Making the Switch: When to Upgrade Your Junior Player to an Adult-Sized Frame
By: Johnny Konerman
Most racquet manufacturers recommend a 26" junior frame for players between the ages of 10 and 12, with many players making the switch to a full-sized, 27" adult frame around the time they enter middle school or high school. Besides the shorter length, junior frames will have a lighter weight than their full-sized counterparts, making them easier to swing. Junior frames tend not to use the same manufacturer technology that provides the playability and feel of the adult versions.
Moving from a junior frame to an adult frame for the first time is one of the largest equipment changes a player will make in their career. Switching your junior player to an adult frame too early can lead to discomfort and fatigue, as the heavier weight and stiffness of the frame is not suited for younger players. Waiting too long to make the switch can also hold the player back if they are developing at a fast pace, leading many to wonder – when should I transition my junior player into an adult-sized frame?
When playing, the tennis racquet becomes an extension of the player. While the need for change is not always clear from watching the player, the player should be able to tell when something feels off or needs adjustment. Given the lighter design of junior frames, they are geared more for a slower pace of play. It is recommended that junior players use low compression tennis balls, to aid in the development of their technique and swing pattern. If your player is comfortable hitting with standard pressure tennis balls, can swing the racquet freely and has developed a good swing technique, it may be a good time to look into making a change.
If the player complains about a lack of power or a slow pace of play, those may also be signs that the player is ready to make the switch from a 26" to a 27" frame. The best way to see if your player is ready for a full-sized adult frame is to have them hit with one.
A few things to look for when having your junior player try an adult frame would be the player’s comfort, control and confidence.
- One of the easiest things for the player to notice is their comfort. Playing with a frame that is too heavy will lead to fatigue and is easy for the player to recognize while playing. If the player can go through their full swing motion without discomfort and can maintain a rally at the same pace of play as with their junior frame, that is a good sign that the player can handle the switch.
- Another key aspect to keep an eye on is the player’s ability to control the ball. While the ability to return the ball is an important aspect of choosing a frame, the player should also be able to control ball placement during rallies, as well as the pace of play. The heavier material of adult frames mixed with the manufacturer’s frame technology will lead to more power generation and an increased ability for the player to impart spin and control the direction of the ball through their swing motion. If the player can consistently keep the ball in play and choose the direction of their shots, that would be another good sign that an adult frame may work for them.
- The third thing to keep an eye on while having your junior player try an adult frame is their confidence while playing with the frame. As previously mentioned, the player should be able to tell when something feels off with their racquet. If they do not experience any discomfort and feel that their play has improved with the new racquet, that is one of the best ways to tell that the player is ready to make the leap into a 27" frame.
If your junior player tries out a few adult frames and sees improvement in their comfort, control and confidence, then they are likely ready to make that switch into a 27" frame. So how do you know which adult frames to try? Most junior players will benefit from racquets that are designed with a larger sweet spot for easier access to power. Power frames also help players who have difficulties controlling the ball, making them a good choice for adult beginners and junior players transitioning to their first adult racquet alike. Due to the weight difference between adult and junior frames, it is typically recommended to try a Lite or Ultra Lite version of these frames, as they will be easier to swing and offer a good transition in terms of playability and feel between the junior and adult models. Below are a few popular options to consider when testing out adult frames for your junior player. All models are available through our demo program.
Wilson Ultra 100UL - A power-focused racquet known for its all-court playability in an ultra-light 9.8oz weight.
Babolat Pure Drive Lite (2021) - One of the most popular power-generating frames on the market, with a lighter 10oz strung weight.
Yonex EZONE 100SL 270g (2022) - A power-focused frame known for its arm friendliness and vibration dampening, super light 10.1oz weight.
Wilson Clash 100UL v2 - Offers a good mix of power and control with a 9.9oz strung weight.
Babolat Pure Aero Lite (2023) - All-court, spin-focused frame with a large sweet spot for an added pop of power, 10.1oz weight.