Badminton racket manufacturers make several models of rackets to appeal
to all kinds of players. Rackets are designed with different weights,
grip sizes, flex and other variables to appeal to the skill level,
strength and playing style of individual players. Knowing how each
feature affects a racket's performance can help you choose the right
racket.
Weight
A good quality badminton racket will range in weight from 83 to
100 grams. The weight of a racket will determine your swing speed. A
light weight racket is more maneuverable and easier to swing, but it is
not as stable as a heavy racket. More momentum can be generated with a
heavier racket as it will hold its path better and more power will be
transferred into your shot.
Grip Size
Badminton manufacturers will designate grip sizes with G2, G3, G4
to G5, with G5 the largest and G2 the smallest. Some companies use
this same method, however, they are reversed with G5 being the smallest
and G2 the largest. Generally, power players who have an attacking style
of play will prefer a larger grip for a secure hold. Players who like
to disguise their shots prefer to use smaller grips so they can quickly
rotate the racket in their hand.
Flexibility
Rackets are designed to have a certain amount of flex in the
shaft. Novice or beginner players generally enjoy playing with a
flexible racket as it tends to be easier to handle and they can generate
more power. More skilled and powerful players gravitate towards stiffer
rackets as they can hit with power and still maintain control. Stiffer
rackets do not absorb as much vibration compared to the flexible
rackets, and that lack of vibration can lead to arm and wrist injuries.
Balance
The weight of a badminton racket can be distributed in three
areas; towards the head, towards the handle or evenly balanced. The
distribution of the weight will determine how a racket performs. When
more of the weight is at the head, it is referred to as a head heavy
racket. This type of racket is designed for the power player with an
attacking game. A head light racket, one with the weight towards the
handle, will feel lighter and is designed for a more defensive and
control player. An evenly balanced racket is well suited for an
all-court player.
Head Shape
Most badminton rackets have one of two head shapes; isometric or
classic. The isometric is slightly wider than the classic and the top of
the head is squared off. This design increases the sweet spot of the
racket. The sweet spot is the area where at contact, there is no
vibration and the shot feels solid. Players playing with this design
will have more success on off-center shots. The classic head shape is
more oval, more like an egg shape and has a smaller sweet spot
Choosing the right badminton racket:
Test the string tension of the racket. Powerful, accurate
hitters tend to like rackets with high-tension strings, but players with
a lighter touch usually use rackets with low tension for more control.
Grip the racket. If you must grip too tightly, try another
racket. Remember that you can get a racket re-gripped to fit your hand.
Most players like a big grip because the racket feels more stable in
their hand. However, badminton is a game of angles and touch, and a
smaller grip can give the extra flexibility you need to create winning
shots.
Find a racket with a balance that suits your style of play. A
racket with a heavy head gives your swing more momentum, a quality that
is perfect for power hitters. An evenly balanced racket permits play
that is faster and more flexible.
Find a suitable weight. Coaches say beginners should start
with a heavier racket, as it provides more stability. Players can then
graduate to lighter rackets. Lighter rackets are more manageable,
allowing for faster play.
