Best 17 Inch Tennis Rackets for Young Beginners: Top Picks Compared

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A 17-inch tennis racket is made for very young beginners, so the best choice is one your child can hold and swing comfortably—not a full-size racket scaled down in name only. The options below focus on lightweight frames, easy-to-handle designs, and beginner-friendly extras. Check your child’s height and the maker’s size guidance before choosing; a racket that is too long can be harder to control.

Quick Comparison

Our Picks: Best 17 Inch Tennis Rackets reviews

AMA SPORT Kids 17-Inch Racket: A Simple Toddler Starter Set

The AMA SPORT is a 17-inch junior racket intended for toddler beginners. Its lightweight frame is designed to be easier for a small player to swing, while the larger sweet spot described by the maker is intended to make initial ball contact less challenging.

This pink version comes with a 420D nylon shoulder-strap bag, which is useful for carrying the racket to lessons or storing it between play sessions. AMA SPORT also offers other junior racket sizes in its range, so parents can look at a larger option as a child grows. The supplied description does not give a recommended height, so use your child’s reach and comfort when checking whether 17 inches is the right fit.

Compared with the Babolat, this set emphasizes straightforward starter use and a carry bag rather than grip-position teaching features or detailed frame specifications. Its main limitation is that the product information provides fewer measurable details, such as weight and head size, than some alternatives.

Pros:

• Lightweight frame designed for young beginners
• Large sweet spot is intended to help with early ball contact
• Includes a shoulder-strap bag

Cons:

• Supplied information does not specify weight, head size, or a height guide

Verdict: Choose this AMA SPORT set if you want a simple toddler racket with a carrying bag and do not need detailed fit or frame specifications.

Babolat Ballfighter Junior: Helpful Grip Cues for First Lessons

The Babolat Ballfighter is a 17-inch racket for players under 37.4 inches tall. Its aluminum frame weighs 4.8 ounces unstrung, and its 62-square-inch head and 14-by-14 string pattern are clearly specified. Those details make it easier to compare this option with other junior rackets.

A standout feature is the two-color grip, paired with visual tips on the frame to help teach hand placement and ready position. These cues may be useful when a child is learning basic racket handling, though they do not replace guidance from a parent or coach. The larger head is designed to make learning and ball contact more manageable.

Unlike the AMA SPORT and INSUM options, the supplied product details do not mention an included carry bag or cover. Its height guidance is also more specific than most of the choices here, which makes it a practical pick if your child falls within the stated height range.

Pros:

• Specific height recommendation for players under 37.4 inches
• Lightweight aluminum frame with listed unstrung weight
• Two-color grip and visual cues support learning basic positioning
• Head size and string pattern are provided

Cons:

• No bag or cover is listed in the supplied product details
• May not be the right size for a child outside the stated height range

Verdict: The Ballfighter is a strong choice if your child fits its height guidance and you value clear grip-position cues and detailed racket specifications.

HEAD Paw Patrol Junior: Character Design for Ages 2–3

This HEAD racket pairs a 17-inch length with a recommendation for children ages 2–3. It has an aluminum frame and a Damp+ insert, which the product description says helps isolate impact from the grip to reduce vibration. Those features are aimed at young beginners who are still getting comfortable holding and swinging a racket.

The Paw Patrol graphics give this option a character-focused look that may appeal to a child who enjoys the show. Its compact length is intended for small hands and developing coordination. Unlike the Babolat, the supplied details do not list the racket’s weight, head size, or a height recommendation, so those points are harder to compare.

The supplied product data marks this listing as unavailable. That can change, but it is worth checking the listing before choosing this racket. If it is not offered, the AMA SPORT, Babolat, and INSUM are available alternatives in the supplied data.

Pros:

• 17-inch length recommended for ages 2–3
• Aluminum construction
• Damp+ insert is designed to reduce vibration at the grip
• Paw Patrol graphics may make practice more engaging for fans

Cons:

• Listing is marked unavailable in the supplied product data
• Weight and head size are not specified in the supplied details

Verdict: Consider the HEAD if the listing is available and your child is in the recommended age range, especially if the Paw Patrol design will encourage them to play.

INSUM Junior 17-Inch: A Practical Pick with a Cover

The INSUM is a 17-inch aluminum racket recommended for ages 2–3 and children approximately 30–34 inches tall. Its compact size is intended to be easier for toddlers to hold and swing. The product description also calls out a generous hitting area to help beginners make contact while learning basic racket control.

A matching cover with an adjustable shoulder strap is included, making this a convenient option for trips to the park or tennis lessons. The racket is described as lightweight, but the supplied details do not provide a specific weight. That means you cannot directly compare its weight with the Babolat’s listed unstrung weight.

The INSUM stands out for pairing a clear size guide with a carry cover. If your child is outside the stated height range, consider sizing carefully rather than relying on age alone. The product details describe it for recreational play and beginner lessons, not as a performance-focused racket for advanced players.

Pros:

• Recommended for ages 2–3 and approximately 30–34 inches tall
• Lightweight aluminum construction
• Cover and adjustable shoulder strap included
• Beginner-oriented hitting area

Cons:

• Specific racket weight is not provided
• Size recommendation may not suit children outside the listed height range

Verdict: The INSUM is a sensible option for a toddler who fits its size guidance and would benefit from an included cover and carrying strap.

PICKLETECH Kids 17-Inch: Colorful Design with a Comfortable Grip

The PICKLETECH is an aluminum junior racket offered in sizes from 17 to 25 inches. This listing describes the 17-inch version, with a listed overall width of 9.4 inches and a grip length of 1.38 inches. The maker describes a soft ergonomic grip and shock-absorbing materials, along with a large sweet spot intended to help beginner players make contact.

The range of sizes may be useful for families comparing junior options as a child grows, but be sure the selected listing is for the 17-inch racket. The product is promoted for children ages 2–12 across its size range; that broad range should not be taken to mean one 17-inch racket fits every child in that age span. Use the specific racket size and your child’s comfort to guide your choice.

Compared with the Babolat, this racket offers more emphasis on grip comfort and colorful styling, but the supplied details do not provide a weight or a specific height recommendation. The listing mentions shock-absorbing materials, but does not give a measurement for vibration reduction.

Pros:

• Aluminum construction described as lightweight and durable
• Soft ergonomic grip and shock-absorbing materials are specified
• Large sweet spot is intended to support beginner contact
• Available in several junior sizes, including 17 inches

Cons:

• No specific weight or height recommendation is provided
• The wide age range applies to the product line, not necessarily the 17-inch size alone

Verdict: Choose the PICKLETECH if you want a colorful beginner racket with a comfort-focused grip, but confirm that the selected size is right for your child.

How to Choose a 17-Inch Tennis Racket

Start with Your Child’s Height and Reach

Age can help narrow the options, but it should not be the only factor. The Babolat is recommended for players under 37.4 inches tall, while the INSUM lists a suggested height of approximately 30–34 inches and an age range of 2–3. The HEAD is also described for ages 2–3. For options without a clear height guide, check how comfortably your child can hold and move the racket before buying.

Look for a Manageable Weight and Length

A young beginner needs to be able to lift, swing, and control the racket without struggling. The Babolat lists an unstrung weight of 4.8 ounces. Other products are described as lightweight, but their supplied details do not include a specific weight, so direct comparisons are limited. If possible, check the racket’s listed specifications and consider whether your child can swing it comfortably.

Consider Beginner-Friendly Head and Grip Features

A larger hitting area can make it easier for a new player to meet the ball. The AMA SPORT, INSUM, and PICKLETECH descriptions highlight a large sweet spot or generous hitting area. The Babolat adds a two-color grip and visual cues intended to help children learn hand placement. These features may support early practice, but a simple racket that your child can control is more important than extra design details.

Choose a Frame and Comfort Features for Recreational Play

Every racket in this selection is intended for young beginners, and several use aluminum frames. The HEAD includes a Damp+ insert described as helping reduce vibration at the grip; the PICKLETECH description also mentions shock-absorbing materials. These are stated product features, not a guarantee that a child will find one racket more comfortable than another.

Decide Whether a Bag or Cover Matters

The AMA SPORT includes a shoulder-strap bag, while the INSUM comes with a cover and adjustable shoulder strap. Those extras can help with carrying and storage. The supplied details for the Babolat, HEAD, and PICKLETECH do not list a bag or cover, so check the current product listing if storage accessories are important to you.

Match the Design to Your Child’s Interest

Color and graphics can make a first racket feel more inviting. The AMA SPORT is pink, the Babolat has a blue-and-red design, the HEAD features Paw Patrol graphics, and PICKLETECH offers colorful designs. Treat appearance as a tie-breaker after you have checked that the racket is an appropriate size and manageable for your child.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is a 17-inch tennis racket for?

Several rackets in this selection are described for toddlers around ages 2–3, but the right size depends on the child. The Babolat and INSUM also provide height guidance. Use the maker’s specific sizing recommendation and your child’s comfort rather than choosing by age alone.

How do I know if a 17-inch racket is too long for my child?

If your child has trouble holding or moving it comfortably, the racket may be difficult to control. Compare the child’s height with any guidance supplied by the maker. When a product does not provide a height range, use a fitting check from a coach or tennis retailer if available.

Are these rackets suitable for adult play?

These are junior rackets made for young beginners. Their 17-inch length and child-focused features are not intended to replace a full-size adult racket.

Which option includes a carrying bag or cover?

The AMA SPORT includes a nylon shoulder-strap bag, and the INSUM includes a cover with an adjustable shoulder strap. Check the product listing for the other options if you want a carrying accessory.

Which racket gives the clearest size information?

The Babolat specifies a recommendation for players under 37.4 inches tall. The INSUM recommends ages 2–3 and approximately 30–34 inches in height. The HEAD states an age range of 2–3, while the other supplied descriptions provide less specific height guidance.

Does a large sweet spot make a racket easier for a beginner?

A larger hitting area is intended to make ball contact easier, which can be helpful during early practice. It does not ensure a successful hit, and basic instruction and a racket that fits the child remain important.

What should I choose if my child will soon outgrow a 17-inch racket?

Check the manufacturer’s size range before buying. AMA SPORT lists several junior lengths, and PICKLETECH offers sizes from 17 to 25 inches. Select a racket that fits your child now rather than choosing a longer model solely for future use.

Final Recommendation

For a toddler who needs a carry option, the AMA SPORT is a straightforward starter set, while the INSUM offers a useful height guide and a cover with a shoulder strap. The Babolat is the most clearly specified choice and has grip-position cues for early learning. Consider the HEAD if its age range and character design suit your child and the listing is available. The PICKLETECH is worth a look for its comfort-focused grip and colorful style, but confirm the 17-inch size is the right fit. In every case, prioritize your child’s height, comfort, and ability to swing the racket with control.