A badminton racket is an essential tool for the game, and the market offers various types categorized by material, weight, string type, and tension. If you’re unsure which racket suits you, this article provides valuable insights to guide your choice.
Metal Rackets
Metal rackets gained popularity in the 80s and 90s, evolving from earlier wooden rackets. They are typically crafted from materials like steel, titanium, or aluminum alloys, which enhance durability. Metal rackets are resilient and can withstand intense gameplay without breaking easily, even when clashing with the court or opponents’ rackets. They are also cost-effective, making them a budget-friendly option for badminton enthusiasts. However, they have limited elasticity.
Graphite Rackets
Graphite rackets are constructed from carbon fibers arranged in hexagonal rings, offering exceptional strength and elasticity. This material enables even weight distribution and allows manufacturers to fine-tune racket elasticity. Graphite rackets are also durable, making them suitable for high-tension stringing without concerns of damage. They are an excellent choice, especially for kids’ badminton rackets.
A graphite racket offers high durability and resilience.
Lightweight Racket
For newcomers to badminton, a lightweight racket is the ideal choice. These rackets are easy to control and reduce strain on your muscles, lowering the risk of injury. An optimal lightweight racket should weigh between 85 and 90g. They enable faster shots and easier maneuverability.
Heavy Racket
Experienced players often prefer heavier rackets due to their higher balance point. The balance point is where the racket remains balanced on your index finger, and a higher balance point means a heavier racket head. Heavy rackets can be harder to control and demand more power, but they provide greater smashing power.
Racket with Towel-Wrapped Handle
Badminton rackets are also categorized based on handle wrap materials. Rackets with towel-wrapped handles are favored for their excellent sweat absorption. However, this attribute can lead to bacterial and mold buildup, necessitating frequent grip wrap changes.
Racket with Synthetic Resin-Wrapped Handle
Rackets featuring synthetic resin-wrapped handles require less frequent grip changes compared to towel-wrapped handles. These handles are typically smooth and less prone to dust accumulation. However, they do not absorb sweat, potentially causing discomfort during use.
Handles wrapped in synthetic plastic are typically smoother and accumulate less dust compared to cloth or towel wraps.
High Tension Racket
To check string tension, gently press your palm against the center of the strings. Ideally, the strings should sag about 1mm upon pressing. Players aiming for advanced techniques often opt for badminton rackets with high string tension.
Therefore, if you’re a beginner in badminton, it’s advisable to start with rackets of medium tension. As you become more proficient in your playing techniques, you can transition to rackets with higher string tension.
If you are new to badminton, you should opt for rackets with medium string tension.
These are the common types of badminton rackets you frequently encounter. Depending on your purpose and needs, you can select the most suitable badminton racket for yourself.
Johnny Jacks was born in 1985 in Texas, USA. He is the founder of Good Health Plan and is passionate about helping people improve their health and physical well-being. With over a decade of experience working in the healthcare industry, he currently works at Goodheathplan.com – a blog that shares knowledge on beauty and health.