Your grip is the only point of contact between you and the racket — it matters more than most players think. Overgrips wrap over your existing grip and are replaced regularly (every few sessions). Replacement grips go directly on the handle and are changed every few months. Tacky grips give more feel; dry grips absorb sweat better. Thickness affects how the racket feels in your hand — thicker = more power, thinner = more control.
Last updated: June 2026 · Prices checked June 2026
| Grip | Tier | Price | Key Specs | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wilson Pro Overgrip (3-pack) | Budget | ~$7 | 0.6mm thick · Tacky | 8.0 |
| Tourna Grip Original (10-pack) | Budget | ~$9 | 0.5mm thick · Dry feel | 8.2 |
| Yonex Super Grap (30-pack) | Best Value | ~$15 | 0.65mm thick · Tacky | 8.8 |
| Babolat VS Original Overgrip (12-pack) | Best Value | ~$18 | 0.5mm thick · Ultra-tacky | 9.0 |
| Head Hydrosorb Pro (30-pack) | Premium | ~$22 | 0.5mm thick · Tacky + absorbent | 9.0 |
| Wilson Leather Grip (Replacement) | Premium | ~$28 | Genuine leather · 1.4mm thick | 9.2 |
Under $10
Reliable overgrips at everyday prices
The world's best-selling overgrip for a reason. Tacky, thin, and consistent. Used by recreational players and tour pros alike — Roger Federer famously used the Wilson Pro for most of his career. Soft feel, absorbs moisture well, and stays grippy even as it wears. Change every 3–5 sessions.
The go-to grip for heavy sweaters. Tourna Grip is dry (not tacky) and works by getting grippier as your hands sweat — the opposite of most grips. Popular in hot climates and with players who go through grips quickly. Exceptional value at this pack size.
$12 – $20
Tour-quality overgrips at accessible prices
Exceptional value — 30 overgrips for the price of a few singles elsewhere. Yonex Super Grap is tacky with a slightly cushioned feel, thicker than Wilson Pro, and outlasts most competitors in terms of durability. Used widely on tour including by Naomi Osaka. The 30-pack means you always have one ready.
The grip used by Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz. VS Original is ultra-thin, incredibly tacky out of the package, and gives a direct, connected feel. It doesn't last as long as thicker grips, but the sensation is unmatched. If you want to feel exactly what the pros feel, this is the one.
$20 – $35
High-performance replacement grips
Head's flagship overgrip balances tackiness with moisture management better than almost anything else. Hydrosorb technology pulls sweat away from the surface while keeping that tacky feel intact. Durable, comfortable, and consistent across the whole session — not just the first few games.
The gold standard for replacement grips. Real leather gives a firmer, more precise feel than synthetic grips — you can sense every vibration and truly feel the ball on the strings. Preferred by serve-and-volley players and those who want maximum feedback. Heavier than synthetic, so it slightly increases handle weight (which many advanced players actually like).
Grips & Overgrips Buying Guide
Replacement grip vs overgrip
The replacement grip is the thick cushioned base layer glued to the handle — replace it once or twice a year. Overgrips are thin, cheap wraps that go on top and get swapped every few sessions. Most players should buy overgrips in bulk and barely think about the base grip.
Tacky vs absorbent
Overgrips come in two personalities: tacky (sticky feel, great control, but slippery once soaked) and dry/absorbent (handles heavy sweat, slightly less locked-in feel). Sweaty hands or humid climates favor absorbent; everyone else tends to prefer tacky.
Grip size and buildup
An overgrip adds roughly half a grip size. If you're between racket grip sizes, buy the smaller handle and build it up with an overgrip — you can always add, but you can't shave a handle down (easily). A too-small grip forces you to squeeze, which tires the forearm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change my overgrip?
Every 3–8 hours of play, or as soon as it feels slick or looks glazed. They cost about a dollar each in bulk — a fresh overgrip is the cheapest performance upgrade in tennis.
What's the difference between a grip and an overgrip?
The grip (replacement grip) is the thick cushioned layer on the bare handle. An overgrip is a thin disposable wrap over it. Overgrips protect the base grip and give you a fresh surface for pennies.
Why does my racket twist in my hand?
Usually a worn overgrip or a grip one size too small. Replace the overgrip first; if it still twists on off-center hits, try building the handle up half a size.
Tacky or dry overgrip — which should I buy?
If your hands sweat a lot or you play in humidity, dry/absorbent. Otherwise tacky — most pros use a tacky overgrip for the locked-in feel.