Choosing the right squash racket for you can be a difficult task. Which one do you choose? Save money and buy a cheap one or invest in some more expensive equipment? Which brand do you choose?
I’d like to make it easier for you – share all the tips I’ve learned since then and help you choose the best racket for you. Believe me, this is not difficult at all.
1. First, start with the price range
You can find rackets both inexpensive and very expensive. It mostly depends on your budget, and how much you feel comfortable spending on your equipment.
While it is definitely better to invest in a quality racket, you must remember that it is just a tool – what matters is your skill and how you enjoy the sport. So do not rush to buy the most expensive equipment if you are a beginner.
- A beginner class racquet will cost you $25 to $50 – if you’re just trying to hit the big bucks and don’t want to spend a lot of money, go for this.
- The advanced tier comes in a higher price range, of course – but it will offer you much better performance, so if you want to play more than once, look for some advanced equipment right away.
2. The characteristics of the racket
There are many attributes that affect the behavior and characteristics of each racket – the main ones being weight, balance, the materials it is made of (graphite, titanium, …) and the size and shape of the head.
Of course you don’t have to fully understand all the parameters in full detail – just an overview of what a particular variable affects is sufficient.
Weight
This is really easy to understand. Squash racquets range in weight from about 120 grams to over 200. Lighter racquets are usually more expensive because they require higher quality materials.
Heavy racquets (180g and over) are great for beginners. You can just focus on controlling the stroke because the weight works for you and provides enough energy. The disadvantage is that you can never achieve such control as with a lighter racket.
Medium weight (140-180 grams) is best suited for experienced players. Why? Since it is difficult to hit the ball hard, the player must combine their own strength and correct control of the ball to achieve the proper force – which can be really difficult for players who are still learning the sport. These are also more expensive.
Light racquets (120 – 140 grams) – for more experienced players.
So my advice is – if you are starting with squash, try a cheaper and heavier racket and then upgrade to a more expensive and lighter racket after you get some experience and skill.
material
There are many different types of materials and alloys used, for example:
Aluminum – Cheaper squash racquets are often made of aluminum. It is heavy (about 200 grams) but also very durable and hard to damage. Their disadvantage is the vibrations that are generated when hitting the ball.
Graphite Compounds – Titanium and carbon are often added to a graphite base. These rackets are lighter and better for playing – but when used carelessly they can break.
balance
or – weight distribution. We distinguish between three types:
Head Heaviness – The weight goes more toward the head and the racket feels heavier in your hand, and it’s easier to make powerful strokes.
Head Light – It goes more towards the handle so it can have better control of the ball.
Evenly balanced
Note that this is really a matter of personal preference, some people prefer heavy headbutts, others like evenly balanced…
Head shape and size
The larger heads (500 sq cm) give you a larger sweet spot so it’s easier to hit the ball and they provide more power.
Smaller heads give you more control.
3. Brand
And finally – the brand. Many players have their favorites that they stick to, others compare each manufacturer’s rating closely and then decide which one has the best offer for them. It’s up to you.