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A cushioned replacement grip can make a tennis racquet feel more comfortable in your hand, especially if you prefer a softer, more padded handle. The options below range from a classic perforated grip to a thicker design with gel cushioning. Compare their feel, texture, and installation features to find the one that best matches your comfort and control needs.
Quick Comparison
| Grip | Standout feature | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|
| WILSON Cushion Aire Classic Perforated Grip | Thick backing for added comfort | Players who want a padded classic grip |
| Tourna Pro Gel Max Cushion Tennis Replacement Grip | 2 mm grip with shock-absorbing gel | Players prioritizing cushioning and a tacky feel |
| GAMMA Ultra Cushion Replacement Grip | Contoured texture and perforations | Players who want a textured, padded grip |
| WILSON Cushion Aire Classic Perforated | Classic original-grip design | Players looking for a familiar all-around feel |
Our Picks: Best Cushioned Tennis Replacement Grips reviews
WILSON Cushion Aire Classic: A Padded, Perforated Grip
The WILSON Cushion Aire Classic is a straightforward choice if you want a softer feel without moving to a gel-based grip. Its thick backing is designed for added comfort, while the perforated surface gives it a familiar classic-grip style.
This option may suit players who find a thin or firm handle uncomfortable and want more padding under the hand. Its simple design also makes it a reasonable pick if you prefer a traditional grip over a more heavily contoured texture.
The trade-off is that the product information does not give a specific thickness measurement or describe a special shock-absorption layer. If you want a stated thickness and gel cushioning, the Tourna is the more clearly specified choice. This Wilson grip is also listed in black, so color selection may be limited.
Pros:
- Thick backing is designed to add comfort
- Perforated classic design
- Simple option for players who prefer a traditional grip feel
Cons:
- No precise thickness measurement is provided
- Only black is listed in the supplied product details
Verdict: Choose this WILSON if you want a cushioned, perforated classic grip and do not need a gel layer or a stated thickness specification.
Tourna Pro Gel Max Cushion: Extra Padding with a Tacky Surface
The Tourna Pro Gel Max Cushion is the most specifically described option in this group. It is 2 mm thick and has shock-absorbing gel on the underside. The tread pattern is designed to add traction and a tacky feel, which may appeal if you want a secure hold as well as extra padding.
Its added cushioning is intended to reduce vibration and shock traveling through the racquet handle. That design may be worth considering if comfort is your main priority, but a grip should not be treated as a cure for tennis elbow or other arm pain. The product also includes adhesive backing and beveled edges, features intended to make wrapping the handle easier.
Compared with the two WILSON options, the Tourna provides more detail about its thickness and cushioning construction. The extra padding may not suit everyone: players who prefer a close feel for the handle bevels or a thinner grip may find it too substantial. Check how the added layer affects your preferred handle size before using it for match play.
Pros:
- Stated 2 mm thickness with gel cushioning underneath
- Tread pattern is designed for traction and a tacky feel
- Adhesive backing and beveled edges support installation
- Designed to help reduce shock and vibration
Cons:
- Extra padding may feel bulky to players who prefer a thinner grip
- Comfort features should not be viewed as treatment for arm pain
Verdict: Pick the Tourna if you want the most clearly specified cushioning and a tacky, textured surface, and you are comfortable with a thicker feel.
GAMMA Ultra Cushion: Contoured Texture for a Secure Hold
The GAMMA Ultra Cushion combines a padded feel with a contoured, textured surface. Its tread and thread pattern is designed to support traction and control, while perforations are intended to help with moisture management and absorption.
This design may suit players who want more than a smooth, traditional grip surface. The contours and texture give the hand extra contact points, which can feel reassuring if you prefer a defined grip pattern. The grip is described as suitable for a wide range of racquets and as easy to install.
One limitation is availability: the supplied product data marks this listing as unavailable, so check the product page before counting on it. The description also does not provide a precise thickness measurement, making it harder to compare its padding level directly with Tourna’s stated 2 mm design.
Pros:
- Padded design intended to improve comfort
- Contoured, textured surface for added traction
- Perforations are designed to help manage moisture
- Described as suitable for a wide range of racquets
Cons:
- Listing is marked unavailable in the supplied product data
- No precise thickness measurement is provided
Verdict: Consider the GAMMA if its contoured texture and perforated design match your preferences, but confirm that it is available before choosing it.
WILSON Cushion Aire Classic Perforated: A Familiar Original Grip
This WILSON Cushion Aire listing is described as an original grip that fits a wide range of players. It has a perforated design and a classic black look, making it a simple replacement option if you want a familiar style rather than a highly textured or gel-based grip.
The product information does not specify a thickness or describe the backing in as much detail as the other WILSON Cushion Aire listing. That makes it a less precise choice if you are shopping for a particular amount of padding. Still, its general-purpose positioning may work for players who want a straightforward grip and do not need extra features.
Compared with the Tourna, this option does not list a gel layer or a measured thickness. Compared with the GAMMA, it does not call out a contoured surface. Its main appeal is its classic, broadly suitable design, though you may want to confirm the exact product details on the listing before ordering.
Pros:
- Classic perforated design
- Described as fitting a wide range of players
- Simple option for a conventional replacement grip
Cons:
- No thickness measurement is provided
- Product details do not specify a gel or shock-absorbing layer
Verdict: Choose this WILSON if you want a basic, perforated original grip and do not need detailed cushioning specifications.
How to Choose a Cushioned Tennis Replacement Grip
Decide how much padding you want
A thicker or softer grip can make the handle feel more comfortable, but added padding can also change how clearly you feel the racquet’s handle shape. If you prefer a close connection to the handle, a classic grip may suit you better. If cushioning is the priority, look for a product that clearly describes its padding, such as the Tourna’s stated 2 mm thickness and gel layer.
Consider the surface texture
Grip surfaces can be smooth, perforated, textured, or contoured. A tacky or patterned surface may help your hand feel secure, while a more traditional surface can feel less pronounced. The Tourna emphasizes tread and tackiness, and the GAMMA features a contoured texture. Choose based on the feel you prefer rather than assuming a more complex pattern will work for everyone.
Think about moisture management
Perforations are a design feature found on the WILSON and GAMMA options. The GAMMA description specifically says its perforations are intended to help manage moisture and improve absorption. If sweat is a concern, compare the grip’s surface design and remember that a replacement grip’s feel can change as it gets used.
Check the handle size and feel
A replacement grip wraps around the racquet handle, so its thickness can affect the way that handle feels in your hand. A padded option may make the handle feel larger, while a thinner grip may preserve more of its original feel. If possible, consider your current grip and preferred handle size before choosing a thicker design.
Know the difference between a replacement grip and an overgrip
A replacement grip is meant to replace the grip on the racquet handle. An overgrip is typically wrapped over an existing grip. Check the product description and your racquet’s current setup so you order the right type for the change you want to make.
Look at installation details
Replacing a grip involves wrapping it evenly around the handle. The Tourna lists adhesive backing and beveled edges as installation features. For any grip, follow the included directions and keep the wrap consistent so the handle feels even in your hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cushioned tennis replacement grip?
It is a grip designed with a softer or more padded feel than a basic, thin wrap. Some options use a thicker backing, while others may include features such as gel cushioning or a contoured surface.
Which grip in this guide has a stated thickness?
The Tourna Pro Gel Max Cushion is listed as 2 mm thick. The supplied descriptions for the other grips do not give a precise thickness measurement.
Can a cushioned grip help with tennis elbow?
A cushioned grip may be designed to reduce vibration or make the handle more comfortable, but it is not a treatment for tennis elbow or other arm pain. If you have ongoing pain, consider speaking with a qualified health professional.
Does a replacement grip go over the existing grip?
A replacement grip is generally used in place of the grip already on the handle. An overgrip is designed to wrap over an existing grip. Check the product instructions if you are unsure how a specific grip is intended to be installed.
Will a thicker grip change how my racquet feels?
It can. Extra material may make the handle feel larger and can change how clearly you feel its shape. If you prefer a precise feel for the handle, compare thickness carefully before choosing a heavily padded option.
Which option is best for a tacky feel?
The Tourna description specifically calls out a tacky feel and a tread pattern for traction. The GAMMA also has a textured, contoured surface, but its supplied description does not specifically call it tacky.
Is the GAMMA grip available?
The supplied product data marks the GAMMA listing as unavailable. Availability can change, so check the product page before making your decision.
Final Recommendation
The Tourna Pro Gel Max Cushion is the clearest pick if you want defined cushioning features, including a stated 2 mm thickness and gel on the underside. For a simpler classic grip, consider the WILSON Cushion Aire options. The GAMMA stands out for its contoured texture and perforations, but check its listing availability first. Match the grip’s padding and surface to the handle feel you prefer, rather than choosing cushioning alone.