Guide
How to Wrap a Padel Overgrip (Step by Step)
A fresh overgrip takes about two minutes and makes an old racket feel new. These steps are written for padel, and they work the same way on a tennis racket or a pickleball paddle.
In short: take off the old overgrip, peel both protective films off the new one, start at the bottom of the handle above the wrist cord, wrap with even tension and overlap, and finish with the tape where the handle meets the frame.
Watch it first
The same steps on a tennis racquet, a padel racket and a pickleball paddle, in 40 seconds.
What you need
- A new overgrip and the finishing tape that comes with it
- Scissors, to trim the extra length at the top (optional)
Step by step
- Take off the old overgripPeel off the finishing tape at the top and unwind the old overgrip. Leave the base grip (the thicker grip under it) on the handle. If the base grip is torn or flattened, change it first.
- Peel off the protective filmsCourt overgrips come with a protective film on the inside and on the outside. Take both off before you start. If a film stays on, the grip feels thick and slippery.
- Start at the butt capPlace the tapered end at the bottom edge of the handle, sticky side against the base grip. On a padel racket the wrist cord comes out of the butt cap, so start just above it and keep the cord free. Make the first turn flat so it covers the edge.
- Choose the directionWrap in the same direction as the overgrip you just took off. If you are not sure, right-handed players usually wrap clockwise looking at the butt cap, and left-handed players counter-clockwise.
- Keep the tension and the overlap evenPull gently as you wrap and overlap each turn by the same amount. More overlap makes the handle thicker; less overlap makes it thinner. What matters most is that it is the same on every turn, with no gaps or bumps.
- Finish where the handle endsPadel handles are short, so you will usually have overgrip left over. Stop where the handle meets the frame, cut the extra at an angle so the end lies flat, and wrap the finishing tape all the way around.
- Check itSqueeze the handle in your playing grip. It should feel even all the way, with the tape flat and nothing moving. If you feel a bump, unwind back to it and wrap that part again.
Tips
- Want a thicker handle? Many padel players wrap a second overgrip on top of the first. Try one first and add another if it still feels thin.
- Dry hands, dry handle. Wrap with clean, dry hands so the grip keeps its tack from the first point.
- Not sure when to change it? See how often to change your overgrip.
