At the net, a racket that feels quick through a volley can be worth more than one that adds a little pace to your groundstrokes. But doubles still demands solid returns, dependable serves and enough stability to handle a hard ball aimed at your feet. The right racket balances those jobs—and suits the player holding it, not just the position they play.
There isn’t one doubles-only racket. Most recreational and competitive doubles players do well with a maneuverable 100-square-inch frame around 285–305 grams unstrung. Below are five useful options, followed by practical advice on choosing and setting one up.
What matters in a doubles racket?
Maneuverability helps when you have little time to react at the net or need to get the racket around on a body serve. A lighter frame can feel fast, but too little mass may twist on hard volleys and returns. Look for a balance: quick enough to position, solid enough to block the ball back.
A 100-square-inch head is a sensible starting point for many players. It offers a forgiving contact area without feeling unwieldy. Smaller heads can reward clean, precise contact; larger ones can add forgiveness, though they may feel less crisp for quick exchanges.
Comfort and control count over a long match. A racket that is too stiff, too heavy or strung too tightly can make repeated serving and volleying tiring. Your own swing speed and timing matter more than the label on the frame.
Specs below are approximate unstrung figures; generations and regional versions can differ. Strings, overgrips and dampeners also change the racket’s finished weight and feel.
Five rackets worth considering
| Racket | Approx. unstrung specs | Good fit for |
|---|---|---|
| Wilson Blade 100 v9 | 300 g; 100 sq. in.; 16×19 | Players wanting a controlled, connected feel |
| Head Speed MP | 300 g; 100 sq. in.; 16×19 | All-court players seeking an even balance |
| Yonex EZONE 100 | 300 g; 100 sq. in.; 16×19 | Players who want easy depth and a generous hitting area |
| Babolat Pure Drive 100 | About 300 g; 100 sq. in.; 16×19 | Players looking for lively power on serves and returns |
| Wilson Clash 100 v2 | About 295 g; 100 sq. in.; 16×19 | Players prioritizing a more flexible, arm-friendly feel |
Wilson Blade 100 v9
The Blade 100 is a good choice if you want a little more forgiveness than a traditional control frame without giving up a precise response. It can suit an aggressive baseliner who moves forward behind a strong approach shot, as well as a net player who likes to punch volleys into open space. Its main trade-off is that it won’t supply the effortless pop of a power-oriented frame. Players with shorter or slower swings may need to create more of their own depth.
Head Speed MP
The Speed MP is a balanced option for players who switch between the baseline and the net. It generally offers a blend of manageable power, spin and control, making it easier to use across different doubles roles than a highly specialized frame. It’s a sensible demo if you’re not sure what you want. The downside is much the same as its strength: players who want a very soft feel or a particularly crisp, low-powered response may prefer a more distinctive frame.
Yonex EZONE 100
The EZONE 100 gives many players accessible depth and a forgiving response across the face. That can help on defensive returns, stretch volleys and serves when you’re under pressure. It’s worth trying if you want help generating pace but still need a frame that can move around at the net. Its lively response may feel less controlled to someone who already hits a big, flat ball. If volleys sail long, first experiment with string choice and tension before deciding the racket is wrong.
Babolat Pure Drive 100
The Pure Drive is known for easy power, which can be useful in doubles: a strong first serve can earn a weak return, and a firm return can take time away from the opposing net player. It also suits players who like to take the ball early and finish points decisively. That liveliness is not for everyone. If you struggle to keep volleys or groundstrokes inside the lines, or prefer a softer impact, demo it carefully and compare it with a more flexible option.
Wilson Clash 100 v2
The Clash 100 v2 is a compelling demo for players who value a more flexible feel, including those who find stiffer frames uncomfortable. Its maneuverable weight can help at the net, while its 100-square-inch head provides useful forgiveness. The trade-off is that some players find the response less direct or stable against heavy pace than they’d like. If hard returns push the racket around, consider a heavier model or ask a stringer about a small, professionally applied weight adjustment.
Match the racket to your doubles role
If you often serve and volley, prioritize quick handling and stable volleys. A very heavy racket may feel reassuring on contact but slow your preparation, especially when an opponent aims at your body. If you mostly play from the baseline, don’t choose a frame solely because it feels fast at the net: you still need enough comfort and control to return aggressively and set up your partner.
For a frequent net player, test volleys from close range as well as from the service line. Can you change direction without a big backswing? Does the racket stay steady when you block a fast ball? For a return-focused player, try compact returns against real pace. A frame that behaves well on a relaxed groundstroke can feel sluggish when you have to react quickly.
Don’t overlook strings and setup
String choice can change a racket’s feel almost as much as switching frames. A full bed of polyester often feels firm and suits players who swing fast and break softer strings frequently, but it can be uncomfortable for some arms—especially at high tension or when the strings are worn. Multifilament or synthetic gut is often a more comfortable starting point for recreational players. Ask a qualified stringer to tailor the choice to your swing, comfort and how often you play.
Use the manufacturer’s recommended tension range as a starting point, not a rule. Lower tension can make the stringbed feel livelier; higher tension may feel firmer and more controlled, though results depend on the string and racket. If you’re unsure, test one change at a time. A fresh overgrip can also improve secure handling, particularly when you’re switching quickly between forehand grips and volleys.
How to choose with a demo
- Try two or three frames, ideally with similar strings and tension so the comparison is fair.
- Play actual doubles points. Include serves, returns, reflex volleys and overheads—not just baseline hitting.
- Notice late-match comfort. A racket that feels effortless for ten minutes may feel tiring after a full set.
- Check the complete setup. Compare the racket with your usual grip and any added weight, not just the bare frame.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a lighter racket better for doubles?
Not automatically. A lighter frame can be easier to maneuver at the net, but a racket that is too light may feel unstable against fast serves and volleys. Choose the heaviest option you can swing comfortably and prepare quickly with.
Is a 100-square-inch racket a good choice for doubles?
For many players, yes. It’s a practical middle ground between forgiveness and control. Stronger players who consistently find the center may prefer a smaller head, while beginners may appreciate a larger hitting area.
Should doubles players use polyester strings?
Only if the feel and demands suit them. Polyester can work well for players with fast swings who need durability or spin, but it may feel harsh for others. Comfort, playing frequency and string wear should guide the choice.
Can I use the same racket for singles and doubles?
Yes. A balanced all-court frame such as the Head Speed MP or a similar 100-square-inch model can work in both formats. Focus on whether it lets you return, serve and volley effectively rather than buying a frame solely for doubles.
Final Thoughts
A useful doubles racket is quick enough for close exchanges, steady enough to handle pace and comfortable enough to play with all day. The Blade 100, Speed MP, EZONE 100, Pure Drive 100 and Clash 100 v2 each offer a different balance, so none is a universal winner. Demo your shortlist in doubles points, pay attention to late-match comfort and make the final call based on how well you can return and volley under pressure.
