Advanced Rackets
Advanced Squash Rackets: When to Upgrade and How to Choose Like a Pro
Once you’ve put in the hours and your technique is solid, the game becomes about precision, speed, and feel. At this point, an advanced squash racket can give you that extra edge – but it’s not just about buying the most expensive frame.
How to Know You’re Ready for an Advanced Racket
You don’t have to be a professional, but advanced rackets are designed for players who already have:
Consistent Technique and Footwork
You can hit the sweet spot even under pressure and recover quickly.Desire for Precision Over Forgiveness
Beginner and intermediate rackets help correct errors; advanced rackets amplify your strengths but also expose weaknesses.A Developed Playing Style
Whether you like to play a fast attacking game, control the T, or rely on deception, advanced rackets let you fine-tune your approach.Physical Readiness
These rackets tend to be very light and very fast, requiring good strength in the wrist, forearm, and shoulders.
Personal reflection:
I knew I was ready to step up when I started noticing that my intermediate racket wasn’t responsive enough for quick counter-drops and volleying. The ball was going where I wanted, but I wanted it to get there faster.
What Changes with Advanced Rackets?
1. Weight: Ultra-Light Frames (110–125g)
These rackets are designed for speed and quick reaction.
Light weight makes volleys, flicks, and counterattacks easier.
However, you must generate your own power consistently.
2. Balance: Mostly Head-Light
Advanced rackets often have head-light or even extra head-light balance, allowing lightning-fast racket preparation.
This suits players who like to dominate the T and play at pace.
3. Stringing & Customization
At this level, string choice, tension, and customization become crucial:
Lower tension = more power and forgiveness
Higher tension = more control, less trampoline effect
Many advanced players restring more frequently to maintain feel.
4. Construction Quality
High-end rackets use premium graphite, vibration dampening cores, and new tech like “X-Top”, Sonic Core, Graphene”.
This translates to a crisp, connected feel with every shot.
Top Advanced Squash Racket Recommendations
These rackets are frequently used by pro and high-level amateur players:
1. Tecnifibre Carboflex Airshaft 125 (Mohamed ElShorbagy Series)
Weight: 125g
Why it’s great: Incredibly popular on the PSA Tour. Light, fast, and precise.
Who it suits: Attacking players who want quick volleying and aggressive pace.
2. Dunlop Sonic Core Evolution 120
Weight: 120g
Features: Hybrid teardrop/classic shape for extra control with speed.
Why I like it: A little less “whippy” than a pure teardrop, great for players who value accuracy.
3. Eye Rackets V.Lite 110 Control
Weight: 110g
Why it’s great: Extremely light and responsive.
Warning: Brutal on poor technique, but fantastic once you’re confident.
4. HEAD Graphene 360+ Speed 120 Slimbody
Weight: 120g
Why it’s great: Ultra-maneuverable with a slim frame profile, making it easier to retrieve balls tight to the wall.
5. Black Knight Ion Cannon PSX
Weight: ~130g (feels head-light)
Why it’s great: Slightly more stable than some ultra-light rackets. Great if you want to move into advanced play without going too extreme.
My Experience Moving Into Advanced Rackets
The first time I tried an advanced racket, I honestly felt a bit clumsy – the ball came off the strings like a rocket, but I had to be more deliberate with my swing. After a couple of weeks, though, it felt like an extension of my arm.
Once you adapt, an advanced racket lets you hit tight drops, fast volleys, and deceptive flicks that just aren’t possible with a heavier, more forgiving frame.
Final Advice Before You Upgrade
Test Before You Buy
If possible, try a few rackets from clubmates or demo programs – advanced rackets are all about feel.Don’t Rush
Only move up once you’re confident your technique won’t suffer.Get Your Strings Sorted
At this level, a good string and tension setup matters as much as the frame.
Final Word
If squash is your passion and you’re serious about improving every aspect of your game, an advanced racket is the natural next step. It rewards precision, speed, and creativity – but it won’t hide your weaknesses.
Choose carefully, and you’ll find a racket that truly matches your style.