How To Use Overgrips In Tennis

By: Valentín PEREZ DUHALDE

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Do you want to know how to use overgrips in tennis? When playing tennis, sometimes the grip gets wet with sweat, making it hard to control the racquet. That's why most of the grips are covered with a second layer of fabric over the original leather handle. That's what overgrips are used for in tennis.

What you need to use overgrips in tennis:

  • A racquet
  • A clean rag
  • Solvent
  • An overgrip

The steps to use overgrips in tennis are:

  1. Choose the right overgrip material for you and your racquet. Depending on your preferences and physical characteristics, you may need a more or less absorbent material for your overgrip. For instance, some players have no problem in playing with tubular rubber overgrips, while others, with more tendency to have sweat in their hands, cannot hold a racquet with such material. So, choose the right one for you.
  2. Decide on the thickness of the overgrip. Sometimes, an overgrip is also a good way to increase the racquet's grip's width, adding a lot of cushioning. Other players may prefer a thinner overgrip when the grip is the right size for them already.
  3. Clean the grip of the racquet thoroughly, using solvent if needed to remove all remains of previous overgrips or glue.
  4. If using a regular stripe overgrip, start wrapping the grip from the butt cap towards the head of the racquet. Grips are usually finished with a plastic ring close to the triangle; don't go beyond that point.
  5. If you chose a tubular overgrip, heating it with warm water can be a good idea for easier fitting. To put on a tubular grip, roll it and then approach one of the openings to the butt cup, then press and unroll upwards.
  6. Tape the top of the overgrip to the plastic ring that marks the end of the grip. Most overgrip brands provide a piece of tape that is perfect for the task. If none is present, you can use a piece of electric tape. Avoid using too much adhesive tape, as the glue will eventually melt and make your grip sticky.

A good maintenance rule is to let your racquet grip dry after using it and before storing. Worms and odor can develop in closed environments, so ventilating is the key.

Posted on: Aug. 27, 2010