Andrew Pace
Badminton rackets usually come with a grip, but many players prefer to use an overgrip on top of the factory grip. Overgrips are thinner than other grip types, and they allow players to customise the width and length of the grip area. This is important because it allows the player to customise how the racket feels in their hands. The thickness of the grip is one of the biggest factors in how the racket feels, with a smaller grip providing greater control and a bigger grip allowing more power. Overgrips are usually made of polyurethane in the form of a soft, flexible foam-like structure, and they are typically the cheapest grip available.
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What You'll Learn
Types of overgrips
Badminton grips are available in a variety of types, with the most common ones being replacement grips and overgrips. Overgrips are thinner than other grips and are designed to be wrapped over a traditional full grip to increase the racket handle's thickness. They are also the cheapest grip available, making them popular among top players.
Overgrips are used in two ways:
- On its own: Some players prefer a smaller racket grip for better manoeuvrability.
- Over a traditional full grip: Most players use overgrips for this purpose, as it adds thickness to the racket handle.
Overgrips are typically made from polyurethane or synthetic rubber and are designed to be tacky and sticky. They can be wrapped multiple times to achieve the desired thickness and are also easy to replace. However, they lack sponginess and wear out quickly.
Another type of grip is the full grip or replacement grip, which is usually made from PU or Polyurethane. This type of grip provides extra shock absorption and cushioning between the fingers. It is the thickest of the three types of badminton grips and is used by players who only want one major grip on their racket.
Lastly, there is the towel grip, which is designed for players with sweaty hands. This grip provides extra traction for those who find that other grips become loose during play.
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How to apply an overgrip
An overgrip is a great way to customise your badminton racket and make it feel more natural in your hands. Overgrips are usually tacky and sticky, and they are thinner than replacement grips. They are also the cheapest grip available, so they are a good option if you are looking to tweak how you hold your racket without breaking the bank.
To apply an overgrip, start by placing the grip over the top of the existing grip on your racket. Pull the overgrip firmly while turning the racket to complete the first throw. Ensure that the bottom of the overgrip aligns with the bottom of the handle. This first turn is usually the hardest, so take care with this step to avoid an uneven finish.
Once you have reached the top of the handle, you will need to trim the overgrip. Cut it diagonally so that it will be flush when you apply the grip tape.
If you are applying a new overgrip on top of an old one, you may want to consider removing the old one first. This will ensure a smoother finish.
You can also purchase grip cushioning to layer up certain areas of the handle. For example, you can make the end of the grip wider for extra overhead shot power and control with the little finger.
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Benefits of using an overgrip
An overgrip is a type of badminton racket grip that is placed over the top of another grip. It is used by players in two ways. Firstly, it can be used on its own to enable a small racket grip for better racket manoeuvrability. Secondly, it can be used to thicken the size of the racket handle. Here are some benefits of using an overgrip:
Customisation
The thickness of the racket handle can be customised by using an overgrip. This is especially useful for players with bigger hands who may need a thicker grip. A small badminton grip provides greater control, while a bigger grip allows the player more power.
Hygiene
Overgrips can be replaced frequently, maintaining their stickiness and hygiene. This is beneficial as sweat and dirt can accumulate on the grip after a few sessions.
Cost-effectiveness
Overgrips are usually the cheapest grip option available.
Preference
Many top players use overgrips to tweak how they like to hold their badminton racket.
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Overgrip thickness
The thickness of a badminton racket's overgrip is a key factor in how the racket feels in a player's hand. The thickness can be adjusted by either purchasing a thicker grip or by how tightly the player applies the grip. If the grip is stretched out more when applying, it will be thinner, whereas if there is less stretch, the grip will be thicker.
The thickness of the grip can also determine the amount of sweat the grip can absorb. Grips that are thicker can absorb more sweat before producing a wet and slippery feeling. Players who sweat more may prefer towel grips, which are thicker and can absorb more sweat than traditional grips. However, they may need to be replaced sooner than normal.
The style of the player can also determine the thickness of the grip. Players who play with power and attack generally prefer a thicker grip, as they hold their racket handles tighter to force powerful shots. On the other hand, players who value speed, control, and deception will prefer a thinner grip, as it allows for quick changes of the racket head position.
Ultimately, the thickness of the overgrip is a matter of personal preference, and players may need to try many different grips at different thicknesses until one feels "natural" to them.
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Overgrip alternatives
While overgrips are commonly used by badminton players, there are several alternatives available that can be used as a replacement for overgrips.
The first alternative is the full grip/replacement grip. This is typically fitted straight from the wood of the handle and is usually made from PU or Polyurethane. It acts as a tacky high grip and provides cushioning between the fingers on the handle, offering extra shock absorption. This is for players who want only one major grip on their racket.
The second alternative is the towel grip. This is designed for players whose hands get sweaty during play and find that other grip styles become loose as they are not designed for this. Towel grips are made from cotton and are wound around the handle, starting from the bottom.
The third option is to simply use the manufacturer's grip that comes with the badminton racket. These are usually black, but can also come in red or white. They are slightly cushioned and have minimal tackiness.
Players can also customise their grip by layering up the whole grip or certain areas to achieve their desired grip size. This can be done by purchasing grip cushioning. For example, some players tweak the end of their grips to be wider for extra overhead shot power and control with the little finger.
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Frequently asked questions
An overgrip is a type of badminton racket grip that is placed over the original grip. It is usually thinner and made of rubber, cotton, cloth, or polyurethane in the form of a soft flexible foam-like structure.
Overgrips allow players to customise the width and length of the grip area. They are also useful for players who prefer a stickier grip or want to thicken the size of the racket handle.
Grips need regular replacement. It is recommended to set up a grip system where only the outer layer needs to be replaced, as replacing the entire grip can be costly.
The Super Grap and the Yonex Wave Grap are two popular overgrip options. The Super Grap comes in a pack of three grips for $6.50, while the Wave Grap features a centre cushion that gives the grip a ribbed feel for added comfort.
