Choosing the right tennis racquet makes the game easier, more comfortable and more fun. This 2026 guide explains what actually matters — head size, weight, balance, string pattern and stiffness — and gives our top picks for every level and style, all in stock in Canada at Tennis ProSport.
How to choose a tennis racquet
1. Head size — power vs control
- Midsize / midplus (95–98 in²) — maximum control and feel, smaller sweet spot. For advanced players with long, fast swings. Example: Pro Staff 97, Blade 98.
- Midplus (99–100 in²) — the sweet spot for most players: a great blend of power, control and forgiveness. Example: Pure Drive, Speed MP.
- Oversize (105+ in²) — the most power and the biggest, most forgiving sweet spot. Ideal for beginners and improvers. Example: Ultra 111, Clash 108.
2. Weight
- Light (under 285 g) — easy to swing, manoeuvrable, arm-friendly. Best for beginners, juniors and doubles.
- Medium (285–310 g) — the all-round choice for intermediate to advanced players.
- Heavy (310 g+) — more power, stability and plough-through for strong, advanced players.
3. Balance
Head-light racquets feel quick and are easier on the arm (typical of heavier players' racquets). Head-heavy racquets add power to lighter frames, great for players who want free power without swinging a heavy racquet.
4. String pattern — spin vs control
- Open (16x19) — more spin and power, the most popular pattern. Example: Blade 98 16x19, Pure Aero.
- Dense (18x20) — more control and precision, a firmer, more predictable response. Example: Pure Strike 18x20.
5. Stiffness & comfort
Flexible frames are gentler on the arm; stiff frames give more power but transmit more shock. If you have tennis elbow or any arm pain, choose a flexible, comfort-focused racquet like the Wilson Clash.
Best tennis racquets in Canada 2026
? Best all-around — Wilson Blade 98 V10 & Head Speed MP
The Wilson Blade 98 V10 ($309.95) offers a plush, controlled feel with plenty of spin — a favourite of intermediate and advanced players. The Head Speed MP ($299.99) is the ultimate do-everything racquet: control, power and spin in one.
? Best control (advanced) — Wilson Pro Staff 97 V14
The Wilson Pro Staff 97 V14 ($329.99) is the classic control racquet — precise, connected and loved by players who take big cuts at the ball.
? Best power — Babolat Pure Drive
The Babolat Pure Drive ($309) is the best-selling power racquet in the world — effortless pace and a lively, explosive feel.
? Best spin — Babolat Pure Aero 98 Gen 9
The Babolat Pure Aero 98 Gen 9 ($349.99) is built for heavy topspin and aggressive baseline play — the spin machine.
? Best for tennis elbow / comfort — Wilson Clash 100 V3
The Wilson Clash 100 V3 ($250) is famously flexible and arm-friendly while still offering stability and control — the top choice for players with arm issues.
? Best for beginners & improvers — Wilson Ultra 111 V5 & Clash 108
Larger heads and lighter weights make the game easier: the Wilson Ultra 111 V5 ($269.99) and Wilson Clash 108 V3 ($250) offer big power and a forgiving sweet spot.
? Best value — Völkl V-Cell & K-Swiss
Great performance for less: the Völkl V-Cell 4 ($216.96) and K-Swiss Ultra Shot 4 ($160) punch well above their price.
Frequently asked questions
What tennis racquet should a beginner buy?
Beginners should choose a lightweight racquet (under 285 g) with a larger head (100–110 in²) for easy power and a forgiving sweet spot. The Wilson Clash 108 and Wilson Ultra 111 are excellent starter racquets.
What is the best tennis racquet for control?
Control players do best with a smaller head (95–98 in²) and a heavier frame. The Wilson Pro Staff 97 V14 and Wilson Blade 98 are top control racquets.
What is the best tennis racquet for tennis elbow?
Choose a flexible, comfort-oriented frame. The Wilson Clash 100 is widely recommended for players with arm pain thanks to its soft, flexible feel.
What head size is best for more spin?
An open 16x19 string pattern in a 98–100 in² head generates the most spin. The Babolat Pure Aero and Wilson Blade 98 are the top spin racquets.
Should I buy my racquet strung?
Yes — a racquet plays best strung to your preferred string and tension. Tennis ProSport offers professional stringing in 24 hours for $18 + tax, so your new racquet is match-ready.
Not sure which racquet fits your game? Our team will match you to the right head size, weight and string. Shop all tennis racquets or visit us at 2330 chemin Sainte-Foy, Québec.