How to choose a squash racket: your ultimate player handbook

Choosing a new squash racket can feel like a puzzling challenge, with so much choice from leading brands. We get it, because we're squash players too. Our business was founded by a squash pro and our enduring love for the sport means we really do know what we're talking about. In fact, it's hard to stop us once we get started!

We've tried hard to keep it concise in this guide to the squash racket features and characteristics that will influence your buying decision. Whether you're a recent convert to squash or a long-time devotee, trust us to help you find the perfect racket for comfortable, skilful play and to put you in the sweet spot for a winning match.

Squash racket throat shape

The throat of a squash racket is the part of the frame that connects the handle to the head. It's the triangular or Y-shaped section just above the grip. The shape of the throat changes the way a racket plays. The two main shapes are teardrop and classic.

Teardrop (open): These squash rackets have a larger string bed and a bigger sweet spot. This makes them more forgiving and helps you generate more power. This style is very popular with professional players and is great for anyone who wants a bit of extra help with their power game.
Classic (closed): With a smaller string bed and sweet spot, classic throat squash rackets offer more control. They are generally preferred by experienced players who can consistently hit the sweet spot and value precision over raw power.

Diagram showing different head shapes of a squash racket

Squash racket balance

The balance of a squash racket—whether it's head-light, head-heavy, or evenly balanced—is often a matter of personal preference and playing style.

Head-light: These frames offer fantastic manoeuvrability, which is perfect for fast volleys and quick flick shots at the front of the court. With the game becoming faster, more and more pros are choosing this type of squash racket to keep up the pace.
Head-heavy: A head-heavy squash racket provides a feeling of stability and can be easier to control during slower, more deliberate swings.
Evenly balanced: This is a great middle-ground option, providing a good mix of power and control for an all-round playing style.

Diagram explaining squash racket balance points

Squash racket weight

Squash rackets typically weigh between 110g and 145g, though you can find lighter options. It’s worth noting that the weight on the frame is usually the unstrung weight, so the final product will be a few grams heavier.

Lighter rackets: A lighter racket (around 110-125g) is great for an attacking player who needs to move the racket quickly. They are also a brilliant choice for junior players who want to use a full-size frame without being weighed down.
Heavier rackets: A heavier squash racket (135g+) suits a more traditional style of play with a slower, more deliberate swing, providing a solid, powerful feel on the ball.

Squash racket beam

The beam is the thickness of the squash racket frame.

Thinner beam (16−18mm): A thinner beam offers greater manoeuvrability and a more responsive feel, making it a great choice for skilled players who value precision and control.
Thicker beam (20−21mm+): A thicker beam provides more stability and power, which can be beneficial for beginners or players who want more help generating pace.

Squash racket strings

Strings

The strings are the engine of your squash racket and can drastically change how it feels. A common myth is that a higher string tension gives you more power, but the reverse is true!

String tension: Think of your strings like a trampoline. A looser, lower tension (26-28 lbs) allows the string bed to flex more on impact, giving you more power. A higher, tighter tension (28 lbs+) gives you more control and a more precise feel.
String type: There are many types of strings, from the durable synthetic guts that most rackets come with, to thinner, more responsive strings that you can choose to provide a more sophisticated playing experience.

Most rackets come factory strung at 24-26lbs. We offer custom restrings, which you're more likely to choose if you're a high level player. Higher quality strings can offer more grip and feel on the ball. They may not be as durable, if they are a finer gauge and are therefore working harder to grip the ball when in play.

We can advise you on the appropriate string type and tension for your squash racket. Tecnifibre and Ashaway are two of our bestselling string brands.

Choosing a squash racket that's right for your level

Beginners: Start with a squash racket that has a teardrop shape and an oversized head. A mid-weight frame with a thicker beam will provide a great mix of power and forgiveness, helping you develop your technique with confidence.

Browse beginner squash rackets

Intermediate: As your game progresses, you might want to move to a racket that offers more control. A mid-weight, evenly balanced frame with a slightly thinner beam is a great next step, offering a good blend of power and precision.

Browse intermediate squash rackets

Advanced: Experienced players often have a very specific preference. A lighter, head-light squash racket with a classic throat shape and a thin beam is a popular choice for those who value incredible manoeuvrability, feel and control for quick, attacking play.

Browse expert squash rackets

Leading squash racket brands

When you're ready to invest in your new squash racket, you can't go wrong with any of these fantastic brands. We've played with them all and can vouch for their quality and reputation. There are differences though, depending on the brand's ethos and the focus of the design team.

Dunlop: A household name in squash, Dunlop rackets are known for their superb quality and a fantastic balance of power and control. They’re used by many top pros and have a reputation for consistent performance.
HEAD: A global leader in racket sports, HEAD produces a wide range of squash rackets with cutting-edge technology. Their frames are known for their innovation and a focus on generating both power and feel on the court.
Tecnifibre: Renowned for their premium strings, Tecnifibre also makes exceptional rackets that offer a superb feel and high levels of control. They’re a favourite for players who value precision and a responsive touch.
UNSQUASHABLE: Engineered with feedback from players, UNSQUASHABLE rackets feature a unique blend of lightweight materials and advanced frame technology, offering exceptional power, control and feel at great value prices.
Karakal: Pioneers of lightweight frames, Karakal squash rackets are built for speed and manoeuvrability. They're a great choice for players who want a fast-swinging racket with a responsive feel.

Ask us for expert, personally tailored advice on your next squash racket buy

Still not sure which squash racket is the perfect fit for you? Our expert team is here to help! We're squash players and (as we already mentioned) we love to discuss rackets and share our experiences. We'll give you friendly, advice to help you find the perfect squash racket to suit your needs. Just give us a call or drop us a message via email or our social channels.

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