Many top level players use matching rackets to maximize performance. They do this by choosing rackets with similar weight distribution specs.
Weight customization refers to adding weight strategically on a racket in order to alter its static weight, balance point and swing weight for enhanced stability, feel and power.
Stringing
Stringing a squash racket correctly is both crucial to its performance, and difficult. Key variables to keep in mind include string thickness (gauge) and tension, along with head size considerations, type of string used and other considerations.
Generalized rule of thumb dictates that thicker strings provide more power while thinner strings offer greater control, with thicker ones generally lasting longer and being more durable than thinner ones. Selecting an ideal string tension depends upon an individual’s style of play as well as performance goals they intend for their racket.
Rackets typically come strung with factory-recommended string tension, often written on their throats. Unfortunately, this factory stringing may be too loose or tight depending on a player’s skill level; many players opt to restring their racquet themselves or work with a professional racket technician to achieve desired tension levels.
String tension will have an enormous effect on both power and control of a racket, producing either more power or control than ever. Higher tensions allow more stretch on impact with a ball to return quickly into place for increased power generation; but strung too tightly will leave no room for expansion on impact, meaning less or no power generated at all from your racket!
The lengths of both main and cross strings also play a part in influencing a racquet’s performance, as they have more of a “trampoline effect”, but can result in decreased control; shorter strings offer a livelier playing experience while not offering as much trampoline effect.
Tail-weighting can also improve racquet performance by placing strips of lead inside its handle. It is best done on rackets which have been thoroughly cleaned and sealed; many models feature a staple protrusion from their butt cap that allows anchoring a strip of lead inside its handle. Alternatively, have a professional add weight through silicone-based materials.
Weight
Squash rackets have become lighter over time and some manufacturers now produce ultralight rackets weighing less than 100g. However, its important to remember that weight alone may not give an accurate representation as players often add accessories like grips, bumpers and strings that increase frame weight significantly – something to take into consideration when purchasing new racquets.
Weight of a squash racket can also be affected by its balance point – the location of its centre of gravity within its frame. A balanced racket features weight distributed evenly between head and handle; this gives an ideal experience and performance level for players of medium to advanced skill. Rackets that are head heavy allow powerful strokes but may reduce control.
Head size can also have an effect on a squash racket’s performance, with larger heads providing more power and the possibility of topspin when hitting in specific spots on the court. Squash regulations stipulate that no larger than 500cm2 head sizes should be used by beginner players as this provides a suitable starting point.
Striking a squash racket requires finding an optimum tension suitable to their style of play; this may take some experimentation. Players with high levels of power tend to string their rackets at higher tensions in order to increase power, while players with less strength often go in the opposite direction and string their racquets at lower tensions in order to increase control.
Grip selection should also be taken into account when purchasing a racket; an ideal grip should allow players to hold it comfortably; most popular choices for grips are soft rubber; there are more specialist choices that could assist players who experience elbow or shoulder injuries, however.
Balance
Squash is an intensely competitive game, so quick reaction times are essential in retrieving the rubber ball quickly and preparing for each shot. Skilled players aim to reach the point at which it crosses over red lines that form a “T”, so they can retrieve their shot quickly before setting up for their next one. A good squash racket should have an equally balanced weight so players can deliver both powerful and controlled shots simultaneously.
Balance on a racket is usually indicated by a number in millimeters or centimeters that indicates its center of balance. A balanced racket means that its weight distribution is evenly spread between head and shaft of its racket – perfect for players seeking both power and control in their game.
Weight and balance adjustments of a squash racket can also be adjusted, which allows players to accentuate specific aspects of their game or overcome minor weaknesses. For instance, touch players who prefer slower and more precise shots may require stiff rackets for extra control while flexible rackets enable easier improvising.
There are various methods of altering a racket’s balance, but one effective strategy is adding weight to its throat. This can be accomplished by applying TW tungsten tape along its inner area of the throat, which will increase total mass without shifting its balance point; two 5-centimeter strips add approximately 2.8 grams at 12 o’clock location resulting in one less head-light point and seven point increase in swingweight.
Grommet holes offer another cheap and straightforward method to change the balance of a racket by adjusting weight distribution. While this approach may reduce costs associated with changing balance, be aware that too much head weight could reduce power generation by players.
Design
Design of a squash racket can have an enormous influence on its performance. A stiff frame is essential in order to transfer energy from the ball onto the string bed with maximum power, maintaining balance and manoeuvrability, as well as helping maintain proper manoeuvrability and balance. A racket’s design can also be determined by head shape, string pattern and material of shaft material used – with teardrop being one of the more popular teardrop-shaped head shapes which provides additional power due to a larger sweet spot; usually recommended for intermediate and advanced players alike.
String pattern and thickness can also have a profound effect on racket performance, with looser strings providing more power while tighter ones giving greater control. Finding your ideal string tension may require trial and error; nonetheless it’s essential that your racket works well with you so you can improve your game!
An effective grip is critical to any player’s performance. A poorly wrapped grip can throw off balance and result in poor shot making, which requires regular replacement with high quality leather or rubber grips to maintain optimal shot-making ability. Proper wrapping begins from the butt end of the grip and gradually works its way toward its base handle for maximum security and no sharp corners will form; starting from butt end and wrapping carefully down towards handle base should ensure this.
Not every racket provides players with enough power or control, however. Although a bad workman often blames his tools, switching from a Dunlop to Tecnifibre racket will not instantly improve your game; rather, using better rackets should help develop skills rather than mask any weaknesses in play.