Tips for Choosing the Right Tennis Grip Size

By Priya Sutaria · September 26, 2026

Grip Size Affects Everything

Your tennis grip size influences your stroke mechanics, wrist snap, and injury risk. A grip that is too small forces you to squeeze harder, causing fatigue and tennis elbow. A grip that is too large restricts wrist movement and reduces spin potential.

The Ruler Test

Place your hand flat on a table with fingers together. Measure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. This measurement in inches corresponds to your grip size.

4.0 inches = Grip 0 (junior)
4 1/8 inches = Grip 1
4 1/4 inches = Grip 2
4 3/8 inches = Grip 3
4 1/2 inches = Grip 4
4 5/8 inches = Grip 5

The Finger Test

Hold a racket with your dominant hand using a continental grip. Slide the index finger of your other hand between your ring finger and palm. If there is too much space, the grip is too large. If your finger cannot fit, the grip is too small.

Overgrip Adjustments

If you are between sizes, choose the smaller one and add an overgrip. Each overgrip adds roughly 1/16 inch to the circumference. This is more versatile than buying a larger handle you cannot shrink.