If you have ever watched a kid try to swing a racquet that is too long or too heavy, you will know how quickly tennis can stop being fun. The good news is that choosing a junior tennis racquet is not complicated once you focus on a few basics: length, weight, grip comfort, and how they are learning.

How to choose a junior tennis racquet (size, weight, grip)

1) Start with racquet length, not brand

For juniors, racquet length is the biggest difference-maker. Too long and the swing gets late, the racquet face opens up, and they start muscling the ball. Too short and they struggle for reach and confidence on the bounce.

As a simple guide, most junior racquets run in these steps:

19 inch to 21 inch: early learners and very small juniors.
23 inch: a common sweet spot for primary-school kids who are starting to rally.
25 inch: older juniors building full swings, often transitioning toward adult technique.
26 inch: a bridge size for strong juniors before moving into adult frames.

If you are unsure between two lengths, lean shorter. A racquet they can control is the one they will practise with.

2) Keep it light enough to swing smoothly

Weight is where a lot of parents accidentally overbuy. A heavier racquet can feel “better quality” in the hand, but if your junior cannot accelerate it, they will compensate with wristy swings and sore forearms.

If their swing slows down as the session goes on, the racquet is probably too heavy.
If they are dropping the racquet head and flicking up, it is often a weight or grip comfort issue.
If they can swing freely and finish balanced, you are on the right track.

3) Grip comfort matters more than grip size maths

Adult racquets come with grip sizes. Most junior frames simplify this, but comfort still matters. You want a grip that feels secure without squeezing.

In-store, a quick check is: can they hold the racquet relaxed, swing, and keep it stable on contact? If the racquet twists in their hand, it can be technique, but it can also be a grip that feels too skinny. An overgrip is an easy, low-cost way to fine-tune the feel.

4) Match the racquet to how they are learning

Think about where they are at, not where you hope they will be in six months:

First timers: prioritise light weight and easy handling. Fun comes first.
Starting to rally: look for a bit more stability so the racquet does not wobble on off-centre hits.
Comp juniors: control and consistency matter. A frame they can swing the same way, every time, is gold.

5) Do not forget tennis shoes, especially for juniors

Racquets get the attention, but shoes are where comfort and confidence live. Tennis has lots of stop-start movement and lateral pushes, and regular runners often feel “slippery” or unstable on court.

Support: look for a stable upper and a supportive midfoot so they feel secure side-to-side.
Outsole: choose a court-appropriate tread. If they play on hard courts most of the time, durability matters.
Fit: a snug heel and enough room in the toe box for a little growth, without sliding.

Popular right now at Sportsmart

These tennis items have been in demand lately. If you are comparing options, they are a good shortlist to start with:

Common mistakes we see (and how to avoid them)

Buying “one size up” to grow into: it usually slows improvement. Better to size for control now.
Too much racquet for their strength: a junior who can swing freely will learn faster than one who is fighting the racquet.
Ignoring shoes: sore feet and rolled ankles are a quick way to kill enthusiasm.
Overthinking string tension: for most juniors, a sensible junior frame and good technique matter more.

FAQ

What size junior tennis racquet should I buy?

Start with length (19, 21, 23, 25, 26). If you are between sizes, choose the shorter option for better control.

Is a heavier racquet better for power?

Only if they can swing it smoothly. For juniors, easy acceleration and good timing usually beat “heavy power”.

Do kids need tennis-specific shoes?

If they play regularly, yes. Tennis shoes are built for lateral movement and stop-start stability, which helps both comfort and confidence.

How often should we replace a junior racquet?

When they outgrow the length, or when their skill and strength step up and they need more stability. For fast-growing juniors, it is normal to change sizes as they move through the year levels.

Simple disclaimer: This is general buying advice. For technique, a local coach is always a great investment.

How to Choose a Junior Tennis Racquet (Size, Weight & Grip)