Kids tennis rackets can in all shapes and sizes, and finding the right one for your child can be a major headache.
That’s why I put together this list of amazing kids tennis rackets you can buy! I’ll explore what the best tennis rackets for kids include, how they’re different than adult rackets, and much more. Let’s dig in!
In a hurry? The best tennis racket for kids is the Babolat Pure Drive tennis racket. This is a durable racket that’s great for kids looking to take their game to the next level.
Best Kids Tennis Rackets
We’ve put together a list of the best kids tennis rackets, perfect for helping young players develop their skills and enjoy the game. Check them out below!
1. Babolat Pure Drive 2021 Junior 26 Inch Tennis Racquet (Blue)
When we first tried out the Babolat Pure Drive 2021 Junior 26 Inch Tennis Racquet, we were impressed by its maneuverability. It’s a lighter racquet that doesn’t compromise on performance—perfect for skilled juniors who aim to compete at higher levels. Being a little shorter than the adult version, it’s suitable for 10-12-year-olds looking to advance.
While using the racquet, we noticed that the strings needed frequent adjustments. They felt loose from the start, and it was necessary to slide them back into the proper position often. This didn’t hamper our overall experience, though, as it remained an excellent choice for young players.
One issue that we encountered during our time with the Babolat Pure Drive Junior racquet was the durability of the strings. They broke near the top after a few months, which seemed to be a grommet problem. It’s worth considering restringing the racquet after a while to avoid this issue.
In summary, we believe the Babolat Pure Drive 2021 Junior 26 Inch Tennis Racquet is ideal for young and improving tennis players, offering excellent maneuverability for a lightweight racquet. With proper maintenance and possible restringing, this could be an excellent investment for those looking to advance in their tennis journey.
What We Liked
- Excellent maneuverability
- Great for advancing young players
- Similar performance as adult version
What We Didn’t Like
- Strings need frequent adjustments
- Possible grommet issues causing string breakage
- Might need restringing after a few months
2. Wilson Serena Williams 23 Tennis Racquet
We recently tried out the Wilson Serena Williams 23 tennis racquet and found it to be an ideal option for young, aspiring tennis players. The lightweight AirLite Alloy construction ensures easy swings and comfortable play, making it perfect for beginners and intermediate players aged 7-8.
The racquet’s design is undoubtedly a standout feature – the fine details lining the frame make it visually appealing, and it is sure to inspire kids to play like a champion, just like Serena Williams. Our young testers were particularly excited about using a racquet designed with their favorite tennis star in mind.
Though the 23-inch size is perfect for the recommended age range, keep in mind that taller or older kids may require a larger racquet. Additionally, the racquet is pre-strung, which may limit the ability to customize the string tension for more experienced players seeking optimum performance.
In conclusion, the Wilson Serena Williams 23 Tennis Racquet is a fantastic choice for kids just starting on their tennis journey, offering an attractive design, lightweight feel, and easy-to-play features. It certainly left a smile on our faces and left us wanting to hit the courts again!
What We Liked
- Lightweight AirLite Alloy construction
- Eye-catching design inspired by Serena Williams
- Suitable for beginner and intermediate players aged 7-8
What We Didn’t Like
- Might be too small for taller or older kids
- Not suitable for more advanced players
- Pre-strung, limiting custom string tension options
3. WILSON US Open 25 Tennis Racket Slam 23″
We recently got our hands on the WILSON US Open 25 Tennis Racket Slam 23″ and were quite pleased with how it performed for young players. It’s specifically designed for kids aged 7-8, which is perfect for those just starting to learn tennis. The bold color scheme and fun character designs on the racket frame make it appealing and engaging for kids, encouraging them to pick it up and start playing.
One of the standout features is that this racket is pre-strung, making it ready to use right out of the box. This can be particularly helpful for inexperienced players who may not know how to string a racket themselves. We found the racket to be relatively lightweight with a sturdy steel alloy construction, which provides a good balance of stability and ease of use for young players.
However, we did notice that the WILSON racket didn’t come with a headcover, which is somewhat disappointing as it would have been a nice addition to protect the racket from potential damage when not in use. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the frame’s durability and the grip wearing over time. Despite these minor issues, for the most part, the racket has received positive feedback.
In conclusion, the WILSON US Open 25 Tennis Racket Slam 23″ is a great option for young tennis players who are just starting to learn the game. With a vivid color scheme, lightweight design, and fun character designs on the frame, this racket is bound to keep kids engaged and focused on developing their skills. While the lack of a headcover and durability concerns are worth noting, the overall experience with this racket has been positive, making it an excellent choice for young tennis enthusiasts.
What We Liked
- Recommended for ages 7-8
- Vivid, bold color scheme that appeals to young players
- Features fun characters on the racket frame
What We Didn’t Like
- No included headcover
- Frame durability could be better
- Grip may wear over time
4. HEAD Instinct Kids Tennis Racquet
When it comes to introducing a child to tennis, the right equipment can make all the difference. We found the HEAD Instinct Kids Tennis Racquet to be an excellent starting point for young players. With its light and easy-to-handle design, children can learn and enjoy playing without feeling weighed down or overwhelmed by their racquet.
The HEAD Instinct junior tennis rackets come in various sizes (21, 23, and 25 inches) to suit children between 4 to 8+ years old. We appreciate how the head light balance helps reduce vibration and provides stability while hitting the ball. This feature makes it easier for beginners to develop their skills and grow their love for the game.
We also noticed the durable aluminum o-beam construction ensures the racquet lasts until children outgrow it. However, we did find that the grip tape might start peeling off rather quickly, which could be a minor annoyance. Additionally, there are limited color options available, and the one-year warranty might not be enough for some parents. Nevertheless, we think the pros far outweigh the cons and highly recommend the HEAD Instinct Kids Tennis Racquet for young players looking to explore and enjoy the world of tennis.
What We Liked
- Light and easy to handle for kids
- Great for beginners of all ages (4-8+)
- Durable aluminum construction
What We Didn’t Like
- Grip tape may start to peel quickly
- Limited color options
- One-year warranty could be better
5. Street Tennis Club Kids Tennis Racket
We found the Street Tennis Club Kids Tennis Racket to be a great choice for introducing young kids to the sport of tennis. The racket is sized appropriately for children, making it easy for them to manage and helping them build good fundamentals. We loved that it didn’t strain their muscles or joints as they played, providing a positive and fun experience.
Another great feature of this racket is the durability. Composed of an aluminum frame, thick polyester strings, and a grippy neoprene handle, this racket is built to stand up to countless hours of play. The unique graphics on the racket also attracted our young testers, which further encouraged them to enjoy playing with it.
What sets this product apart from others on the market is the inclusion of educational coaching videos. These videos, curated by an accredited pro tennis coach, teach your child the rules of the game, proper technique, and essential body mechanics. This is a fantastic and valuable bonus to help your child get started on the right foot in tennis.
The only slight drawbacks we found were that older kids might outgrow this racket quickly, and it doesn’t come with a case or cover to protect it during storage or transport. Additionally, there are limited color options available – but this is a minor gripe considering the overall quality of the racket.
Overall, we highly recommend the Street Tennis Club Kids Tennis Racket for any parent looking to introduce their child to the sport of tennis. Its perfect size, durability, and educational resources make it an investment that will undoubtedly pave the way for a healthy and enjoyable experience in the world of tennis.
What We Liked
- Fantastic ergonomics for kids
- Durable aluminum frame and quality construction
- Educational coaching videos included
What We Didn’t Like
- Might be too small for older kids
- No case or cover included
- Limited color options
6. WILSON Unisex-Youth Pro Staff V13.0 Rkt Tennis Racket wp22 Black
We’ve found that this WILSON Unisex-Youth Pro Staff V13.0 Rkt Tennis Racket is an excellent choice for young players who are looking to improve their tennis skills. With its lightweight and easy-to-handle design, it’s perfect for beginner-level players, while the braided graphite frame provides a sturdy and vibration-dampening experience for more accurate shots.
The stylish design of this racket, featuring red and yellow stripes along the neck, gives it a classic look that young players are sure to appreciate. We also love how the grip heavy balance offers maximum precision, making it easier for junior players to reach their full potential.
On the downside, we did notice that the packaging could use some improvement. Additionally, some customers reported receiving used rackets instead of new ones, and the delivery time may take longer than expected in some cases.
Despite these issues, we believe that the WILSON Unisex-Youth Pro Staff V13.0 Rkt Tennis Racket is a solid choice for kids looking for a high-quality tennis racket that provides both control and style.
What We Liked
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Braided graphite provides sturdy, vibration-dampening frame
- Stylish design with red and yellow stripes on the neck
What We Didn’t Like
- Packaging could be improved
- May arrive later than expected in some cases
- There have been reports of used items being sent
What to Consider When Buying Kids Tennis Rackets
Weight
One of the most crucial aspects when picking the best kids tennis rackets is the racket’s weight. A lighter racket, often made from lightweight aluminum or similar materials, is easier for them to handle, maneuver, and is especially beneficial for beginners. It aids in developing proper technique and reducing the risk of injury. On the other hand, a slightly heavier racket might provide more power, which could be advantageous for more experienced junior players. Always consider your child’s age, strength, and experience level when weighing up the options.
Grip size
The grip size of the best kids tennis rackets plays a vital role in the comfort and control your child will have while playing tennis. Ensure it’s comfortable for your child to hold and provides a strong grip without being too tight. Smaller grip sizes can aid with control and accuracy, making them an excellent choice for younger kids. In contrast, a larger grip size may offer more comfort for children with larger hands, and as they grow, their grip size will naturally increase.
Head size
The head size of the kids tennis racquets is another key factor to consider. A larger head size gives a larger ‘sweet spot,’ making hitting the ball easier and more forgiving – a great racket feature for beginners. In contrast, smaller head sizes offer more control and precision, a factor that might appeal to junior players with a bit more experience.
Length
The length of the tennis rackets for kids plays a significant role in picking the best one. A shorter racket, such as a junior racquet, is generally recommended for younger children. It provides more control and ease of use, making it a perfect kids tennis racket. As your child grows and their skills improve, a full-size tennis racquet or longer racket could increase their reach and power, transforming them from junior players to potential tennis club stars.
Material
Lastly, the material of the kids tennis rackets should not be overlooked. From lightweight aluminum to powerful graphite, the materials used can significantly impact the racket’s performance. Graphite rackets are lightweight with excellent power and control but can be among the more expensive rackets. Aluminum offers a more affordable option without compromising too much on performance, making it an excellent choice for a kids tennis racket. Composite materials offer a balance, making them a suitable choice for those looking to save money without compromising on quality.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a suitable kids tennis racket that will suit your child’s needs and help them enjoy the game while learning valuable skills and techniques.
Want to take your child’s tennis skills to the next level? Check out some of these drills!
Frequently Asked Questions
What size racket is suitable for a 7-year-old?
For a 7-year-old, we recommend a tennis racket size between 23 to 25 inches. Since children grow at different rates, it’s essential to measure your child’s height and consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart for the most accurate recommendation. The right racket size will ensure that your child can comfortably grip and swing the racket.
How do I pick the right racquet for a 12-year-old beginner?
When picking a racquet for a 12-year-old beginner, we suggest choosing a racket size between 26 to 27 inches. However, it’s a good idea to consider the child’s height and skill level as well. It’s essential to select a lightweight racket made from aluminum or graphite-composite material, as this will make it easier for them to develop proper technique and control.
Which tennis racket works best for an intermediate junior?
For intermediate junior players, we recommend a tennis racket made from graphite or carbon fiber. These materials provide better power, control, and maneuverability, which is necessary for intermediate players to improve their skills. The racket size should be around 27 inches, but you should also take into account factors like the child’s height, skill level, and personal preferences.
What’s the ideal size racket for a 6-year-old?
For a 6-year-old, an ideal tennis racket size would be between 21 to 23 inches. As with any age, it’s crucial to measure your child’s height and consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart to ensure the most accurate fit. A lightweight racket made from aluminum or a composite material is ideal, as it allows them to swing the racket easily and develop proper technique.
What kind of racket should a 13-year-old use?
A 13-year-old player should use a racket size of approximately 27 inches. You must consider factors such as height, skill level, and personal preferences when selecting the right racket. A graphite or carbon fiber racket usually provides the best combination of power, control, and maneuverability, enabling them to advance their skills and technique.
Final Thoughts
Kids tennis racquets can come in all shapes and sizes, making it hard to find the right one for your kid.
From my testing, the best kids tennis racket is the Babolat Pure Drive for a few reasons. This is a high quality tennis racket that’s perfect for younger kids and it will last for years.
If you’re looking for another less expensive option, consider the WILSON US Open 25 Tennis Racket. This is a great junior racket that features a perfect mix of durability and flexibility for your child.
Looking for more kids sports gear? Check out these articles!
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