Padel Overgrip: How to Wrap and When to Replace
An overgrip wraps over your racket's base grip to improve feel, absorb sweat, and prevent slippage. Replacing it regularly is one of the cheapest and most effective maintenance habits in padel.
Key takeaways
- Replace overgrip when it feels slick — usually every 1–5 sessions depending on sweat
- Dry overgrips are better for sweaty hands; cushioned for arm sensitivity
- Wrap from base to top at 45 degrees, pulling slightly taut
- Buying in multipacks saves money significantly
- A fresh overgrip reduces grip tension and improves control
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An overgrip is a thin, absorbent tape that wraps around the existing base grip of your racket. It's one of the most overlooked pieces of padel equipment — yet a worn-out overgrip that slips in your hand causes gripping tension, inconsistent shots, and unnecessary arm strain.
Most padel rackets come with a base grip that's thicker and more durable, but players quickly add an overgrip on top for feel and sweat absorption. Overgrips come in dry (slightly tacky, good for sweaty hands), wet (absorbs moisture well), and cushioned (for players with arm sensitivity) varieties.
How often you replace your overgrip depends on how much you play and how much you sweat. Active players in hot climates may need a new overgrip every 1–2 sessions. Recreational players in moderate conditions can get 3–5 sessions. The signal is simple: if the grip feels slick, smooth, or the wrapping has started to peel, replace it.
To apply an overgrip, start at the base of the handle and wrap upward in overlapping spirals at roughly 45 degrees. Pull the tape slightly taut as you go for a snug fit. Most overgrips come with a finishing tape strip to secure the top. The whole process takes about two minutes once you've done it a few times.
Popular brands include Wilson Pro Overgrip, Babolat VS Grip, and Bullpadel Hesacore (which has a textured surface for added feel). Buying overgrips in multipacks (10–30 pack) is much more economical than buying them individually.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use the base grip or add an overgrip?
Most players add an overgrip over the base grip. The base grip is thicker and more durable; the overgrip provides the customised feel and sweat absorption. Some players remove the base grip and use just an overgrip if they prefer a thinner handle.
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