Quick answer: RA rating measures how much a frame flexes on contact, typically 55–75 for adult rackets. A stiffer frame (higher RA) flexes less, returning energy faster for more effortless power — but transmits more shock to your arm. A more flexible frame (lower RA) absorbs more shock into the frame itself, giving a more comfortable, controlled feel at the cost of some raw power.
Reading the RA scale
- Below 60 (flexible): the most comfortable, arm-friendly end of the scale. Popular on control and touch-oriented frames.
- 60–67 (medium): where most all-round club and intermediate frames sit — a workable balance of comfort and pop.
- 68 and above (stiff): maximum power and a crisp, solid feel on contact, but the least forgiving on the arm, especially over long sessions.
Why stiffness matters for arm comfort
Every time the ball hits the strings, energy has to go somewhere: into the ball, into the frame's flex, or into your arm. A flexible frame absorbs more of that energy into its own bend before it reaches your hand, cushioning the impact. A stiff frame barely flexes at all, so more of that shock passes straight through to your wrist, elbow and shoulder — one of the most common contributing factors in tennis elbow.
Stiffness is not the same as power from head size
It is easy to conflate stiffness with head size, but they are separate specs. A small-headed frame can still be quite stiff, and a large-headed frame can be built flexible. Always check RA rating on its own if arm comfort is a priority — do not assume a smaller head automatically means a softer feel.
Offsetting a stiff frame (or a flexible one)
String choice and tension can shift the felt stiffness of any racket within a limited range. A softer multifilament or natural gut string, strung a touch looser, will noticeably soften the ride of a stiffer frame. Conversely, a stiff polyester strung tight on an already stiff frame is the combination most likely to aggravate arm problems.
Matching stiffness to your needs
- History of tennis elbow, wrist or shoulder issues: RA 60–65, paired with a multifilament or hybrid string at a moderate tension.
- No arm concerns, want maximum effortless power: RA 68+ is worth exploring, ideally demoed first.
- Most club players: RA 62–67 covers the vast majority of frames and suits most games without extremes in either direction.
Our recommendation
If you have ever experienced elbow or wrist discomfort, treat RA rating as seriously as head size or weight when choosing a racket — it is one of the biggest levers you have over long-term arm health, and it is rarely printed clearly on the frame itself, so ask us to check it before you buy.
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