How to Buy a Badminton Racquet

How to Buy a Badminton Racquet
Photo Credit badminton image by Christopher Walker from Fotolia.com

While badminton may seem like a light-weight sport to some, it is actually a game of power, control, finesse and timing. Badminton athletes understand that the racquet they use contributes to playing well. To purchase the right badminton racquet, know what type of player you are. Power players need flexibility and length, while players looking for more control should focus on a stiffer feel and tighter racquet face. Consider the head shape, shaft, handle and weight of the racquet. Ultimately, as the United States Badminton Association recommends, try out several different racquets and determine which one is right for you.

Step 1

Determine the type of racquet head you need. Select a teardrop shape with a longer main string and larger sweet spot for a bouncier feel. Choose a standard head for a tighter response. Select a wide body head to deliver more power in your shots.

Step 2

Check the weight of the racquet. Badminton racquets with more weight are good for power. Lighter raquets provide better control .

Step 3

Decide on the type of shaft you want. Longer shafts tend to flex more while shorter shafts are more stiff. Pick a more flexible shaft to generate more power. Choose a stiffer shafts to gain greater control of your shots.

Step 4

Select a grip that is comfortable for your hand and suits your playing style. If the grip on a racquet you like is not large enough, consider installing an overgrip to increase the size of the existing grip.

Step 5

Choose strings that meet your playing needs. If you are a power player, select strings that are looser and springier. For more control, choose tighter strings with more rebound.

References

Article reviewed by Brad Walters Last updated on: Jul 25, 2010

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