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The right junior tennis racket should let a child swing freely, prepare on time and finish a stroke without fighting the frame. Height is usually a better starting point than age because children grow at different rates.
This guide matches common junior racket lengths to height bands, then highlights real options listed in the Racket Life tennis collection. The prices below are Sweatband UK retailer prices in GBP, originally checked on 23 September 2026; the 21-inch alternatives were checked again on 25 September. Stock and delivery can change.
Junior tennis racket size chart
| Racket length | Approx. player height | Typical age | Racket Life example |
|---|---|---|---|
| 17 inches | Under 90cm | 2–3 | Head Coco 17 |
| 19 inches | 90–100cm | 3–4 | Babolat Carlitos 19 |
| 21 inches | 100–110cm | 4–6 | Vollint 21 |
| 23 inches | 110–125cm | 6–8 | Dunlop FX23 |
| 24–25 inches | 125–140cm | 8–10 | Babolat Drive 24 / Dunlop FX25 |
| 26 inches | 140–150cm | 10–12 | Babolat Aero 26 |
| 27 inches | Over 150cm | Older/taller juniors | Dunlop FX Start 27 |
Important: these are practical starting ranges, not rigid rules. Strength, experience and coaching setup matter. If a child sits on a boundary, the shorter racket is usually the safer choice for a new player.
How to measure a child for a tennis racket
- Measure the child standing upright in tennis shoes.
- Use height to choose the closest band in the chart.
- Ask them to hold the racket normally with the arm relaxed by their side.
- Check that they can swing it smoothly without dragging it or lifting the shoulder.
A racket that is slightly short is easier to control than one that is too long or heavy. Avoid buying several sizes ahead simply to make the racket last longer; poor fit can slow learning and encourage compensating movements.
Best junior racket choices by size
17-inch: Head Coco 17
The Head Coco 17 Junior is designed for the youngest starters. At £24.99, it is a child-sized introduction rather than a frame to “grow into”.
19-inch: Babolat Carlitos 19
The Babolat Carlitos 19 costs £32 and is positioned for very young beginners. Its Carlos Alcaraz-inspired styling may help make early practice more engaging.
21-inch: Vollint 21 or Babolat Carlitos 21
The Vollint 21 was listed at £9.99 with Add to cart at Sweatband on 25 September 2026. Its published 200g frame, 92in² head and 16×17 pattern make it a 21-inch starter option; confirm that the child can swing it comfortably rather than choosing on age alone.
For a child around 110–125cm who still handles a 21-inch frame better than a longer racket, compare the Babolat Carlitos 21. Sweatband lists this 180g aluminium racket at £32 with Add to cart and specifies that height band. Height ranges overlap: try the length that allows an easy, controlled swing.
Check the current 21-inch offer: open the Vollint 21 product or the Carlitos 21 product, then confirm retailer stock and delivery before buying.
23-inch: Dunlop FX23
The Dunlop FX23 is listed at £24.99 and fills the common step between first rackets and the longer 25-inch junior size.
24–25-inch: Babolat Drive 24 or Dunlop FX25
The Babolat Drive 24 is specifically listed for children around 125–135cm and costs £49.99. Taller children in the same broad stage can compare the £24.99 Dunlop FX25.
26-inch: Babolat Aero 26
The Babolat Aero 26 is listed for juniors around 140–150cm and costs £69.99. A 26-inch racket is often the final junior step before a full-length adult frame.
27-inch: Dunlop FX Start 27
The £25 Dunlop FX Start 27 gives taller juniors a lightweight first full-size option. Do not assume every child over 150cm is ready for a heavier adult performance racket; swing comfort still matters.
Aluminium or graphite junior racket?
Lower-priced aluminium or composite junior rackets are usually sufficient for young beginners and casual play. A more expensive graphite junior frame becomes more relevant when a child trains regularly, creates faster swings and can feel the benefit of improved stability and response.
When should a junior move to an adult racket?
Consider a 27-inch adult frame when the player is tall enough, can prepare on time and can swing the racket repeatedly without strain. Start with a manageable adult model rather than jumping straight into a heavy tour frame. Compare forgiving, affordable options in our beginner tennis rackets under £100 guide; our arm-friendly tennis racket guide includes additional comfort-focused adult options. A coach should confirm the transition for a developing junior.
Junior tennis racket FAQs
What size tennis racket does a 7-year-old need?
Many seven-year-olds use a 23-inch racket, but check height first. A particularly tall or small child may need the next size.
What size tennis racket does a 10-year-old need?
A 25- or 26-inch racket is a common starting point. Children around 140–150cm often fit a 26-inch frame, while shorter beginners may control a 25-inch model more easily.
Can a child use an adult tennis racket?
Only when their height, strength and technique support it. An adult-length racket bought too early can be difficult to control and may compromise swing mechanics.
Browse all available options in the Racket Life tennis collection.