At the net, a racket that feels quick and steady can make doubles more fun—and help you turn a reflex volley into a confident put-away. But there’s no special “doubles racket” you have to buy. For most recreational players, the right choice is a comfortable, easy-to-maneuver frame that still feels solid when a hard ball arrives.
Here’s what to look for, plus five rackets worth considering. The best fit depends on your swing, comfort, and how often you play—not simply on whether you spend more time at the net or baseline.
What matters in a doubles racket?
Doubles rewards fast reactions. You may need to block a passing shot, change direction for a poach, or take a quick swing on a shoulder-high ball. A racket that’s too heavy or head-heavy can feel slow in those moments. On the other hand, an extremely light frame may twist on off-center contact, especially against a firm serve.
- Weight: Around 285–300 grams unstrung is a useful starting range for many recreational adults. Lighter frames are easier to maneuver; heavier ones can offer more stability if you can swing them comfortably.
- Head size: A 100-square-inch head is a versatile middle ground, offering a forgiving hitting area without feeling oversized.
- Balance and feel: A racket that feels easy to position is helpful at net. Try it with your usual grip and, if possible, test it against fast feeds or serves.
- Comfort: If you have arm or shoulder discomfort, prioritize a frame that feels comfortable in your hand. Strings, tension, grip size, and technique matter too.
These are starting points, not rules. A confident player with a full swing may prefer a firmer, more powerful frame; someone who values comfort may choose a softer-feeling one. Doubles partners also cover for each other, so a racket that gives you reliable serves and groundstrokes can be just as useful as one designed around quick volleys.
Five rackets to consider
The specifications below are approximate unstrung figures. They can vary by model year and version, so check the exact listing before buying. Each option suits a different preference rather than being a universal winner.
| Racket | Approx. unstrung weight | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| Wilson Clash 100 | 295 g | Players prioritizing a softer feel |
| Babolat Pure Drive 100 | 300 g | Players seeking easy power and serve pace |
| Head Speed MP | 300 g | All-court players wanting a balanced response |
| Yonex EZONE 100 | 300 g | Players looking for power with a forgiving head |
| Head Boom MP | 295 g | Players who want accessible depth and spin |
Wilson Clash 100
The Clash 100 is a strong place to start if a comfortable, less harsh response is high on your list. Its 100-square-inch head and manageable weight make it approachable at net, while it remains versatile enough for serving and rallying from the baseline. That can suit a player who likes to follow a serve in but doesn’t want a racket that feels demanding during longer points.
Pros: Comfortable feel for many players, easy to maneuver, useful all-court balance. Cons: Players who prefer a crisp, direct response may find its feel too muted; it may not provide the firmest response against heavy incoming pace.
Babolat Pure Drive 100
The Pure Drive is worth a look if you want help generating pace, especially on serves and first-strike forehands. In doubles, a more penetrating serve can create an easier first volley for your partner, while the racket’s lively response can help when you’re pushed deep. It’s not the softest-feeling choice, so comfort should be part of your test.
Pros: Easy power, effective serving potential, versatile 100-square-inch head. Cons: Its lively, firm response may not suit players sensitive to impact or those who tend to hit long.
Head Speed MP
The Speed MP is a balanced option for players who move between the baseline and the net. It offers a familiar 100-square-inch head and a middleweight build, with a response intended to work across a range of shots rather than emphasizing only comfort or raw power. A doubles player who serves, rallies, and comes forward when the chance is right may appreciate that flexibility.
Pros: All-court versatility, manageable weight, suitable for varied styles. Cons: It may feel less distinctive than frames built specifically around extra power or a softer sensation; players wanting maximum stability may prefer a heavier setup.
Yonex EZONE 100
The EZONE 100 is another option for players who want a forgiving frame with accessible power. That combination can help on serves and on compact volley swings, where there isn’t always time to take a full cut. It’s worth demoing against a more control-oriented racket: if your volleys already tend to sail long, the EZONE’s lively response may take some adjustment.
Pros: Forgiving head size, easy depth, useful for serving and quick exchanges. Cons: The extra response may be difficult to control for players who naturally hit flat and hard; it may not feel as soft as a comfort-first frame.
Head Boom MP
The Boom MP suits players looking for approachable power and spin in a lighter, maneuverable package. It can be a comfortable transition for someone moving from a beginner racket to a more capable all-court frame. At net, its manageable weight helps with positioning; against a heavy ball, check whether it feels stable enough for your taste.
Pros: Easy to swing, helpful depth and spin, friendly for recreational play. Cons: Players with fast, powerful opponents may want more mass for stability; those seeking a precise, low-powered response may prefer another option.
Make the racket work for your game
Before choosing, demo two or three rackets if you can. Don’t judge only by hitting comfortable groundstrokes. Try a block volley, a quick reaction volley, a serve, and a return against pace. Notice whether the racket arrives in position easily and whether it stays steady when contact isn’t perfect. A racket that feels great at the baseline but arrives late at net may not suit your doubles game.
Strings can change the experience substantially. A softer multifilament string or natural gut is often worth considering if comfort matters; polyester is generally firmer and may be unnecessarily demanding for players who don’t break strings often. Start within the racket maker’s recommended tension range and adjust gradually. A qualified stringer can help match string type and tension to your swing and any comfort concerns.
Don’t overlook grip size. A grip that is too small or too large can make the racket harder to control and may encourage excess squeezing. If you’re between sizes, test both before adding an overgrip, since an overgrip makes the handle slightly thicker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a lighter racket better for doubles?
Not automatically. A lighter racket can be quicker to position, which helps at net, but it may feel unstable when blocking a hard ball. Choose the lightest option that still feels solid and comfortable during play.
Is a 100-square-inch head good for recreational doubles?
For many players, yes. It offers a useful mix of forgiveness and maneuverability. A larger head can provide a bigger hitting area, while a smaller one may appeal to players who prioritize a more precise feel.
Should I use a different racket for doubles than for singles?
Usually not. A versatile racket works well for both formats. If you play doubles most often, prioritize quick handling and comfort, but don’t give up the serve and groundstroke performance you rely on.
Can changing strings improve my doubles racket?
Yes. Strings and tension affect comfort, power, spin, and control. If the racket feels harsh or launches the ball too high, ask a stringer about a suitable string and make one adjustment at a time.
Final Thoughts
For recreational doubles, start with a comfortable racket around 285–300 grams unstrung and a 100-square-inch head, then let your own reactions guide the choice. The Clash 100, Pure Drive 100, Speed MP, EZONE 100, and Boom MP each offer a different balance of comfort, power, and feel. Demo one at the net as well as from the baseline, and choose the frame that lets you move freely and trust your contact.
