Tennis accessories for the racket and the player

A racket that looks after itself

A tennis racket wears out over time: the grip smoothens, the strings lose their tension, the head rubs against the ground on low balls, and the grommets that protect the strings become damaged. A few simple accessories can extend its life and keep the playing sensations intact. The player also needs accessories to combat sweat, ensuring the racket stays firmly in hand during long rallies.

The rest of the gear

Tennis also includes:

• Rackets.
• Balls.
• Shoes.
• Clothing.
• Nets and posts.

All things tennis can be found on the tennis page.

Grips, grommets and protection

The replacement grip, like the Head Hydrosorb, the Wilson Pro Performance or the Babolat Syntec, replaces the original wrap of the handle when it’s worn out or hardened: thicker than a replacement grip, it cushions vibrations and restores the handle's shape. It should be changed a few times a year depending on how often you play. The grommets, like the Prince, are the small plastic tubes that protect the strings where they pass through the frame: they are replaced when cracked, during re-stringing. The protective tape Wilson Racket Saver, stuck on the top of the frame, protects it from impacts against the ground.

Avoiding sweat

The sweatbands, like the Nike, Head or Tecnifibre, stop sweat before it reaches the hand, and the headband keeps it away from the eyes. The anti-sweat gel Prince improves grip in hot weather. The wristband Tecnifibre supports the joint. For clubs and friendly competitions, the scoreboard Carrington, attached to the fence, shows games and sets. The strings Tecnifibre, Luxilon and Wilson, in sets or reels, along with vibration dampeners, complete the kit.

Good deals

Good deals can also be found in the bargains, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and dispatched within 24 hours. The year's highlights follow a steady order: Black Friday in late autumn, year-end holidays, winter sales, spring French Days, followed by summer sales and back-to-school events.

Frequently asked questions

When should you change your tennis racket grip?

As soon as it becomes smooth, hardened or slippery. A replacement grip is usually changed every five to ten hours of play for a regular player, while the base grip is changed when it compresses and the handle loses its comfort.

How do you choose the size of your racket handle?

Measure from the central crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger: handle sizes range from zero to five. If you're between sizes, choose the smaller one and thicken it with a replacement grip.

What is the purpose of a vibration dampener?

Placed on the strings, near the frame, it reduces the vibrations from the racket head at impact and the sound of the hit. Its effect on arm pain is limited, but many players enjoy the softer feel it provides.

How often should you re-string your racket?

A common rule: re-string as many times a year as you play times a week. A string that has lost its tension sends the ball further and provides less control, even if it hasn't broken.

What are the grommets for?

They are the small plastic tubes that shield the strings where they pass through the frame. They prevent wear against the edges of the holes and should be replaced when they are cracked or crushed.