Racquetball Racquets – How Do They Differ?
Posted: Tuesday, January 12, 2010
by Ryan McKenzie
Hinzie Media Inc
There are many types of different racquetball racquets available to suit every style of play, as well as players. The USA racquetball rule book imposes a maximum length of 22 inches and the penalty for using an inappropriate racquet results in the loss of a point. The penalty used to be that the player had to forfeit the game in progress, or if discovered after then forfeiture of the previous game was required.
The weight of a racquetball racquet mainly depends on the player, as the larger and stronger you are the heavier your racquet should be. For example, a racquet weighing about 195 grams is ideal for a large, strong person, while smaller players are advised to use racquets between 155 175 grams. Professional players mainly use 175 gram racquets, but this does vary.
The balance of a racquetball racquet is also an important factor, as they can be heavier towards the head, evenly balanced, or lighter toward the head. This is an individual decision and you should test the racquet first, before making a purchase, to see which one suits your swing form the best, and just feels right.
Racquetball Racquets String
The string used in racquets differs in thickness, which creates different combinations of power, control and durability. For a beginner, the ideal would be a 15 gauge string which provides average control, power and durability. As a beginner, you will often be striking the ball off-center which will lead to many strings breaking, especially if you opt for a thinner string. The higher the gauge the more power the racquetball racquet has as the string is thinner.
As your playing skills improves, you will be able to notice the slight differences between racquet performance and you will be able to quickly determine exactly what is good for you. Professional players often use 17 gauge strings but they must be careful as they do have a tendency to break, especially if used by a hard hitter. During a professional racquetball tournament a player will usually have to replace his string several times every few matches.
The thinnest string in racquetball is the 18 gauge, but it is used rarely. It is such a thin string that only a slightly powerful strike will lead to broken strings. This type of string is perfect for those who are soft hitters.
Racquetball Racquets - Grips
Racquetball grips can be found either as a wrap grip, like those used in tennis, as well as a rubber slide-on grip. The wrap grip is often used in tennis and squash.
The key to finding the best grip is to experiment and see which combination of gloves and grips work well together and are the best option for you.
Racquetball Racquets Examples
As everything progresses so too do racquetball racquets, which are now manufactured to include a variety of other accessories to help your game.
One of these is the E-Force Bedlam Dagger Racquetball racquet which has dual cylinder power zones that stabilize the head of the frame. It also has a thinner frame to increase swing speed as well as extra manoeuvrability.
Another racquet to incorporate the latest technology is the Wilson's [K] RX 170 which is a great option for players who want both power and control. It combines nanotechnology and unique frame engineering to deliver the best control possible, creating a more stable and stronger racquet. This same process increases stiffness in key stress points on the racquet to gain better torsional stability. Of course, all this comes with a suitable price tag attached of over $200.
Racquets range in price from below $40 to well above $200, covering a wide range of players from the amateur and occasional player to the professionals.
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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)I am 6'4" and weigh 200 lbs. I have been playing for about 15 years and I am not a pro at 72 yrs. old but I hold my own agains much younger player. Would the Ektelon 03 Red be a good racquet for me or would you suggest another racquet. Thank you for your help. Roger Everett
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