10 Best Tennis Vibration Dampeners
~ An In-Depth Guide
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If you’re just getting started with tennis, you may wonder whether you should use one of the many vibration dampeners available and why players use them. Unfortunately, the answer is not a simple yes or no; it’s a subjective preference.
If you were to ask ten different tennis players whether or not they like them, you’d likely get ten different answers. Some players can’t live without them, and others have no interest.
To help you decide if they’re right for you, I’ll share everything you need to know about these popular accessories, including why they exist, how to install them, and their impact on racquet performance. I’ll also cover my picks and reviews of the best dampeners, including one I designed myself to fix many of the issues I found with the existing options.
My Top Picks
These days, hundreds of different styles and colors of dampeners are available, and I’ve tested my fair share. However, only a handful receive my stamp of approval, offering players several different styles and subtleties in performance.
Here’s a comparison table of my favorite vibration dampeners to kick things off. I’ll start by reviewing each, sharing how they perform, and providing you with insight you can use to select one you think will be a good fit for your game.
You can scroll left to right to view all the table’s data.
| Vibration Dampener | Weight (grams) | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | Thickness (mm) | Firmness | Dampening |
| TennisCompanion Dampener | 4.5 | 25.0 | 25.0 | 10.0 | Soft | Medium |
| Babolat Custom Damp | 3.1 | 21.8 | 21.8 | 12.3 | Soft | Medium |
| Head Pro Damp | 3.5 | 22.4 | 22.4 | 10.0 | Medium | Low |
| Tourna Sampras Odamp | 2.0 | 23.4 | 23.4 | 7.5 | Medium | Low |
| ADV (Touch, Sorb, Max Sorb) | 5.8 / 4.8 / 6.4 | 25.0 / 44.7 / 62.9 | 25.0 / 14.1 / 14.1 | 10.8 / 9.6 / 9.6 | Firm / Firm / Firm | Low / Med / High |
| Wilson Pro Feel | 2.9 | 23.2 | 2.32 | 8.8 | Firm | Low |
| Head Smartsorb | 2.6 | 110.3 | 10.5 | 3.2 | Soft | High |
| Gamma Shockbuster | 4.2 | 106.2 | 10.3 | 3.2 | Soft | High |
| Racket Expressions Dampener | 3.5 | 23.2 | 26.3 | 9.3 | Firm | Medium |
| Size 64 Rubber Bands | 1.2 | 73.2 | 6.2 | 1.1 | Soft | Low |
After reviewing my top picks, I’ll move into the guide portion, discussing everything you need to know about them to help you decide whether to use one in the first place.
TennisCompanion Vibration Dampener
The TennisCompanion vibration dampener was born out of a desire to fix common issues with other dampeners—difficult installation, poor fit, lackluster performance, and bulky design. After testing various materials, shapes, and densities, silicone proved to be the ideal choice, and a reuleaux triangle shape with internal teeth delivered a secure fit without excess weight. The result is a sleek, matte black dampener that blends in visually while delivering high-level performance across racquet types.
In use, it significantly softens the ping sound of my racquet and reduces harsh vibrations, all while maintaining a crisp, responsive feel with just the right amount of feedback. During my tests, its soft silicone and thoughtful design made installation and removal easy, and it stays securely in place. The only real drawback is for players who want maximum dampening, as this design prioritizes a balanced feel over a completely muted response.
Babolat Custom Damp
The Babolat Custom Damp is a clever, customizable vibration dampener that reduces my racquet’s harsh ping and softens feel without sacrificing too much feedback. I found its compact, circular design to install easily during my testing, and the optional bead-filled insert adds flexibility for players looking to fine-tune dampening. With a snug fit and solid vibration-dampening performance, it’s a standout accessory—especially for Babolat racquets, where it’s a perfect match.
Its main drawback is its busy aesthetic, which may clash with non-Babolat frames and limit its appeal for style-conscious players. Ideally suited for stiff, powerful racquets like the Pure Drive and Pure Aero, it’s a reliable choice for players who want both sound and vibration control.
Head Pro Damp
The Head Pro Damp is a well-designed, circular dampener that subtly reduces ping while preserving feel, making it ideal for players who value responsive feedback. I found it to install easily, fit snugly across a range of racquets, and feature a thoughtfully designed internal core that ensures the logo stays upright—even during aggressive play.
When testing, its main drawback was its ability to stay locked in, as it relies on string pressure to remain in place, which can be an issue with open string patterns or off-center hits. It also prominently features the Head logo, which may be a turnoff for players using other brands. That said, it performs best with tighter string beds like Novak’s racquet and is a reliable option for players seeking mild vibration reduction.
Tourna Sampras O Damp
The Tourna Sampras O Damp is a lightweight, donut-shaped vibration dampener that softens your racquet’s ping while preserving its feel. It installs easily thanks to its soft, flexible material and fits securely on most racquets, adapting well to different string patterns. The subtle branding and hollow design give it a classic, no-frills appeal.
However, when testing, I found it has a tendency to fall out—especially with wider, open string patterns on oversized racquets—due to its limited contact with the main strings. This issue is more common when the dampener is new or after it’s been used for a while, as it loses its resilience and ability to push horizontally into the main strings. To minimize this, I recommend replacing it every few months.
ADV Multi-Feel Dampeners
The ADV Multi-Feel dampeners come in a pack of three—Touch, Sorb, and Max Sorb—each offering a different level of vibration dampening. They’re well-designed with grooves for a secure fit and install fairly easily once you get the hang of it. In my tests, all three minimized a racquet’s ping, with the Max Sorb silencing it and providing the softest, most muted feel.
From my experience, the main downside is their weight, which is heavier than most dampeners and can affect a racquet’s balance, especially for players who are more particular about their setup. Additionally, the Sorb and Max Sorb can tear if you’re not careful when installing or removing them. Still, they’re an excellent option for players looking to explore different dampening levels in a single, reliable set.
Wilson Pro Feel
The Wilson Pro Feel is a lightweight, low-profile vibration dampener that slightly reduces a racquet’s ping while preserving a connected feel. When testing, I found it installs easily and fits relatively snugly thanks to its square internal core and firm rubber material. Combined, these two design elements help keep it in place and the logo upright.
However, it can still fall out occasionally, especially during play, which can be distracting. The bold Wilson branding also limits its appeal for players using other racquet brands or those who prefer a more neutral look. Despite these drawbacks, it’s a simple and reliable dampener for those seeking a touch of dampening without overly muting feedback.
Head Smartsorb
The Head Smartsorb is a lightweight, worm-style vibration dampener that weaves through eight main strings to deliver strong vibration reduction with minimal added weight. Its thin, flexible rubber design makes it relatively easy to install, and once in place, it significantly softens my racquet’s sound and feel. The result is a quieter, more forgiving hitting experience that many players—especially those sensitive to vibration—will appreciate.
The biggest drawback is durability; pulling it too tightly or removing it without care can cause the rubber to snap, particularly after extended use. I’ve also found it more vulnerable to damage during restringing when players remove it without being careful or when mishits strike either of the clips. Still, for players seeking a step up in dampening from traditional button-style options, the Smartsorb is a solid choice.
Gamma Shockbuster
The Gamma Shockbuster II is a bulky but highly effective worm-style dampener designed for maximum vibration reduction. Its dual Zorbicon gel-filled strips weave through the strings and clip securely at both ends, covering eight mains to deliver what I found to be a plush, muted feel while eliminating my racquet’s ping. Despite its size, it’s lightweight and had minimal impact on my frame’s specs, like balance and swingweight.
When testing, I found installation somewhat awkward on tighter string patterns, and the end hooks are prone to breaking if overstretched or hit during play. I also think its design is a bit clunky, but players seeking top-tier dampening will likely be willing to overlook the lackluster aesthetics. Overall, the Shockbuster II delivers a standout performance for those who prioritize feel over looks.
Racket Expressions Dampeners
Racket Expressions dampeners are a playful twist on a practical accessory, offering fun, quirky designs like sharks, tacos, and poop emojis without sacrificing performance. The shark model I tested installs easily, softens the racquet’s ping to a faint sound and provides moderate vibration reduction for a more comfortable, responsive feel.
The biggest downside I experienced is that the dampener can occasionally slip or fly out during play, especially on racquets with larger heads, more open string patterns, or during aggressive play. Still, I found Racket Expressions to deliver a fun and functional option for players who want to show off some personality while improving feel and reducing noise.
Size 64 Rubber Bands
Size 64 rubber bands are a simple, low-cost alternative to traditional vibration dampeners, made popular by Andre Agassi. They’re lightweight, easy to install with a few knots, and slightly reduce the racquet’s ping sound without noticeably altering its feel. While plain beige is the most common, I love how they’re available in a variety of colors, allowing me to match them to my racquet for a more customized look.
During my testing, the biggest drawbacks were their limited vibration reduction and tendency to break, especially when removing them—but replacements are cost-effective at just a few cents each. Although I don’t mind their look, some players might also find them a bit casual or out of place in a performance frame. Still, they’re a great option for players curious about giving dampeners a try and who want to start with something simple and reasonably effective.
What Is a Vibration Dampener?
Vibration dampeners are small accessories typically made of rubber or similar synthetic material that players insert into a racquet’s strings to influence its feel and sound.
Their origins stem from French tennis player Rene Lacoste, who developed the first dampener in 1964. His Tanti-Vibration Dampener was designed to help neutralize the vibration and shock a player feels in their hand and arm when striking a ball.
Unfortunately, despite the admirable attempt to improve a player’s comfort, it didn’t achieve the desired results. Today, Lacoste no longer makes this dampener, but many other brands have followed suit and created similar offerings, which have become a stable tennis accessory among players of all levels.
What’s the Purpose?
If you review the marketing for the vast majority of vibration dampeners, you’ll see claims of reducing vibration to improve comfort and reduce or prevent injury. However, research has shown they do little more than mute the audible “ping” you hear when striking a ball, particularly with a freshly strung racquet.
In 2004, Dr. François-Xavier Li released a study in the Journal of Sport Sciences with the following remarks.
“String vibration dampers do not reduce racket frame vibration transfer to the forearm.”
The study’s ultimate conclusion on why they remain popular:
“We suggest that string dampers remain a popular accessory among tennis players because of their acoustic effects and psychological support rather than any mechanical advantage.”
Despite this research, the myth of vibration dampeners reducing the vibration and shock a player feels in their arm when hitting persists, mainly due to how manufacturers market them.
Speaking from personal experience, I agree with their primary finding that despite not increasing comfort, they’re great at muting the “ping” sound you hear when striking the ball.
However, the study seems to miss that vibration dampeners also impact a racquet’s feel, which I find to be the most compelling reason to use them. After all, if you prefer the feel, it can improve your confidence, influencing your performance.
Impact On Racquet Performance
Frequently, players consider the following attributes when evaluating the performance of a tennis racquet, which are influenced by its technical specs:
- Power
- Control
- Maneuverability
- Stability
- Comfort
- Feel
- Spin
Ultimately, dampeners aren’t significant enough to have a material impact on most of these attributes.
However, there is one exception I’d argue, and that’s feel. While research proved dampeners don’t reduce frame vibration to the forearm, I believe they have a material impact on a racquet’s feel.
Of course, feel is highly subjective, but psychological or not, it matters in tennis, so I think it’s worth mentioning and one of the main reasons I use them in my tennis racquets.
That said, I think it’s safe to say these small accessories influence racquet performance, but the impact is subtle and will be perceived differently by each player.
Shock & Tennis Elbow
Some players suffer from tennis elbow due to the repetitive motion associated with swinging a racquet, the shock their forearm sustains each time they hit a ball, and the subsequent vibrations that travel to their arm.
The pain can be anywhere from slightly uncomfortable to excruciatingly painful. As you’d expect, these players are always looking for products that can help reduce pain and keep them on the court, and vibration dampeners are one of the first accessories players frequently turn to for help.
Unfortunately, as shown in the previous section, dampeners don’t have a material impact on reducing the vibration or shock a player feels in their arm when swinging to hit a tennis ball.
Recognizing this, placing a dampener on your racquet will offer little relief, serving as a mental Band-Aid to a potentially deeper issue involving your equipment or technique.
If you’re suffering from tennis elbow, I recommend you first consult your doctor. However, I also recommend you review your technique with a qualified tennis professional and consider the type of tennis racquet and string you’re using.
A racquet that’s too heavy, a frame that’s too stiff, or a string that’s too rigid and harsh, such as polyester or Kevlar, can significantly impact the shock and vibration a player endures.
Types of Dampeners
There are two primary types of vibration dampeners:
- Button
- Worm
Button dampeners are the most common and are referred to as such because they’re circular, roughly the size of a large button or coin, and usually only overlap two main or vertical strings.
Popular button dampeners include the Novak Djokovic Pro Damp from Head and the classic Pete Sampras O Damp from Tourna. These days, button-style dampeners come in various shapes, but the size and string coverage remain roughly similar.
The other common type is a worm dampener. Aptly named, these are long and thin, roughly resembling worms. Popular options include the Gamma Shockbuster and the Head Smartsorb.
The main difference between the two is that worm dampeners come in contact with more strings, substantially mute the ping sound of your strings when hitting, and impact feel the most.
Ideal Placement
Vibration dampeners are placed or woven between a racquet’s vertical strings below the bottom-most horizontal string.
There are two key reasons for this placement. First, when you’re hitting, you don’t want the tennis ball to accidentally come in contact with the device, leading to a mishit.
However, the second and lesser-known reason for this placement is that it’s in the rules. In section 4 of the ITF Rules of Tennis, dealing with the racquet, dampeners are addressed head-on in one of five cases or examples they review.
Case 3: Can vibration damping devices be placed on the strings of a racket? If so, where can they be placed?
Decision: Yes, but these devices may only be placed outside the pattern of the crossed strings.
That technically means you can place dampeners on the bottom, top, left, or right of the stringbed’s pattern. Of course, back to my notes above, players typically place them at the bottom of the stringbed above the racquet’s throat to prevent them from interfering when hitting.
It’s worth noting that the rules don’t explicitly prevent players from using multiple as long as they don’t violate the above rule. Still, it’s entirely unnecessary to do so.
Installing A Dampener
Installing these accessories is pretty straightforward, but let’s review it quickly so you know what to expect.
Button Dampeners
Button dampeners are the easiest to install. They simply need to be inserted between the two center vertical strings.
First, push the slotted edge of the dampener against one of the two center strings below the bottom cross string until it’s sung. Then, holding the opposite side of the dampener, pull the dampener and second center string away from each other until you can align it with that string. Once slotted between the two center strings, push it up against the lowest cross or horizontal string, and that’s it – you should be good to go.
Worm Dampeners
Worm dampeners come in various shapes and sizes, but they generally weave between the main strings below the bottom cross string, which helps reduce vibration across more strings that frequently come in contact with the ball.
Some tend to be a pain to install, and many designs require you to follow the instructions on the package, but on the plus side, once inserted, they’re not going anywhere until they break or you need to restring. For the best results, I always start from the middle and work my way to the sides.
Two things that can make dampeners more challenging to install are the size of the dampener and how dense your racquet’s string pattern happens to be. Anything above a 16×18 string pattern, i.e., 16×19, 18×20, etc., can get tricky, or the dampener may look scrunched. Consider this factor before making your purchase.
When in doubt, refer to the instructions for the dampener you purchase, which companies usually print on the package.
Should You Use One?
This is a question only you can answer.
Luckily, they’re relatively inexpensive to test out. I recommend purchasing a package or two and seeing how you like the sound and feel. If a friend uses one, ask them to borrow it for a few minutes the next time you’re on the court to save some cash.
Many players react relatively strongly to them and either love or hate them, and it usually only takes a few minutes to come to that conclusion. That said, when testing them out, I’d encourage you to start with a smaller button dampener and work your way up to a worm dampener if you choose to because the larger worm dampeners will more significantly impact your racquet’s feel.
When I was younger, I disliked the “ping” sound and didn’t feel like I was hitting solidly without a dampener. Then, when I moved to a new type of string in high school, I tried hitting again without one and preferred the feel. However, I used one throughout college after changing racquets, and I still use one today.
In other words, like me, you may go through phases where you like using them and other times when you prefer to skip them. Often, I’ll experiment when I change racquets or strings.
Wrapping Up
Love them or hate them, these small devices are here to stay and will likely remain among the most popular tennis accessories for years to come.
If you haven’t used a vibration dampener before, I encourage you to try one. Whether you dig up a spare rubber band in your kitchen drawer or pick one from my list, you may enjoy the reduction in noise and change in feel when hitting.
Do you have any lingering questions on the topic? Let me know in the comments below or share which dampener you’re currently using—I’d love to hear from you.
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Thank you for your useful posting.
Glad you found it useful, Lisa. Thanks for the note.
Hello! I just started using a tennis dampener, I’m using a circle button dampener the same as novak djokovic’s. I realized it becomes loose after a few weeks. Why does it become loose? How do I prevent it from becoming loose? Should I remove the dampener when I’m not playing? I’ll be very happy if you can help me with my questions. Thank you. :)
Hi Monica,
Thanks for the question. Vibration dampeners can come loose. Here are the main reasons:
With button style dampeners, your best bet is to find one wide/large enough to fit securely between the strings. Unfortunately, falling out is one of the main drawbacks of the Head Pro Damp Novak. As for removing it when you’re not playing, that can help with some dampeners like the Tourna O Damp Sampras, but for most, it will have little benefit.
I hope that helps.
All the best,
Jon
Do dampeners reduce power (given that the ball is hit with the same force, same angle and same spin both with the dampener and without.?
Hi Linda,
Great question. I have not found vibration dampeners under any circumstances to reduce a racquet’s power nor are there any studies suggesting otherwise.
All the best,
Jon
Good article! Thank you! :)
Our local stringer says that using a dampener weakens the catapult effect of the strings on the ball. Is this true?
Hi Michael,
I think that’s a stretch to say it weakens the catapult effect. However, some players may find it “feels” that way. It’s not something I’d be at all concerned about as I have never experienced those effects testing many different brands and styles.
All the best,
Jon
Great informations!
It helps a lot, thanks!
For me, I used ‘4-main-string-bend-type dampener’. That helps me to feel less buzzing on my hands.
But now I don’t use it.
My previous racquets were ‘Head Speed MP Graphene XT’ with Head Hawk 1.20mm 48/48, 50/50, 52/52 tensions and ‘Wilson Blade 98S’ with Luxillon 4G 1.25mm 48/48, 50/50, 52/52 tensions.
My currently using racquet is ‘New Wilson Blade 98S’ with Luxillon 4G soft 1.25mm 54/54 tension.
I also used ‘New Wilson Blade 98S’ with Luxillon 4G soft 1.25mm 50/50, 52/52 tensions.
Because of Counter Veil Technology, I took the dampener off.
I admit that all the opinions about dampener are different.
For me, just for me, I think dampener ‘Definitely’ reduces vibration.
Thanks so much for sharing your experience! It’s great to hear your perspective.
Exactly the information I was looking for! Thanks!
Specifically I wanted to know about the legality of a dampener inside the string bed, and it touching more than 3 strings.
Awesome! Glad to hear you found what you were looking for :)
I didn’t really need any new dampeners as I have a random bunch of them in a drawer. (By the way, do they have a lifespan?) However, I enjoy your content and want to show some support so I bought some. So far so good!
Hi Roger,
Thanks so much for your support! I hope you enjoy my dampeners. As for lifespan, most button style will last a year or more, while the worm style tend to break within a year.
The main considerations are whether they deteriorate and start falling out or break. Many vibration dampeners will lose their resilience over time, making them more susceptible to falling out. If that starts to happen, it’s a good time to swap it out. Otherwise, some are more prone to breaking/cracking, so when that happens, you’ll need to find a replacement.
I hope that helps!
All the best,
Jon