Does The Dampener Make a Difference?
YES you do need a dampener for your tennis racket. That is, of course, unless you don’t want one. In which case, NO, you don’t need it.
Am I flip flopping? Yes, because this is the rare issue that nobody can be wrong, which means everybody’s right (hooray!) because the psychological far outweighs any possible physical difference a dampener may (or may not) make.
While there have been scientific studies done to determine the vibration transferred to the racket handle from striking a tennis ball does not change with the placement of a vibration dampener, there have also been studies that show vibration variances when using different dampeners.
At the end of the day, science shows inconclusive evidence of the effects a vibration dampener has on the players arm. So, the answer is if you like it, then it helps give you confidence in your play, then use it. If you don’t believe it gives you any advantage, then having it will only cause to distract you so you shouldn’t have it. For reference, according to a study done by Racquetinc on 4/15/19, 58% of the top 100 men on the ATP tour and 76% of the top 100 women on the WTA tour use a dampener.
What is a Dampener?
A dampener is a piece of rubber or similar composite type material designed to reduce the vibration transfer from the racket to your forearm when the racket strikes the ball.
Types Of Dampeners
There are two main types of dampener styles: the button and the worm. These can come in a multitude of shapes and designs, so explore to find a fun one for you.
Why Dampeners Came Into Existence
Originally, the dampener was thought to be a way to reduce the risk of injury. While the science clearly is unclear, the most effective way to reduce injury is through technique and equipment adjustments, coupled with good eating and exercise practices.
How Do I Use a Dampener?
If it is a button style it is placed in the center of the mains (the vertical strings), directly underneath the lowest cross (horizontal) string. If it is a worm style, interweave the dampener through the mains directly underneath the lowest cross string, centering the worm left and right of the mains. Per tennis rules, it must lay outside the pattern of cross strings. There isn’t necessarily a limit on the amount of dampeners a racket can have, but be aware more than one can serve as more of a distraction for yourself and to yourself.
Where Can I Buy a Dampener?
Tennis racket vibration dampeners can be purchased at various online outlets such as Amazon and EBay. Most sporting goods stores will carry them, as well as country clubs and pretty much anywhere tennis gear is sold.
The typical cost can be anywhere from $1 each to $5 each, depending on type and customization.
So Should I Buy a Dampener or Not?
It’s up to you! We may very well find out in 100 years that the science does indeed indicate very long term wear and tear from constant racket vibrations. My guess is the mental aspect, even to the point of a placebo effect, overrides any actual physical difference to a player. Time will tell, and yes, I use one and make sure I have one in my tennis bag. I like the ‘ping’ sound being muted when I use one. And I think it might help my tennis elbow:)
