How to choose the right squash racket

Finding the right squash racket for you can be difficult.  With so many rackets to choose from and the huge differences between all the rackets, it can be difficult to make a choice.  In this post, I’ll be sharing three aspects of rackets that can help you find the best racket for you.

The 3 Things to Consider

The best racket for you should suit your current playing level and style.  There are three things that you should consider when looking at a racket:

  1. Racket Shape
  2. Frame weight
  3. Balance of the frame

Let’s look at each of these in more detail.  You can also look at this video by Squashpoint which explains it well.

Racket Shape

So, let’s dive into the world of racket throat shapes – there are two main types:

  • Open Throat (also known as the Teardrop Shape),
  • Closed Throat, and the
  • Hybrid.

While it seems technical, I want you to think about it in terms of picking your superpower!

Open Throat: The Power Wizard

Now, when it comes to the Open Throat, or that Teardrop design, what you’ve got is a setup where the main strings run all the way down to the shaft.

This design is the powerhouse of the squash world! It’s like having a mini catapult in your hand. With more space between the strings and the top, you can summon shots with extra oomph. If you dream of sending the ball zooming across the court with superhero strength, this is your wand.

This kind of racket brings more power to your shots. Plus, there’s this sweet spot – that magic zone on the strings where you feel like a true squash maestro. So, not only do you get the power, but you’ve got this forgiving nature too, kind of like that friend who’s always got your back.

Closed Throat: The Control Magician

Meet the closed throat racket, your ticket to becoming a squash sorcerer of precision!

Now, these are the cool cats with a sleek, compact racket head, thanks to the shorter main strings and that snug throat area. It’s like they’re designed to give you laser-focused control.  It’s like having a secret code to make the ball dance exactly where you want. The strings are cozy and close to the top, giving you super control. It’s perfect if you like to aim your shots with a sprinkle of fairy dust finesse.

Hybrid Throat: The Mixed Wand

Now, this racket is a mixture of the open throat and the closed throat rackets.  These rackets give you the best of both, but unfortunately, they are a bit harder to find!

Choosing Your Magic Wand

So, which one is your style? Do you want to be the precise wizard, enchanting your opponents with skillful shots? Or do you fancy being the power wizard, smashing shots like a squash superhero? The choice is yours!

Frame Weight

Now, let’s delve into the second aspect that deserves your attention: frame weight.

It’s important to note that the weight indicated on the racket pertains solely to the frame weight. When you factor in the grip, strings, bumper, and other components, the overall weight of the racket is slightly higher.

A lighter racket

A racket on the lighter end of the spectrum offers heightened agility, making it a perfect match for an offensive playing style. This agility translates to quicker reactions and the ability to launch swift attacks on the ball.

A heavier racket

Conversely, if you’re inclined towards a more traditional playing style characterized by a slower swing, slightly heftier frames are likely to be your preferred choice. These frames align well with the deliberate pace of play often associated with such styles.

Does lighter mean better?  It’s not what you think.

Many people find themselves caught in the ‘lighter must be better‘ thought process, especially as lighter rackets are often more expensive.  But here’s the thing:  the lighter you go, you’re often sacrificing power, consistency and accuracy in favour of speed and manoeuvrability.

It’s all about finding the weight that’s right for you, rather than assuming lighter rackets will make you play better.  But if I have to decide on which factor is more important – racket balance or racket weight – racket balance is more important to focus on.

Balance of the frame

Let’s dive into the world of racket balance—something that can significantly impact your game. There are three main types:

  • head light,
  • head heavy, and
  • evenly balanced.

Each comes with its unique advantages and suits different playing styles. So, let’s break it down:

Head Light Rackets: Navigating with Precision

Imagine a racket where the weight is tipped towards the handle, creating a lighter head—these are the head light rackets. They’re all about maneuverability and are the perfect choice for aggressive players who love their volleys, those with shorter swings, and even those still building wrist strength.

For volley enthusiasts, a head light racket is a game-changer. Its agility helps you bring the racket up swiftly, a crucial move for attacking volleys. Players with short swings benefit from the faster racket speed that the head light balance facilitates. Just remember, generating enough power on your own is vital for this style to shine.

If your wrist isn’t Hercules-strong yet, a head light racket could be your ally, making maneuvering a breeze without demanding excessive strength. Keep in mind that some head light rackets might be a tad heavier to balance power generation. However, if you’re after increased power with decreased overall weight, a head heavy racket is your ticket.

Head Heavy Rackets: Empowering Your Shots

Now picture a racket with most of its weight concentrated toward the head—that’s a head heavy racket. This balance aids in moving the racket through the ball smoothly, making it a match for patient players favoring a solid length game, those with fluid swings, and those who need help in power generation.

If your game thrives on patient rallies and solid length plays, a head heavy racket can be a strategic choice. The extra power assists in reaching the back of the court with less effort, conserving energy for those lengthy rallies.

Fluid swingers can also benefit from this balance. It enables generating power even with a slower swing—a common trait among young players still building muscle strength.

Even Balanced Rackets: A Blend of Flexibility

An evenly balanced racket offers weight distribution parity. It’s a versatile choice fitting players who enjoy volleying and generating decent power.

If you’re the kind to switch strategies mid-rally, the even balanced racket can be your accomplice. It combines maneuverability for quick racquet preparation and good swing speed with the power needed for fluid swings. This balance shines when changing the pace within a point.

When selecting a new racket, remember that balance matters—yet it’s not just about your playing style. Personal preference takes the lead here. I strongly urge players to try all three balance types before committing to a new racket. It’s your game, after all.

Comparing Rackets

I have compiled a table to compare the rackets that we have available for CJS players, where I could find the information from the manufacturers, as accurately as possible.

Shop for racket now

We have the following rackets available in the online store.  When you purchase a racket for your CJS player, please allow 5-7 working days for delivery to your child’s next class.

Junior Rackets

A smaller racket makes it easier for young players to hit the ball, building confidence and skills.

  • DUNLOP PLAY: Embrace the joy of play.  The Play mini squash racket is ideal for children from 7–10 years old. Embrace the joy of the game.
  • Karakal CSX 60
  • OLIVER JUNIOR: a great entry-level racket recommended for players 6-10 years of age.  Slightly longer than the other Junior rackets, making it a great racket before transitioning to a standard-size racket.

Beginner Rackets

  • DUNLOP BLAZE INFERNO: Get your first taste of increased power with this entry-level, premium alloy racket. Ideal for a beginner player.
  • DUNLOP SONIC LITE TI: This beginner racket is ideal for you if you’re a recreational player. Start playing, and start loving the game.
  • WILSON ULTRA 300: This racket maximizes the sweet spot with a unique throat geometry for a nice boost of power and forgiveness. Ideal for casual players or anyone new to the sport.
  • WILSON BLADE TEAM: This racket is best suited to those who are new to the game and offers great levels of power and control thanks to its mid-plus head.

Intermediate Rackets

  • DUNLOP BLACKSTORM GRAPHITE:   Play with comfort and power.  The 4D braided construction filters out vibrations to give you a more comfortable blend of power and control in your game.
  • DUNLOP BLACKSTORM TITANIUM: Experience power like never before. This open-throat design provides out-and-out power thanks to the 14×18 Powermax string pattern.
  • WILSON HYPER HAMMER: This racket has a very light frame with most of the weight located at the top of the racket, making it just like a hammer, allowing the player to create a lot of explosive power. Despite the low weight, the racket is extremely strong as it is made from Hyper carbon (lighter than titanium and stronger than graphite).
  • KARAKAL BLACK ZONE (Orange 110g / Yellow 120g / Green 130g): If you are looking for an ultra-light and high-performance squash racket, you will be seduced by the Karakal Black Zone Squash rackets.

Advanced Rackets

  • DUNLOP SONIC CORE REVELATION PRO LITE: Play harder, cleaner shots, with increased comfort.  It features a lighter head balance, making it maneuverable and quick around the court. It’s ideal for you if you’re an intermediate or advanced player.
  • DUNLOP SONIC CORE REVELATION 125 : A larger head size and a thicker aero beam packs more punch into your game. The extra head light balance on this 125g racket provides ultimate power and manoeuvrability.
  • WILSON PRO STAFF UL: Sporting a minimalistic design paired with a lightweight construction that optimizes feel and maneuverability for every shot. Added precision from a new string pattern completes a dynamic racket.
  • WILSON ULTRA UL / ULTRA CV: Ultra-lightweight and ultra-maneuverable, the Ultra is perfect for squash players seeking an arm-friendly racket capable of generating massive power. Boasting a significant head-heavy balance.
  • WILSON TRIAD: reduced vibrations and ultimate comfort.  Power Hole Grommet Technology allows for longer dwell time on the string bed and provides a significantly larger sweet spot, chipping in added control and forgiveness as a result. Crafted for easy power and top-notch comfort.