How to Choose Your First Badminton Racket (Beginner’s Guide UK)

Choosing your first badminton racket can feel overwhelming.
There are hundreds of models, weights, and grip sizes — and most online stores leave you guessing what’s right for you.

At Racket Shack, we help players find rackets that actually fit their game. You can even try demo rackets before you buy, so you’re never stuck with the wrong choice.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before buying your first badminton racket in the UK.

1. Know Your Playing Style

Before you even look at brands or prices, think about how you play.

• Are you an attacking player?
  You hit smashes often and prefer a racket that gives you extra power.
  👉 Go for a head-heavy racket, it helps generate more force.

• Are you a defensive or control player?
  You rely on precision, blocks, and quick reactions.
  👉 A head-light racket gives faster handling and control at the net.

If you’re unsure, a balanced racket is a great place to start. It offers a mix of both power and control, ideal for beginners developing all-round skills.

2. Understanding Racket Weight & Balance

Rackets are usually classified by weight using a “U” system:

💡 Tip: Most beginners find 4U rackets the most comfortable balance of power and control.

3. Grip Size & Comfort

Getting the right grip size can make or break your playing experience.
Too small and you’ll over-grip, tiring your hand. Too large and you’ll lose control.

Grip sizes are usually labelled G2–G5.

• G4 or G5 suits most UK adults.

• If you’re unsure, start with a smaller grip, you can always add an overgrip.

When you visit Racket Shack, we’ll help measure your hand and show you how to re-grip your racket for maximum comfort.

4. String Tension Explained

String tension affects power and control.

• Lower tension (18–22 lbs) = More power, larger sweet spot (ideal for beginners).

• Higher tension (23–28 lbs) = More control but needs better technique.

If you’re just starting out, go for 20–22 lbs tension. It’s forgiving and helps you learn proper shot timing.

5. Budget & Recommendations

You don’t need to spend hundreds on your first racket.
There are excellent beginner options under £100 that will perform brilliantly as you improve.

Recommended for Beginners:

• Yonex Astrox Smash (Lightweight & forgiving)

• Victor DriveX 1L (Balanced feel for all-round play)

• Babolat X-Feel Origin (Comfortable and durable)

Each of these can be demoed at Racket Shack before you commit.

6. Why Try Before You Buy?

Most players never get the chance to feel a racket before purchasing online. That’s where Racket Shack is different.

✅ You can test demo rackets on court.
✅ Get advice from experienced badminton coaches.
✅ Try different grip sizes and string tensions.
✅ Leave knowing you’ve found the perfect match.

Conclusion

Your first badminton racket should make you want to play more, not leave you second-guessing your choice.
By understanding your playing style, balance preferences, and comfort needs, you’ll be off to a strong start.

If you’re ready to find your perfect racket, visit Racket Shack to test demo rackets and get expert, one-to-one advice.
👉 Book a demo or browse rackets online