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A comfortable overgrip can make a tennis racquet easier to hold and help you feel more confident as you learn your strokes. For beginners, the best choice is usually one that feels secure without making the handle too bulky. These five options range from soft, straightforward wraps to tackier grips and multipacks for players who plan to replace their overgrip often.
Quick Comparison: Best Tennis Overgrips for Beginners
| Overgrip | Pack size | Standout feature | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilson Ultra Wrap Tennis Overgrip | 3 grips | Soft feel and durable construction | Players seeking a simple, comfortable wrap |
| Wilson Pro Tennis Overgrip | 12 grips | Thin, stretchy felt surface | Players who want a slim feel and extras on hand |
| HEAD Xtreme Soft Overgrip | 3 grips | Tacky feel with moisture absorption | Players who want a secure-feeling hold |
| HEAD Super Comp Overgrip | 3 grips | Tacky surface with moderate cushioning | Club players looking for balanced feel |
| Wilson Pro Overgrip Comfort | 30 grips | Large supply with a comfort focus | Frequent players who want a bulk pack |
Our Picks: Best Tennis Overgrips for Beginners reviews
1. Wilson Ultra Wrap: A Simple, Soft-Feeling Starting Point
The Wilson Ultra Wrap is a straightforward overgrip designed to add a comfortable layer over your racquetโs existing grip. Its listed strengths are a soft feel and durable construction, making it a sensible option if you are new to overgrips and want a familiar, uncomplicated setup.
The three-grip pack gives you a spare for a future replacement or another racquet. The black color is also a practical choice if you prefer a darker handle covering. The product is described for tennis and other uses, but its main appeal for a beginner is the comfortable, durable feel rather than a specialized moisture-control feature.
Compared with the tackier HEAD options below, the Ultra Wrap is a more basic pick. The product information does not specify a tacky texture or sweat-absorption feature, so players who prioritize those traits may want to consider another option.
Pros:
- Soft feel for a comfortable hold
- Described as extremely durable
- Three grips included
- Simple choice for tennis and other uses
Cons:
- No specific moisture-absorption feature is listed
- Small pack may not suit players who replace grips often
Verdict: Choose the Wilson Ultra Wrap if you want a basic, soft-feeling overgrip and do not need a specifically tacky or sweat-focused design.
2. Wilson Pro Overgrip: A Thin, Stretchy Wrap in a 12-Pack
This Wilson Pro overgrip uses polyurethane construction with a super-thin, high-stretch felt surface. Its tapered starting end is designed to make application easier, which can help when you are learning how to wrap an overgrip evenly. The pack includes 12 grips and a reusable, waterproof storage bag to help keep unused grips dry.
The thin construction may appeal if you want a closer feel for the handle instead of adding much bulk. That can be useful for beginners who are still getting used to their racquetโs grip size. The trade-off is that a thin overgrip may not be the right match if you are specifically looking for more cushioning.
Compared with the three-packs, this option gives you more replacements in one purchase. It is a practical pick if you expect to play regularly or want several fresh grips ready to go. The supplied description does not specify a particular tack level or cushioning amount, so those preferences may point you toward a HEAD model instead.
Pros:
- Thin, high-stretch felt surface
- Tapered end is designed for easier wrapping
- Includes 12 overgrips
- Reusable waterproof storage bag helps protect unused grips
Cons:
- Thin construction may not provide the cushioned feel some beginners want
- Pack size may be more than needed for occasional play
Verdict: Pick the Wilson Pro 12-Pack if you want a slim-feeling wrap, an easier starting end, and a supply of replacements.
3. HEAD Xtreme Soft: A Tacky Option for a More Secure Hold
HEAD Xtreme Soft is made from a soft, tacky elastomer material and is designed to absorb moisture. That combination aims to give you a secure-feeling hold while keeping the grip comfortable. For a beginner, a tacky surface can feel reassuring when you are learning to relax your hand rather than squeeze the racquet tightly.
The overgrip is intended to add comfort and touch without adding much bulk, and the three-pack provides a few replacements. To apply it, start with the adhesive end, make one full wrap, then overlap the material as you continue down the handle.
This is a stronger fit for players who want tackiness and moisture absorption than the Wilson Ultra Wrap, whose supplied description focuses on softness and durability. If you prefer a smoother or less tacky feel, the HEAD Super Comp may be a better alternative to consider.
Pros:
- Tacky elastomer surface is designed for a secure hold
- Moisture-absorbing design
- Soft feel with limited added bulk
- Three grips per pack
Cons:
- Players who prefer a less tacky feel may want a different style
- Small pack may mean buying replacements more often than with a bulk option
Verdict: Choose HEAD Xtreme Soft if you want a soft overgrip with a tacky surface and moisture-absorbing design.
4. HEAD Super Comp: Moderate Cushioning with a Smooth, Tacky Feel
The HEAD Super Comp is a white overgrip made from an elastomer material designed to absorb moisture. It combines a tacky, ultra-smooth feel with moderate cushioning, aiming to balance comfort and racquet feel. That middle ground may suit a beginner who wants some padding without giving up a clear sense of the handle.
Each pack contains three overgrips, and the application process is simple: find the adhesive end, make a full wrap, then overlap the strip as you work toward the end of the handle. As with any overgrip, wrapping too loosely or unevenly can affect how the finished handle feels, so take care as you apply it.
Compared with HEAD Xtreme Soft, Super Comp is described as having moderate cushioning and a smooth feel. Both are tacky and moisture-absorbing, so the choice comes down to which balance of feel and cushioning sounds more comfortable for you.
Pros:
- Tacky, ultra-smooth feel
- Moisture-absorbing elastomer material
- Moderate cushioning balances comfort and feel
- Easy-apply design with three grips per pack
Cons:
- White may show dirt more readily than a darker grip
- Three-pack offers fewer replacements than the Wilson bulk options
Verdict: Choose HEAD Super Comp if you want a smooth, tacky overgrip with moderate cushioning rather than an especially thin feel.
5. Wilson Pro Overgrip Comfort: A Bulk Pack for Frequent Replacements
Wilson Pro Overgrip Comfort is a white, comfort-focused option sold as two 15-strip spools, for a total of 30 strips. The product description highlights comfort and absorption, so it may appeal if you play often and want replacements ready when your current overgrip no longer feels right.
The large supply is the main difference between this pack and the smaller options. Beginners who are still learning how often they prefer to change an overgrip may find the quantity more than they need at first. If you play regularly, share supplies, or keep more than one racquet ready, having multiple strips available can be convenient.
The supplied description does not give details about the gripโs thickness, surface tack, or a storage bag. If those are key factors in your choice, the Wilson Pro 12-Pack provides more specific information about its thin, stretchy felt surface and reusable storage bag.
Pros:
- 30 strips across two 15-strip spools
- Comfort and absorption are highlighted
- Useful supply for frequent replacements
- White color offers a clean, classic look
Cons:
- Large quantity may be unnecessary for occasional play
- Product details do not specify thickness or tack level
Verdict: Choose the Wilson Pro Overgrip Comfort 30-Pack if you play often and want a large supply of comfort-focused grips; occasional players may prefer a smaller pack.
How to Choose a Tennis Overgrip as a Beginner
Think about the feel you want
Overgrips can feel soft, smooth, tacky, or thin, depending on their material and design. If you want extra confidence that your hand will stay in place, consider a tacky option such as HEAD Xtreme Soft or HEAD Super Comp. If you prefer a simple, soft-feeling layer, the Wilson Ultra Wrap is a more basic choice.
Consider cushioning and handle size
An overgrip adds a layer over your racquetโs existing grip, so it can change how the handle feels in your hand. A thin option like the Wilson Pro 12-Pack may suit you if you want to keep the handleโs feel closer to its original size. If you would rather have moderate cushioning, HEAD Super Comp is described as a balanced option. Avoid choosing a thicker-feeling setup without checking that the handle still feels comfortable and easy to control.
Match the grip to how much you sweat
If moisture is a concern during play, look for an overgrip with a moisture-absorbing design. HEAD Xtreme Soft and HEAD Super Comp are both described as sweat- or moisture-absorbing. The Wilson Pro Overgrip Comfort description also highlights absorption. The Wilson Ultra Wrapโs supplied description does not list a moisture feature.
Choose a pack size that fits your routine
A three-pack is a reasonable way to try an overgrip style without stocking up. A 12-pack or 30-strip pack can make sense if you play often or want replacements on hand. If you are new to overgrips, starting with a smaller quantity can help you learn which feel you prefer before buying a larger supply.
Check the application details
Most overgrips are applied by starting at the base of the handle and wrapping the strip upward with a slight overlap. The HEAD options describe an adhesive end and a full initial wrap; the Wilson Pro 12-Pack also has a tapered starting end designed to make application easier. Keep the wrap even and avoid pulling so tightly that you distort the strip.
Decide whether storage matters
If you buy several overgrips at once, storage can help keep unused grips together. The Wilson Pro 12-Pack includes a reusable waterproof storage bag. The other product descriptions do not list a storage bag, so consider how you will keep extra strips clean and easy to find.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tennis overgrip?
An overgrip is a thin layer wrapped over the existing grip on a tennis racquet handle. Players use one to change the feel of the handle, add comfort, or get a surface that better suits their preferences.
Which overgrip is a good place for a beginner to start?
For a basic soft-feeling option, consider the Wilson Ultra Wrap. If a tacky surface and moisture absorption matter more to you, HEAD Xtreme Soft or HEAD Super Comp may be a better match.
Do overgrips make a tennis handle larger?
An overgrip adds material around the handle, so it can make the handle feel larger. A thin overgrip may change the feel less than a more cushioned option, but the finished size also depends on how you wrap it.
How often should I replace an overgrip?
There is no single schedule that works for every player. Replace yours when it no longer feels comfortable or secure, or when it no longer suits your playing conditions. How often you play and how quickly the grip wears will affect how long it lasts.
Which option is best if my hands get sweaty?
HEAD Xtreme Soft and HEAD Super Comp are described as moisture-absorbing. Wilson Pro Overgrip Comfort also highlights absorption. Choose based on the feel and pack size you want as well as moisture handling.
Is a larger overgrip pack worth choosing?
A larger pack can be useful if you play regularly and expect to replace grips often. If you are still deciding what feel you like, a three-pack lets you try an option without committing to a large supply.
Final Recommendation
For a beginner who wants a secure-feeling surface and moisture absorption, HEAD Xtreme Soft is the most direct match among these options. Choose HEAD Super Comp if you prefer moderate cushioning, Wilson Ultra Wrap for a simple soft-feeling grip, or Wilson Pro 12-Pack if you want a thin feel and several replacements. Frequent players who prioritize a large supply can consider the Wilson Pro Overgrip Comfort 30-Pack.
