Basic facts about tennis racquet frames

Generally speaking:

  1. A heavier frame generates more power.
  2. A heavier frame vibrates less.
  3. A stiffer frame generates more power.
  4. A more flexible frame transmits more vibration to the arm than a stiff frame.
  5. A stiffer frame transmits more of the shock load to the arm than a more flexible frame.
  6. A stiffer frame provides a more uniform ball response across the entire string plane.
  7. A larger frame (either be being longer, or by having a larger hitting surface) generates more power.
  8. A larger frame is more resistant to twisting.
  9. A longer frame generates more velocity and therefore more power.
  10. The string bed in a longer frame allows the generation of more spin due to increased velocity.
  11. A head-light, flexible frame is better for your arm than a stiff, head-heavy frame.*

* Many racquet characteristics can be altered through customization, but stiffness is not one of them.

Source: U.S. Racquet Stringers Association