Rackets for tennis elbow: what actually helps.

Equipment won't cure tennis elbow, but the wrong setup can make it worse. Here's how frames, strings and tension change the load on your arm.

Find arm-friendly kit

Free · about two minutes · no sign-up needed

What to look for

A softer frame. Lower stiffness (roughly under 63 RA) flexes more at impact and sends less shock up your arm.
Enough weight. Very light rackets get pushed around and transmit more vibration. A moderate weight with a head-light balance absorbs more of the hit.
Soft strings. Multifilament or natural gut rather than stiff polyester.
Lower tension. A couple of kilograms lower than you'd otherwise string makes a noticeable difference.
The right grip size. A grip that's too small makes you squeeze harder. Worth checking.

What RightKit does with it

Tell us your elbow complains after long matches and every recommendation changes: stiffness limits tighten, strings shift to arm-friendly types and tension ranges drop. You'll see “Arm-friendly” spelled out in the reasons for each match.

An honest note

If the pain is more than a niggle, see a physio or doctor. Technique and treatment matter more than any racket — the right kit just stops it getting in the way.

Skip the guesswork. Get your own fit.

A personal spec, not a generic list
Every match explained — including the trade-offs
Honest when what you've got already suits you

Find arm-friendly kit

Common questions

Which racket stiffness is best for tennis elbow?

Softer frames are generally kinder — many arm-conscious players look for 55–63 RA. Pair that with soft strings at a lower tension.

Are lighter rackets better for tennis elbow?

Not always. Very light rackets can transmit more shock. A moderate weight with a head-light balance is often more comfortable.

Can strings help tennis elbow?

Yes — often more than the frame. Swapping stiff polyester for a multifilament or natural gut at lower tension is one of the most effective changes.

Keep reading

Strings and tension