How have tennis rackets changed over the years?

How have tennis rackets changed over the years?

Since the 1980s, high-end tennis racquets have been made from fibre-reinforced composite materials, such as fibreglass, carbon fibre and aramid (strong synthetic fibres). The advantage of these composite materials over wood and metal is their high stiffness and low density, combined with manufacturing versatility.

What are old tennis rackets made of?

Traditionally they were made of laminated timber (typically Ash), with a small strung area using natural gut strings. After a rule change in the mid-1980s, they are now almost always made of composite materials such as carbon fiber or metals (graphite, Kevlar, titanium, and/or boron) with synthetic strings.

Are tennis rackets bigger than they used to be?

As materials improved, becoming lighter and stronger, rackets were made larger, accordingly. Larger rackets have more surface area, making them easier for many players to return a ball.

Why did the tennis racket change?

Advances in laminating technology resulted in the first tennis racket made of laminated wood in 1947. This was a game-changer. By the 1980, wooden rackets became obsolete. Instead, brands like Dunlop and Prince switched over to graphite frames.

Who invented the modern tennis racket?

Major Walter Clopton Wingfield
This type of basic racket didn’t change until the 19th century, when the first modern racket was invented by Major Walter Clopton Wingfield, a British Army officer, who had graduated from the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. Despite his military background, he was also an inventor and the pioneer of lawn tennis.

How long can a tennis racket last?

But assuming you don’t intentionally splinter it, a new racquet should last at least two years before you have to start worrying about performance-affecting fatigue. This two-year rule applies to club players who play two or more times a week.

What is modern player racket?

These modern player’s racquets are still heavier standard length racquets, but they feature slightly larger head sizes and higher stiffness ratings, which increase power and spin potential.

What is the history of the tennis racket?

The very first tennis racket was made in 1874 in London by Major Walter C. Wingfield. The racket was the first one made of solid wood, meaning McEnroe could have done some serious damage back in the day. Advances in laminating technology resulted in the first tennis racket made of laminated wood in 1947.

When did tennis rackets change from wood?

Most manufacturers continued to make their rackets from wood until the 1960s, with few other design developments seen. Some early tennis racket manufacturers did produce metal frames to try and overcome the issue of wood warping due to humidity, but these were unsuccessful.

Are newer tennis racquets better?

The modern game of tennis is played at a furious pace compared with the old days when everyone used wood racquets. Everyone concluded that graphite racquets were much stronger, lighter, and more powerful, while the players themselves somehow became taller, stronger, and fitter.

When did tennis start using rackets?

1874
The year 1874 saw the very first tennis racquet being made by Major Walter C. Wingfield in London. It was made out of solid wood and could have done some damage to the body if not handled properly.

Which Wilson tennis racket is right for You?

Regardless of your swing style, Wilson has a racket built just for you. Players who play with shortened or flat swings typically prefer their rackets to generate power. For this swing style, beginners or intermediate players should go for the Ultra tennis racket while more advanced players should grab a Pro Staff.

When did tennis rackets stop being made of wood?

By the 1980, wooden rackets became obsolete. Instead, brands like Dunlop and Prince switched over to graphite frames. World class tennis players John McEnroe and Steffi Graf dominated the court with the Dunlop Max200G. In 1983, Wilson introduced the classic Pro Staff, its answer to the Dunlop Max 200G and the Prince Graphite.

Are modern tennis rackets better than Old Ones?

Thanks to advancements in technology, and a bit of creative thinking from brands, today’s tennis rackets are far superior than the original ones that were virtually just planks of wood.

What is the best tennis racket for intermediate players?

When selecting a racket for intermediate tennis players, keep the following in mind: For intermediate tennis players, check out Wilson’s Clash or Blade tennis rackets. Advanced players should be using “mid-size” rackets that allow them to play with control, feel and precision.