How to apply an overgrip to a padel racket

 

Given that one of the most important aspects for executing padel shots correctly is holding our racket properly, it is equally important to apply the overgrip correctly so that we feel comfortable when gripping it.

There are several ways to apply the overgrip, depending on whether you want a thin or thick grip.

If you are looking for a thin grip, you can start applying the overgrip from the bottom of the handle, flush with the racket's butt cap, and wrap it around the handle, with the spacing between turns that you deem appropriate to achieve the desired thickness.

If you want to add more thickness without using another overgrip, you can apply it as mentioned above, but with less spacing between the overgrip turns. Another way would be to start wrapping it halfway up the handle towards the butt cap and then going up in the usual manner.

Each method will give you the option to choose between a thick or thin overgrip, which will change your game's performance in the following way:

• The thick overgrip: Recommended for players who leverage the power of their game, as it allows for a larger gripping surface on the racket. This makes it less likely for the racket to move on off-center shots. On the other hand, you will lose some maneuverability, which may make you feel that you don't have such refined touch and control. Regarding injuries, if you have elbow discomfort, using a slightly thicker overgrip may be beneficial, as clenching your fist less keeps the tendons less strained, making them suffer less. However, be careful not to overdo the thickness, as an excessively thick grip can cause your wrist to open up on a bad grip shot from a ball with a lot of weight. If your racket feels a bit heavy, you can increase the grip thickness by adding an overgrip to the handle. This will improve the racket's balance, you will immediately feel less weight while maintaining the benefits of a weighted racket.

• The thin overgrip: This is preferred by players who base their game on good ball placement. With this type of thickness, we will gain maneuverability, hitting sensation, and, above all, we will have the necessary touch for good ball placement. It is ideal for players with good wall exits and optimal control of court measurements. With this type of grip, you will struggle when balls come with a lot of power, because if you don't have the necessary technique to center your shots, the ball will remain "dead" on your racket. An excessively thin overgrip will force you to play with a lighter racket. Otherwise, you will notice that the racket is head-heavy, and you run the risk of injuring your wrist and especially your elbow, as you will pull too much on the epicondyle tendon, which can lead to epicondylitis or tennis elbow.

At the Streetpadel.es store, you can find the best overgrips on offer for your racket [caption id="attachment_1521" align="alignnone" width="970"] Streetpadel - Online Padel Store[/caption]