By Justin Ma, 7x US Junior National Badminton Champion.
Last updated October 5, 2022
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3 min read
Head-heavy, even-balanced, or head-light: These are just a few options to consider before you settle on a shiny new racket. But why do so many offensive players gravitate towards head-heavy badminton rackets? What are the reasons to use one, and how can you know if it’s right for you?
In this post, learn about head-heavy badminton rackets, why you might want to try one, and the best options available in 2022.
One of the benefits of a head-heavy badminton racket is the raw power that it can bring to your game — in specific, your clears and smashes. But how does it work?
Put simply, extra weight at the top of the racket translates to increased force behind the shuttle. This makes head-heavy rackets great for players who want power shots (like deadly clears and smashes) to be a core part of their game.
Unless you have good technique and shoulder strength, a head-heavy racket can cause you to lose speed, handling, and accuracy in your shots. That’s why, as a beginner, it might be best to stick to even-balanced or head-light rackets until you gain some more experience.
As you improve your skills and strengthen your muscles, you may find that a head-heavy racket becomes the perfect complement to your game.
Every badminton player has their own playstyle — which means different rackets will suit different people. With that in mind, here are a couple of other reasons you might want to use a head-heavy racket:
If you’re on the hunt for a good head-heavy badminton racket, here are three of the best options to consider in 2022.
The Yonex Voltric Z-Force II is arguably one of the most popular head-heavy rackets of all time. It’s available in both the 3U and 4U weight classes, has an extra stiff shaft for precision, and is known for its pure power.
These specs can make it tough to handle as a beginner — but for an advanced or pro player with the right skill set, this racket can be a spectacular option.
Check out the Voltric Z-Force II on Amazon
The Astrox 99 Game is another top-rated racket by Yonex. But unlike the Z-Force II, this one is a bit more user-friendly. It comes with a medium flex shaft (meaning it’s more forgiving), along with Yonex’s Rotational Generator System for a smoother transition between shots.
Overall, it’s a great option for any experienced player who wants to invest in their first high-quality, head-heavy racket.
Check out the Astrox 99 Game on Amazon
The Li-Ning 3D Calibar X Boost is another excellent head-heavy racket for intermediate to professional players. According to Li-Ning, this model is ideal for players “who rely on peak power for their gameplay.”
It has a high-flex shaft, medium overall weight, and is made with Li-Ning’s High-Tech Geometric Frame Design. This minimizes the air resistance around the racket, making for quicker shots and recovery. And while it is primarily a power racket, its speed-boosting specs can also make it a useful all-around option.
Check out the Li-Ning 3D Calibar X Boost on Amazon
Before you settle on a head-heavy racket, remember that balance point is not the only factor to look for. A good racket should suit your overall playstyle, and it’s key to think about things like flexibility, string tension, and overall racket weight before you buy.
The bottom line is that choosing a new racket can be a process — especially when you want to try new features and balance points. So, take your time learning, reading reviews, and trying rackets in person if you have the chance.
By following these tips, you might just find a racket that takes your game to the next level. Good luck!
For more buying guides and resources to improve your game, visit BadmintonJustin.com today. And for regular highlight reels and pro tips on all things badminton, don’t forget to subscribe to the YouTube channel.
