With so many rackets to choose from, where does one start? Rackets have different specifications (weight, head size, stiffness, etc.), that are designed with different levels of player and playing style in mind. Here are a few tips to help you decide which racket might be best for you.
BEGINNER PLAYERS
If you are new to the game, you probably want to start with a lighter racket, which will help with swing speed as you build arm strength and help limit arm fatigue as you get started with the game. A heavier racket also requires more technical mastery and precision, which a beginner won’t yet have. Additionally, you may want to choose a racket with a larger head size, such as an Oversize, which will give you more surface area to contact the ball and allow you to have better success as you’re getting started.
Wilson recommends the Ultra or the Triad for beginner players.
INTERMEDIATE PLAYERS
As you develop your game, you open new options for your equipment choices. Because you now have better accuracy and timing with your swing, you can use a racket with a smaller head size, such as a Midplus, which will allow you to increase racket speed on your swing while maintaining control. Now that you’ve built up arm strength, a heavier racket can also now be used, which will help to increase your power. A slightly heavier racket will also help absorb more of the energy from the shots, which are being hit harder now as you advance in skill level.
Wilson recommends the Clash or the Blade rackets for intermediate players.
ADVANCED PLAYERS
By the time a player has more advanced skills, they will likely have sampled a variety of different rackets. By this point, they will be using a Midsize racket, which will allow them to have more feel for their shots.
Wilson recommends the Pro Staff or the Blade for this level of player.