How to Choose the Right Squash Racket
When it comes to choosing a squash racket there are three fundamentals.
Firstly, you will need to decide between selecting an open or closed throat racket
An open-throat racket, also known as a teardrop, has strings which run all the way down to the shaft and this means you get more power while the teardrop also provides an enhanced sweet spot.
In contrast closed throat rackets have a more compact racket head which means they provide greater control but have a smaller sweet spot. As such striking the ball correctly in the area of optimum impact assumes increased importance in order to enjoy the greater accuracy provided by closed-throat rackets.
Secondly, choose the frame weight which is correct for you
Frame weight is also vital. The optimum weight range is usually seen as spanning 110 to 150 grams. 125 to 135 grams is the most common weight used by squash players.
Thirdly make sure that the balance of the frame is suitable for your game
When it comes to the weight of the racket the balance is a key factor. Put simply rackets can be evenly balanced, head-light, or head-heavy.
A head-light racket has most of its weight located in the bottom of the head making them easy to wield and allowing them to be very effective in volleying or playing fast attacking flicks, but they can be harder to control at speed.
The head-heavy racket has more weight located at the top of the head and provides a greater weight of shot which in turns makes it easier to hit the ball harder while providing more control over your strokes.
It is also worth noting that while larger headed rackets provide a bigger sweet spot, they can be head heavy while a customised grip can also help a player balance out the extra weight of a larger head.
Is A Lighter Squash Racket Better?
A lighter racket, about 110 to 125 grams, is more manoeuvrable and so can be moved faster making it better for attacking play.
By contrast heavier framed rackets, starting from 140 grams, are at their best when used by a player with a slower racket swing who perhaps favours a more defensive traditional style of squash.
It is worth considering that a head light racket can be harder to control at speed.
What Is the Best Squash Racket for Beginners?
Because of the enhanced feel and easy swing, juniors and beginners often use lightweight rackets.
If unable to deliver a powerful swing it is advisable for the beginner to choose a slightly head-weighted model.
When selecting a racket for a beginner or junior it is worth bearing in mind that although a heavier racket may deliver a more powerful swing they are not as easy to control.
It is also advisable to avoid picking a racket which is either overly head-light or head-heavy.
