What Is Racket Balance in Squash? Head-Heavy vs Head-Light vs Even

Ever wondered why some squash rackets feel “top-heavy” while others fly through the air? This guide explains racket balance: head-heavy, head-light or even. And how each affects your power, control, and speed on court.

What Is Racket Balance and Why It Matters

In squash, a racket’s balance describes how its total weight is distributed between the handle and the head. This characteristic greatly influences how the racket swings, feels, and performs on court.

Racket balance is usually categorized into three types: head-heavy, head-light, and even (neutral). Two rackets may weigh the same, but if one carries more mass toward the head, it will deliver power differently than one that’s balanced closer to the grip.

Head-Heavy Balance: Power from the Backcourt

A head-heavy racket has more of its weight distributed toward the head. This gives your shots added punch because there’s more mass behind each swing.

How It Affects Play

• Generates more natural power on drives and deep shots.
• Ideal for players who rely on length and heavy back-court play.
• Slightly slower to manoeuvre in quick front-court rallies or volleys.
• May feel more tiring on the wrist and shoulder during long sessions.

Best for: Players who want effortless power and prefer hitting strong, deep drives.

Coach’s Tip:
If you often feel your shots lack depth, a slightly head-heavy racket can help you push the ball deeper without over-swinging. Avoid going too extreme—too much head weight can slow reaction time and fatigue your arm.

Head-Light Balance: Agility and Control up Front

A head-light racket shifts the centre of gravity closer to your hand. This reduces inertia in the swing, making it feel lighter and more responsive.

How It Affects Play

• Easier to control and quicker to reposition.
• Great for volleying, flicks, and deceptive front-court play.
• Requires more effort to generate power from the backcourt.
• Off-centre hits may feel less stable since the head has less mass.

Best for: Fast, attacking players who love quick rallies and front-court battles.

Coach’s Tip:
If you like cutting off shots early or dominating the T, head-light rackets match your pace. But if you struggle to clear the back wall, you may want to test a slightly more balanced setup.

Even Balance: The All-Rounder’s Choice

An evenly balanced racket distributes weight more centrally, offering a balance between manoeuvrability and power.

How It Affects Play

• Blends control with power—never extreme in either direction.
• Great for players still shaping their playing style.
• Provides stability for both drives and touch shots.

Best for: Club players and intermediates who mix deep drives with front-court plays.

Coach’s Tip:
If your game shifts between attacking and defending, or you’re unsure which type suits you, start with an even balance. Once your playing style becomes clear, you can adjust later.

Other Factors to Consider

Total Weight: A 125 g head-heavy racket may swing differently than a 135 g head-light one.

Swing Weight: How heavy the racket feels in motion matters more than static grams.

Strength and Technique: Stronger players can handle heavier heads; beginners often benefit from head-light or even balance.

Court Position: Back-court players lean toward head-heavy; front-court players toward head-light.

Quick Checklist Before Buying

• Check the balance point (often shown in mm or as “points head heavy/light”).
• Assess your swing speed, fast or deliberate?
• Consider your injury history, wrist or elbow issues may prefer head-light.
• Test different rackets to find the most natural response for your style.

Final Word

The right racket balance isn’t about “best”, it’s about fit. Choose based on your strengths, swing speed, and where you dominate on the court.

If you’re developing your all-round game, an even balance is the safest bet. Once you know your preferred play style, fine-tune with head-light or head-heavy options.

At My-Squash.com, we stock all balance types, from lightning-fast head-light rackets to powerful head-heavy frames so you can find your perfect match.

FAQ

Q: Can I adjust a racket’s balance?

Yes. You can modify balance slightly using lead tape on the head or handle, but it changes the swing feel and should be done carefully.

Q: Does balance affect injury risk?

Yes. Head-heavy rackets increase torque on the wrist and forearm, which can lead to fatigue or discomfort if your technique isn’t solid.

Q: What’s best for beginners?

Beginners should start with an even or slightly head-light racket. It’s easier to control and helps develop proper technique before adding power.