Padel racket overgrip: when to change it and how to put it on

The overgrip is the thin tape wrapped around the racket handle. It’s cheap, takes two minutes to change and makes a real difference: a worn overgrip slips, makes you grip the racket harder and ends up straining your forearm.

Grip and overgrip are not the same

• Grip: the factory base layer, thicker and cushioned. It’s changed only occasionally.
• Overgrip: the thin layer on top. It’s the one you touch and the one that wears out.

How often to change it

It depends on how much you play and how much your hand sweats. As a guide:

The clear sign: if it’s shiny, smooth, torn or the racket twists in your hand, it’s time to change it.

How to put on an overgrip, step by step

1. Remove the old overgrip and clean the handle if there’s any adhesive residue.
2. Start at the base of the handle, next to the cord, with the end cut diagonally.
3. Wrap upwards keeping the tape taut and overlapping each turn by about 3-5 mm.
4. When you reach the top, cut off the excess diagonally and secure it with the adhesive strip provided.

If you’re left-handed, wrap it the other way so the edge doesn’t rub when you turn the racket.

How many overgrips to use

Each overgrip adds thickness to the handle. Most players use one or two. A handle that’s too thin makes you grip harder; one that’s too thick reduces wrist feel. The practical guide: when you close your hand, there should be a finger’s width gap between your fingertips and your palm.

Overgrip and your elbow

A handle that doesn’t slip lets you hold the racket more loosely, which reduces tension in the forearm. If you have discomfort, check your racket’s feel as well as the overgrip: we explain it in tennis elbow and padel.

And if your racket has had its day, take a look at this season’s best-selling rackets.