, it’s too long.

2. The Finger-to-Ground Method: Measure the distance from the child’s fingertips to the floor while they stand upright. This measurement corresponds directly to the ideal racket length.

Understanding Racket Materials

The "feel" and durability of a racket depend largely on what it's made of:

• Aluminum: Found in 17 to 19-inch models. It is shock-resistant and very lightweight—ideal for the youngest players in Spreitenbach or Dietikon just starting out.

• Aluminum & Graphite Composite: Available from 21 inches and up. These provide a boost in power while remaining manageable.

• Full Graphite: Recommended from 25 inches (approx. age 9). These are "miniature" versions of adult high-performance rackets. They offer superior performance and feel but are more fragile than aluminum.

  
  

Weight and Maneuverability

For children’s rackets, weight is usually standardized by size (within 5 grams). However, once a player reaches age 12 and transitions to an adult racket, weight becomes vital. We recommend starting with a lightweight adult model (230g – 260g) to prevent injury. If a racket eventually feels too light, our experts at InsideOut Tennis can add Head lead strips to customize the balance without needing a new racket.

The Grip: Getting a Handle on Comfort

The "Grip" refers to the handle size. In Europe, these range from 000 (smallest) to 5 (large adult).

• The Test: When your child grips the handle, there should be enough space between their middle finger and palm to fit one index finger.

• Adjustment: If you are between sizes, choose the smaller handle. We can always increase the size slightly using a Head Overgrip, which also improves sweat absorption.

  
  

Head Size (The Sieve)

The "sieve" or head size (measured in cm²) dictates the hitting surface.

• Large Surface (645–690 cm²): Offers a larger "sweet spot," providing more power and forgiveness for beginners.

• Small Surface (610–630 cm²): Provides greater control for advanced juniors playing competitive matches in the Zurich region.

  
  

Balance: Power vs. Control

Balance is the distance from the handle base to the balance point:

• Central Balance (~32cm): A perfect compromise of power and maneuverability.

• Head Heavy (>32.5cm): Generates more power but can be harder to control.

• Head Light (<32cm): Provides maximum control and is gentler on the elbow—highly recommended for players with minor arm fatigue.

Frequently Asked Questions for Parents

What about a 3-year-old just starting?

At age 3, coordination is the priority. Choose a very light 17-inch Head Novak racket. It allows them to swing easily without tiring.

My child is a beginner—what should I look for first?

Focus on tolerance and lightweight. A racket with a large hitting surface (like the Head Speed 23 Junior) will absorb vibrations and make it easier to hit the ball over the net with less effort.

Professional Fitting in the Zurich Area

Choosing the right racket involves many technical details. At InsideOut Tennis Academy, serving Zurich, Schlieren, Dietikon, and Spreitenbach, we recommend testing several Head models during our training sessions.

Visit us at InsideOut Tennis Academy in VITIS Schlieren for a professional racket fitting or join our next Junior Course to test the latest Head range!