Guide: How to choose the right squash racket

In this post, we will help you with what you should pay attention to when buying your next squash racket. At Squashlife we ​​do our best to provide you with all the necessary information to ensure you have the perfect equipment to help you improve your game. It is often very personal what you as a player value. Therefore, here we go in depth with the most important parameters that can help you in choosing a racket.

Weight: How much does a squash racket weigh?

The weight is one of the most decisive parameters in choosing a squash racket. In general, the best squash rackets made from graphite weigh between 110 and 150 grams. A light squash racket (110-125 grams) is suitable for the offensive player who wants to run and control the game. In contrast, a heavier racket (135-150 grams) is a good fit for a more traditional player who builds up the duels with hard ground strokes. A lighter racket is also suitable for players who use their wrist a lot. A lower weight puts less strain on the wrist and elbow, and makes the racket more manoeuvrable.

If the weight of the racket exceeds 160 grams, it is typically made of aluminium, which is a heavier material than graphite. This type of racket is typically reserved for beginners and is often used as rental rackets in various squash halls. Aluminum sketchers are generally rarely recommended. They should only be chosen because of the price and as an alternative to renting in the squash hall at the start. The difference in weight also goes hand in hand with the price, as the light graphite rackets are slightly more expensive as they are made of a more advanced and lighter material.

Balance: How is the weight distributed in the squash racket?

The balance in your squash racket is particularly relevant, as it also influences the racket's playing characteristics. It is often a question of individual needs. Therefore, it is still important to be aware of the characteristics that different types of balance in the racket bring with them. The balance of the squash racket can be divided into three categories: head-light, head-heavy or even balance.

The head-light squash racket offers good control and improved 'touch' when, for example, drops and alignments. If, on the other hand, you want a racket that helps you speed up the ball, a squash racket with a head-heavy balance is the way forward. Here, the weight distribution is located up against the racket head, which is where you hit the ball in the stroke. This transfers more of the racket's weight to the ball, which thus gives you more speed in the stroke.

A neutral balance is the middle ground between head light and head heavy. Here you get a mix, and if you want an 'all-round' squash racket with a view to balance, this is the safe choice.

Main Shape: Squash Racket Shape

There are roughly two different shapes when it comes to the racket head. A round and an elongated (or teardrop) head shape respectively.

A squash racket with a round racket head is associated with control and a large hitting area (also called a large sweetspot). It can thus be the right choice for a technical player who wants precision. However, the large hitting area can also be ideal for the player who does not necessarily hit right in the middle of the sweetspot every time, and therefore benefits from a slightly more forgiving racket for 'off center hits'.  

On the other hand, a squash racket with a drop-shaped head connects with impact, as the long strings increase the trampoline effect. This means that there is more string that is pushed backwards and then forwards again when the ball is hit, which gives you more power in the stroke. Therefore, the elongated head shape typically suits a player who wants to put pressure on the opponent either via hard ground strokes or with quick alignments.

A squash racket's strings

The strings on the racket also play an important role in relation to the type of squash you want to play. Higher quality strings give better grip and feel with the ball. This can both contribute to power and control in your stroke. Brands such as Ashaway, Harrow, Tecnifibre and Black Knight are known for providing the highest quality strings. Manufacturers such as Dunlop, Prince and Wilson deliver a more mediocre (and sometimes also more durable) quality. These, on the other hand, can be plenty for exercisers who do not pay as much attention to this parameter as experienced players do.

In addition to the quality of the string, the hardness of the stringing also means a lot to the game. A soft stringing gives more trampoline effect when you hit the ball and thus more hitting power. A hard string, on the other hand, gives you more control, but also a smaller field of action. At the same time, a hard string puts more strain on the strings. Therefore, it can be argued that the durability of the stringing decreases a little as the strings are tightened up.

Order your next squash racket at Squashlife

At Squashlife we ​​have a wide range of rackets that suit different types of players and levels. We have allied ourselves with the best manufacturers, so that you have many options to choose from. Should you have any questions about the selection of rackets or other squash equipment, you are welcome to call us on tel. 2892 7220 You are also welcome to visit us in our store in Copenhagen.