Badminton is an exciting and fun sport to play and one of the most essential pieces of equipment that you need is a good racket. Picking the right one can be daunting, as there are so many different types, sizes and materials to choose from. To make sure you get the most out of your game, here’s a guide to help you select the best badminton racket for your individual needs.
Racket Head Size
The size of the racket head is the most important factor to consider when choosing a badminton racket. The larger the head size, the larger the sweet spot and the more forgiving the racket will be on off-centre shots. This is great for novice players or those who don’t have great accuracy, but it can also mean you sacrifice some control.
Smaller racket heads, on the other hand, provide more control, but you will have to be more accurate with your shots. This is perfect for advanced players who have the skill to hit the sweet spot more often. Common head size for badminton rackets range from 77 sq. inches to 95 sq. inches, with the most popular sizes being 82 sq. inches and 85 sq. inches.
Racket Balance
Racket balance is the ratio of the weight at the head of the racket compared to the weight at the handle. Different types of balance can help you to achieve different results.
Head-Heavy Rackets
Head-heavy rackets have more weight at the head of the racket and are great for players who like to hit powerful shots. They also provide more stability on your shots and require less effort to generate power.
Head-Light Rackets
Head-light rackets have less weight at the head of the racket and are best for players who prefer a faster swing. These rackets are more manoeuvrable and provide more control.
Racket Weight
The weight of the racket is also important to consider. Heavier rackets usually provide more power, while lighter rackets provide more control. The most common weight range for badminton rackets is between 85g and 95g.
String Tension
The tension of the strings on your racket will also affect the performance of your racket. Generally, the higher the tension, the more control you will have, while the lower the tension, the more power you will have. Most players tend to keep their string tension between 18-30lbs.
Grip Size
Your grip size is also important, as it affects the way you hold your racket and the level of control you have. A grip size that’s too small or too big can make it difficult to play. Generally, the most common grip sizes are G4, G5 and G6.
Overall, choosing the right badminton racket is important to get the most out of your game. Make sure to consider the head size, balance, weight, string tension and grip size when selecting a racket. With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to find the perfect racket for your individual needs.