Choosing the right squash racket for you can be a difficult task. Which to choose? Save the money and buy a cheap one or invest in a more expensive equipment? What brand to choose?
I’d like to make it easier for you: share all the tips I’ve learned from that time and help you select the best racket for you. Trust me, it’s not difficult at all.
1. First, start with the price range
You can find very cheap rackets and also very expensive. It mainly depends on your budget, how much you are comfortable spending on your equipment.
While it is best to invest in a high-quality racket, you must remember that it is only a tool: what matters is your skill and how you enjoy the sport. So do not rush to use the most expensive equipment if you are a beginner.
- The beginner racket will cost you between $ 25 and $ 50; If you are just trying squash and don’t want to spend a lot of cash, go for this one.
- The advanced class comes in a higher price range, of course, but it will give you much better performance, so if you want to play more often, go for advanced gear right away.
2. Characteristics of the racket
There are many attributes that affect the behavior and characteristics of each blade, the main ones being weight, balance, the material it is made of (graphite, titanium, …) and the size and shape of the head.
Of course, you don’t need to understand every parameter in detail; just having a general description of what a particular variable affects is enough.
Weight
This one is really easy to understand. The weight of squash rackets ranges from about 120 grams to more than 200. The lightest ones tend to be more expensive since they require higher quality materials.
Heavy rackets (180 grams and more) are ideal for beginners. You can focus only on controlling the blow because the weight works for you and provides enough power. The downside is that you can never achieve as much control as with a lighter racquet.
Those of medium weight (140 – 180 grams) are more suitable for experienced players. Why? Because it is more difficult to hit the ball hard, a player must combine their own strength with the correct control of the ball to achieve adequate power, which can be really difficult for players still learning the sport. These are also more expensive.
Light rackets (120 – 140 grams): for very experienced players.
So my advice is: If you are just starting out with squash, try a cheaper and heavier racket and upgrade to a more expensive and lighter one after gaining some experience and skill.
Material
Many types of various materials and alloys are used, for example:
Aluminum – Cheaper squash rackets are usually made of aluminum. They are heavy (around 200 grams) but also very durable and difficult to damage. Its disadvantage is the vibrations that are generated when hitting the ball.
Graphite Compounds – Titanium and carbon are often added to the graphite base. These rackets are lighter and better for playing, but when used carelessly they can break.
Balance
Or – weight distribution. We distinguish three types:
Head heavy – The weight falls more towards the head and the racket feels heavy in the hand, making it easier to hit powerful hits.
Headlight: more towards the handle, allowing better ball control.
Evenly balanced
Note that this is really a matter of personal preference, some people like heavy rackets, others prefer evenly balanced …
Head shape and size.
The larger heads (500 cm2) give you a bigger sweet spot, making it easier to hit the ball with them and they also offer more power.
Smaller heads give you more control.
3. Brand
And finally, the brand. Many players have their favorite they stick to, others closely compare each manufacturer’s ranking and then decide which one has the best offer for them. It’s up to you.