Whilst badminton rackets may be similar to tennis rackets and squash rackets, the head is usually round and made of composite materials such as graphite, kevlar, titanium, or ceramics for better performance and durability.
A badminton racket can weigh 80-150g or more, depending on the materials used. Their heads are strung with synthetic strings, usually produced by the company that manufactures the racket.
There are five types of badminton rackets:
1. The Single-Headed Racket
The single-headed racket has one head that has a larger surface area shaped like an egg, and is more round at the top. It offers lots of power but less control because it is bigger at the bottom end of the grip.
2. Head-Heavy Racket
It is usually heavier at the top of the grip. Stringing may be more challenging to handle than the single-headed racket, but it offers better control, speed, and spin.
It has an extended middle section for more power and a larger sweet spot.
3. High-Tension Racket
A high-tension racket is strung with higher tension and is suited for players who want more power behind every shot. Rackets are also well-balanced, which means it offers the control that heavier rackets miss out on.
4. Spin/Control-Balance Racket
This racket has a larger head to maximize its surface area and allow for a superior spin. But they are also heavier, resulting in less speed and control.
5. The Blade Racket
The blade racket is aerodynamic in design and has a sweet spot at the center of its head. It also uses lighter materials to provide speed and power together with extra control.
How to Choose the Right One?
The best way to find out which type of badminton racket you should invest in would be to experiment with each one to see which is better suited to your needs and level. To make your decision easier, we’ve selected a few tips that will help make the decision even easier:
1. Get a feel of the racket before you even start playing
This will give you an idea of whether it feels comfortable in your hand. If it does not, you can stop right there and explore other options. Don’t be afraid to try out a few rackets if necessary.
2. Look for extra features
Rackets that offer weight distribution and extended length sections will give you more power and control, which are especially helpful if you are a beginner or intermediate player.
3. Consider the strings
Tension should be approximately 33% lower than your regular racquet. Beginners should consider rackets with synthetic strings, while intermediate players can choose between the natural gut and synthetic strings.
The racket’s weight is also essential, especially for recreational badminton players who play occasionally or are not into professional tournaments. They may prefer lighter rackets, which are easier to swing and are more suitable for hitting long shots. But beginners should choose medium-weight rackets at first because they offer the best of both worlds.
It is not necessary to buy a new badminton racket after you learn how to play well. As you advance in skill level, try out equipment made by different companies. Adding extra weight from a heavier racquet may give you the power to make up for your current speed and control.
Depending on its purpose, you may want to use a different string to customize your racket’s feel and performance (e.g., control, power, etc.).
4. Test it out for yourself
Play with different rackets to see how they respond when you’re on the court. You can even have a little match between two or three of them in your local store if the staff are accommodating enough. If not, write down notes about each one and decide later.
5. Consider your playing style, height, and hand size
The head size of the racket you want to buy must be proportional to your body height, or you will not be able to bring out its full potential. Rackets come in different sizes, too, so make sure it matches your body build before choosing one. If the grip of your racket is too small for you, this will affect how you play.
If possible, try to get one that suits your playing style or what you are already good at. There are various types that are made with different materials and that have a range of weights and head sizes. They also come in adjustable lengths, which can be helpful if you are at different stages of growth.
In addition, if you are getting a badminton racket for the first time, you better pay heed to your hand size. This is especially important if it will be your first time playing badminton, as any discomfort could affect how well you play. You may also need to consider your physical build or height before choosing it.
All in all, it is best to do your research well before you head out for a racket.
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