What Grip Under the Tourna?

[gkamieneski]

I play exclusively with Head Radical MP racquets although for me it doesn't matter if it is an iRadical, LM or MG. Whenever I pick up a new one it is usually 1 model behind, like right now I am considering a Youtek Radical MP (but not the IG).

When I pick up a new Radical MP I usually play with the HydroSorb OEM grip until it needs replacing and then I overgrip with Tourna Grip or Tourna Tac depending on the season. So for the most part, my quiver of Radical MPs have "used" HydroSorb grips overgripped with Tourna. Note that I prefer the Tournagrip to the Hydrosorb grip anyway but usually use the OEM grip while it's still good.

My question is am I missing out on something by "wearing" down my Hydrosorbs and then wrapping with the Tourna? If I get the new Youtek, should I immediately wrap the virgin Hydrosorb grip with the Tourna Grip?

Perhaps my grips would have a "softer" feel if I changed my procedure? Welcome opinions. What do the pros who use Tourna do?

[Nuke]

I dislike a squishy, soft grip, and think you get a better feel for the racquet with a hard grip. The first thing I do with a new racquet is remove the factory grip (and store it away, in case I want to restore the racquet for resale) and then apply two layers of Tourna Grip to the bare handle.

[gkamieneski]

Nuke,

I understand your point. My experience is probably close to yours as my Hydrosorbs are pretty worn down when I overgrip. I wonder how others who overgrip directly over the OEM grip like it and what the pros do? I suspect the Tourna Grip users on tour like Maria and Ferrer apply it freshly over a brand new grip.

[robbo1970]

I would always put the overgrip over a brand new racket grip. It prolongs the life of the grip and provides the appropriate level of cushioning that the grip is designed to provide.

[The Meat]

Leather grip, then a overgrip, then a Tournagrip is what I used to do.