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Picking a squash racquet feels a bit like choosing a wand in a wizarding shop — subtle differences change everything. The right racquet helps you control the ball, generate power when you need it, and avoid wrist and arm fatigue after long matches. Whether you play socially, compete in club leagues, or are chasing that next personal best, knowing what to look for saves money and improves your game faster than extra practice alone.
Racquets today are lighter, stiffer, and more engineered than the wooden ovals of old. Advanced materials like graphite, carbon fiber, and composite blends let manufacturers tune stiffness, balance, and vibration damping. That means a modern racquet can be both forgiving for beginners and precise enough for advanced players — if you pick the right model.
Weight is the number-one factor for most players. Squash racquets commonly weigh between about 4.4 ounces and 6.0 ounces unstrung. Lighter racquets (around 4.4–4.9 ounces) are great for quick volleys and fast wrist action. Heavier frames (about 5.3–6.0 ounces) give more stability and plow-through on drives. Choose a weight that fits your swing speed and strength — lighter for flicks and defense, heavier for driving and stability.
Balance describes where the mass sits along the frame. A head-heavy racquet adds punch to drives and lobs, making it easier to generate power with less effort. Head-light racquets are more maneuverable and excel at quick reaction shots at the front of the court. An even balance offers a middle ground. Consider your playing style: do you rely on in-front net play and speed, or on deep drives and power?
Squash racquet head sizes usually range around 73–76 square inches. A slightly larger head increases the sweet spot and forgiveness on off-center hits, while a smaller head offers tighter control and accuracy. Recreational players often prefer a marginally larger head for consistency, while advanced players might choose a smaller one for precision.
String tension directly affects feel and response. Most players string between about 24–30 pounds. Lower tensions (24–26 lbs) give more trampoline effect and power, higher tensions (28–30 lbs) enhance control and feel. If you’re unsure, start in the middle at around 26–28 lbs and adjust after a few sessions.
Grip comfort is underrated. Most racquets feature handles in the 4–5 inch range, but how you wrap and size the grip matters more than tiny differences. A grip too big reduces wrist action and increases injury risk; too small forces you to squeeze, tiring your forearm. Use an overgrip or build-up strips to fine-tune size. A comfortable handle measurably improves control and reduces fatigue.
High-modulus graphite and carbon fiber dominate today’s racquets, often blended with resin, Kevlar, or basalt for specific feel and durability. Stiffer frames produce sharp response and precise shots, while more flexible frames offer forgiveness and a livelier feel. Many manufacturers use specific technologies or trade names to describe their blends, but the core idea is the same: the material mix affects power, control, and vibration transfer to the hand.
Below are popular racquets that repeatedly appear in player recommendations, demo lists, and performance reviews. I’ll list typical unstrung weights in ounces and the player profile each suits. These models cover a range of budgets and playing styles.
The Carboflex 125 is a favorite among advanced players who want a quick racquet with superb touch on boasts and volleys. Weighing about 4.4 ounces unstrung, it’s designed for fast wrist action and precise control. If you like to play volley-based, quick-attack squash, this racquet often tops the list.
Dunlop’s Evolution line delivers an accessible mix of power and feel, typically weighing around 4.8 ounces. It’s a great choice for improving club players who want a racquet that helps with both drives and quick reaction shots. Expect a comfortable sweet spot and modern vibration-damping tech.
Head’s Xenon series blends stability with a slightly beefier profile for players who want consistent drives and a stable feel at impact. At roughly 4.8–5.1 ounces unstrung, this model suits intermediate players stepping up their game and those who prefer a touch more mass behind their shots.
Prince’s Textreme frames emphasize control and precise shot-making. With a moderate weight and controlled flex, these racquets are comfortable for longer sessions and offer predictable ball response, making them attractive for tactically minded players.
Karakal produces a range of lighter frames that prioritize maneuverability and quick handling. The S-Pro and similar series are ideal for players who put a premium on front-court speed and volley exchanges.
Black Knight offers feature-packed racquets at competitive prices. Expect solid construction, decent power, and durability that suits club players and frequent practice. These are often smart choices for someone who wants performance without spending top-tier money.
If you’re starting out, prioritize forgiveness and a comfortable weight. Look for racquets in the 4.6–5.1 ounce range with a slightly larger head size. A head-light or even-balanced frame helps with maneuverability while you develop your swing and technique. Budget-friendly models from established brands give good value and durability for practice.
Intermediate players benefit from racquets that blend power and control. Aim for 4.4–4.9 ounces with a balance that matches your style: head-heavy for more power, head-light for quick play. Upgrade strings and experiment with tension to dial in feel. Demoing racquets at your club is especially useful at this stage.
Advanced players often choose lighter, stiffer racquets that reward precise technique. Weights around 4.4–4.8 ounces are common for elite-level players who generate their own power and want swift maneuverability and refined touch for volleys and boasts. Brand and model selection becomes personal at this level.
Premium racquets from top brands use the latest composites, offering lighter weights, refined balance, and proprietary vibration dampening. Expect better materials and often a higher price. Budget racquets are improved compared to years past and can offer a great value for recreational play. Think of premium racquets as precision tools for players who need the tiniest edge; budget frames are reliable tools that help you play and enjoy the sport without breaking the bank.
Strings influence feel significantly. Multifilament strings feel softer and are kinder on the arm, while monofilament strings last longer and provide power. Tension affects control and trampoline: higher tension equals tighter control, lower tension adds power. If you change racquets, don’t forget that string/bracing differences mean you’ll likely adjust tension by a couple of pounds to match the new frame’s feel.
Squash balls come in different speeds; the standard competition ball is the double-yellow-dot ball that’s slower and requires more pace to play lively. For beginners, beginner or single-yellow-dot balls give more bounce and make rallies easier. Keep a few extras in your bag — they lose liveliness as they warm and wear.
Overgrips let you adjust handle thickness and tack quickly, while replacement grips handle sweat and durability. Some players add small dampeners to cut harsh vibrations; these are a personal preference and can make long sessions more comfortable.
Safety is crucial: protective glasses reduce the risk of eye injury and are often required in junior competitions. Squash-specific shoes with good lateral support and non-marking soles improve court movement and prevent slips. Think of eyewear and shoes as performance multipliers and safety essentials.
A proper racket bag protects frames and stores balls, grips, and strings. Maintenance kits with basic tools make string changes and grip swaps easier between sessions. If you travel to tournaments, look for a bag with separate shoe compartments and reinforced racquet sleeves.
Demoing racquets at your squash club or pro shop is the single best way to find the right feel. Play a few games with each racquet you test and keep notes on weight, balance, and response. When comparing prices online, look at total cost including stringing and shipping. Comparison websites help spot deals, but always check return or demo policies so you can swap racquets if the feel isn’t right.
Protect your racquet from extreme temperatures and sudden impacts. Replace grips regularly — a fresh grip improves control and reduces slips. Check the frame for cracks or serious nicks after heavy hits; many small chips are cosmetic, but larger damage can affect play. Re-string every few months if you play often, and keep a spare set of strings in your bag for quick fixes.
Before you buy, answer these: What’s my typical court role — front-court quickness or deep-drive power? Do I prefer lighter maneuverable frames or heavier stable ones? What string tension suits my touch? How much am I willing to spend? Test 2–3 racquets with different balances and weights and pick the one that feels like an extension of your arm.
Choosing the right squash racquet blends science and feel. Understand weight, balance, head size, and materials, then test promising models on court. Pair your racquet with the right strings, grips, and shoes, and you’ll notice improvement in both performance and comfort. Think of your next racquet not as a purchase, but an upgrade to how you play — it should inspire confidence and make the game more fun.
| Squash Racquets | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Veneno Azul Blue Poison - Víperón Padel Racket | £ 199,- |
