Replacement grip and overgrip: the difference and how to wrap them
TenisRaketi Editör Ekibi · Updated November 2026
Short answer
A racket handle has two kinds of tape: the replacement grip it comes with and the thin overgrip wrapped over it. An overgrip makes the handle about half a size thicker, is changed more often and takes a few minutes to wrap. The guide also covers fitting a vibration dampener.
In this guide
In a shop, "grip" can mean two different products: the racket's replacement grip or the overgrip wrapped over it. This guide explains the difference, how to wrap each and when to change them.
Replacement grip or overgrip?
- Replacement grip: The thick tape the racket comes with, wrapped round the handle. When it wears out it is taken off and a new one goes on.
- Overgrip: A thin tape wrapped over the replacement grip. It absorbs sweat and refreshes the feel. It is easy to take off and put on, so it is changed more often.
One overgrip makes the handle about half a size thicker. That is why, if you are between two grip sizes, the smaller size plus an overgrip works. More in the grip size guide.
How to wrap a grip
Overgrip:
- Take off the old overgrip, if any. The replacement grip stays on.
- Find the thin, tapered end of the overgrip. Stick its adhesive tab to the end of the handle, just above the cap.
- Make one full turn at the end of the handle. Then wrap upwards, overlapping the previous turn by about 3–6 mm each time. Keep the tape tight so it does not wrinkle.
- Wrap up to where the replacement grip ends and cut off the rest.
- Secure the overgrip with the finishing tape from the pack.
Replacement grip:
- Take off the old grip, and the staple under it if there is one.
- Place the thin end of the new grip at the cap at the end of the handle.
- Hold the racket upside down. If you play right-handed, pull the grip to the right as you wrap; left-handed, to the left. Overlap each turn by only about 1.5 mm.
- At the top of the handle, cut off the rest and secure it with the finishing tape.
When to change it
There is no fixed time; look at the tape. If an overgrip is slippery, shiny or torn, it is time. Frequent players change their overgrip more often. A replacement grip lasts longer. Change it too when it is torn or no longer holds your hand.
How to fit a vibration dampener
A vibration dampener is a small, soft piece fitted to the strings. It stops the strings ringing after impact, makes the sound duller and softens the feel a little. It does not meaningfully reduce the shock that reaches your arm. If your arm hurts, strings and tension help more; see the myths in the arm-friendly strings guide.
You fit a dampener by threading it onto the strings between two main strings. Under the rules it may only sit outside the pattern of crossed strings; where it can go is in the racket rules guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a grip and an overgrip?
The replacement grip is the thick tape the racket comes with and is replaced when it wears out. An overgrip is a thin tape wrapped over it; it absorbs sweat, refreshes the feel and is changed more often.
Does an overgrip change the grip size?
Yes. One overgrip makes the handle about half a size thicker.
How do I wrap an overgrip?
Stick the thin end to the end of the handle, make one full turn, then wrap upwards, overlapping a little each turn and keeping the tape tight. Cut off the rest at the top and secure it with the finishing tape.
What does a vibration dampener do?
It stops the strings ringing after impact and changes the sound. It does not meaningfully reduce the shock that reaches your arm.
Where does a vibration dampener go?
Under the rules it may only sit outside the pattern of crossed strings.
More guides on this topic
- How to choose a tennis racketIf you are new to tennis, pick a 100–105 in² head, 270–295 g weight and a flexible frame (below 65 RA). Measure your grip size and size down if unsure. As your game improves you move to heavier rackets with smaller heads.
- How to find your tennis racket grip sizeMeasure from the middle crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. About 10.8 cm means L2 and 11.1 cm means L3. If you fall between two sizes, choose the smaller one and add an overgrip if needed.
- Tennis racket head size: 98, 100 and 102 sq in comparedA bigger head gives a larger sweet spot and more power; a smaller head gives more control but less room for error. For most players 98–102 sq in (632–658 cm²) is the right range, and beginners should look at 100–105 sq in.
- Tennis racket weight and balance explainedA racket's weight is more than one number: balance and swingweight decide how heavy it feels in the head. For most adults 285–305 g unstrung with an even or slightly head-light balance is a good range.
- Buying a used tennis racket: what to checkAre there cracks or bends in the frame, how worn are the grommets and the bumper, does the grip size fit you, and which year is the model? Check these before you buy, and if in doubt show the racket to a stringer.
- Decathlon tennis rackets: Artengo and KuikmaDecathlon sells its own tennis rackets under the Artengo and Kuikma names. This guide covers which models to look at as a beginner or a regular player, junior rackets, and why the site shows no Decathlon prices.