Squash rackets come in a length of 27 inches, much of that a long handle. The stringed area is smaller than that of tennis and racquetball rackets, and restricted to no more than 78 square inches. Within these requirements dictated by the World Squash Singles Rules, individual models vary significantly in ways that affect your game when you get down to nitty-gritty play.
Weight
Squash rackets can range in weight from 120 to 210 g, with most models weighing between 140 and 170 g. Lighter-weight rackets tend to be made of more expensive titanium and graphite materials and cost more. While lighter rackets are recommended for skilled players and women, heavier rackets work well for beginning male players who need to learn on a forgiving racket that provides some power and momentum. Junior players and women need to avoid selecting too light of a first racket, which may pose difficulties in controlling and adding enough speed to the ball, writes Ron Beck, editor of SquashTalk.com.
Balance
An allied concept to that of weight is balance, with rackets described as head heavy, head light or neutral based on where their center of balance appears to lie when you hold them. Neutral rackets are best for beginners, states Ben Beylin, general manager of Squash Gear, based in New Jersey, while advanced players determine their own personal preference, typically for head heavy or head light rackets.
Head Size
Manufacturers list the hitting area of the racket head in the specs, up to a maximum of 78 square inches or 500 square centimeters. A larger head area allows for a more forgiving racket and a larger sweet spot for beginners and intermediate players who may slightly mis-hit the ball. Slightly looser string tensions, closer to 20 lbs. per square inch than 26 lbs., also allow the beginning player a bit more control. Advanced players often prefer smaller head sizes of 380 to 420 square cm, notes Philip Yarrow in "Squash: Steps to Success," as well as increased string tension for finer control.
Considerations
Try out as many rackets as possible to determine which feels best for you. A fully equipped racket store may allow you to take loaner models for a day or two or allow you to hit balls in an in-store hitting lane with a wall and netting, or you can borrow rackets from a club pro for a game or two. You will notice pronounced differences in your shot control and power among different rackets based on weight, balance and head shape. The traditional head shapes are teardrop, square-ish or oval or in-between shapes that blend the others. Teardrop shapes provide power, and square heads provide more control, according to Brandon Sleight, manager of the New York-based retailer Squash Galaxy.
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