A replacement grip replaces the base layer under your hand and is changed occasionally; an overgrip wraps on top for tack and sweat absorption and is changed frequently — often every few sessions. Most players use both together rather than one instead of the other.
Replacement grip
This is the base grip that comes on the racket handle and sits directly against the frame. It's thicker, more cushioned, and designed to last much longer — typically months rather than sessions. When it becomes worn, hardened or the handle feels too thin, it's time to remove and replace it entirely, which changes the handle's base feel and thickness.
Overgrip
A thin, tacky layer wrapped on top of the replacement grip (or directly on a worn base grip). Overgrips are cheap, quick to apply, and designed to be replaced often — some players change theirs every match, others every few weeks depending on how much they sweat and how often they play.
Why use both?
The replacement grip provides the underlying cushioning and handle shape; the overgrip provides fresh tack and sweat absorption without needing to strip and rebuild the whole handle. Using an overgrip on top also protects the more expensive replacement grip underneath, extending its life.
Signs you need to change one or the other
- Overgrip: feels slick, smooth, or worn through in patches — usually within a few sessions for players who sweat heavily.
- Replacement grip: the handle feels hard or thin, or the overgrip stops sitting properly on top even when fresh — time to strip it back and start over.
Our recommendation
Keep a stock of overgrips on hand since they wear out fast and are cheap to replace regularly. Save the full replacement grip change for when the underlying handle actually feels different underneath — for most players that's a few times a year rather than every session.
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