Every racquet sport athlete eventually feels it—that sharp sting in the wrist, dull ache in the elbow, or heaviness in the shoulder after a long day on court. Many assume these aches are just part of playing tennis, pickleball, or badminton, but a major contributor is the repeated vibration shock that travels through the racquet on every impact. Whether you’re swinging a tennis racquet, a pickleball paddle, or a badminton racquet, your arm absorbs thousands of micro-vibrations every session.
Most players don’t realize how much damage these vibrations cause over time. Off‑centre hits create the strongest shock waves, and those waves move up the frame straight into your tendons. Left unmanaged, this can lead to chronic conditions like tennis elbow, wrist tendinitis, and persistent shoulder irritation. Even recreational players who hit only a few times a week are at risk, especially during Canada’s long indoor season when players often train more frequently.
This is where Sorbothane dampeners stand out from ordinary vibration dampeners. Most standard dampeners are made of simple rubber or silicone—they change the sound of contact but do very little to reduce actual shock. Sorbothane is different. It’s a scientifically engineered viscoelastic material used in aerospace, medical equipment, and industrial shock-absorption systems. Instead of merely deflecting vibration, it absorbs impact energy and converts it into a tiny amount of heat, dramatically reducing what reaches your arm.
When you install an RTP Sorbothane Dampener, the first thing you notice is a more muted, controlled feel on the ball. The racquet feels smoother, more stable, and easier on your joints. This “softening” doesn’t reduce power—in fact, many players find that better comfort leads to cleaner swings and improved control because their racquet face stays steadier through impact. Beginners benefit because mishits sting less, while competitive players appreciate the comfort during long rallies and tournaments.
Canadian athletes benefit greatly from added joint protection. Training indoors in winter usually means playing on faster courts with heavier balls and less downtime between sessions. The season is long, and it’s common for players to increase their weekly frequency just to stay active. Without proper joint support, discomfort can build up quickly and turn into a chronic issue that’s harder to reverse. Sorbothane gives players the freedom to train more consistently without aggravating their elbows and wrists.
Over time, a small equipment change like this becomes an essential part of your setup. You wouldn’t knowingly use the wrong grip size or shoes that don’t fit your feet—joint protection should be treated with the same importance. Whether you’re building strength, recovering from injury, or simply playing for fun, reducing vibration is one of the smartest things you can do to extend your playing years.
If your arm ever complains after a session, your body is sending you a message. Listen to it, and give your joints the support they need. RTP Sorbothane Dampeners are an easy, affordable step toward healthier, more enjoyable time on court.