What Are The Parts Of A Badminton Racquet?

Badminton is a popular game that originated over 2,000 years ago in ancient Greece. During the game, players use lightweight badminton racquets to hit a game piece called a shuttlecock back and forth over a net. Current regulations set by the Badminton World Federation lay out the specifics of racquet size. By understanding the purpose of each part of the badminton racquet, players can choose the best racquet to help their game.

Head

The head is the oval or isometric frame that holds the stringed area of the racquet. Isometric heads are square, and they typically have a larger "sweet spot" than conventional racquets due to the equal size of the cross strings. The sweet spot is the premium area of the racquet players use to hit the shuttlecock.

Stringed Area

The stringed area is within the frame of the racquet head. The strings must be crossed, flat and uniform in pattern. WBF regulations state the stringed area may not exceed 280 mm in length or 220 mm in width. The amount of tension in the racquet strings determines the power level when the racquet makes contact with the shuttlecock. Racquets with less tension hit with better control and less power, and racquets with more tension hit with less control and greater power.

Throat

The throat is an optional part of the racquet that connects the head to the shaft. The strings may extend beyond the head to the throat as long as the width below the head is not greater than 35 mm and the overall stringed area length is not greater than 330 mm.

Shaft

The shaft is the long, thin section of the racquet that connects the handle to the head or throat, if a throat is present. Thin shafts create less wind resistance, allowing for faster swings. Longer shafts give players more power than shorter shafts.

Handle

The handle is the wider area below the shaft for the player to hold. Racquet handles are covered with material to give players a better grip. Towel grips absorb perspiration well, but players have to replace them often because of bacteria and odor. Synthetic grips last longer, but they do not absorb moisture as well towel grips.