Impact of Adding Two Grips to a Tennis Racket

Adding a second grip to your tennis racket is generally not recommended. While it might seem like a straightforward way to enhance your grip size, it can significantly alter the feel and performance of your racket. Here, we will explore the potential effects of adding a second grip and provide advice on how to address grip-related issues in a more effective manner.

Increased Grip Size and Discomfort

Increased Grip Size: When you add a second grip, the overall grip size is greatly increased. This might lead to discomfort, particularly for those with smaller hands, as the grip may become too large. The larger grip size hampers your ability to control the racket effectively, which is crucial for maintaining consistent performance during gameplay.

Weight Distribution and Maneuverability

Weight Distribution: The additional weight from the second grip can alter the balance and swing dynamics of the racket. This can make the racket feel heavier, leading to reduced maneuverability and a less fluid playing style. The altered weight distribution might also affect your stroke production and the follow-through of your shots.

Reduced Tactile Feedback and Precision

Reduced Tactile Feedback: When two grips are applied, you may lose some of the tactile feedback you receive from the racket. This can make it challenging to gauge the feel of the racket and the impact of your shots. For finesse plays like volleys and drop shots, this loss of tactile feedback can be particularly detrimental to your performance.

Increased Risk of Slippage

Potential for Slippage: If the grips are not applied correctly, one grip may slip over the other during play. This can result in inconsistent handling, which can be especially problematic during high-intensity rallies where precision and control are essential.

Experimenting with Solutions

Replacing the Grip: If your current grip is too small, it might be more effective to replace it with a thicker one or use an overgrip. An overgrip is specifically designed to enhance grip without significantly altering the size or feel of the racket. Experimenting with different types of grips can help you find the one that works best for your hand size and playing style.

Personal Experience

Overgrip Slipperiness Issue: I recently encountered an issue with an overgrip that was too slippery, exacerbated by my sweaty hands. This resulted in the racket turning inside my hand or even flying away during mid-point. Following my friend's advice, I added a second grip to address the slippery issue. However, this solution came with its own problems. The grip became too large and uncomfortable, leading to rapid fatigue in my hand. Additionally, the racket felt heavier on the handle, affecting my overall playing experience.

Switching Back to a Smooth Overgrip

Switching Back: After encountering these issues, I decided to revert to my previous setup but opted for a new, less smooth overgrip. This resolve resolved the problem, leading to consistent and comfortable play. From this experience, I advise experimenting with different grips and solutions to find what works best for you.

In conclusion, while adding a second grip might seem like a quick fix for grip size issues, it can lead to a myriad of performance problems. It's often better to explore alternatives like thicker grips or overgrips designed to enhance your comfort and control without significantly altering the size or feel of the racket.