The tennis racket market developed so much that even the most demanding clients can find suitable products without a problem.
All the manufacturers keep on working on making their equipment better and better. That is why every year, we see in stock upgraded versions of famous rackets.
You don’t even imagine how lucrative business the companies make on promoting and selling their products worldwide. Which child wouldn’t like to play tennis with a racket of their idols?
So, for example, Serbia must be an excellent market for Head which supplies Novak Djokovic. Rafael Nadal brought to Spain many good emotions and victories achieved with Babolat that it didn’t need additional promotion.
No doubt about the vast popularity of the Wilson brand in the USA either. Probably each American is now aware of Serena Williams’ greatness and connects her with Wilson.
Tennis rackets differ in many specifications like head shape, frame design, or structural features. But the rackets weren’t and aren’t divided by gender and are all produced for everyone.
Some of them, however, are painted in a more colorful way to catch ladies’ attention.
If there is no technical difference, then why are some tennis rackets more popular than others?
Are Tennis Rackets Unisex?
There is one very convenient characteristic of tennis rackets. They are all unisex. Although from outside many tennis rackets look intended for girls, inside their core is no different to men’s.
Also, official tennis regulations state the size and weight ranges, which are even for both sexes.
Generally, the idea of linking equipment with a given player is an effect of skillful marketing. The advertisements aim to create connotations like ‘Federer’s black racket is for successful guys’ or ‘Osaka’s white frame makes a challenging lady.’
Let’s not forget about the most crucial reason behind the racket choice — the racket’s weight.
Men are biologically larger and stronger, so heavier rackets are fine for them.
Meanwhile, girls will search for lighter versions to use the entire racket’s potential without overloading the arm. In some cases, they would aim for bigger racket heads which forgive more errors and inaccuracy.
Clearly, there is no economical need to produce rackets regarding genders. What we have on the market is way enough to please everyone who wants to play tennis at any level.
Why Do Retailers Sell Female Tennis Rackets?
Even though tennis rackets are not specified for any sex, the retailers find an easy way to feminize them. And they do it all the time, but you rarely notice it.
What’s the big idea? If you don’t know yet, it is money. Ladies never stop buying.
There is a simple trick called pink tax. The pink tax principle relies on women’s tendency to value cosmetic beauty over the functionality of products. Sports gear and equipment are an excellent field of action.
The tennis world is very specific and mainly consists of really wealthy people. The ability to play tennis gives respect and admiration among fellows. Prove me wrong if business women don’t overpay to look good and fancy on the court to impress.
Here is a big deal for sellers.
They are totally aware of this phenomenon and make regular rackets pink, flowery, or labeled with limited edition. What is left is increasing the price, putting it up on sale, and watching them go like hotcakes.
Suppose you want to make a good living selling tennis stuff for men. In that case, you have to find professionals or genuinely passionate amateurs who invest in the most advanced and functional equipment.
But why try so hard and search for exclusive loyal clients if you can flock to literally anything that shines.
Women are waiting to pay for it a lot.
In short words this is what retailers think and thus promote female tennis rackets which, in fact, don’t exist.
Men vs Women: Key Characteristics To Look For When Selecting A Racket
Buying a tennis racket should be fun. Especially if your budget is far from any limits. Enter a store, choose the most advanced and famous frame and enjoy your tennis ever since.
Hold on here. It is not so easy.
There are many essential but crucial parameters you must take into account to select well.
First on the line is head size. Most of the players stick around rackets with head size of 645 sq. cm. Such a surface helps them to keep a perfect balance between control and power.
But women can find even bigger sizes more suitable for them. Larger string-bed results in more power and fewer unforced errors.
The second factor to watch out for is racket weight and balance. Adjusted weight is more important than anything else to avoid technical errors and injuries.
For this reason, almost every advanced racket has its lighter version.
The light racket weighs below 285 g and is the most rational solution for women to avoid any injuries from overloaded arm.
Meanwhile, the average man should instead focus on 300+ g frames. You also shouldn’t neglect a head-light distribution to ease control over the racket.
Grip size matters.
Typically girls have smaller hands and use grip size 2 or 3, while guys instead start from 3 on.
Remember, if you are doubtful about which to choose, take a smaller grip. In the worst case, you will still be able to increase it with over-grips.
And finally, you want to look for racket length. This ranges from a typical 68,6 cm length up to 73,7 cm.
If you are a woman, you will probably feel the most comfortable with a shorter racket. Shorter leverage will allow you to easily maneuver the racket and put less effort into hitting.
Same rules work for any beginners regardless of the gender. What is important is to take into account your personal biological factors.
Also read: How Often Should Tennis Racket Be Replaced?
Final Words
While men’s and women’s tennis is entirely different in many ways, the rackets are what connects them all.
Tennis rackets are manufactured for the whole market without extra refinements or handicaps for any gender. You have freedom in selecting specifications, essentially weight, to match your physical build and abilities.
While reviewing the newest equipment catalogs, you may have an impression of seeing racket offers for ladies.
That is true since tennis brands do create foxy lines of standard products in eye-catching wrapping.
There will always be a demand for shining and outstanding tennis rackets, shoes, clothes, or bags. So next time you visit a club store, pay attention to what their selling strategy is.
Do you think pink tax is appropriate customer service?
What was your experience with your first tennis racket purchase?
