Racket maintenance

Choose between a replacement tennis grip and an overgrip

A worn-feeling racket handle does not always call for the same replacement product. Before buying a tennis grip during term, identify what is already fitted and whether you need to replace the base layer or add an appropriate overgrip, rather than treating every roll of grip material as interchangeable.

The LTA distinguishes the primary replacement grip from the thinner overgrip placed above it. Decathlon also provides guidance for those two approaches. Use the instructions for the actual product and seek help when the existing arrangement is unclear, especially if the racket belongs to someone else.

Tailored Deals · Researched guidance · 5 September 2026

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Identify the racket and current handle arrangement

Look at the racket's model information and ask the owner or previous user whether an overgrip has been added. Do not peel layers off a borrowed racket simply to investigate. If it is your own and you are unsure what you see, a suitable racket service or knowledgeable provider can help identify it. Note whether the concern is an outer surface you dislike, a layer coming away or another visible issue. Keep the description factual rather than assuming that every change in feel comes from the same cause. Accurate identification helps you buy the correct component and avoid unnecessary alteration.

Decide which problem you want to resolve

Think about what stops you using the handle comfortably: the surface may be worn, the wrapping may be damaged or the overall size may not suit your preferences. Ask an appropriate instructor or fitting service about questions that go beyond replacing a clearly identified layer. Do not assume that adding multiple overgrips will solve every handle issue. That changes the arrangement you are holding and may not address the underlying concern. The buying decision should name the desired result, such as replacing a damaged outer layer with the same intended type, rather than collecting several rolls in the hope that one will improve the racket.

Choose the product category before the colour

Use the LTA distinction to determine whether the proposed item is a replacement grip or an overgrip. Read the full product description and the supplied quantity, since a packet can contain one component or several. Check whether finishing material is included and what else the instructions require. If the racket or product has a specific compatibility requirement, resolve that before purchasing. Colour can remain a personal preference once the component type is correct. A low price per roll is not helpful if you buy a large pack of the wrong layer or an arrangement you are not confident fitting.

Use an appropriate fitting method or service

Read the complete instructions before beginning any work on an owned racket. If you do not understand the existing layers or the fitting sequence, ask a suitable service to do it or demonstrate the process. Keep tools and materials appropriate to the instructions and avoid improvising structural repairs to the handle. For borrowed equipment, get the owner's explicit agreement before changing anything, even if you believe the result will be an improvement. They may prefer a particular product or a professional service. A small maintenance task should leave the ownership arrangement clear rather than creating a surprise when the racket is returned.

Check the result and keep the useful specification

After fitting, check the finished arrangement as the product instructions describe and ask for help if it moves or sits unexpectedly. Use the racket only in the appropriate setting and avoid presenting one session as a test that proves a product's durability or performance. Keep the product name and the fact that it was a replacement grip or overgrip with the racket details. That small record makes the next purchase easier and helps you explain any change to a service provider. The useful outcome is a correctly understood maintenance choice for an existing racket, without unnecessary equipment upgrades or guessed layers added to hide an unresolved fit issue.

Your next steps

Identify which grip layer is currently on the racket.
Describe the actual problem before buying tape.
Follow the product instructions or use a racket service.
Ask permission before altering borrowed equipment.

Products and offer records

Relevant records in the Tailored Deals catalogue

No close catalogue match is available for this guide right now. The practical advice remains usable without a purchase.

Sources and further help

Sources were consulted on 5 September 2026. Provider terms and services can change; check your exact booking, product or university service.

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