The Ultimate Guide to Applying Tennis Grips: Achieving a Factory-Perfect Finish

Updated at: 06/03/2025

Tennis grips are more than just a comfortable hold; they're the crucial link between you and your racket, directly impacting your shots' power, control, and feel. A poorly applied grip can lead to discomfort, blisters, and ultimately, hinder your performance on the court. Conversely, a professionally applied grip enhances your game and extends the life of your racket. Many players struggle to achieve that clean, factory-fresh look and feel, leaving them frustrated and with less than optimal playing conditions. This often leads to premature grip replacement, costing both time and money.

This ultimate guide will walk you through the process of applying tennis grips, step-by-step, ensuring a flawless finish that rivals any professional job. We'll cover everything from choosing the right grip to mastering the crucial techniques for a perfectly snug, wrinkle-free result. Get ready to transform your racket and elevate your game with a grip that feels as good as it looks.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use a sharp, new blade to avoid tearing the grip. Dull blades increase the risk of slippage and uneven application.
  • Ensure the racquet is clean and dry before applying the grip. Dust, sweat, or residue can prevent proper adhesion.
  • Wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts and to maintain a cleaner grip application. This prevents oils from your skin from interfering with the adhesive.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • Remove any residue from previous grips.
    Clean the racket handle: Remove any residue from previous grips.
    Preparation

  2. Overgrip Application - Initial Placement

    • Remove the backing from the adhesive starting piece.
    • Align the overgrip flush with the bottom of the butt cap, applying slight pressure to prevent bubbles.
    Start at the butt cap: Align the overgrip flush with the bottom of the butt cap, applying slight pressure to prevent bubbles.
    Overgrip Application - Initial Placement

  3. Overgrip Application - Main Wrap

    • Pull the overgrip taut across the handle, maintaining consistent overlap (1/8 to 1/16 of an inch). For right-handed players, wrap in the direction that aligns with the natural angle of their fingers; reverse for left-handed players.
    • Pay close attention to areas where the handle width changes (top and bottom). Increase tension to eliminate bubbles.
    Increase tension at transitions: Pay close attention to areas where the handle width changes (top and bottom). Increase tension to eliminate bubbles.Increase tension at transitions: Pay close attention to areas where the handle width changes (top and bottom). Increase tension to eliminate bubbles.
    Overgrip Application - Main Wrap

  4. Finishing the Overgrip

    • Continue wrapping until the finishing tape is covered, slightly overlapping the previous layer for added security.
    • Mark the replacement grip location with a marker or razor. Cut along the marked line to create a clean, flush finish.
    Mark and cut: Mark the replacement grip location with a marker or razor. Cut along the marked line to create a clean, flush finish.Mark and cut: Mark the replacement grip location with a marker or razor. Cut along the marked line to create a clean, flush finish.
    Finishing the Overgrip

  5. Finishing Tape Application

    • Wrap finishing tape (or electrical tape) in the same direction as the grip, pulling it taut as you wrap.
    • Cut the finishing tape at an angle to secure it neatly.
    Cut finishing tape: Cut the finishing tape at an angle to secure it neatly.Cut finishing tape: Cut the finishing tape at an angle to secure it neatly.
    Finishing Tape Application

Read more: How to Wrap a Tennis Overgrip: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Clean the handle thoroughly before applying any grip.
  • Consistent overlap is key to a professional look and feel.
  • Apply slight pressure while wrapping to prevent bubbles.
  • Wrap in the direction that best suits your grip style (right-handed or left-handed).
  • Use electrical tape if you've run out of finishing tape.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Applying Grip Too Tightly

Reason: Over-stretching the grip can cause it to bunch up unevenly or tear, leading to an unprofessional finish and reduced grip life.
Solution: Gradually and gently pull the grip taut while applying, ensuring consistent tension throughout.

2. Incorrect Overlap

Reason: Insufficient overlap between the grip and the existing handle can lead to gaps or visible seams, compromising aesthetics and grip security.
Solution: Ensure an overlap of at least one inch to secure the grip and achieve a smooth, seamless transition.

3. Poor Tape Application

Reason: Using too much or too little adhesive tape, or applying it unevenly, can cause the grip to slip or peel off prematurely.
Solution: Apply a consistent, thin layer of adhesive tape, evenly distributed across the end of the grip to secure it properly.

FAQs

How do I remove my old grip without damaging the racket?
Use a grip remover or a hairdryer to soften the adhesive. Gently peel the old grip away, starting at one end. If stubborn residue remains, use rubbing alcohol and a soft cloth to clean the handle thoroughly.
What type of grip tape should I use?
The best grip tape depends on your personal preference and playing style. Oversized grips offer more comfort and cushioning, while thinner grips provide more feel and control. Consider factors like weather conditions and sweat levels when choosing between leather, synthetic, or towel grips.