Abstract: An improved sports racquet has elements placed between the outer edge of the frame and the strings. The elements prevent the strings from touching the outer edge of the frame and move in response to a force applied in a direction generally perpendicular to the strings, thereby expanding the sweet spot, providing improved playability of the racquet, and significantly reducing the vibration that is transferred to the player's arm. Each element has two connected seating portions that seat in receptacles in the outer perimeter of the racquet. Thus, two seating portions move together when a ball strikes the playing surface.

Abstract: An improved sports racquet is provided having elements placed between the outer edge of the frame and the strings. The elements prevent the strings from touching the outer edge of the frame and rotate in response to a force applied in a direction generally perpendicular to the strings, thereby expanding the sweet spot, providing improved playability of the racquet, and significantly reducing the fibration that is transferred to the player's arm. The elements are preferably spherical in shape and may be comprised of various materials, including acetal, plastic and metal. The elements preferably rest in receptacles in the racquet frame, which may be integral with the frame or separate pieces, such as sleeves or grommets, that are connected to the frame. The receptacles are preferably designed to have a surface with substantially the same curvature as the bottom surface of the elements.

Abstract: An improved sports racquet is provided having elements placed between the outer edge of the frame and the strings. The elements prevent the strings from touching the outer edge of the frame and rotate in response to a force applied in a direction generally perpendicular to the strings, thereby expanding the sweet spot, providing improved playability of the racquet, and significantly reducing the .[.fibration.]. .Iadd.vibration .Iaddend.that is transferred to the player's arm. The elements are preferably spherical in shape and may be comprised of various materials, including acetal, plastic and metal. The elements preferably rest in receptacles in the racquet frame, which may be integral with the frame or separate pieces, such as sleeves or grommets, that are connected to the frame. The receptacles are preferably designed to have a surface with substantially the same curvature as the bottom surface of the elements.