Key takeaways:
A well-applied overgrip significantly enhances comfort and control, allowing players to focus on game-winning shots effortlessly.
Selecting the right overgrip merges performance with personal style, ensuring both superior grip and aesthetic appeal on the court.
Regularly refreshing your overgrip optimizes playing experience, maintaining control and responsiveness during intense matches.
A solid shot starts with a solid grip. While choosing the right paddle is key, how you wrap the handle plays a major role in your control and comfort on the court. A good overgrip gives you that extra cushion and traction, helping you hold steady during fast-paced rallies.
Most paddles come with a standard grip, but adding an overgrip fine-tunes how your paddle feels and performs—especially as your skills improve. It's also a chance to personalize your gear. With the right grip, your paddle feels like a natural extension of your hand—smooth, balanced, and reliable.
PB5star offers performance-focused paddles and on-court apparel made for players who want gear that holds up under pressure. Once you've got the right paddle, dialing in your grip is the next step to staying sharp on the court.
What overgrip does for your game
The right grip can elevate your game without changing your technique, from improving touch to adding control under pressure.
Stability during fast play—keeps the paddle from shifting during quick exchanges.
Improved feel and responsiveness—helps you make clean contact with less tension.
Shock absorption and reduced fatigue—eases hand and arm strain over long matches.
Moisture management—keeps your grip dry in heat or humidity.
Long-term paddle protection—preserves the base grip by taking on the wear.
You’ll feel these benefits differently depending on your style and environment. That's why choosing the right overgrip comes down to matching features with how you play.
Choosing the right overgrip
Not all grips are created equal. Some give you extra traction, while others soften the impact of every shot. The key is to choose one that supports your play without getting in the way of your feel.
Here's a breakdown of popular grip types and what they're designed to do:
Tacky grips offer maximum control and paddle stability—great for precision players
Cushioned grips absorb shock and reduce fatigue during long sessions
Slim grips provide a direct connection to the paddle for better touch and feedback
Moisture-wicking grips keep hands dry in humid or sweaty conditions
Soft-touch grips feel familiar for tennis converts, with a slightly textured surface
Vibrant colors and patterns add personality while maintaining grip quality
Some players even experiment with layering grips to adjust the handle's thickness or feel. It's an easy way to customize your setup—as long as it doesn't compromise responsiveness. PB5star paddles have the perfect balance between power and control, giving you a stable base from which to customize their feel and fit.
How to apply your overgrip
Installing your overgrip doesn't take much time, but doing it right makes a difference in how it feels during play. A well-wrapped grip provides even thickness, stays in place, and gives consistent feedback across the handle.
Here's how to get it done:
Clean the handle: Wipe it down with a dry cloth to remove old residue or oils.
Start at the base: Begin wrapping from the butt of the paddle at a 45-degree angle. Peel back 6 inches of the backing to start.
Wrap with tension: Keep it snug, but not too tight. Aim for about ⅜-inch overlap on each pass to build even thickness.
Finish cleanly: Trim the end on a slight angle and secure it with finishing tape.
After wrapping, give the paddle a few test swings. The grip should feel balanced and secure, with no slipping or bunching. Once you've got it in place, it's all about knowing when to swap it out and how to maintain that feel over time.
Quick guide: what to know about overgrip
Overgrip can change how your paddle feels without changing how you play. It’s a small upgrade that adds comfort, traction, and control—especially when it’s matched to your playing style. Here are a few quick answers to help you dial in your setup:
What’s the point of overgrip if my paddle already has a handle wrap?
It adds comfort, improves traction, and helps protect the original grip. You get more control without altering the paddle’s core feel.
Can I double-wrap?
Yes—stacking grips can adjust handle size if needed. Just don’t overdo it, or you might lose some of the paddle’s feedback.
Which grip works best for sweaty hands?
Moisture-wicking grips with a tacky or textured surface tend to hold up best. They help you stay in control when things get slick.
How do I know which grip size feels right?
It should feel secure without making you squeeze too hard. If it feels off—too small, too bulky—you can tweak the size with an extra layer or by switching grip styles.
Can overgrip help with arm or wrist discomfort?
It can. A softer or cushioned grip may ease the strain a bit, especially during longer matches or repetitive drills.
These quick tips help keep your grip in top condition—but sometimes the signs it's time for a replacement show up mid-game. Here's how to catch them early.
Checklist: signs your grip needs a refresh
Overgrips don't last forever; knowing when to swap yours out can keep you one step ahead on the court. If you're noticing any of the following, it's time for a fresh wrap:
Paddle feels slick or slippery mid-rally
Grip has visible wear, fading, or discoloration
You notice the handle shifting during quick shots
Grip feels too hard or too soft in spots
You're gripping harder than usual to keep control
It's been more than 6–8 matches since your last wrap
Replacing your grip doesn’t take long, and it keeps your paddle feeling steady and reliable when it counts. It’s a simple habit that helps you stay consistent, even as conditions shift or the pace picks up.
Wrapping it up
Small details can have a big impact on the court, and overgrip is one of those details that often gets overlooked. Grip comfort and paddle control can shape your performance more than you think—especially during long rallies or fast exchanges at the net.
PB5star's lineup of paddles and apparel is designed with player comfort and consistency in mind. With the right setup in your hand and on your back, you can focus on your game—not your gear.
Your paddle's ready. Make sure your grip is, too.
