Squash Rackets

Squash rackets have come a long way since the early models fashioned in laminated ash wood with natural gut strings.

Like all racket sports the revolution in equipment technology has generated a wide range of varieties in terms of brands, materials, shapes and sizes with different ones being favoured by different players. But every expert agrees it’s really best to try before you buy to gauge the best model for your game.

To make the most informed decision you probably need to build a shortlist based on shape and size, weight and balance, strings, materials and grip.

Confused? Read on and you won’t be...

Shape and size
Squash balls are small and move fast so naturally a bigger head means a bigger hit rate!  At the upper end you’re going to get more power as well, while lighter rackets require more skill and technique.
The shape of the ‘throat’ will also vary but this has more to do with racket durability than play so it’s worth asking around to find out which rackets have made the endurance grade.

Weight and balance
The weight of the racket can vary from 120g to 210g.  The newer, slower player will probably need more weight to add power to serves and returns although experienced fast-swing players make use of heavier rackets to add more control to their play.
Balance refers to the weight distribution in a racket which can be ‘head heavy’ or ‘head light’. What’s right for you here is really a question of feel so make sure you try a couple of each to ‘weigh up’ which feels best for you. 

Strings
Strings vary in thickness, texture, stiffness,  pattern as do grommet hole sizes resulting in a huge varieties of ‘whippiness’ to choose from. Generally speaking the stiffer strings restrict control but improve accuracy and power. It’s really your own style of play that will determine the best strings for you so - as ever - play before you pay. 

Materials
Titanium rackets are popular but are more likely to break than rackets made of heavier, more durable materials.

Grip
Of all the factors to consider grip is the one that’s easiest to adjust so is really the final factor – you can build and reshape grip with minimal effort and cost so if the racket is right for you in every other respect, go for it!