| Badminton rackets all have the same basic parts, | | | | is the largest size. |
| these being the handle, shaft and head. They vary | | | | There are also different head shapes, and the |
| in the shape and the materials used in them, but | | | | two most common are classic and isometric. The |
| basically these are the main parts to look out for. | | | | classic head shape has an oval shape, and the |
| There are a few more terms you will need to | | | | isometric head shape is squared off at the top of |
| know such as the weight, the balance, the | | | | the head. An isometric design helps to increase |
| stiffness, and the grip size. | | | | the sweet spot and aids off centre shots, so it |
| The weight of a badminton racket refers to | | | | offers a bit more forgiveness than the classic |
| exactly that- how heavy it is. Over the years the | | | | shape. |
| weight of racquets has reduced considerably, and | | | | If you look at the online shops that sell badminton |
| you can now find certain models that weigh as | | | | rackets you will usually see some or all of these |
| little as 70grams. Most rackets weigh between | | | | terms being used in the description. Once you |
| 80-90g. Different manufacturers have their own | | | | know what they are on about you can make a |
| systems for telling you how heavy a racket is. | | | | more informed choice before you part with your |
| For example, Yonex have the "U" system, where | | | | cash, but you will also be able to tell if the racket |
| "U"= 95-100g, and "4U"= 80-84g. | | | | will be suitable for your standard of play. |
| There are 3 kinds of racket balance, head heavy, | | | | One important point is that if you are a beginner |
| head light and even balance. A head heavy racket | | | | you do not need to go out and buy the most |
| will be more difficult to move around and feel | | | | expensive badminton racket available, in fact this |
| more sluggish than a head light racket. An even | | | | may even have a negative effect on your game. |
| balance is a compromise between the two, and is | | | | The expensive models are geared towards |
| aimed at all round badminton players. | | | | advanced players who can the most out of these |
| The stiffness relates to how much flexibility the | | | | rackets. The less expensive one's are aimed at |
| racket has. There are different grades of | | | | beginners because they are more forgiving and |
| stiffness, from extra stiff to stiff, and then there | | | | will help you a little bit. |
| are flexible rated rackets. The stiff versions are | | | | By far the most vital part in all of this is you. A |
| usually aimed at more experienced players, whilst | | | | badminton racket cannot make up for bad |
| the flexible one's are aimed at beginners and | | | | technique and skills. Spend your money on |
| intermediate players. | | | | coaching before you spend money on rackets. |
| The grip size refers to how large the diameter of | | | | Get to know your own game and style of play, |
| the handle is. Which grip size you use depends on | | | | then you can pick out the most suitable racket, |
| how big your hands are, and your own personal | | | | the one that will enhance your skills. There are |
| preference. Different manufacturers have their | | | | hundreds of manufacturers out there, all willing to |
| own systems to tell you the grip size. Yonex | | | | help you part with your cash. Just make sure you |
| have their own "G" system, which goes from | | | | don't run before you can walk. |
| "G5" which is the smallest grip size, to "G2" which | | | | |