Stiffness of a racket frame can be determined by its materials of construction. Stiffer rackets flex less during contact with the ball, absorbing more impact energy, and producing greater power as a result.
Narrow beam rackets offer greater maneuverability and are generally best-suited to advanced players, while heavier rackets such as our UNSQUASHABLE THERMO-TEC series may better meet the needs of junior players or those who prefer traditional playing styles with slower swing speeds.
Frame Stiffness
Stiffness of a racket is an attribute that determines its ability to flex when coming into contact with the ball, meaning off-centre hits stay within its frame rather than travelling across it and out. This helps create more consistent shots with increased quality and perceived control.
Rigidity in racket frames is also determined by their materials; modern racket frames typically combine graphite, titanium and carbon to produce high levels of stiffness at an appropriate weight. These new materials offer great power per weight; top professional players often switch frames with various stiffnesses to maximize their potential on court.
Stiffness is another key component to consider, since it can influence how a player feels while they play. Rigid frames deform less under hard hits and this may make the racket feel crisp or lively in your hand; less flexible rackets may feel soft and bendy which some players dislike as it compromises control of their play.
Additionally to frame stiffness, weight and balance also have a dramatic impact on how a player feels while playing. Lighter rackets may be easier for younger players who like attacking quickly with deception, while heavier rackets tend to suit older players with more conservative styles of play.
One of the primary factors when choosing a racket for any player is their style and preference; ultimately it comes down to personal taste. Players seeking maximum power may prefer rigid frames while those focusing on control and manoeuvrability might prefer flexible rackets. Although stiffness/flex can be hard to assess without actually trying them yourself, an easy technique at home allows users to estimate this data: clamp a racket onto a flat surface then apply pressure onto its throat of shaft to determine its degree of give.
Stringing Pattern
Stringing patterns will have an enormous influence on a racket’s performance. Dense string patterns offer greater potential for power while looser ones provide greater control; ultimately the decision comes down to personal choice and type of squash game desired by its player.
Rackets are usually strung using monofilament or multifilament strings made of either synthetic materials or natural fibres such as pig gut. While synthetic strings offer more power and feel than their natural fibre equivalents, gut strings tend to wear quickly and cost up to five times more than their synthetic equivalent.
Most regular squash players choose to string their rackets themselves to save money; if this is not an option, professional stringers are available at most high-end sports stores and tennis clubs. Keep in mind that squash rackets need restringing more frequently due to being subject to more wear-and-tear as balls hit against walls.
The mains of a racket are typically strung in a fan pattern that converges at its throat, which requires installing each set in sequence with designated spots for tie-offs. Head AFP rackets differ slightly as they use shorter bridges at their throat to accommodate shared grommets where all mains converge at once.
Teardrop frame shape open throat rackets tend to be preferred over closed-throat ones due to their larger sweet spot, enabling players to generate greater power when hitting against walls with enough force. Open throat rackets may, however, be head heavy so a custom grip may help increase manoeuvrability at speed.
Beam Width
A racket’s beam width measures its thickness; thinner rackets tend to suit more experienced players while thicker ones may be better for beginners. A squash racket’s beam size also influences feel and power: narrower beams may offer greater maneuverability while wider ones offer greater power output.
Rackets come with beam sizes between 16-21mm. Thinner rackets typically suit more experienced players as they provide increased flexibility and feedback; as well as having a responsive sweet spot. However, beginners should opt for wider rackets as this will provide them with enough power and stability to start playing the game successfully.
The width of a racket’s beam depends on its frame material and construction. Titanium and carbon fibre frames, for instance, tend to be more rigid than other materials and help generate more power while at the same time keeping its weight low enough to suit most beginners.
One other factor affecting the beam width of a squash racket is whether or not it has an open or closed throat. An open throat racket can generate more power with longer strings; however, this could reduce control (see Dunlop Aerogel 4D Pro GT-X for an example of this). In contrast, closed throat rackets offer shorter strings which allows more control but often result in smaller sweet spots (See Dunlop Aerogel 4D Pro GT-X as an example of such a racket).
Consideration should be given to the string tension recommended by manufacturers when choosing a racket, although this will differ between brands. A lower string tension will produce a more ‘grippy” experience while higher tension offers more power.
Many of our rackets come factory strung at 26-28lbs string tension. While most players may prefer this standard setup, if you prefer something else or wish to upgrade with restring, then we carry an extensive range of Tecnifibre and Ashaway string options available to meet any individual need.
Ultra-light Rackets
Ultra-light rackets are an excellent option for players looking to play fast and precise, offering speed, control and feel in one handy package – while also helping reduce risks such as tennis elbow injuries.
Weight can have an effect on racket power; however, frame design plays a more pivotal role. Advanced or stronger players often opt for heavier rackets with greater stability and thicker beam width to generate maximum power with their swing. Such models tend to be heavier head heavy as well.
Beginners or intermediate players might prefer lighter rackets that are easier to manage without compromising control for power, such as those made for recreational tennis players. Lighter models also tend to be less head heavy.
If you’re thinking about trying an ultra-light racket, ensure it is properly balanced. An evenly balanced racquet typically features an equilibrium point around halfway up its frame – when holding with your regular forehand grip and pressing one of your longest fingers against its frame it should feel balanced.
Gael Monfils endorses the Artengo TR960 Control Tour racket as an example of an ultralight racket that provides control and precision, featuring classic looks with easy maneuverability. Even with its relatively smaller head size (97.6 square inches), this powerful racket can still outshout other similar frames on the market today.
Nox AT10 Genius Ultra Light offers another excellent lightweight padel racket option for junior players, featuring HR2 core technology to strengthen material bonds and make the racket less fragile over time. Furthermore, this racket is perfectly balanced to be played by all levels of players.