Adult rackets are all roughly the same length: 27 inches (68.5 cm). Junior rackets come in several shorter lengths so that children can swing comfortably, hit the ball in front of them and learn good technique. Choosing the wrong size is very common — usually because parents buy a racket that is too long so the child can "grow into it". This guide helps you pick the right length today.
Junior racket size chart
| Racket length | Approx. age | Approx. height | Usual ball |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17–19 in (43–48 cm) | 2–4 | under 100 cm | Foam / red |
| 21 in (53 cm) | 4–6 | 100–115 cm | Red |
| 23 in (58 cm) | 6–8 | 115–130 cm | Red / orange |
| 25 in (63.5 cm) | 8–10 | 130–145 cm | Orange / green |
| 26 in (66 cm) | 10–12 | 145–155 cm | Green / yellow |
| 27 in (68.5 cm, adult) | 12+ | over 155 cm | Yellow |
These ranges overlap, and brands publish slightly different charts. Height and strength matter more than age: a tall, strong 8-year-old may be ready for a 25-inch racket, while a smaller 9-year-old may still be best with a 23-inch.
The standing test
If you can try rackets in a shop or at the club, this quick test is more reliable than any chart:
- Ask the child to stand straight, arms relaxed at their sides.
- Have them hold the racket by the grip in their hitting hand, head pointing to the floor.
- The tip of the racket should just reach the ground, or sit a centimetre or two above it.
If the racket head rests on the floor with the arm straight, it is too long. If there is a large gap, the child can probably handle a bigger size.
A second check: watch the child swing. If they have to choke up on the handle, drag the racket on the ground, or swing very late, it is too long or too heavy.
Don't buy to grow into it. An oversized racket makes children hit late, use their wrist and shoulder to compensate, and get frustrated. Children typically move up a size every year or two; a well-fitting racket now is the better investment.
Match the racket with the right ball and court
Junior tennis works best as a package: shorter racket, slower ball, smaller court. The ITF colour-coded system — red, orange and green balls — is designed for that progression, and many clubs organise lessons and competitions by ball colour. Our tennis balls guide explains each stage. In general:
- Red stage: 19–23 inch rackets on a short court.
- Orange stage: 23–25 inch rackets on a three-quarter court.
- Green stage: 25–26 inch rackets on a full court.
Weight, material and grip
Weight
Junior rackets range from very light (under 200 g on the smallest sizes) to around 250 g on 26-inch performance models. A child should be able to hold the racket at arm's length for a few seconds without it wobbling.
Aluminium vs graphite
Most 19–23 inch rackets are aluminium: tough, inexpensive and perfectly adequate. From 25 inches, especially for children who play several times a week, graphite or composite frames are worth considering — they are lighter for their stiffness and transmit less vibration.
Grip
Junior rackets usually come with a single small grip. If the handle feels too thin for an older child, an overgrip will build it up slightly. Our grip size guide explains how to measure when they move to an adult racket.
When to move up a size
- The standing test shows a clear gap between the racket tip and the floor.
- The child has moved up a ball colour (red to orange, orange to green).
- They are hitting comfortably in front of the body and the current racket feels "too easy" — the ball flies long when they swing freely.
- The coach suggests it. Coaches see the child play every week and are usually the best judge.
Moving to an adult racket
The jump to a 27-inch racket usually happens around 11–12 years old or 150–155 cm tall. A 26-inch performance junior racket is an excellent bridge. When the time comes, start with a light adult frame (around 255–280 g) rather than the heavy model a favourite professional uses. Our beginner racket guide covers sensible first adult frames, and the racket buying guide explains the specs.
Strings and care for junior rackets
Junior rackets come pre-strung, usually with basic nylon at a moderate tension, which is fine. For a committed junior on a 25 or 26-inch graphite frame, a soft synthetic gut or multifilament is a good choice when restringing. Avoid stiff polyester for growing arms unless a coach recommends it. Store rackets at room temperature — not in a hot car boot, which can damage strings and frames.
And above all: let them have fun. A racket that fits makes the first rallies come quicker — and that is what keeps children coming back to the court.
Frequently asked questions
What size tennis racket for a 7-year-old?
Many 7-year-olds use a 23-inch racket, but height matters more than age. A child around 115–130 cm tall usually fits a 23-inch frame; a smaller child may still need a 21-inch, a taller one a 25-inch. Use the standing test to confirm.
Should I buy a bigger racket so my child can grow into it?
No. A racket that is too long and heavy forces poor technique and can strain the arm and shoulder. Children move up roughly one size per year or two; buying the right size now is better than buying one to grow into.
When should a child switch to an adult racket?
Usually around 11–12 years old or a height of about 150–155 cm, when the child can swing a full-length (27-inch) frame comfortably. Many make the jump via a 26-inch racket or a light adult racket.
Are aluminium junior rackets OK?
For young children and beginners, yes. They are robust and affordable. Older, more committed juniors on 25 and 26-inch rackets benefit from graphite or composite frames, which are lighter and more stable.