How to Select a Racquetball Racquet
There are many factors to consider when choosing a Racquet that is right for you. High End Racquets feature move advanced technology for better power and control while Low End / Entry Level Racquets are a good choice for a beginner that doesn't want to spend a lot of money. However If money is no object a Mid to High End Racquet will play much better than a Entry Level Racquet. Popular Racquetball Website's like RacquetWorld.com offer Demos of most Mid to High End Racquets.
Below is a list of other factors to consider when selecting a racquetball racquet.
#1 - Racquet Weight
Racquetball Racquet weights range from about 150 grams to 245 grams. The equation F=MA (Force = Mass * Acceleration) can be used to help select your racquet weight. To generate more Force (Power/Ball Speed) you either need more weight or a faster swing speed. Younger players tend to have a faster swing speed so they can use a lighter racquet and still generate a high amount of Power. Older players tend to have a slower swing speed so a heavier racquet will help them generate more power.
If you have a problem with tennis elbow a HEAVIER Racquet may help reduce the condition. People usually think the opposite and go to a lighter racquet but a lighter racquet requires your arm to absorb more of the impact from the ball than a heavier racquet.
#2 - Grip Size
Most Entry Level Racquetball Racquets come in only one grip size, usually 3 5/8". Many Brands of Mid to High End Racquets come in either 3 5/8" or 3 7/8" grip sizes some also offer 3 15/16". Other manufactures call them SS , SSR, XS or Large which can be a little confusing. SS - Super Small (3 5/8"), SSR - Super Small Round (3 5/8" rounded) and Large (3 7/8"). A Smaller Grip allows a better wrist snap for more power.
A general grip rule - if you wear an extra-small, small, or medium glove you would almost always want a smaller grip (3 5/8 or SS). If you have an extra-large glove you're going to almost always want a larger grip (3 7/8 , 3 15/16 or XS). Large gloved people have a decision to make.
#3 - Head Shape
Head Shape is usually determined by your playing style or Power vs Control
- Teardrop - Used for the player looking for Total Power
- Quadraform - Used for the player looking for Control with Power
- Delta Frame - Introduced by Head in 2015 optimized fram shap with a constant beam width - Largest sweetspot possible.
