Racquets
What do all racquet sports have in common?
A player holds a critically important piece of equipment (usually a racquet or a paddle) to strike an object (a ball or shuttlecock) in order to score points.
Usually played by two or four players at a time.
Play is conducted in a confined space - either indoors or outdoors.
What are racquets made of?
Depending on the sport, there are many different materials used. Some are simple wood materials while others use space-age exotic materials such as carbon fiber.
Many racquets are now evolving using combinations of various materials to maximize performance and minimize wear and tear on the body.
Tennis Racquets
Materials have changed dramatically in a generation.
Many brands closely guard the specifics of their materials to maintain a perceived competitive advantage.
Different materials can be found in racquets designed for beginners vs. intermediates vs. pros.
There are all kinds of shapes and sizes. Some are designed for power and some for control.
Construction may be in layers consisting of carbon fiber, fiberglass, and/or polymers with a very wide array of price points.
Our Tennis Racquet Buying Guide is a great place to start your search for the perfect racquet.
Our Kids Racquet Buying Guide will help you pick the best option for your future superstar.
Pickleball Paddles
The explosion in popularity for Pickleball means there is unprecedented variety in paddles.
They often have different materials used in handles vs. the paddle face.
Very small differences in weight can make a huge difference to the player.
With a variety of price points, paddles can appeal to widely varying skill levels.
Fiberglass, polymers, and an infinite array of combinations are common.
Check out our Getting Started with Pickleball Guide
Badminton Racquets
With the emphasis on light, yet stiff and durable materials, carbon fiber graphite has become the material of choice.
There is a big quality difference between “picnic” style aluminum/steel racquets and competition style and a price difference that goes with it.
Squash Racquets
Like Badminton, the emphasis is on lightweight yet stiff materials.
Carbon fiber is the dominant material in most squash racquets.
Racquetball Racquets
Racquetball racquets have had a stunning transformation in a relatively short period of time. Even the way they are strung is different than in the past.
What used to be cast aluminum is now composites including carbon fiber.
There are attractive price points for every ability level.
Platform Tennis Paddles
With poly foam a dominant material, these have also undergone transformation in recent years.
A unique material on these paddles is the grit that is applied to all or part of the hitting surface.
Unlike any other racquet, Platform Tennis paddles may include a bottle opener that enhances the playing experience in a somewhat different way.
Other features to consider
Grips vary considerably in size, material, and ability to absorb perspiration.
Weight can be very different both in terms of total and distribution across the item.
Balance is important as different players want the feel to match their preferences.
Even color scheme can be a factor. Players want to look as good or better than they play.
With over 200 racquets and paddles covering many sports, TennisRacquets.com is your one-stop shop for the budding racquet sports star. Our expert professionals are standing by to help you at every step in the buying process.
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