HEAD Gravity 26 Junior Tennis Racket
Overview
The HEAD Gravity 26 Junior Tennis Racket is designed for ambitious junior players (typically aged 9 to 11 years) who want a racket that delivers both control and power while remaining manageable in size and weight. It is a 26-inch length frame, built with modern materials and technologies from HEAD’s senior Gravity series, adapted for younger players.
Features
- Length: 26 inches (660?mm) – ideal for juniors who have outgrown shorter frames.
- Head size: 100 sq in (645 cm²) – provides a generous sweet spot for developing players.
- Weight (unstrung): ~255 g (approx 9.0?oz) – fairly light for its size, aiding manoeuvrability and swing speed.
- String pattern: 16x19 – designed to support both spin and control.
- Balance: Head light (approx 310-320mm) – helps create easier swing dynamics for juniors.
- Technology integration – includes advanced materials and design features borrowed from the adult Gravity series.
Design and Materials
The racket features a graphite composite construction tailored to junior use, offering a balance of strength, responsiveness and manageable weight. Supplementary technologies such as Auxetic 2.0 enhance impact feel and stability, while the sleek “flip” visual design echoes the styling of the full-size Gravity series. The combination of a 100 sq in head size, comfortable beam profile and proper swing weight makes it easier for younger players to generate racquet head speed and build technique.
Key Technologies
Auxetic 2.0: A material innovation that expands under tension and contracts under pressure, offering a plush impact feel, enhanced stability and improved ball-to-racket feedback—making it ideal for developing players.
Graphite Composite Frame: Lightweight yet strong frame material enabling good responsiveness and durability, while keeping swing weight appropriate for juniors.
Junior-Specific Design Geometry: The frame is shorter and lighter than the adult Gravity versions, configured for ease of handling and proper technique development in younger players.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|
| Length (unstrung) |
26in / 660mm |
| Head size |
100 sq in / 645?cm² |
| Weight (unstrung) |
~255g (±5 g) / ~9.0 oz |
| Balance |
~320 mm (head light) |
| Beam width |
~22-24 mm |
| String pattern |
16×19 |
| Materials |
Graphite composite with Auxetic 2.0 |
| Recommended age/height |
Aged ~9-11 yrs (approx height ~140-155 cm) |
VKS Review
Young players stepping up to a full-size junior frame will appreciate how this racket delivers a premium feel while remaining fully manageable. The combination of a generous head size and light frame helps build confidence on both forehand and backhand. Its manoeuvrability allows juniors to adapt more easily to faster rallies and more aggressive strokes. Some players report excellent stability and comfort thanks to the Auxetic 2.0 technology, which helps especially on off-centre hits. Overall, it’s a standout option for a developing junior who is transitioning towards full-length adult frames in the near future.
Q&A Section
Q: Is this racket suitable for a beginner junior?
A: Yes, it is suitable for a junior beginner who is comfortable with a 26 inch frame and wants a high-quality racket that they won’t outgrow quickly. That said, if the child is significantly younger or smaller, a shorter or lighter racket may be easier to start with.
Q: Can the racket be upgraded with custom strings or different tension?
A: Absolutely. While the rackets often come pre-strung, you may choose to customise string type and tension to fit the player’s evolving game, ensuring optimal feel and response as they develop.
Q: When should a junior move on from this racket?
A: When the player becomes significantly stronger, swings faster, or reaches around the adult average height (approx 150?cm+), they may start to benefit from a heavier or longer adult-length frame.
Q: How do I pick the correct grip size for this racket?
A: Juniors typically use grip sizes 0 (≈4) or 1, depending on hand size. Measure by having the player hold their usual stroke and checking if there’s a finger-width gap between palm and fingers. It’s best to keep grip size comfortable but not too large. If unsure, start with grip 0 and add an over-grip if needed.
