Product care &installation guide

Every RTP product is engineered around a specific mechanism.
This guide ensures you get the protection it was designed to deliver.

Before you purchase

Heel Pad XC attaches under your insole. This only works if your shoe's insole is removable. Placing the pad on top is not a workaround — it will shift during play and shock absorption will fail. If your insole is glued in, this product is not compatible with your shoe.

Shoe compatibility check
How to check — 10 seconds
01 Loosen your laces fully and open the shoe collar wide.
02 Hook your finger under the heel edge of the insole.
03 Gently lift. If it comes up freely — your shoe is compatible.
No-go Insole doesn't move — it's glued in. Heel Pad XC is not compatible with this shoe.
Installation
Under the insole — 4 steps
1 Remove the insole by pulling it out from the heel end of your shoe.
2 Place the Heel Pad sticky-side down into the heel area of the shoe base.
3 Press firmly for 5 seconds. Both surfaces bond to the shoe floor.
4 Reinsert your insole on top. It should lie completely flat with no raised edges.
Pro Tac Overgrip wrapping technique
Sizing tip

If the pad is slightly large, trim the edges with scissors. Do not fold or bend the Sorbothane material.

Care

Wipe clean with a dry cloth. No washing required.

Sorbothane is self-maintaining under normal use.

If adhesion weakens, press firmly after each session to reactivate.

Washing your shoes

Remove the Heel Pad first before washing.

Re-attach once the shoe is completely dry.

Do not machine wash, soak, or expose to heat.

Expected lifespan
1,000,000+ steps

How to wear
Orientation matters
1 Grip pads face outward on both sides — one against your foot, one against the insole.
2 Once inside the shoe, you should feel immediate resistance. No sliding from your first step.
3 If sliding occurs, check orientation and re-lace firmly.
Pro Tac Overgrip wrapping technique
First wear note

Grip pads reach full performance after 2–3 uses as they conform to your insole surface. Slight movement on the first wear is normal.

Washing instructions
Heat is the enemy of grip
30°
Cold wash only
Gentle cycle
Turn inside out
Mesh bag
No dryer
No hot water
No bleach
No direct sun dry
Why this matters

Polyurethane grip pads are heat-sensitive. Hot water and tumble drying are the primary cause of grip failure and peeling. Cold wash + air dry preserves grip across dozens of washes.

Drying

Air dry flat or hang in a shaded, ventilated area.

No tumble drying — even on a low-heat setting.

Fully dry before storing to prevent odor buildup.

When to replace

Visible peeling or lifting of grip pads.

Foot slides inside shoe despite correct orientation.

Elastic compression reduced around the arch.


Installation video
Watch before installing
Installation steps
Position affects performance
1 Hold your racquet with the string face toward you.
2 Locate the two central main strings just above the throat.
3 Push the two outer prongs between these two strings from the front.
4 Press firmly until you feel a click. The V3 shell is engineered to resist pop-outs.
5 Tug gently to confirm it is seated. It should not release without deliberate force.
hockSorb Dampener string position
Position tip

Start at the standard bottom position. Move 1–2 string intersections higher for more dampening, or toward center for more ball-contact feedback. Experiment during practice.

Note

The dampener can be lost during play. Loose strings or a direct ball hit on the dampener can knock it out of position. We recommend checking that it is still seated after each session.

Care

No washing needed. Wipe with a dry cloth.

Inspect the shell for cracks periodically.

Store away from direct heat — not in a car on hot days.

Original vs Ultrasoft

Original V3 — Higher durometer. Preserves the "pop" sound. Best for familiar feedback.

Ultrasoft V3 — Softer core, broader frequency absorption. Best for arm injury recovery.

Both versions install identically.

Lifespan vs standard dampeners
12–18 months avg.

Pro Tac Overgrip
Super Tacky — engineered for sweat and humidity

Higher tackiness retention throughout play.

Soft feel without a gooey sensation.

Best for high-perspiration players or humid environments.

Longer-lasting tackiness than standard tacky grips.

How to apply
Never wrap over a worn grip
1 Remove the old overgrip completely. Layering adds thickness and kills feel.
2 Unwrap the new grip and peel off the protective film.
3 Start at the butt cap. Align the angled end and secure with the adhesive strip.
4 Wrap at a 30–45° angle with 3–5mm overlap per row. Keep consistent tension.
5 Finish near the throat. Secure the end with the included finishing tape.
6 Smooth any air bubbles flat before your first use.
Pro Tac Overgrip wrapping technique
When to replace

Grip feels slick or less responsive.

Visible wear, thinning, or discoloration.

Tackiness noticeably reduced.

Sweat saturation causing slippage mid-match.

Lifespan
6–10 hrs
Storage (unopened)

Store in original packaging in a cool, dry place.

Avoid direct sunlight or heat. PU stiffens when stored warm.

Keep away from chemical solvents.

Optimal shelf life: 12–18 months unopened.

Cart Close

Your cart is currently empty.

Start Shopping
Select options Close