How to Choose a Squash Racket (Coach's Guide)

Picking a squash racket can feel like guesswork. Every frame claims "power and control," and the spec sheets are full of numbers that don't mean much until you've played with a few rackets. We coach players from first-time beginners to college teams, and the same few questions decide almost every racket choice. Here's how to work through them.

1. Start with weight

Squash racket weights are usually listed as the unstrung frame weight, most often between 110g and 150g.

110–125g (light): fast through the swing and easy to maneuver at the front of the court. Lighter frames reward good technique, which is why most advanced players and pros use them. Examples: Harrow Vapor 110, Tecnifibre Carboflex Neo 125.
130–150g (heavier): more stable on off-center hits and easier to generate pace with a shorter swing. A good fit for beginners, players returning to the game, and doubles. Example: Harrow Storm 145.

Lighter isn't automatically better. If you're still learning a full swing, a slightly heavier frame often feels more solid and forgiving.

2. Choose a balance

Balance tells you where the weight sits, measured in millimetres from the butt of the handle.

Head-heavy: more weight in the head means more power from the back of the court. Helpful if you're developing your swing.
Even balance: a blend of power and control that suits most club players.
Head-light: quicker hands for volleys, drops and fast exchanges. Common with lighter, advanced frames like the Tecnifibre Carboflex Neo 125 NS.

3. Teardrop or open throat?

A teardrop (closed throat) frame runs the main strings all the way down to the shaft. Longer strings mean a bigger sweet spot and more power. An open throat frame has a traditional bridge, giving a more compact string bed with extra control and feel.

Teardrop rackets like the Harrow Response 120 and Harrow Reflex 125 are a great choice if you want easy power. Open throat frames like the Harrow Vapor 115 suit players who like to shape the ball precisely.

4. Check the grip

Most squash rackets have a similar handle size, but some come in a narrower version. Tecnifibre's NS (narrow shaft) models have a slimmer grip, which many players with smaller hands find easier to control. You can also build a grip up with an overgrip.

5. Don't forget the strings

Most rackets come factory strung, usually at around 28 lbs. As a rule of thumb, lower tension gives more power and feel, and higher tension gives more control. Thinner strings (18 gauge) add grip on the ball and feel; thicker strings (17 gauge) last longer. When it's time to restring, browse our squash strings.

Our coach picks by level

Brand new to squash: Harrow Storm 145. Forgiving, head-heavy and affordable.
Improving club player: Harrow Response 120 or Harrow Meta 115.
Competitive player: Harrow Vapor 115 or Tecnifibre Carboflex Neo 125.
Juniors: Harrow Junior 130, a shorter 25-inch frame for younger players.
Hardball doubles: Harrow M-140 or a Harrow Bancroft frame.

Protect your eyes

Whatever racket you choose, wear proper squash eye guards. Protective eyewear is required for junior and doubles play in most sanctioned events, and it's a smart choice for everyone. See our squash eye guards.

Still not sure?

Tell us how you play and we'll point you to the right frame. Ask a coach, or browse all squash rackets.

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