Amanda Knapp
A badminton racquet's grip is essential for maintaining a firm hold on the racquet and preventing it from slipping out of your hand. Over time, the grip on a racquet can wear down, requiring replacement. Regripping a badminton racquet involves choosing the right grip type, such as rubber, polyurethane, or overgrips, which are thinner and offer more customization. The process includes removing the old grip, cleaning the handle, and carefully wrapping the new grip while ensuring it is pulled firmly and aligned correctly. This guide will cover the steps and considerations for regripping a badminton racquet to enhance your playing experience.
How to Regrip a Badminton Racket
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to regrip | When the grip is worn down or does not suit your preference |
| What you need | A new grip, scissors |
| Grip type | Rubber, polyurethane (PU), overgrip |
| Grip characteristics | Thickness, stickiness, comfort, customizability |
| Preparation | Remove old grip, clean handle, apply base grip |
| Application | Pull grip firmly while turning the racket, aligning the bottom of the grip with the bottom of the handle |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right grip type
Rubber or Polyurethane (PU) Grip
Rubber or PU grips are one of the most common badminton racquet grips. They offer a comfortable option for players who prefer a bit more cushion or springiness to their grip. These grips have a sticky side for easy application and can last for numerous matches. However, if you prefer a thinner grip, you might find that a single layer of rubber or PU grip adds too much thickness to your racquet handle.
Overgrip
Overgrips are thin, rubber or cloth-like tapes that are applied over the base grip of a badminton racquet. They offer maximum customisation due to their extreme thinness and various colour options. With overgrips, you can build up the grip layer by layer until you find your perfect feel. If you prefer less cushion, you can remove the base grip and use an overgrip alone. Overgrips are a popular choice for seasoned players who want to fine-tune their racquet's grip to their preferences.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the choice of grip type comes down to individual preference. Some players may prefer a thicker grip for a more cushioned feel, while others might opt for a thinner grip for better control and feel of the racquet. It's a matter of trial and error to find the perfect grip thickness and material that suits your playing style and comfort level.
Grip Techniques
In addition to the grip type, you might also consider different grip techniques, such as the towel grip or the synthetic grip. These techniques involve wrapping the grip in a specific way to achieve a certain feel and level of absorption.
By considering the grip type, thickness, and personal preferences, you can choose the right grip for your badminton racquet and improve your overall grip and comfort during gameplay.
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Preparing the racquet
Once you have decided on the type of grip, you can prepare the racquet. If you are removing the old grip, cut and tear it away. Be sure to remove any softer underparts and expose the wood of the racquet handle. Then, clean the surface of the handle with a cloth or alcohol wipe to remove any dirt or residue. This will ensure a smooth surface for your new grip.
If you are applying a base grip, you can skip the removal process and move straight to cleaning the handle. It is important to ensure the handle is free of any dirt or residue, as this will help the new grip adhere better and create a smoother finish.
Take your time during this process, as a clean and smooth surface is crucial for the success of the regripping. Once the racquet is prepared, you can move on to applying the new grip.
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Removing the old grip
First, inspect the grip to determine its condition. If the grip is flaky and deteriorating, it's best to remove it. If it's just sticky, you may choose to leave it and apply a new grip on top. However, be cautious as the sticky residue can cause the new grip to deteriorate over time.
If you decide to remove the old grip, start by using a hairdryer on maximum heat to soften the glue. This will make the removal process easier. Slowly and carefully peel off the old grip from the racquet handle. Take your time with this step to avoid tearing the grip and leaving residue or glue on the handle.
Once the old grip is removed, you may notice sticky residue or glue remaining on the handle. It is not necessary to remove this residue, as it will become sticky again once you apply a new grip. However, if you prefer a clean surface, you can try using a small amount of rubbing alcohol to wipe away the residue. Be cautious with any solvents, as they can potentially weaken the racquet's structure if used excessively.
After removing the old grip, you have the option to apply a layer of protection to the bare racquet handle. This is especially important if you plan to use a thin grip or want to protect the wood from moisture and sweat. You can use plastic wrap, electrical tape, or wire tape to create a barrier before adding your new grip.
Finally, before applying the new grip, consider the thickness and type of grip you prefer. Thinner grips are generally preferred by seasoned players as they allow for more finger movement and control. You may choose to use an overgrip, which is placed over another grip, or remove the original grip and apply a new one directly to the handle or the protective layer.
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Wrapping the new grip
When wrapping a new grip, you must first choose your preferred grip type. Badminton grips are usually made of rubber or polyurethane (PU), which are comfortable and sticky for easy application. An overgrip is a thinner, cloth-like tape often applied over the base grip, offering maximum customisation. If you prefer less cushioning, you can remove the base grip and apply an overgrip.
Once you have chosen your grip, you can prepare your racquet. If you are using an overgrip, you can cut and tear away any old grip. If the racquet handle is bare wood, you should apply a base grip first. If you are applying a grip over an existing one, ensure the handle is clean and free of dirt or residue.
Now, you are ready to wrap your new grip. Start by aligning the bottom of the grip with the bottom of the handle. Pull the grip firmly while turning the racquet to complete the first throw. Ensure that the bottom of the grip remains aligned with the bottom of the handle. Take care with this first turn, as it will make or break the aesthetics of the grip.
Continue wrapping the grip, pulling it firmly and ensuring it remains straight and aligned with the handle. Keep wrapping until you reach the top of the handle, where the handle meets the racquet's neck. Cut the grip with scissors, ensuring it is not too close to the end, and tape it down.
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Customising the grip
The most common badminton racquet grips are those made of rubber or polyurethane (PU). These are a reliable option as they are typically seen on most badminton racquets when purchased. Rubber or PU grips provide comfort with their cushion or springiness and have a sticky side for easy application.
If you prefer less cushioning, you can use an overgrip, which is a much thinner, rubber or cloth-like tape. Overgrips offer maximum customisation due to their thinness and various colour options. They can be applied directly to the racquet handle, or over the top of another grip. With overgrips, you can build your grip incrementally, layer by layer, until you find the perfect feel. If you want more cushioning, you can apply a layer of sponge wrap underneath.
When applying a new grip, you must first prepare your racquet by either applying a base grip or removing the old grip completely. If you opt for an overgrip, you may want to remove the existing grip, especially if it is old and worn down. Once the old grip is removed, clean the handle with a cloth or alcohol wipe to remove any dirt or residue.
The first turn of the grip is usually the hardest, so make sure you take care with this step. Ensure that the bottom of the grip aligns with the bottom of the handle for a neat finish.
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Frequently asked questions
Just like the tyres on your car, the grip on a badminton racquet will wear down over time. A worn-down grip can cause the racquet to slip from your hand, leading to missed shots.
The most common types of grip are made from rubber or polyurethane (PU). These are comfortable and provide good grip without needing to apply multiple layers. Overgrips are thinner and often applied on top of a racquet's base grip. They offer maximum customisation as you can build up the grip layer by layer.
You will need your racquet, a new grip, and some scissors.
First, decide whether you want to apply a base grip or remove the old grip completely. If you want to remove the old grip, cut it away and clean the handle with a cloth or alcohol wipe. Then, pull the grip firmly while turning the racquet, making sure the bottom of the grip aligns with the bottom of the handle.
