How To Replace The Grip On A Squash Racquet
The last thing you want when playing squash is for your hand to sweat, making it difficult to grasp the racquet. A good grip will absorb sweat and help keep your hand from getting slippery.
However, over time you may start to lose control of the racquet. It means that it’s time to replace the grip. This process is called ‘regripping,’ and it’s a normal part of owning a squash racquet. It’s not hard to do and preferable to buying a new racquet. We’ll teach you how to do it step by step in this article!
HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN A SQUASH RACQUET NEEDS TO BE REGRIPPED?
There are a few signs that you need to replace your squash racquet grip. If your grip doesn’t absorb sweat as well and becomes uncomfortable in your hand, it’s time to regrip. For the same reason, you may notice a bad stench emanating from the grip. In any case, it’s advisable to regrip your racquet as quickly as possible to avoid a drop in your game performance.
REPLACING A SQUASH RACQUET GRIP
STEP 1: GET THE TOOLS
To start, you’ll need to buy a new grip. You’ll have to choose between a regular grip and an overgrip. A Standard Grip: This is the default squash racquet grip, as the name implies. An Overgrip: This grip covers the standard one, making replacement easier. However, while it’s thin, it does make the racquet handle bulkier. If you have big hands, this isn’t an issue; but if you don’t have them, it might be a problem.
To regrip a squash racquet, you’ll need the following:
- A new standard grip and overgrip
- A pair of scissors
- Double-sided tape (optional)
- Some wet wipes.
STEP 2: REMOVE THE OLD GRIP
If you add an overgrip to your racquet, you do not need to do this step.
Otherwise, you will need to get rid of the grip on your squash racquet. To do this, remove the tape on the top of the grip. Unravel the grip and throw it away.
You will probably notice that the handle is sticky and may have small bits of grip left over. That is typical. Use disinfectant wipes to remove as much as feasible. It does not have to be flawless!
OPTIONAL STEP: DOUBLE-SIDED TAPE
Some people like to add double-sided tape to their handles before putting on a new grip. It may help keep the new grip in place.
However, this step is unnecessary, and most grips will stay in place without it.
STEP 3: PREPARE THE NEW GRIP
You’ll notice a paper layer on the bottom when you have your new grip. It is to protect the sticky substance. There is also a plastic film on the surface to protect it. Do not remove these yet.
Most grips include a bit of tape. You will use this to secure the grip after you wrap it. Set this aside for now.
STEP 4: START WRAPPING THE HANDLE
A new grip on an empty handle or adding an overgrip requires a few steps.
On most grips, a side says “start,” a red strip of tape, or a tapered end to show you which end to use. Slowly peel off the grip’s top and bottom protective layers.
Start by placing the buttcap parallel to the end of the racquet. Wrap it around one rotation, going counter-clockwise if you are right-handed and clockwise if you are left-handed. After wrapping the butt cap, start going down the handle.
Work at an angle (about 30 degrees) to overlap the grip. Wrap it tight, but not too close. You may even break the grip if you make it too tight!
If you want a grip that feels a bit raised, you can overlap the grip a little bit more (about half an inch). If you still have some grip left at the end of the handle, you don’t have to use it all! You can cut the remaining grip diagonally with scissors.
STEP 5: SECURE THE GRIP
Wrap the grip’s tape (or electrical tape if it didn’t) around the top to secure it.
If your grip came with a tape sticker, you might want to add electrical tape to be sure it stays in place. Most grip tapes will eventually peel off, so you want to keep it as secure as possible.
Some good pro shops might have a finishing band that is like a thick rubber band. This band cleans tape even more.
STEP 6: ADDING AN OVERGRIP (OPTIONAL)
You can add an overgrip to your tennis racket if you want to. It is done the same way as adding a regular grip – do it again!
CONCLUSION
Replacing a squash racquet grip is not too difficult. You must follow a few simple steps and be careful when moving up the handle. The hardest part is usually getting the angle right. If you fail, you can go to a local racquet store.
Read more: Do You Have a Sublet Available for a Squash Legend?
Frequently Asked Questions About Squash Grips
The best grip for squash is the Karakal PU Super Grip. This grip is popular with professional and amateur squash players because it is very tacky, thick, comfortable, and absorbent. It also comes in a variety of colors to match the look of your racket.
There are different types of grips for tennis rackets and squash rackets. You will want a grip with grooves between your fingers for squash. It will give you better hold on the racket.
If you play regularly, you should change your grip every two weeks or more. If you don’t, the racket will start to slip out of your hand during crucial game moments, especially when you need to hit the ball hard.
This grip is durable and has a good feel even when wet. Another good grip is the Karakal PU Super Grip, which comes in many colors to match your racquet.
