A worn tennis grip can make a familiar racket feel slippery, lumpy, or oddly small in your hand. Replacing it is a quick job once you know which layer you’re changing: the cushioned base grip attached to the handle, or the thin overgrip wrapped on top. The right choice—and a careful wrap—can restore comfort and confidence without changing your racket.
First, decide which grip needs replacing
The replacement grip, also called the base grip, sits directly on the racket handle. It provides much of the handle’s cushioning and feel. Replace it when it is torn, compressed, peeling, or no longer comfortable. An overgrip is a thinner, removable layer wrapped over the base grip. It is the usual choice when the surface feels slick or worn but the cushioning underneath is still in good shape.
Most players replace overgrips more often than base grips. If you can see the base grip through the overgrip, or the handle feels flat and hard, it may be time to replace the base grip too. Don’t add layer after layer to solve a worn-out base: too many wraps can make the handle noticeably larger.
What you’ll need
- A replacement grip or overgrip that suits your needs
- Finishing tape, often included with the grip
- Scissors, if the grip needs trimming
- A small flat tool to lift an old staple, if you are replacing the base grip
Work on a clean, dry handle. If you use scissors or remove a staple, keep the sharp end pointed away from your hand and the racket shaft.
How to replace an overgrip
- Remove the old overgrip. Peel off the finishing tape, then unwind the grip from the top of the handle down to the butt cap. Remove any sticky residue that comes away easily. Avoid scraping or cutting into the base grip.
- Find the starting end. Overgrips usually have a narrow, angled end. Some have a small adhesive tab or a thin plastic backing; remove the backing if needed. Check the packaging if the starting end is not obvious.
- Anchor it at the butt cap. Hold the racket with the handle pointing toward you. Place the narrow end across the butt cap so it covers the edge neatly, then begin wrapping upward toward the throat.
- Wrap with light, even tension. Overlap each turn slightly—roughly a few millimetres is a useful starting point. Pull firmly enough to keep the surface smooth, but not so hard that you stretch or narrow the material. Keep the overlap consistent so there are no ridges or exposed gaps.
- Finish at the top of the handle. When the grip reaches the top, cut off the excess at an angle if necessary. Secure the end with finishing tape, pressing it down all the way around.
- Check the feel. Run your hand over the handle and look for loose edges, wrinkles, or a sudden change in thickness. If it feels bulky or uneven, unwrap and try again; a tidy second attempt is usually faster than playing with an awkward grip.
How to replace the base grip
Changing the base grip takes a little more care because it may be stapled to the butt cap. If you are unsure about removing a staple, or the grip is stuck firmly to the handle, ask a racket shop to do it rather than risking damage to the handle or your hand.
- Remove the old grip and staple. Unwind the grip from the top of the handle toward the butt cap. If there is a staple, lift it carefully with a small flat tool. Check that no sharp piece remains.
- Clean the handle. Remove loose adhesive and scraps without gouging the handle. Keep any original cushioning or finishing material you intend to reuse in place.
- Orient the new grip. Many replacement grips have a tapered starting end and adhesive backing. Follow the package instructions, remove the backing as you go, and align the tapered end at the butt cap.
- Wrap upward along the handle’s bevels. Keep the grip taut and overlap the edges evenly. The handle’s bevels help guide the wrap; follow them rather than pulling the material diagonally across the face of the handle.
- Trim and secure the top. Cut the excess at an angle and use the supplied finishing tape. Make sure the tape holds the end down without covering too much of the grip surface.
- Let the grip settle, then test it. Hold the racket as you would during play. The handle should feel even, with no raised seam or loose section.
Five grip options to consider
Grip preference is personal: one player may want a dry surface that absorbs sweat, while another prefers a tacky feel. These familiar options cover both overgrips and base grips. Check the product details for the version you are buying, since feel and cushioning can differ between models.
| Grip | Type and feel | Good fit for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourna Grip Original | Overgrip; dry, absorbent feel | Players whose hands sweat heavily or who dislike a sticky surface | It can feel dry or less cushioned than tacky options, and may need frequent replacement with heavy use. |
| Wilson Pro Overgrip | Overgrip; soft, tacky feel | Players looking for a familiar all-around option with a secure feel in the hand | The tackiness may fade as it gets dirty or worn, so it is not a set-and-forget choice. |
| Yonex Super Grap | Overgrip; tacky with a cushioned feel | Players who want a comfortable surface for regular practice and match play | Players who prefer a distinctly dry grip may find it too tacky. |
| HEAD Hydrosorb Pro | Replacement grip; cushioned, perforated design | Players replacing a worn base grip who want a comfortable handle feel | It is a base grip, not a quick overgrip substitute, and installation takes more care. |
| Wilson Cushion-Aire Classic Sponge | Replacement grip; soft, cushioned feel | Players who value padding and a softer feel under the hand | Extra cushioning can make the handle feel larger or less direct to players who prefer a firm, slim feel. |
These are starting points, not a ranking. If you are happy with your handle’s size and cushioning, try a different overgrip before changing the base grip. If you replace the base grip, remember that the finished handle may feel slightly different in thickness depending on the grip and how tightly you wrap it.
Common wrapping mistakes
- Overlapping too much: Excessive overlap creates ridges and can make the handle larger. Aim for a consistent, modest overlap.
- Pulling too hard: Stretching a grip aggressively can distort it or make the wrap uneven. Keep steady tension instead.
- Wrapping the wrong way for the starting end: Begin at the butt cap and work toward the throat; follow the tapered end and any instructions that come with the grip.
- Leaving a loose finish: A poorly secured top edge can peel during play. Use the finishing tape and press it down firmly.
- Ignoring a worn base grip: A fresh overgrip cannot restore cushioning that has been compressed or torn underneath.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace a tennis overgrip?
Replace it when it feels slick, becomes dirty, starts peeling, or no longer gives you a secure hold. How quickly that happens depends on how often you play, how much you sweat, and the overgrip material. Some players change theirs every few sessions; others get longer use from one.
Can I put an overgrip directly on the bare handle?
It is better to use a proper replacement grip as the base layer. An overgrip is thin and is not designed to provide the same cushioning or coverage on its own.
Can I replace a grip without a staple?
Many grips can be secured with their adhesive and finishing tape, but follow the instructions supplied with the grip. If the old base grip is stapled to the butt cap, remove the staple carefully before wrapping the new one.
Will a new grip change my handle size?
It can. A thicker replacement grip, heavy overlap, or an added overgrip may make the handle feel larger. If the racket already feels too big in your hand, avoid adding layers without checking the fit first.
Final Thoughts
A smooth, even wrap matters more than speed. Use an overgrip when the surface needs refreshing, and replace the base grip when its cushioning or structure has worn out. Start at the butt cap, work upward with consistent overlap, and finish securely. A few careful minutes can make your racket feel dependable again the next time you step on court.
