racquets

Racquets are handheld sports implements consisting of a frame with a string bed and a handle, used to strike a ball or shuttlecock. The term is widely used across several sports, including tennis, badminton, squash, and racquetball. Spelling varies by region and sport, with racquet common in some countries and racket in others.

Construction and features: Frames are typically made from wood, aluminum, or composite materials such as graphite or carbon fiber. The strings, made from nylon, polyester, or gut, are held under tension within the frame. Key design factors include head size, length, weight, balance, string pattern, and string tension, all influencing power, control, and maneuverability.

Sport-specific notes: Tennis racquets tend to have larger heads and greater mass for power; badminton racquets are light and stiff for rapid racket speed; squash racquets are long and narrow with small heads for precision; racquetball racquets are compact with a broad string area for impact. Pickleball uses a paddle rather than a traditional racquet.

Use and maintenance: Players select racquets based on skill, style, and court. Higher string tension usually provides more control but less power; head-heavy racquets offer power and access to the ball, while head-light models are easier to maneuver. Grip size affects comfort and injury risk. Maintenance includes replacing grips, restringing when strings lose tension or break, and keeping the frame clean and dry.

Regulation and history: Racket characteristics are defined by governing bodies for each sport; material innovations have shifted toward lighter, stiffer frames and longer-lasting strings since the late 20th century.