A worn tennis racket grip can make the handle feel slippery, uneven, or too small. Replacing the overgrip is a quick fix that can improve comfort and help you hold the racket with less tension—especially during long matches or hot-weather practice.
The job takes only a few minutes once you know where to start. The first thing to check is whether you need a new overgrip, which wraps around the handle, or a new replacement grip, which sits underneath it. That distinction helps you choose the right product and avoid removing more than necessary.
Overgrip or replacement grip: which should you change?
An overgrip is the thin, removable layer most players replace regularly. It goes over the racket’s original grip or a replacement grip. Change it when it feels slick, worn, dirty, or bunched up.
A replacement grip is thicker and is fitted directly to the handle after the old base grip is removed. Replace it when the cushioning underneath feels flat or damaged, or when you want to change the handle’s feel. Most players can refresh their racket by changing only the overgrip.
Five tennis overgrips to consider
Grip feel is personal: some players prefer a dry surface that manages sweat, while others want a tacky feel. These options suit different preferences rather than one being right for everyone.
| Overgrip | Feel and strengths | Possible drawback | Good fit for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilson Pro Overgrip | Thin, soft, and tacky, with a familiar feel for many players | May lose its tackiness as it gets worn or wet | Players who like a smooth, tacky grip |
| Yonex Super Grap | Tacky with a cushioned feel and good moisture absorption | Can feel too sticky for players who prefer a dry surface | All-court players looking for a balanced, comfortable option |
| Tourna Grip Original | Dry, absorbent feel that works well for sweaty hands | Its dry texture is not for players who want a tacky grip | Players who sweat heavily or play in hot conditions |
| HEAD Xtreme Soft | Soft, tacky feel with a comfortable surface | May feel thicker or softer than players who like a direct handle feel prefer | Players who value comfort and a secure hold |
| Gamma Supreme Overgrip | Tacky feel with a perforated surface for moisture management | Texture and tack may not suit every hand or preference | Players who want tack with added ventilation |
Try a single grip before buying a large pack if you are unsure. A grip that feels secure in a shop may feel different after an hour of serving or in humid weather.
How to replace a tennis racket overgrip
What you need
- A fresh overgrip sized for a tennis racket
- The finishing tape included with the grip, or suitable finishing tape
- Scissors, if the grip needs trimming
Step-by-step instructions
- Remove the old overgrip. Peel off the finishing tape, then unwind the grip from the top of the handle down toward the butt cap. Remove any loose adhesive or scraps.
- Check the base grip. If the grip underneath is intact and evenly fitted, leave it in place. If it is cracked, peeling, or badly compressed, replace that grip before adding a new overgrip.
- Find the starting end. Unwrap the new overgrip and look for its narrow starting end. Some grips have a small adhesive tab. Follow the package directions if the end is shaped or marked for a particular fit.
- Start at the butt cap. Place the narrow end near the bottom of the handle, with a small amount overlapping the edge of the cap. Hold it firmly as you begin wrapping.
- Wrap toward the racket throat. Pull the overgrip snugly and wind it around the handle with a slight overlap on each turn—often around one-eighth of an inch. Keep the overlap even so you do not create ridges or gaps. Use the direction of the old wrap as a guide.
- Finish neatly. When you reach the top of the handle, cut off any excess at an angle if needed. Secure the end with finishing tape, pulling the tape firmly enough to hold the grip without stretching it excessively.
- Check the feel. Run your hand over the handle and look for loose edges, lumps, or exposed gaps. The grip should feel even all the way around.
Wrapping too tightly can stretch or distort some overgrips, while wrapping too loosely can let the material shift during play. Aim for a smooth, firm fit rather than pulling as hard as you can.
When should you replace your racket grip tape?
There is no exact schedule that suits every player. A frequent player may change an overgrip every few sessions, while a recreational player may get much longer from one. Sweat, heat, grip texture, and how tightly you hold the racket all affect its lifespan.
Pay attention to the feel rather than the calendar. Replace the overgrip when it becomes slick, starts to unravel, feels unusually hard, or no longer absorbs sweat well. If your hand slides during a serve or you find yourself squeezing harder to keep control, that is a good time to change it.
Common grip replacement mistakes
- Removing the base grip by accident: Unwind only the overgrip unless you intend to replace the grip beneath it too.
- Overlapping too much: Heavy overlap can make the handle feel bulky and uneven. Keep each turn consistent.
- Leaving the butt cap uncovered: Start close to the cap so the bottom edge is secure, but do not wrap so far that the cap’s shape disappears.
- Ignoring handle size: Adding an overgrip makes the handle slightly thicker. If the racket already feels too large, a thicker wrap may make control less comfortable.
- Waiting until the grip is falling apart: A worn grip can shift at an awkward moment. Keep a spare in your tennis bag, particularly for match days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace a tennis overgrip?
Replace it when it loses its secure feel, becomes slick, or starts to peel. Players who practice often or sweat heavily may need a fresh one every few sessions; occasional players can usually go longer.
Can I put a new overgrip over an old one?
It is better to remove the worn overgrip first. Stacking layers can make the handle too large and less even, especially if the old grip has creases or trapped dirt.
Do I need to remove the original racket grip?
No, not for a routine overgrip change. Remove the base grip only when it needs replacing or when you are deliberately changing the handle setup.
Which overgrip is best for sweaty hands?
Look for an absorbent grip and consider Tourna Grip Original if you prefer a dry feel. If you like tackiness, try a tacky option such as Yonex Super Grap, then judge it during a full practice session.
Final Thoughts
Replacing tennis racket grip tape is a small maintenance task that can make the racket feel more secure and comfortable. Remove the old overgrip, wrap the new one evenly from the butt cap toward the throat, and choose a surface that suits your hands and playing conditions. A fresh grip—and a spare in your bag—can help you focus on your next shot instead of your slipping hand.
