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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 currently listed in the Racket Life tennis collection.
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 | Wilson Serena 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: Wilson Serena 21
At €17.99, the Wilson Serena 21 is an affordable option for children moving beyond the very smallest frames.
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 lighter adult model rather than jumping straight into a heavy tour frame. Our arm-friendly tennis racket guide includes lighter adult options, though 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.