Try before you buy
Racket & paddle demo service
Try selected tennis rackets, padel rackets and pickleball paddles for up to 14 days.
Browse demosTest it, love it, make it yours
Choosing the right racket or paddle is much easier when you can actually play with it. Specs, reviews and recommendations are useful, but the real test is how it feels in your hand and during your game.
Our demo service gives you the chance to try selected tennis rackets, padel rackets and pickleball paddles before committing to your next purchase. Simply order your demo online, test it for up to 14 days, then either return it or buy with confidence.
Whether you’re upgrading your current setup, switching sports, or narrowing down a few options, the String Sports team is here to help you find the right fit.
How our demo service works
Browse & choose
Pick your favourites from our racket range and select the “Demo” option on the product page. We offer demos on adult tennis rackets, padel rackets and pickleball paddles.
Order online
Pay the full price of the racket up front. When you return it, we’ll refund you minus a £25 demo fee (or a fee of just £10 if you return in-store).
Collect or get it delivered
Pick up in-store or have it sent straight to your door.
Try it for 2 weeks
Play, test, and get a real feel for the racket before you decide.
Decided you love it?
Just let us know, and carry on playing!
Not right for you?
Return it free of charge, and we'll refund you minus the £25 demo fee (or £10 if you return in-store).
Browse demos
Terms & conditions
You can demo each racket or paddle for up to 14 days from the date you receive it. Demo stock is limited and availability can change, so if your chosen item is already out with another customer, we’ll let you know when it’s expected back or suggest a suitable alternative.
Demo items must be returned in the same condition they were supplied. Normal careful testing is expected, but we may reduce or refuse a refund if an item is returned with damage beyond normal demo use, including cracks, chips, heavy surface damage, water damage, missing accessories, removed or altered grips, or signs of misuse. Please do not modify, restring, regrip or alter a demo item without speaking to us first.
Customers are responsible for returning demo items using our tracked service, or they can be returned in-store. Once your demo has been received and checked, we’ll refund your payment minus the relevant demo fee. Demo orders are excluded from discount codes, promotional offers and loyalty discounts, as the full payment acts as a temporary holding payment while the item is out on demo.
Contact us by phone or our live chat feature for personalised advice.
Not sure which to demo?
Take our 30-second Racket Finder, or ask the team in the shop, on the phone or on live chat.