racquet

A racquet is a hand-held sporting implement consisting of a handle connected to an open frame strung with taut cords. It is used to strike a ball or shuttlecock in a range of sports, including tennis, badminton, squash, and racquetball. The spelling racquet is common in British English and appears in the names of some sports, while racket is more common in American English when referring to the instrument generally.

Construction and materials: Rackets vary by sport but share a common skeleton: a frame (head) and a handle, joined by a throat. Modern frames are typically made from graphite or carbon fiber composites, sometimes with aluminum, titanium, or a composite core for stiffness and feel. Strings provide tension and control; materials include natural gut, synthetic gut, nylon, polyester, and multifilament strings. Head size, shape, weight, balance, and string tension influence power, control, and maneuverability.

Design considerations: Tennis racquets tend toward larger head sizes and moderate weight; badminton racquets are lightweight with high torsional stiffness; squash racquets are compact with a heavy head; racquetball racquets have large heads and robust frames. Grip size and handle shape affect comfort and performance.

Usage and maintenance: Racket strings require periodic restringing; recommended tensions vary by sport and player preference. Rackets should be inspected for cracks or frame damage, and stored away from extreme heat to preserve string tension and structural integrity.