YOUR ONLY POINT OF CONTACT
Players obsess over frames and strings, but entirely ignore their grip. The grip is your only physical connection to the racket. If it slips by a fraction of a millimeter on contact, your shot is going wide.
THE REPLACEMENT GRIP
This is the thick, cushioned base grip installed at the factory. It absorbs shock and gives the handle its octagonal shape. It should be replaced once or twice a season when the cushioning completely flattens out, or if you can feel the bare graphite underneath.
THE OVERGRIP
This is the thin, temporary tape wrapped over the base grip. Overgrips come in tacky (for dry climates) or absorbent (for heavy sweat) variations. They are meant to be changed constantly. Pro players change them every set; club players should change them every few matches.
THE RULE OF THUMB
If your racket twists in your hand on an off-center hit, your grip is dead. Strip it, wrap a fresh one, and regain control of your weapon.
