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7 Best Junior Tennis Racquet 26
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Buying Guide for the Best Junior Tennis Racquet 26
Selecting the right junior tennis racquet, especially in the 26-inch size, is a key step for young players developing their skills. You want a racquet that feels comfortable, helps build confidence, and matches your child’s physical development. As kids are still learning, factors like weight, grip size, and material quality will have a big influence on both performance and enjoyment. Always make sure your child tries holding and swinging the racquet if possible to see if it feels manageable.Racquet LengthRacquet length is measured from the bottom of the handle to the top of the frame. For juniors, 26 inches is generally recommended for kids aged around 10 to 12 or those who are about 55 to 60 inches tall. A 26-inch racquet offers a good balance of power and control while still being light and easy to handle. If your child is taller or more advanced, you might consider a slightly longer racquet, but for this age and size range, 26 inches usually ensures they can swing comfortably and develop good technique.
WeightThe weight of a racquet affects how easy it is to swing and how much power is generated. Light racquets (around 240–265 grams) are easier for younger or less experienced players to maneuver, reducing fatigue and risk of injury. Heavier racquets can provide more stability and power, but may be harder for juniors to control. To choose the right weight, consider your child’s strength and experience; most children benefit from a lighter racquet until they grow and develop their skills.
Grip SizeGrip size is the thickness of the racquet handle and it’s crucial for comfort and preventing injury. If the grip is too big or too small, it can make shots uncomfortable or even cause blisters. Junior racquets are often made with a smaller grip size, but you should always have your child hold the racquet and see if there’s a gap about the width of a finger between the tips of their fingers and their palm when gripping the handle. This helps ensure good control and safety.
Head SizeHead size refers to the area of the racquet’s string bed. A larger head size (around 100–110 square inches) gives a bigger sweet spot, making it easier to hit good shots even if the ball doesn’t hit the center. This can boost confidence and success for beginners. Smaller head sizes offer more control, but are usually best for experienced players. For most juniors, a bigger head size makes it easier and more fun to learn.
MaterialJunior racquets are commonly made from aluminum or composite materials. Aluminum racquets are generally lighter, more affordable, and sufficient for young beginners. Composite or graphite racquets tend to be a little more durable and can offer better performance, especially for players who are hitting harder or playing more frequently. When picking a material, consider how often your child plays and their current skill level; for casual beginners, aluminum is fine, but more advanced players might enjoy the benefits of composite materials.
String PatternThe string pattern describes how many main and cross strings the racquet has. An open pattern (fewer strings) can provide more power and spin, while a denser pattern (more strings) offers more control and durability. Most junior racquets use a standard pattern optimized for learning and general play. For most kids starting out, this isn’t a critical factor, but as they progress, string pattern can be considered for personal preference and style of play.