L1 - L4 - L7 6 - 7 800 - 500 |
S6 - S4 - S1 4 - 5 1200 - 900 |
S12 - S10 - S8 1 - 3 1600 - 1300 |
Head Wilson * Prince (Click Here) |
Understanding 'S.I.' Ratings
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One of the more confusing aspects of buying a tennis racquet is understanding the 'S.I.' ratings of each racquet.
'S.I.' stands for Swing Index, but is also known as Stiffness Index, or Swing Speed Index. Instead of an
industry-wide standardized rating system, the confusion is further increased because each of the major tennis racquet
manufacturers use their own rating system. The S.I. rating on racquets is not always easy to find, but is usually found
on a label with the other technical specifications on the inside throat area of the racquet, on printed information that
comes with the racquet, or on the manufacturers website. The model number of the racquet may also indicate the S.I.
The 'S.I.' ratings represent three main categories of racquet and type of player. However, several other 'intangible'
factors should be taken into consideration prior to purchase: age, relative muscle strength, and the rate of progress or
development as a player, type of play (match play or recreational), and overall 'feel.'
For instance, an 11 year-old boy (or girl) who is new to the sport, taking regular tennis lessons, and is progressing
rapidly may need a racquet that generates considerable power at first, but in the space of six months, when his/her
ability level has improved, may need a racquet for a faster swing speed. Whereas, an elderly player, who has played
tennis for many years, whose muscular strength and mobility is not increasing, should lean toward a racquet that
generates more power.
To better understand, what type of racquet best suits you use the diagrams and information below to determine the
range of swing speed index your ability level falls into. Of course, prior to any racquet purchase, 'demo' several types
of racquets with varying 'S.I.' ratings to best determine your personal preference - the racquet that feels best to you in
your hand when you play, is most often the racquet you should purchase.
'S.I.' stands for Swing Index, but is also known as Stiffness Index, or Swing Speed Index. Instead of an
industry-wide standardized rating system, the confusion is further increased because each of the major tennis racquet
manufacturers use their own rating system. The S.I. rating on racquets is not always easy to find, but is usually found
on a label with the other technical specifications on the inside throat area of the racquet, on printed information that
comes with the racquet, or on the manufacturers website. The model number of the racquet may also indicate the S.I.
The 'S.I.' ratings represent three main categories of racquet and type of player. However, several other 'intangible'
factors should be taken into consideration prior to purchase: age, relative muscle strength, and the rate of progress or
development as a player, type of play (match play or recreational), and overall 'feel.'
For instance, an 11 year-old boy (or girl) who is new to the sport, taking regular tennis lessons, and is progressing
rapidly may need a racquet that generates considerable power at first, but in the space of six months, when his/her
ability level has improved, may need a racquet for a faster swing speed. Whereas, an elderly player, who has played
tennis for many years, whose muscular strength and mobility is not increasing, should lean toward a racquet that
generates more power.
To better understand, what type of racquet best suits you use the diagrams and information below to determine the
range of swing speed index your ability level falls into. Of course, prior to any racquet purchase, 'demo' several types
of racquets with varying 'S.I.' ratings to best determine your personal preference - the racquet that feels best to you in
your hand when you play, is most often the racquet you should purchase.
Level of Player: Length of Stroke: Power You Create: Flex of Racquet: Raquet Power: Racquet Size: Racquet Beam: Swing Type: |
Intermediate - Adv Medium Full Medium Moderate Medium Mid-size/Mid-Plus Mid |
| Advanced - Pro Fast Long Full Flexible Low Regular Thin |
Slow Compact Low Stiff Maximum Oversize Wide |