Overgrips vs. Replacement Grips: What’s the Difference and Which Do You Need?

Your Complete Tennis Grip Guide from Racquet Vault

A great racquet means nothing if your grip isn’t right. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, your grip is your connection to the game. It affects comfort, control, stability, and confidence with every shot.

Here’s your complete guide to keeping your racquet feeling fresh, comfortable, and performing at its best.

What’s the Difference Between an Overgrip and a Replacement Grip?

Though they look similar, overgrips and replacement grips serve different purposes:

Replacement Grip – The Foundation

This is the main grip installed on your racquet. It’s thicker, cushioned, and includes adhesive backing that attaches directly to the handle. Replacement grips prioritize comfort, shock absorption, and long-lasting durability.

Overgrip – The Finishing Touch

An overgrip wraps over your existing grip to improve feel and traction. It’s thinner, softer, more affordable, and perfect for fine-tuning your grip size or adapting to sweat, tackiness, and texture preferences.

Types of Overgrips

There are two main overgrip styles, each serving different player needs:

Tacky Overgrips

• Best for players who don’t sweat heavily
• Provide a sticky, secure feel
• Ideal for cooler and drier conditions
• Example: Wilson Pro Overgrip

Dry / Absorbent Overgrips

• Perfect for players who sweat more or play in humid conditions
• Offer a dry, non-slip, powdery feel
• Slightly less durable due to open-cell construction
• Example: Tourna Grip

→ Shop Overgrips at Racquet Vault

When Should You Change Your Overgrip?

If your racquet feels slippery or your shots lack stability, your grip may need a refresh.

Here’s an easy guideline:

Change your overgrip as many times per month as you play per week.

(Play 2× per week → change every 2 weeks)

Competitive players might change their overgrip every few sessions. Professionals often replace theirs every set. Signs it’s time to switch: slickness, discoloration, fraying, or unraveling.

How to Regrip Your Racquet: Step-by-Step

Replacing an Overgrip

1. Remove the old overgrip completely.
2. Unwrap the new overgrip and locate the sticky starting end.
3. Anchor it at the butt cap, wrapping upward with slight overlap.
4. Smooth and secure using the finishing tape.

(Tip: Right-handed players wrap counterclockwise; left-handed players wrap clockwise.)

Replacing a Base Grip (Replacement Grip)

1. Peel off the old grip and remove any leftover adhesive.
2. Start at the base of the handle with the adhesive end.
3. Wrap firmly upward with slight overlap for a smooth finish.
4. Trim excess material and secure with finishing tape.

If you prefer a pro touch, Racquet Vault offers in-store racquet regripping and restringing services so your racquet feels brand new.

Choosing the Right Grip for You

Pro Tip

If your racquet starts feeling heavier, slicker, or harder on the hand, it’s usually your grip — not the racquet. Refreshing your grip regularly helps:

• Maintain control and consistency
• Reduce hand fatigue and prevent blisters
• Improve your overall feel and performance

Final Thoughts

Your grip is your only contact point with the racquet — treat it like key performance gear. Replacing your overgrip or base grip regularly keeps your racquet feeling consistent, comfortable, and ready for every point.

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