Heavy rackets with less tension are a badminton buzzkill. You enjoy a game better when your racquet is well-wired, sturdy, and lightweight. In this review, we bring to you 6 such badminton rackets that leave you asking for more. Read on to also know how to identify and choose a good quality racquet within your budget.
Table of Contents
How To Choose A Good Badminton Racket?
While the ideal way is to hold and swing the racquet, you can now rely on the specifications listed online for a better idea. Check for the following features while picking a racquet online or in-store-
1. Weight:
- Lightweight badminton racquets are best for beginners. Those weighing between 85 g to 89 g are usually easier to control. Most importantly, lighter badminton racquets are easier on the wrist and shoulders, thus reducing the chances of injuries. The weight of the racquet is usually denoted by “U”. The smaller the number, the heavier the weight.
- 5U: 75-79 g
- 4U: 80-84 g
- 3U: 85-89 g
- 2U: 90-94 g
- 1U: 95-100 g
2. String Tension:
- Press your palm against the strings and see how far it sinks. A 1 mm depth of the strings is the ideal tension for most players. For beginners, 22–23 lbs is a good tension to start with. However, tension standards vary from region to region due to the effects of the local climate. People living in the tropics need higher racquet tensions as strings tend to expand in hotter places.
3. Balance Point:
- Racquets can be categorised by their balancing point- where the weight of the racquet is largely located. To determine the type of balance your racquet has, place a finger just slightly below the head of the racquet to see which way the racquet tilts. The three categories of balance are:
i. Head-Heavy Balance:
- Such a racquet has more mass towards the head of the racquet. These racquets increase the power in the strokes and are suitable for players who like to play a powerful game from the back of the court. It is also best for those whose game revolves around long exchanges.
ii. Head-light Balance:
- This has less weight towards the head of the racquet and is much easier to control and swing the racquet. Head-light racquets are popular among doubles player who needs to react quickly. This racquet reduces reaction time and is preferred for a front-court game.
iii. Even Balance:
- An even balance racquet is best if you’re not sure what playing style you’re going for. This racquet will be the perfect one to start a game. Once you have established your style of play, you can then transit to the Head-heavy or Head-light versions to improve your overall game.
4. Shaft Flexibility:
- Shaft is the areas between the handle/grip and the frame of the racquet. You can choose between a stiff or a flexible shaft. If you are beginner, it is recommended to use a flexi-shaft racquet because you don;t have to use extra force to execute.
- Stiff shafts are used for quick return shots. They need stronger swing and relatively more wrist power- which one develops only on training for a while.
5. Grip Material:
- Two common types of badminton grips are towel and synthetic. Towel grips are softer and sweat-absorbing. However, towel grips require frequent replacement compared to synthetic grips because they accumulate dust and bacteria. Synthetic grips are less messy but are relatively less comfortable. That’s due to poor sweat absorption.
6. Grip Size:
- Most racquet grips come in four sizes. Bigger grips are for a tighter feel and generate more power. Smaller grips allow for better manoeuvrability. Sizes G5 and after are specially designed for players with small palms while G1 and G2 are for bigger hand sizes.
- G1: 4 inches
- G2: 3.75 inches
- G3: 3.5 inches
- G4: 3.25 inches
- G5: 3 inches
- G6: 2.75 inches
Now that you know what to look for in a badminton racquet, here are the top 6 options we picked up for you-
6 Best Badminton Rackets You Need To Have In 2022
1. Yonex Nanoray Light Badminton Racquet
The Yonex Nanoray Light Badminton Racquet is made of ultra-lightweight carbon graphite with Nanoscience technology. Its streamlined aerodynamic shaft gives it stiff flex and unparalleled repulsion power. This racquet has a bigger sweet spot and built-in T-joint that makes it ideal for speedy shots with great maneuvrability.
Features:
- Weight: 5U; 75-79.9 g
- String Tension: 30 lbs
- Balance Type: Head-light
- Grip: G2
- Shape: Isometric
Rating: 4.9/5
2. Li-Ning SS-G5 Series Badminton Racquet
This racquet is made of ultra-strong carbon fiber material. It avoids frame deformation and twisting thereby providing an enlarged sweet spot and defence area. The strong frame is aerodynamically engineered with Aerotec Beam System (ABS) to minimize air friction. The wide stringing area and increased bounce strength improve the velocity of your smashes in front- or back-court games.
Features:
- Weight: 3U; 85-87g
- String Tension: ≤ 28-30 lbs
- Balance Type: Head-heavy
- Grip Size: G5
- Head Shape: Isometric
Rating: 4.7/5
3. Apacs Z-Ziggler Badminton Racquet
The Apacs Z-Ziggler is a light yet powerful racquet made from hi-modulus graphite. Its new ‘triple-speed system frame’ combines power and handling comfort. This improves control and speed in the swing of each shot. Its extra-slim shaft is aerodynamic and reduces air resistance making smashes more intense and accurate.
Features:
- Weight: 4U; 80-84 g
- String Tension: 38 lbs
- Balance Type: Head-heavy
- Grip: G2
- Head Shape: Isometric
Rating: 4.6/5
4. Victor Brave Sword 1900 G5 Speed Series Badminton Racket
Made of graphite, this racquet is suitable for both badminton professionals and amateurs. It comes with a hand grip that is sturdy, comfortable, yet ergonomic. String tension is perfect for strong and high-speed smashes as well as serves. The bright blue colour of the frame and black grip adds to the sporty yet stylish look of this unisex badminton racquet.
Features:
- Weight: 4U; 80-84 g
- String Tension: 20-22 lbs
- Balance Type: Head-light
- Grip: G5
- Head Shape: Isometric
Rating: 4.5/5
5. YOUNG Fury 7 Graphite Professional Badminton Racket
The YOUNG Fury 7 Graphite Professional Badminton racquet comes with its frame and shaft is made of one piece 100% high-modulus Graphite (HMG). It is seamless without any built-in T-joint or connector that hamper the accuracy of your shots. This racquet is engineered with anti-torsion technology, greater elasticity, and vibration resistance. Hence, it has the right blend of strength and flexibility.
Features:
- Weight: 5U; 75-79 g
- String Tension: Up to 28 lbs
- Balance Type: Head-light
- Grip: G1
- Head Shape: Isometric
Rating: 4.4/5
6. Mizuno Triple Point Ventures Valour Badminton Racquet
The Mizuno Triple Point Ventures Valour Badminton Racquet comes with highly effective design. Its stable frame prevents it from twisting during powerful smash shots. The Xtra Slim Shaft reduces drag and makes your racquet highly responsive. This racquet is made of pure graphite sheets. These give the aerodynamic precision at the stress points for you to deliver high-speed skilled shots.
Features:
- Weight: 3U; 85-89 g
- String Tension: 32 lbs
- Balance Type: Even/medium
- Grip: G5
- Head Shape: Oval
Rating: 4.3/5
Using the key features listed, you will be able to easily pick and purchase a good-quality badminton racquet within your budget. Don’t forget to check for warranty details before buying. And see how a racquet elevates your love for the game!
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