GET OVER IT! (OVERGRIP, THAT IS) {2002}
By Vince Chiarelli, PTR, MRT and Owner of String Along With Vince in Largo
An amazing number of people who come into my store don't know the difference between a replacement grip and overgrip.
Replacement grips are the same thing that comes on a racquet when it's new. A grip is about three times thicker than an overgrip. The edges are tapered so there is no excessive overlap. Overgrip is strip or sleeve of material that is used to COVER the grip.
Why do people use overgrip? There are many reasons. If the size of the handle is slightly smaller than it should be, an overgrip might make it more comfortable. Some people like a different type of surface than the grip they have. Some overgrips are tackier and some have a completely different feel such as suede-like or textured. Some people like to change the overgrip often to get a fresh feel without replacing the grip.
Keep in mind that using an overgrip will increase the size up to three-fourths of a grip size. If you want to try using overgrip but have a concern about building up the grip size, choose one that is very thin. The other thing to consider is weight. Ten to twenty grams is not an uncommon weight for an overgrip. This is more than enough to change the balance of the racquet noticeably. This can be bad or good depending on how you like the current feel.
Overgrip generally comes in packages of three. The cost is less than most replacement grips, and is easier to put on by yourself. (I don't recommend installing your own replacement grip because I see the results all too often, and almost every one is done improperly). Your local racquet specialty shop should be able to replace your grip so that it looks like it did when you bought the racquet. I don't charge extra for this service, and doubt that other shops do.
Copyright 2002 (Previously published inFLORIDA TENNIS - April 2002)
By Vince Chiarelli, USPTR, MRT, owner String Along With Vince
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