How do I measure tennis grip size?

Hold an eastern or continental grip. You should fit one index finger between your fingertips and the base of your palm. That gap means the size is close.

What if I am between two grip sizes?

Buy the smaller one and add an overgrip. Building up is easy; reducing a large handle is not.

Can the wrong grip size cause tennis elbow?

A grip that is too large can force the forearm to work harder and contribute to arm stress. Pair a comfortable size with softish strings and sound technique.

Tennis Racquet Grip Size Guide

4 video lessons

Measure once; if between sizes, go smaller and add an overgrip.

Quick answer & tips ▾

Grip size is the handle circumference, usually labeled L0 through L5 (or 4 to 4 5/8 inches in the US). A simple check: hold the racquet in a continental grip; you should fit the index finger of your other hand between your fingertips and the base of your palm. Too small and the racquet twists; too large and the wrist locks and the arm works harder.

If you are between sizes, pick the smaller grip and build it up with an overgrip. That is easier than trying to shrink a fat handle. Recheck after you add the overgrip you actually play with, and change worn wraps so the size you measured stays true.

Key tips

Use the finger-gap test in a continental grip.
Between sizes? Choose smaller and add an overgrip.
Test grip size with the overgrip you actually play with.
A grip that is too large is harder on the arm than one a touch small.

FAQ

How do I measure tennis grip size?: Hold an eastern or continental grip. You should fit one index finger between your fingertips and the base of your palm. That gap means the size is close.
What if I am between two grip sizes?: Buy the smaller one and add an overgrip. Building up is easy; reducing a large handle is not.
Can the wrong grip size cause tennis elbow?: A grip that is too large can force the forearm to work harder and contribute to arm stress. Pair a comfortable size with softish strings and sound technique.