Choosing A Suitable Badminton Rackets

Choosing the right badminton racket is important for both beginner and experienced players, and for parents seeking to enroll their kids in badminton classes. Weight, balance, and grip size are some of the essential factors to consider when selecting a racket. In this article, we will discuss some of the key things to keep in mind when choosing a badminton racket.

1. What is the best Badminton Racket weight based on your current level?

At ST Badminton Academy, we are frequently asked about the ideal weight of a badminton racket based on the player’s level. However, our badminton coach believes that choosing the right racket weight is not as simple as it may seem, as there are many other factors to consider such as the size, balance, string tension, and shuttlecock type.

Nevertheless, the weight of the racket is still an important factor to consider as it can affect your game. A lighter racket may be more maneuverable, while a heavier one can generate more power. For beginners and recreational players, a lighter racket weighing between 80-85 grams is recommended to help develop their technique and improve their stamina.

Intermediate players should use a slightly heavier racket, around 85-90 grams, to gain more power and control the shuttlecock. Advanced players can opt for a heavier racket weighing between 90-95 grams to generate even more power and deliver hard smashes.

2. Choose the right weight for your badminton rackets

Certainly, these are just general recommendations. The optimal way to determine the right racket weight for you is to experiment with different weights and see how they affect your game. Ultimately, the goal is to find a racket that is comfortable to use and helps you play your best badminton game.

For intermediate players, a racket weighing around 100 grams is a good option. This weight will assist in generating more power and speed.

If you are an advanced player, you may want to choose a racket weighing around 110 grams. This weight will provide you with the most power and speed. Remember that the weight of your racket should not be too light or too heavy, and it should be comfortable for you to hold and swing.

If you are unsure of which racket weight is suitable for you, it is best to consult with our coach or an experienced badminton player. They will be able to assist you in selecting the right racket for your level.

ST Badminton Academy is an excellent place to learn more about badminton and find the right racket for your level. The Academy coaches are also Certified Badminton Stringers and Master Racquet Technicians, so your kids can learn more about badminton equipment.

3. Balance Point

Choosing the right badminton racket involves considering various factors, and one of the most important is the racket’s balance point. The balance point of a badminton racket refers to where the racket’s weight is predominantly situated. It is an essential factor because it affects the way the racket handles. A racket with a higher balance point is more head-light, which means that the weight is shifted toward the head of the racket.

This makes the racket more maneuverable and easier to swing. Conversely, a racket with a lower balance point is more head-heavy, which means that the weight is towards the handle, making the racket more powerful but less maneuverable.

The balance point of a badminton racket depends on the weight and distribution of the frame, grip, and strings. The frame is the largest and heaviest part of the racket, usually made of graphite, such as high module graphic, T40, T46, and more. The grip is the part of the racket that you hold, usually made of rubber or synthetic materials, and the strings are the thinnest and lightest part of the racket, usually made of nylon multifiber.

4. Balance Point Weight

The weight and distribution of these three parts determine the balance point of the racket. A higher balance point is associated with a head-light racket, where the weight of the frame is shifted toward the head. In contrast, a head-heavy racket has a lower balance point as the weight of the frame is shifted toward the handle.

The balance point of a racket is an important consideration when choosing a racket. For beginners, a higher balance point is recommended as it allows for easier swings. On the other hand, experienced players may prefer a lower balance point as it provides more power.

Along with balance, the weight of the racket is also an essential factor to consider when choosing a racket. A heavier racket offers more power but can be difficult to swing. Meanwhile, a lighter racket is easier to swing but may not have as much power.

5. String Tension

One of the most important factors to consider in badminton is the string tension of your racket. The string tension is the amount of pressure that the strings are under and can be tested by pressing your palm against the strings or by using an electronic device to check the dynamic tension (DT). The ideal string tension for most players is around 26lbs with a 0.66mm gauge, such as the Yonex BG66 Ultimax.

The string tension also affects the power of the racket. A higher string tension provides more control but less repulsion, while a lower string tension offers more bounce but less control. The string tension can be adjusted according to a player’s preference. For those who want more control in their shots, a higher string tension may be preferred. Conversely, for those who want more repulsion, a lower string tension may be more suitable.

String Gauge Thickness

Badminton racket manufacturers offer a wide range of string gauges options for players of different levels. Choosing a string gauge thickness that is comfortable for the player is important, and their comfort should be the number one priority when choosing a string tension. The main and cross-string tension can be adjusted to increase or decrease the string tension of a racket. The type of string used can also affect the string tension of a racket.

The most common badminton string gauges range from 0.57 to 0.72mm, with thinner gauge strings being the most popular type of badminton string. They provide good repulsion and a crisp hitting sound, making them suitable for beginners to advanced players.

Thicker strings are also durable and comfortable to use for training. The choice of string tension is a personal preference, and there is no right or wrong string tension. It is important to find a string tension that is comfortable for the player and provides the desired power and control.

6. Hand Grip

The type of grip used can significantly impact a player’s performance in badminton. It is crucial for players to hold the racket securely during the game, and a poorly wrapped grip can lead to difficulties in controlling the racket, resulting in mistakes. The thickness of the grip also affects racket control. If the grip is too small, such as Yonex Overgrip AC102EX, players with larger hand palms may find it difficult to hold the racket.

Conversely, if the grip is too large, such as PU Super Grip, it may be challenging to control the racket. To find the right grip, players should experiment with different types and sizes of grips until they find one that feels comfortable and provides optimal control. For instance, some players may prefer to use a towel grip due to having sweaty palms.

Grip Thickness

When selecting a grip for your badminton racket, your playing style and personal preferences should be taken into account. The grip is the part of the racket that you hold while playing, and its size and thickness can impact your overall performance. The type of grip you choose should also be considered, based on how comfortable you are with it and its durability.

For example, if you play aggressively, you may prefer a grip that is more comfortable for your palm and can last a long time. On the other hand, if you play defensively, you may prefer a grip that is more comfortable for your fingers. There are various types of grips available, such as PU grip, Super Grip, Overgrip, and more, each with different patterns, levels of tackiness, and thicknesses.

7. Popular Badminton Racket Brands

Badminton racket brands have gained immense popularity in recent times, with Yonex being one of the most recognized names.

These brands offer a wide range of rackets in different colors, designs, and weights. However, choosing the best badminton racket brand can be challenging, and several factors need to be considered. The most crucial aspect is finding a racket with a suitable balance point, which allows you to control the shuttlecock effectively.

The weight of the racket is another essential consideration. A racket that is too heavy or too light may affect your gameplay. Keeping these factors in mind, here are some of the top badminton racket brands available.

1. Yonex

Yonex is widely recognized as one of the most popular and reputable badminton racket brands. They produce high-quality rackets that are suitable for both beginners and professional players alike. Yonex rackets can be found at most sports stores in Malaysia, as well as online at the Sunriseclick store.

2. Victor

Victor is another popular brand that produces high-quality badminton rackets for players of all levels. Their rackets are well-suited for both beginners and professionals alike. You can find Victor rackets at most sports stores in Malaysia or purchase them from the official Victor online store.

3. Mizuno

Mizuno is a great racket brand for players at all levels, from beginners to advanced. Their rackets are lightweight and have a good balance point, making them a popular choice.

4. Li-Ning

Li-Ning is a popular brand of badminton rackets from China. They produce high-quality rackets suitable for players of all levels.

5. Maxx

Maxx is an excellent racket brand suitable for players of all levels. They offer rackets that are not only durable but also reasonably priced.

Having learned about some of the top badminton racket brands, you can begin your search for a racket that best suits your needs

8. Badminton Stringing Services

Badminton stringing is an important part of the game as it can greatly impact your performance on the court. By using professional badminton stringing services, you can be sure that your strings are correctly tensioned and of the right thickness, allowing you to play at your best and get a crisp hitting sound. There are several benefits to using professional badminton stringing services.

Firstly, it can save you time and ensure better durability, as stringing your badminton racket at a non-certified stringer can be a difficult task, especially if you are a beginner. Secondly, using professional badminton stringing services ensures that the tension of your strings is just right, as professional stringers have the experience and expertise to apply the appropriate amount of tension to your strings.

Lastly, using professional badminton stringing services can also help you save money by preventing the need to cut off and restring due to poor stringing feel after a game. With the help of professional stringing services, you can have your racket strung to a higher standard. If you are looking for reliable and certified badminton stringing services in Malaysia, we highly recommend checking out the ones we have listed below.

1. ERR Badminton Restring (Jurong)

ERR Badminton Restring is a professional certified stringing provider of badminton stringing services in Setapak, Melati Utama, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. They offer a wide range of stringing services that are ideal for both recreational and professional badminton players. One of the best things about ERR Badminton Restring is that they offer a money-back guarantee if you find any unprofessional stringing quality.

This means that you can be sure that you will get your money’s worth and receive professional service when you use their services. Please book an appointment online before sending your racket, as they do not provide walk-in services due to their existing consistent return members, including national players.

Thank you for reading!

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