Whether your're an amateur or hoping to be the next beach tennis champion, buying a racket can be a huge investment. Choosing the right one can make a great difference for your beach tennis game. The following guide will help you to purchase a beach tennis racket.
Beach tennis racket length - The maximum racket length allowed by ITF rules is 50 cm. In general, longer rackets provide greater leverage on the serve – greater impact and a longer reach. On the other hand, shorter rackets are easier to manoeuvre, especially for women and children.
Beach tennis racket head size - Racket width is also regulated by ITF rules. All of the racket offered in our shop conform to these regulations. We recommend racket with an average width: players should have the feeling they are holding something substantial but easily controllable. It is also essential for rims to be rounded, as square rims are loud and difficult to play (however, racket shape is a matter of personal preference).
Beach tennis racket balance point - Head heavy racket generate greater ball speed, though at the expense of maneuverability. On the other hand, head light rackets are easier to control but produce lower ball speed. In general it holds true that with head heavy rackets ball speed is greater, whereas head light rackets is easier maneuverability.
Beach tennis racket construction - The most important factor is the material from which the racket is made. The qualities of the racket such as flexibility, weight, etc. depend most on the inner and outer materials utilized. The outer material of the racket is usually graphite, Kevlar, fibreglass and various alloys such as graphite and titanium or Kevlar. The inner material, typically hardened foam, is just as important as the outer material, if not more so, especially for flexibility and stroke strength.
Beach tennis racket surface - Currently available on the market are rackets with small grains and a smooth finish. A coarse surface is better for greater control and rotation, which is mainly used when serving.
Beach tennis racket flexibility - Racket flexibility depends mainly on the fill of the racket head. This material has a determinative character (naturally along with the surface material) for racket strength and elasticity. Rackets with greater flexibility typically give the ball more energy on impact (the rackets are more powerful, though at the expense of ball control, since the ball remains in contact with the racket longer). On the other hand, stiffer rackets absorb the energy from contact with the ball. A defensive style of play is easier with a stiffer racket.
Beach tennis racket weight - Racket weight, usually in the range of 320-360 gr, is an extremely important factor. Racket weight has a substantial impact on the feel of play. Heavier rackets are generally more stable, stiffer, more powerful and transfer less vibration to the player’s hand. Lighter rackets are easier to control and enable players to swing harder and to prepare for the shot quicker, but they are not always better choice. This characteristic is highly individual for each player. Rackets qualities depend a great deal on the combination of weight and balance. Heavier rackets are for harder and precise strokes and light rackets are more comfortable and better suited for a defensive style of play.
Recreational players typically choose lighter rackets for better comfort and a more enjoyable game. On the other hand, more advanced players tend to use medium weight and heavy rackets.
With all of the options and choices available, remember the best beach tennis racket for you is the one that gives you the confidence to play your best.
Have fun!