Badminton

How to Choose a Badminton Grip Size in India: G4, G5 and G6 Explained

G4, G5 or G6? Here's what badminton grip sizes actually mean and how to get the right handle feel.

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— 3 min read
Yonex Aerocushion 9900 badminton replacement grip on a racket handle

How to choose a badminton grip size in India: G4, G5 and G6 explained

Badminton grip size is one of the most misunderstood numbers on a racket, and getting it right changes how much control and power you feel on every shot. In India you'll mostly see G4, G5 and G6 stamped on the racket. The counter-intuitive part is that the higher the number, the thinner the handle: a G6 is slimmer than a G5, which is slimmer than a G4. This guide explains what each size means and, more usefully, how to dial in the exact feel you want.

What do G4, G5 and G6 mean?

The G number refers to the circumference of the racket handle. Roughly, G4 is the thickest of the three commonly sold sizes, G5 sits in the middle, and G6 is the thinnest and is often found on rackets built for the Asian market. Because Indian retail leans heavily on Yonex and Li-Ning stock, most players here end up with G5 or G6 rackets by default, which are on the slimmer side.

Which badminton grip size should you buy?

Hand size and playing style both matter. Players with larger hands or those who like a firmer, more locked-in feel tend to prefer a thicker G4. Players with smaller hands, juniors, and anyone who relies on quick wrist and finger rotation for deception often prefer a thinner G5 or G6. A widely used rule of thumb: a slimmer grip gives you more finger mobility and control in the fast exchanges at the net, while a slightly thicker grip can feel more stable on powerful overhead smashes. If you're unsure, start thinner, because you can always build a grip up but you cannot shave a handle down.

How to build up a grip that's too thin

This is the practical secret most beginners miss. You are not stuck with the size printed on the racket. You can add thickness by wrapping a replacement grip or one or more overgrips over the existing handle. A cushioned replacement grip such as the Yonex Aerocushion 9900 Badminton Grip at ₹199 adds noticeable padding and a softer feel, effectively bumping a slim G6 closer to a G5 or G4. If you prefer a tacky, sweat-friendly surface, an overgrip like the Yonex AC7405E2T Badminton Over Grip at ₹208 wraps over the base grip and adds a thin layer without much bulk.

Replacement grip vs overgrip: what's the difference?

A replacement grip is the base layer that goes directly onto the bare handle and does most of the cushioning and sizing work. An overgrip is a thinner, often tackier layer that wraps on top to fine-tune feel, absorb sweat and keep the base grip clean. Many Indian players run a base grip plus one overgrip. For overgrips you buy in bulk, value packs like the Li-Ning GP-24 Overgrip (Pack of 6) at ₹499 or a single Yonex Tech-501B Badminton Overgrip at ₹100 let you re-wrap often and keep a fresh, dry hold, which matters a lot in humid Indian courts.

A quick fitting test

Hold the racket in your normal forehand grip. There should be roughly a finger's width of space between your fingertips and the base of your palm. If your fingers dig into your palm, the handle is too thin and you should add a grip. If you can't wrap your hand comfortably around it, it's too thick. Re-check this feel every time you add or remove an overgrip.

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Frequently asked questions

Is G5 bigger or smaller than G4 in badminton?

G5 is thinner than G4. In badminton grip sizing, the higher the G number the slimmer the handle, so G6 is thinner than G5, and G5 is thinner than G4.

Which badminton grip size is best for beginners in India?

Most Indian retail rackets come in G5 or G6, which suit smaller to medium hands. Beginners can start with a slim grip and build it up with a replacement grip or overgrip until the handle feels comfortable, because you can add thickness but not remove it.

Can I change my racket's grip size myself?

Yes. Wrap a cushioned replacement grip onto the bare handle to increase size, then add an overgrip on top for feel and sweat absorption. This is the easiest way to fine-tune handle thickness at home.

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