Overview

There are many types of badminton racket grips available in the market. The most common two are the  replacement grips and overgrips. Despite of their popularity, many people are still confused about when and why they are used. This side by side comparison article will help you differentiate the two types of grips, and how to use them. Let’s get to it.

Two most common types of badminton racket grips
Replacement grip	Overgrip
Replacement grip’s material: Polyurethane (PU)	Overgrip’s material: Polyurethane (PU)
Replacement grip’s thickness : About 1.8mm	Overgrip’s thickness : About 0.65mm
Replacement grip’s adhesive: On whole stretch of grip	Overgrip’s adhesive: Generally at one of the ends
Replacement grip’s cost:Slightly more expensive compared to overgrip	Overgrip’s cost: Cheaper
How to use replacement grip: Can be used by itself directly over the racket handle because of the sufficient thickness. For even thicker feel, can be used over original manufacturer’s black grip.	How to use overgrip: Usually not used by itself and is always wrapped over something. Can be wrapped over foam grips, replacement grips or original manufacturer’s black grip.

 

What is an ‘original manufacturer’s grip’

Most rackets these days come with a black manufacturer’s grip, some come in red or white. These grips are slightly cushioned and has minimal tackiness. Some people like them removed because it’s not as tacky as the replacement or overgrip. There isn’t sufficient cushioning as well.

What is a ‘Foam grip’

Foam grips are made from synthetic foam material  that comes in the form of  thin foam sheets.
Super soft thin foam wrap is used as cushioning underneath your overgrips. This product helps to reduce vibration and provides comfort during your game without adding weight to your racket. ‘

Wrap foam grips can be used longer and need not be changed at every grip change. However, foam grip’s thickness reduces overtime and needs to be replaced when cushioning not felt anymore.

Types of ideal grip configurations

These are recommended grip combinations for different sized hands. But it is also depending on your preference, some like their racket handles thin even though they have huge hands. 
Test different configurations and try which one suits and performs better for you. Happy experimenting!

Related articles:

Tips on how to change your racket badminton grip
Are You Holding Your Racket Correctly? Here Are 5 Easy-To-Follow Basic Grips
How to prevent a broken badminton handle

Combination A	Feel : Thin	Hand size : Small	Original manufacturer’s grip + Overgrip
Combination B	Feel : Thin	Hand size : Small	Remove original grip. Only replacement grip
Combination C	Feel : Medium thickness feel	Hand size : Medium	Remove original grip. Foam grip + Overgrip
Combination D	Feel : Medium thickness feel	Hand size : Medium	Remove original grip. Replacement grip + Overgrip
Combination E	Feel : Thicker feel	Hand size : Medium	Original manufacturer’s grip   + Replacement grip
Combination F	Feel : Very thick feel	Hand size : Big	Remove original grip. Foam grip. + Replacement grip + Overgrip
Combination G	Feel : Very thick feel	Hand size : Big	Original manufacturer’s grip + Replacement grip + Overgrip