Tennis elbow can be a frustrating and painful condition for players of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or just enjoying weekend rallies, dealing with arm discomfort can significantly affect your game. Fortunately, the right equipment can make all the difference. In this guide, we'll break down the best racket and string combinations to help minimize strain and keep you playing comfortably.
🎾 Why Equipment Matters for Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is caused by repetitive stress on the arm and elbow. Using equipment that reduces shock and absorbs vibrations can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further injury. The right racket and string setup should provide comfort, stability, and a soft feel on impact.
🎾 Best Rackets for Tennis Elbow
When choosing a racket for tennis elbow, focus on models with a flexible frame (lower stiffness rating), good shock absorption, and a generous sweet spot. Here are some top picks:
1. Wilson Clash 100
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Why It’s Great: Known for its innovative FreeFlex technology, the Wilson Clash offers exceptional flexibility and vibration dampening, making it one of the most arm-friendly rackets on the market.
2. Head Gravity MP
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Why It’s Great: With a softer flex rating and an enlarged sweet spot, this racket offers excellent comfort and minimizes shock on off-center hits.
3. Yonex Ezone 100
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Why It’s Great: A popular choice for its user-friendly power and impressive comfort. The Ezone’s Isometric head shape enlarges the sweet spot, reducing harsh feedback.
🎾 Best Strings for Tennis Elbow
Pairing the right strings with your racket is just as crucial. You’ll want strings that offer softness and absorb shock effectively:
1. Natural Gut (e.g., Babolat Touch VS)
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Why It’s Great: The softest and most arm-friendly string available, offering excellent power, comfort, and feel. Though pricier, it’s the gold standard for players managing tennis elbow.
2. Multifilament (e.g., Wilson NXT, Tecnifibre X-One Biphase)
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Why It’s Great: Designed to mimic natural gut, these strings offer a plush, comfortable feel and superior shock absorption—ideal for reducing arm strain.
3. Soft Co-Polyester (e.g., Luxilon Element)
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Why It’s Great: If you prefer polyester strings but want something easier on your arm, soft co-polys offer a middle ground with better comfort and control.
✅ Ideal Setup for Tennis Elbow Relief
If you're looking for a dependable, arm-friendly setup, here's a highly recommended combination:
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Strings: Babolat Touch VS (Natural Gut)
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Tension: Lower tension around 50-53 lbs for increased comfort and power
This combination offers outstanding flexibility, shock absorption, and power, helping to ease the strain on your elbow while keeping your game sharp.
🎾 Ready to Upgrade Your Gear?
At The Tennis Garage, we’re committed to helping the LA tennis community find the perfect setup for every player’s needs. If you’re dealing with tennis elbow or want personalized recommendations, stop by or give us a call. Our experienced team offers same-day racket stringing and expert advice to help you stay on the court, pain-free.
Let’s get you back in the game—comfortably and confidently!