Overgrip
Also known as: overgrips, over grip, tennis overgrip, replacement grip, base grip, tacky overgrip, dry overgrip, changing an overgrip, regripping a racquet
An overgrip is a thin wrap that goes over the racquet's base grip. It adds tack or soaks up sweat, protects the base grip and makes the handle slightly bigger. Change it when it feels slick, worn or hard. Players who sweat a lot may change it every match or two.
A racquet handle has two possible layers. The replacement grip, or base grip, is the thicker cushioned wrap fitted to the handle. It sets the handle's feel and most of its size. An overgrip is a much thinner, cheaper wrap that goes on top. Tennis Companion puts overgrips at roughly three to four times thinner than many base grips. Overgrips are not meant to go on a bare handle.
There are two main feels. Tacky overgrips feel slightly sticky and help the racquet stay put in a dry hand. Dry or absorbent overgrips soak up sweat for players whose hands get wet. Each layer adds a little thickness. If you are between grip sizes, many players choose the smaller handle and build it up with an overgrip. Wrapping with a bigger overlap also adds size.
There is no fixed schedule for changing one. The more you play and sweat, the sooner it wears. Replace it when it loses tack, feels slippery or hard, or starts to tear. A base grip lasts much longer and needs changing only when it loses cushion, turns slippery or tears. To wrap, start at the butt, pull the overgrip snug with an even overlap, and finish with the tape near the throat.
Tips by skill level
Keep a spare overgrip in your bag. When the handle starts to feel slippery, change it rather than gripping tighter.
If you add an overgrip to every racquet, buy frames one half size smaller so the finished handle matches your hand.
Example
On a humid day, a player's racquet keeps twisting in his hand on serve. He swaps his worn tacky overgrip for a fresh absorbent one, and the handle stays secure for the rest of the match.
Why it matters
A slipping handle makes you grip harder, and a tight grip costs feel and adds strain on the forearm. A fresh overgrip is the cheapest fix in tennis.
Common mistakes
- Playing with a shiny, slick overgrip and squeezing harder to compensate
- Stacking several overgrips to fix a handle that is far too small
- Wrapping an overgrip straight onto a bare handle
- Forgetting that an overgrip makes the handle slightly bigger
Frequently asked questions
Should I use an overgrip?
Most players do. An overgrip adds tack or sweat absorption, protects the base grip and is cheap to replace. If the handle feels slippery or worn, a new overgrip usually fixes it.
How often should I change my overgrip?
There is no fixed rule. Change it when it feels slick, hard or worn. Players who play often or sweat heavily may change it every match or two. Occasional players may go weeks.
What is the difference between an overgrip and a replacement grip?
A replacement grip is the thicker, cushioned base layer on the handle. An overgrip is a thin wrap that goes on top of it for tack and sweat control. You change overgrips far more often.
Does an overgrip change grip size?
Yes, slightly. Each overgrip adds a little thickness, and a bigger overlap adds more. Many players between sizes buy the smaller handle and add an overgrip.
Sources
Related terms
- Grip Pressure (Tennis)Grip pressure is how tightly a player holds the racquet. It should generally stay relaxed through most of the swing, firming only briefly at contact.
- Choosing a Tennis RacquetMatch the racquet to your level and swing. Beginners usually suit a lighter frame with a larger head, and Wilson's sizing chart suggests 105 to 110 square inches. Advanced players with long, fast swings often prefer heavier frames and smaller heads for control. Get your grip size right and demo a few racquets before buying.
- Tennis ElbowTennis elbow is pain on the outside of the elbow, linked to overuse of the forearm tendons that attach there. In tennis, contributing factors can include a late, wristy one-handed backhand, tight or very stiff strings, a sudden jump in hitting or serving volume and a tight grip. If it hurts, stop playing, and see a qualified medical professional if the pain persists.
- Vibration DampenerA vibration dampener is a small rubber or silicone device inserted at the bottom of the string bed to reduce the high-pitched "ping" vibration and change the sound of the racquet at contact.
- Racquet Specs ExplainedRacquet specs tell you how a frame will play. Head size sets the sweet spot, weight sets stability, and balance shows where the weight sits. Head-light means the balance point is nearer the handle, and each 'point' head-light is 1/8 inch. Length runs from the standard 27 inches to the 29-inch legal limit.
Related guides & benchmarks
Have a question about this?
There is nothing here to film. Ask SwingVantage a follow-up question, or keep reading the related terms above.