Measuring for Proper Grip Size

There’s a standard way to measure for proper grip size and all you need is a small ruler. Look at the photo on the right and you can clearly see how this is done. The average person has two dominant lines running horizontally across the center of the palm. Simply measure from the line closest to the wrist to the tip of the ring finger, which will give you an approximate measurement–anywhere from 4 inches to 5 and up for an adult player. Experience tells us that this is not always spot on because everyone’s hand is different. However, using this method will get you very close and give you a reference point from which to start.

Another way to check this is to have your client hold the racquet exactly as they would if they were hitting a forehand. Now, look where their middle fingertip comes into contact with their thumb. The tip of the middle finger should line up with the crease in the thumb when it’s slightly bent as in the photo at right. This is more of a “true check” that can be applied after you’ve measured with the ruler as shown in the photo.