Pick the right squash racquet for your game

Play it right with the perfect squash racquet

The world of racquet sports is actually quite a big one and there are plenty of sports that are getting added to the list off late. However, there are some sports, which have been around for a while and badminton, tennis and squash would probably be the most prominent ones. Whether you are a starter at the sport and have just started playing or are a pro and have been playing for a while, there will always be some essentials and accessories that you will be looking for. When you come to SportsBunker, you will have access to all the squash equipment and accessories that you will want.

At our store, we aim to become your one-stop destination for anything sports related; we have made sure that we have covered almost all the popular sports that are played in the nooks and corners of our country and across the world and then accumulated all the items that will be needed to play the sport well. So, when you are out looking for the best squash racquets online, this is where you will want to come and this is also where you will be able to find the best shoes for playing and even clothing that is suited for this fast paced sport!

In addition to bringing you all the items that you need to play the sport of your choice, we are also looking to offer you the information that you might be looking for. Do you need help in choosing the right racquet or do you want to know how to take care of them, we bring it all under the one proverbial ‘roof’ for you!

Choosing a squash game racquet made easy

You go to your local sports store and ask them for a squash racket – they show you Dunlop squash racquets. Yes, they are really good quality racquets, but are you sure that these will be the best option for you?

Buying a squash racquet, or any racquet for that matter, needs a fair amount of research and when you are looking for a product that will offer you value for your money. There are several factors that need to be taken into consideration, including your playing style, your level of expertise, the brand you want to consider, your budget and how often you play.

The throat of the squash racket

If you are a newcomer to the world of squash, you would not know about the throat – technically, the throat is the area that connects the racket's shaft and handle to the head. There are basically three types of throats:

Traditional or open throat – This type has a smaller and denser string bed, and the sweet spot is also smaller, but it can provide an immense amount of control.
Teardrop or closed throat – While the sweet spot is larger, the string bed is not as dense and this type of racquet will give you a lot more power and consistency in your play.
Hybrid – These types of racquets will offer you a combination of power as well as control.

Why the weight matters

Normally, the squash racquet has a steady weight between 140 to 170 grams, but you will be able to find extremely lightweight ones at almost 115 grams too. Here are a few pointers on how you should select the weight of the racquet:

Lightweight racquet – 130 grams or less, these are suitable for professional and advanced level players, which offers easy manoeuvrability and a powerful swing as well.
Medium weight racquet – 130 to 150 grams, these racquets are suitable for people who are looking for ways to improve their game.
Heavy weight racquet – Above 150 grams are better for newcomers or people who are worried about the cost factor, as these tend to be cheaper and while they might provide more power, they might not be the easiest to control.

Most players tend to choose a medium weight, because it offers an even balance, although experienced players will prefer the lightweight racquet, as it will allow them a certain level of aggressive play. Junior players and women tend to prefer the lightweight racquet, because it allows for an easy swing, better control and improved touch.

It is generally advised that one not choose an over heavy or over light head for their racquet.

Understanding size and grip

Now that we have looked at the weight and the throat of the squash game racquet, we need to also take into consideration the size and grip. Although very head heavy and large heads might offer a better sweet spot, they tend to be difficult to use and control.

Look for racquets that have a narrow profile or wide beam will have better manoeuvrability. A racquet with a wider profile will have a better sweet spot and will also provide you with increased power.
As you play regularly, you will feel the need to adjust your grip accordingly – this will also be based on where you are most comfortable holding the racquet and where your swing and power are being generated from.
You can use items like tape, gauze and even towels to customise the grip, which should help you improve your hold and play.

The need to adjust the stringing

Unlike tennis and badminton racquets, squash rackets will almost always come with the stringing done and this is because the preferred tension for most players is the same. However, regular players might want to change the tension or might even need to get the stringing redone every few months. It is also important to note that there are mainly three types of strings that you can choose from and these too will have an effect on your game:

Natural gut – This is the choice of most professional players and offer an incredible feel, but it tends to be on the expensive side.
Multifilament – Commonly known as the synthetic gut, this will not allow you to play well, but also last really long.
Monofilament – This is not the most popular string, because it is not the most comfortable, but it is certainly one of the strongest.

String tension is also important and 28PSI is considered most common – while increased tension could improve touch, a decrease in the same could improve the power.

What are the common materials used to make squash rackets

These days, you will be able to find rackets made with a range of materials, but the most popular remain:

Aluminium – These are the best choice for beginners, because they are slightly heavy, but quite cost effective.
Graphite – These are suitable for people who are looking for a budget friendly carbon technology-based option. Made with 100% graphite, these racquets offer a powerful swing.
Titanium – Lighter than aluminum ones, these racquets tend to offer the perfect balance between control, manoeuvrability and power.

Squash racquet brands on offer at SportsBunker

At SportsBunker, we have made sure that we bring only the best brands to you, which is why when you come looking for a squash racket, you will find nothing but the most renowned options:

Dunlop – If you want to fine tune your game, then Dunlop is the brand that you will want to consider.
Wilson – One of the biggest names in the world of racket sports, Wilson is a brand that is seen not only international tennis circuits, but also squash.
Head – The Head squash racquets are known to be some of the finest, in terms of power, control and finesse!
Tecnifibre – If you are looking to up your game and want racquets that will match your passion, then Tecnifibre squash racquets are what you will want.

FAQ

1. Can I play squash with a tennis racket?

No, you will need a proper squash racquet to play squash and you can find a huge range at SportsBunker.

How to choose squash racquet?

You will have to take several factors into consideration including your playing style, your level of expertise, your budget and how often you will play.

How do you measure a squash racquet?

The length of the squash racquet is generally measured from the base of the handle to the top of the head.

Should I choose a heavy or light squash racquet?

While professional players might choose a light squash racquet, beginners find comfort with a heavier racquet. You might want to consider a medium weight squash racquet, because that is the most suitable for all types of players.

Do squash racquets come pre-strung?

Yes, squash racquets generally come pre-strung, but professional and experienced players might want to get it restrung as per their playing and skill level.

Which type of squash racquet will provide most power?

A teardrop shaped or close throat squash racquet will provide more power in your play.

How much does the stiffness matter in a squash racquet?

While a stiff squash racquet will offer more power and is preferred by experienced players, a more flexible or ‘whippy’ racquet will offer more flexibility.

What are grommet holes in a squash racquet?

Grommet holes are where the strings are threaded through and the squash racquets with larger holes allow more freedom to the strings and increase the sweet spot.

How many squash racquets should I carry?

If you are a beginning, one squash racquet might be more than enough and if you want, you can keep a spare. Professional players might carry up to 5 racquets in their bag at a time.

How often do I have to change stringing of my squash racquet?

That depends on how much you use your racket – professional players might need re-stringing every 2 monhts, while beginners might have to do it once every 6 months.