Types of Badminton Racquets & Full guide
Understanding the various types of badminton racquets is essential for players looking to enhance their game and choose the best equipment for their playing style. However, finding a good quality badminton racquet is a daunting task nowadays. With a diverse range of badminton racquets available in the market, it becomes difficult for players to choose the right one. One needs to have proper knowledge about badminton racquets before buying one. Do you know how many types of badminton racquets are there and what are different materials used to make them? To know the answers to these critical questions, read our detailed informative article.
Types of Badminton Racquets
Badminton is one of the popular sports across the world. In order to become a professional player one needs to train for years with sheer dedication. Along with hard work, players require premium quality badminton racquets and other gear to become professional and shine on the world stage. Below mentioned are the different types of badminton racquets that players can choose as per their age and game style.
1. Heavy Badminton Racquets
Heavy badminton racquets are widely used by players who love to play aggressive games. The extra weight in the head of the racquet allows players to hit clear and precise smashes. It helps in generating more power. However, playing with heavy heavy badminton racquets is not an easy task. Since they are heavyweight one needs to have a powerful wrist and grip to play head-heavy badminton racquet.
2. Head Light Badminton Racquets
As the name suggests, headlight badminton racquets are lightweight. The frame and head of the racquets do not have extra mass like head-heavy racquets. Headlight badminton racquets are most suitable for club players who play doubles. The lightweight allows players to have control and swing. Moreover, you can delicately play precise net shots with headlight badminton racquets. Another advantage is during long rallies you can turn the tide in your favor with accurate returns and hitting some pinpoint drop shots.
3. Head Even Badminton Racquets
Head even badminton racquets are balanced. They are neither too heavy nor too light. These racquets offer you enough power to hit smash and at the same provide enough control and swing to return powerful shots at opponents. If you like to move around the court by playing on the net and then playing at the back, you should play go for head even badminton racquets. For beginner and intermediate players, head even badminton racquets are a perfect choice.
4. High Tension Badminton Racquets
High-tension badminton racquets have a tighter string band that allows precise placement and more control over the shot. However, the repulsion from the strings is less. One needs to have a good technical ability to play with high-tension badminton racquets. High tension will increase the feel and control but at the same time, it will decrease the durability and increase vibration. Since high-tension badminton racquets have a small sweet spot, players who are professional and have pinpoint accuracy should play with high-tension strings.
5. Light-Weight Badminton Racquets
Lightweight badminton Racquets are in today’s generation’s demand. Players are generally looking to have racquets less than or equal to 75-76 gms in weight so they can swing it easily and make their reflexes fast. Many of the Badminton makers mark this racquet in 5U category. Lightweight racquets are giving you no shoulder pain but more swing gain.
But they are also more prone to damage as compared to heavy weights. So one has to be very careful while playing.
What Are the Different Materials Used to Make Badminton Racquets?
Badminton racquets are made up of different materials. Each material has its own pros and cons. Below mentioned are the four materials used to make badminton racquets.
1. Graphite Badminton Racquets
Graphite badminton racquets have changed the way badminton is played. They are made by arranging a pure form of carbon with its atoms on big sheets of hexagonal rings. Graphite badminton racquets are extremely stable and do not react to any other material used in the racquets.
The weights in these racquets are equally distributed. Due to its firm properties, graphite badminton racquets can be strung at high tension with minimal risk to cause damage to the frame. These racquets have been in the market for the last three decades and are used by various professional players.
Top Graphite Badminton Racquets – Yonex Astrox 88, HEAD Tenor-X, Li Ning Turbo-X
2. Carbon Fiber Badminton Racquets
These are the most widely used badminton racquets. A wide range of professional players play with carbon fiber badminton racquets and the main reason is its solid strength that allows players to play with higher string tension.
Carbon fiber badminton racquets are lightweight and provide good control to players. These racquets are made up of the highest grade of carbon fiber. Li-Ning Air Force 77 G2 Carbon Fibre Badminton Racquet, QICHUAN Carbon Fiber Professional Racquet etc. are some of the top quality carbon fiber badminton racquets that players can buy.
Top Carbon Fiber Badminton Racquets – Yonex Carbonex 7000, HEAD Ignition 100, Li Ning Challenger Boost
3. Aluminum Badminton Racquets
Players of all levels: beginners, amateurs and professionals, like to play with aluminum badminton racquets. These racquets are light weights, provide a good shot response, and are durable. Aluminum badminton racquets offer optimum swing to players that allows them to hit precise shots.
Top Aluminium Badminton Racquets – HEAD Reflex 10, Yonex GR 303, Li Ning Mega Power 500
4. Metal Badminton Racquets
These kinds of racquets dominated the 80s and 90s era. Metal badminton racquets are not used by professional players anymore. However, beginners and intermediate players still use them. Metal badminton racquets are durable and strong. Since they are strong they have minimal elasticity. Another advantage of metal badminton racquets is they are cheap and not heavy on the pocket.
Now metal badminton racquets are not made.
Conclusion
Choosing the right badminton racquet is crucial, especially for players aiming to excel in the sport. A well-suited racquet can significantly enhance your performance, helping you reach new heights in your game. Take your time to thoroughly understand the options available and invest in a high-quality racquet that complements your playing style and meets your specific needs. With the right racquet in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to elevate your game and achieve your goals on the court.
Types of Badminton Racquets FAQs
For beginners, lightweight badminton racquets are an excellent choice. They offer easier maneuverability and reduce the risk of strain, helping new players develop their skills comfortably.
The choice between a heavier or lighter racquet depends on your playing style and preference. Heavier racquets provide more power but can cause muscle fatigue over time, while lighter racquets offer greater control and comfort, though they may generate less power.
What string tension is ideal for a badminton racquet? String tension varies based on your level of play. Beginners should opt for a tension between 17 lbs to 20 lbs, intermediate players between 20 lbs to 24 lbs, and advanced players between 24 lbs to 27 lbs for optimal performance.
Which type of badminton racquet is most popular? Graphite badminton racquets are currently the most popular choice among players due to their combination of strength, lightweight design, and flexibility.
How long does a badminton racquet typically last? The lifespan of a badminton racquet depends on factors like usage, care, string tension, and overall quality. A well-maintained, high-quality racquet can typically last around three years or more.
