8 Best Squash Rackets for Beginners (October 2026) Complete Reviews

There is one answer most beginners do not need to agonise over. The Head Nano Ti 110 is the best squash racket for beginners overall: a titanium frame with a carbon fiber shaft, a 500 sq cm head and a head-heavy 110 g weight that stays stable through every mistimed swing. Last updated in 2026 against current model listings, and every pick below is chosen on published specifications, manufacturer claims and player-community feedback rather than guesswork.

That honesty matters in this category. Review volume for squash rackets is thin, and most of the “best racket” pages ranking today are either a three-item list from a few years ago or a shopping carousel with no guidance at all. So instead of a ranked list with invented testing, this is a spec-first roundup: frame weight, head size, shape, material, string pattern and grip, stated plainly for all eight rackets, so you can match one to your hand, your fitness and your first season.

The default rule I will keep repeating through this guide is simple. Look for a frame in the 130-150 g range with a head around 500 sq cm, and buy it strung so you can walk onto a court the same day. Everything beyond that is refinement, not requirement.

I also want to clear up the anxiety that shows up most often in beginner discussions on r/squash: a pro-grade racket will not make you better, and an expensive one will not hold you back. It will simply be harder to swing, and hard-to-swing equipment is what ends a lot of first seasons early. Squash players on r/squash consistently describe beginner recommendations the same way, clustering around frames valued for a big sweet spot and easy power rather than for tour pedigree.

Contents Table of Contents →
  1. 1Our Top 3 Best Squash Rackets for Beginners (October 2026)
  2. 2Picked for freshwater, planted, brackish and reef tanks
  3. 3Head Nano Ti 110
  4. 4Dunlop Sports Racket Set
  5. 5HEAD Extreme 145
  6. 6Comparing the Best Squash Rackets for Beginners in 2026
  7. 7Head Nano Ti 110
  8. 8Dunlop Sports Racket Set
  9. 9HEAD Extreme 145
  10. 10Dunlop Sonic Ti
  11. 11SquashGalaxy Intro 5000
  12. 12Dunlop Blaze Inferno Court Pack
  13. 13Pro Impact Graphite Racket
  14. 14HEAD i110
  15. 151. Head Nano Ti 110 – Best Overall for Your First Season
  16. 16Head Nano Ti 110 Squash Racket
  17. 17Key specs
  18. 18What we like
  19. 19Worth knowing
  20. 20Why 110 Grams and Head-Heavy Balance Works Early On
  21. 21Titanium Frame and Carbon Fiber Shaft: What the Blend Buys You
  22. 22Who This Racket Is Not For
  23. 232. Dunlop Sports Racket Set – Best Starter Kit With Eyewear Included
  24. 24Dunlop Sports Squash Racquet Set (Includes 2 Racquets, 2 Eyeguards, 1 Ball, Cover) (Beginner Package)
  25. 25Key specs
  26. 26What we like
  27. 27Worth knowing
  28. 28What the Graphite Frame and Titanium Shaft Combination Does
  29. 29Protection, Balls and the Case: What You Actually Need
  30. 30Who This Set Is Not For
  31. 313. HEAD Extreme 145 – Best for Players With a Big Natural Swing
  32. 32Head 2025 Extreme 145 Squash Racquet (212085)
  33. 33Key specs
  34. 34What we like
  35. 35Worth knowing
  36. 36495 Square Centimetres and the Oversized Sweet Spot
  37. 37Choosing the Right Weight in the Extreme Series
  38. 38Who This Racket Is Not For
  39. 394. Dunlop Sonic Ti – Best Recreational Frame for Casual Club Nights
  40. 40Dunlop Sports Squash Sonic Lite Ti Racket, Grey/Blue
  41. 41Key specs
  42. 42What we like
  43. 43Worth knowing
  44. 44What the 16×18 Powermax Pattern Does for a Beginner
  45. 45What the Entry-Level Build Does and Does Not Give You
  46. 46Who This Racket Is Not For
  47. 475. SquashGalaxy Intro 5000 – Best Budget Pick for Club and Practice Use
  48. 48SquashGalaxy Intro 5000 Squash Racquet Series (Gray)
  49. 49Key specs
  50. 50What we like
  51. 51Worth knowing
  52. 52500 Square Centimetres on a Light Alloy Frame
  53. 53Why It Is Built for Spares, Practice and Loaners
  54. 54Who This Racket Is Not For
  55. 556. Dunlop Blaze Inferno Court Pack – Best All-in-One Pack With Two Balls
  56. 56Dunlop Sports Squash Racket Court Pack
  57. 57Key specs
  58. 58What we like
  59. 59Worth knowing
  60. 60175 Grams: Stable but Genuinely Heavy
  61. 61Why the Eyewear and Ball Pairing Matters
  62. 62Who This Pack Is Not For
  63. 637. Pro Impact Graphite Racket – Best Lightweight Control Frame for Small Hands
  64. 64PRO IMPACT Graphite Carbon Fiber Squash Racket with Carry-On Cover & Durable Strings – Full Size Lightweight Racquet for Men & Women – Designed for Enhanced Control Skill Levels
  65. 65Key specs
  66. 66What we like
  67. 67Worth knowing
  68. 68150 Grams Unstrung: Why the Number Is Misleading
  69. 6914 x 18 Strings and a Head-Light Balance for Control
  70. 70Who This Racket Is Not For
  71. 718. HEAD i110 – Best for Fast Swing Speed and Players New to Graphene Frames
  72. 72HEAD i110 Squash Racquet
  73. 73Key specs
  74. 74What we like
  75. 75Worth knowing
  76. 76110 Grams and What Fast Swing Speed Buys You
  77. 77Why the 14 x 18 Pattern Is the Main Compromise
  78. 78Who This Racket Is Not For
  79. 79What to Look for in a Beginner Squash Racket
  80. 80Frame Weight and Joint Comfort
  81. 81Head Size and the Sweet Spot
  82. 82Teardrop, Open Throat and V-String Shapes
  83. 83Graphite, Aluminium, Alloy and Titanium
  84. 84String Tension: Is 26 Pounds Right for a Beginner?
  85. 85Grip Size and Handle Length
  86. 86When to Upgrade, and What to Check on a Used Racket
  87. 87Frequently Asked Questions
  88. 88What is the best squash racket for a beginner?
  89. 89Which racket is best for beginners?
  90. 90How do I choose the best squash racket?
  91. 91Is 26 lbs string tension good for beginners?
  92. 92Should a beginner buy an expensive or professional racket?
  93. 93Which Beginner Squash Racket Should You Buy?

Our Top 3 Best Squash Rackets for Beginners (October 2026)

Three rackets cover most beginners. The Head Nano Ti 110 is the safest all-round buy, the Dunlop Sports starter set is the best value if you want everything in one box, and the HEAD Extreme 145 is the pick if you swing big and want a frame that settles the ball.

Side by side 2026

Picked for freshwater, planted, brackish and reef tanks

Notes from a working fishroom, written by people who still do the water changes.

No. 1 EDITOR'S CHOICE
Head Nano Ti 110

Head Nano Ti 110

  • Titanium frame
  • carbon fiber shaft
  • 110 g head-heavy balance
  • 500 sq cm head
No. 2 BEST VALUE
Dunlop Sports Racket Set

Dunlop Sports Racket Set

Fishroom pick

  • Two rackets
  • two eyeguards
  • ball and cover
  • Graphite frame with titanium shaft
No. 3 PREMIUM PICK
HEAD Extreme 145

HEAD Extreme 145

  • Pre-strung and ready to play
  • 145 g stability frame
  • 495 cm2 oversized head

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Comparing the Best Squash Rackets for Beginners in 2026

Here is the full field side by side, with the specifications that actually change how a racket feels on court. Weight, head size, string pattern and grip are the four fields worth reading twice, because those are the ones that affect your swing rather than the badge on the box.

At a glance 2026

Freshwater, planted, brackish and reef gear, one row each.

# Product Notes Where to buy
1
Head Nano Ti 110

Head Nano Ti 110

  • Titanium frame
  • carbon fiber shaft
  • 110 g head-heavy balance
  • 500 sq cm head
Check Latest Price→
2
Dunlop Sports Racket Set

Dunlop Sports Racket Set

  • Two rackets plus eyeguards
  • Graphite frame with titanium shaft
  • Ball and carry cover included
Check Latest Price→
3
HEAD Extreme 145

HEAD Extreme 145

  • Pre-strung and ready to play
  • 145 g heavyweight stability frame
  • 495 cm2 oversized head
Check Latest Price→
4
Dunlop Sonic Ti

Dunlop Sonic Ti

  • 16x18 Powermax string pattern
  • Mixed entry-level construction
  • Head-light balance for beginners
Check Latest Price→
5
SquashGalaxy Intro 5000

SquashGalaxy Intro 5000

  • 500 sq cm head
  • 16 x 18 string pattern
  • Alloy construction
  • Factory strung
Check Latest Price→
6
Dunlop Blaze Inferno Court Pack

Dunlop Blaze Inferno Court Pack

  • 175 g frame with 500 sq cm head
  • Protective eyewear plus two balls
  • Factory strung with case
Check Latest Price→
7
Pro Impact Graphite Racket

Pro Impact Graphite Racket

  • 150 g unstrung frame weight
  • 14 x 18 string pattern
  • Head-light balance at 350 mm
  • Carry-on cover included
Check Latest Price→
8
HEAD i110

HEAD i110

  • 110 g lightweight frame
  • Graphene carbon fiber construction
  • 14 x 18 string pattern
  • Pre-strung synthetic gut
Check Latest Price→

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1. Head Nano Ti 110 – Best Overall for Your First Season

Fishroom notes 2026 EDITOR'S CHOICE

Head Nano Ti 110 Squash Racket

Head Nano Ti 110 Squash Racket

Key specs

  • Titanium frame
  • Carbon fiber shaft
  • 110 g head-heavy
  • 500 sq cm head
  • Sold unstrung

What we like

  • Titanium frame and carbon fiber shaft built for durability
  • 110 g head-heavy balance suits a developing swing
  • 500 sq cm head gives a large forgiving sweet spot
  • Heaviest review volume of any racket in this roundup

Worth knowing

  • Sold unstrung so stringing and setup fall on you
  • Some 3-star reviews describe it as stiff and demanding
Check Latest Price→

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The Head Nano Ti 110 is the racket I would hand to a friend on their first court booking. It is not the lightest frame here and it is not the cheapest, but it is the one where the specification sheet and the player feedback agree: big head, sensible weight, materials that survive contact with a wall.

What stands out first is the 500 sq cm head. That is a full-size squash head, and a full-size head spreads the impact of a mistimed shot across more strings, which is exactly the forgiveness a beginner needs while the swing is still short and unpredictable.

Why 110 Grams and Head-Heavy Balance Works Early On

The listed weight is 110 g with a head-heavy balance, which sounds contradictory until you play it. A light frame lets you swing fast, and a head-heavy bias means the mass sits toward the head where it damps the ball on contact rather than pushing it away.

For a player still learning to swing through the ball, that damping is the useful part. Off-centre hits do not rocket past you, and the ball comes back at a speed your forearm can handle for a full rally rather than a three-shot burst.

Titanium Frame and Carbon Fiber Shaft: What the Blend Buys You

The frame material is listed as titanium with a carbon fiber shaft. That combination gives a frame stiff enough to hold its shape through repeated wall impacts but light enough not to punish you for a mistimed volley.

Reviewers do describe a small cluster of 3-star feedback calling it stiff or demanding, and that is fair feedback to weigh. If you are a smaller or older player with a slower swing, look at the Pro Impact or HEAD i110 sections instead.

Who This Racket Is Not For

It is not the right pick if you want to walk out of the box and play immediately, because it ships unstrung. Budget for a stringing job or a shop restring before your first session.

It is also not the pick for a junior whose hands are still small, since the grip is a single standard size with no smaller alternative in the frame itself.

Where to buy
Check Latest Price on Amazon→

Price and stock are shown by the retailer.

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2. Dunlop Sports Racket Set – Best Starter Kit With Eyewear Included

Fishroom notes 2026 PREMIUM PICK

Dunlop Sports Squash Racquet Set (Includes 2 Racquets, 2 Eyeguards, 1 Ball, Cover) (Beginner Package)

Dunlop Sports Squash Racquet Set (Includes 2 Racquets, 2 Eyeguards, 1 Ball, Cover) (Beginner Package)

Key specs

  • Graphite frame
  • Titanium shaft
  • Two rackets included
  • Two eyeguards, ball and cover

What we like

  • Complete kit with two rackets
  • two eyeguards
  • a ball and a cover
  • Graphite frames described as well made and durable
  • Adjustable eyeguard holders fit adults and children
  • Good balance of power and control for new players

Worth knowing

  • Some units shipped with a deflated ball
  • Included carry case is inexpensive clear vinyl
  • A few buyers find the rackets heavier than expected
Check Latest Price→

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This set solves a problem nobody thinks about until it bites: eyewear. Squash balls travel at pace off a struck forehand in a confined space, and most clubs will not let you on court without protective eyewear. This package includes two pairs with adjustable holders, which is the single most useful thing in the box.

Getting two rackets also means you have a backup. A spare in the bag matters more than people expect, because a snapped string or a cracked frame an hour before a match is a wasted evening.

What the Graphite Frame and Titanium Shaft Combination Does

The frames are listed as graphite with a titanium shaft, and reviewers describe them as well made and durable for the money. Graphite gives a stiffer, lighter response than alloy, and the titanium shaft keeps some shock absorption through the handle.

Owners also report a good balance of power and control, which is the right description for a frame that has to do both jobs in a first year of play.

Protection, Balls and the Case: What You Actually Need

The adjustable eyeguard holders are the standout feature because they fit both adult and junior faces, which makes this an easy present for someone starting at a club.

The included carry case is inexpensive clear vinyl, so treat it as a gym-bag protector rather than luggage. One of the recurring gripes in reviews is a ball arriving deflated, so buy a spare ball separately.

Who This Set Is Not For

It is not for a player who already owns two decent rackets, since a second identical beginner frame is a lot of packaging for little gain. A few buyers also found the rackets heavier than they expected, so if you want a very light frame, read the weight sections in the other reviews first.

Where to buy
Check Latest Price on Amazon→

Price and stock are shown by the retailer.

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3. HEAD Extreme 145 – Best for Players With a Big Natural Swing

Fishroom notes 2026 BEST VALUE

Head 2025 Extreme 145 Squash Racquet (212085)

Head 2025 Extreme 145 Squash Racquet (212085)

Key specs

  • 145 g frame
  • 495 cm2 oversized head
  • Pre-strung
  • Heavyweight stability build

What we like

  • Arrives pre-strung and ready to play
  • Lightweight handling despite the 145 g frame
  • Reviewers call it strong and precise and more durable than 110 g frames
  • Part of a multi-weight series so lighter versions exist

Worth knowing

  • A few buyers needed an adjustment period to settle the balance
  • Only a 6-month manufacturer warranty
Check Latest Price→

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The HEAD Extreme 145 arrives strung, which removes the single biggest friction point for a new player. You can buy it and be on court the same week, and for a beginner that matters more than any material upgrade.

At 145 g it is the heaviest frame in this roundup, and that is deliberate. Heavier frames damp the ball, hold a swing steady through contact, and punish a weak stroke less, which suits players who already swing with size and are still building consistency.

495 Square Centimetres and the Oversized Sweet Spot

The head size is listed at 495 cm2, which is effectively a full-size head with a very large sweet spot. The teardrop head shape and head-light balance work together: the teardrop elongates the head vertically so the ball lands in strings rather than on a frame edge.

Spec sheets credit the stability frame with shock absorption and precision, and the longer mains give a stronger trampoline effect. That trampoline is where the power in this frame comes from.

Choosing the Right Weight in the Extreme Series

The Extreme is offered as a series rather than a single frame, and the 145 g is the heaviest of the HEAD power range. If you are uncertain, the lighter versions share the same head shape and teardrop geometry at a lower mass.

That choice matters more than most beginners expect, and it is why this frame suits big swingers rather than everyone. A small player with a short swing will find 145 g tiring over a long rally.

Who This Racket Is Not For

It is not for a first-week player who has never held a squash racket, because the weight is demanding. It is also not for anyone who expects a long warranty, since the listed manufacturer coverage is six months.

Where to buy
Check Latest Price on Amazon→

Price and stock are shown by the retailer.

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4. Dunlop Sonic Ti – Best Recreational Frame for Casual Club Nights

Fishroom notes 2026 BEST FOR RECREATIONAL PLAY

Dunlop Sports Squash Sonic Lite Ti Racket, Grey/Blue

Dunlop Sports Squash Sonic Lite Ti Racket, Grey/Blue

Key specs

  • Mixed entry-level construction
  • 16x18 Powermax pattern
  • Head-light balance
  • Sold unstrung

What we like

  • Lightweight and easy to swing for a first-season player
  • Owners report it handles wall scrapes well
  • Comfortable grip that fits the hand
  • Strong value for recreational players

Worth knowing

  • Sold unstrung
  • requiring a separate stringing job
  • A small number of reviews report a warped frame
  • No carrying bag included
Check Latest Price→

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The Dunlop Sonic Ti is marketed as a first-step companion racket for beginners and recreational players, and the design brief is honest about it. A 16×18 Powermax string pattern and a head-light balance keep the frame easy to move and easy to swing.

Entry-level mixed construction is the traditional choice for affordable rackets. It feels different from graphite, with more give in the frame and less response, but it is predictable and it is forgiving.

What the 16×18 Powermax Pattern Does for a Beginner

A 16 mains by 18 crosses layout gives more string coverage and a larger hitting area than a fine pattern, which is exactly the effect you want when contact is inconsistent. The string pattern here is listed as Powermax, Dunlop’s own layout name.

Head-light balance means the weight sits toward the handle, which speeds up swing speed. For a player chasing a high ball or scrambling out of a back corner, that bias is an advantage.

What the Entry-Level Build Does and Does Not Give You

Cheaper frames are more durable in the sense of forgiving: they bend slightly rather than snapping, and owners report it holds up for occasional play. The trade-off is control and feel, which is why it is not the frame you grow into.

There is a small number of reviews reporting a warped frame or strings snapping during early play, so treat this as a weekend racket rather than something to hammer every day.

Who This Racket Is Not For

It is not for anyone who plays three or four times a week and wants consistent response, and it is not convenient for a first session because it ships unstrung. It also has no carrying case, so add one if you plan to keep it in a car.

Where to buy
Check Latest Price on Amazon→

Price and stock are shown by the retailer.

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5. SquashGalaxy Intro 5000 – Best Budget Pick for Club and Practice Use

Fishroom notes 2026 BUDGET PICK

SquashGalaxy Intro 5000 Squash Racquet Series (Gray)

SquashGalaxy Intro 5000 Squash Racquet Series (Gray)

Key specs

  • 500 sq cm head
  • 16 x 18 string pattern
  • Alloy construction
  • Factory strung

What we like

  • Very light weight that experienced players compare to higher-end frames
  • Handles well and survives repeated wall strikes
  • Comes pre-strung and ready to play
  • Frequently praised as a good practice and club racket

Worth knowing

  • Some reviewers feel the frame feels cheap at this price point
  • One review reports strings breaking in the centre
  • Not recommended for long-term competitive use
Check Latest Price→

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The Intro 5000 is positioned for introductory players and club or institutional use, and it does one job: it is a strung, full-head racket that survives being hit by beginners. That narrow brief is why it works.

It comes factory strung, so there is nothing to arrange before your first booking. For someone who wants to walk into a club and start hitting balls, that single feature is worth more than a material upgrade.

500 Square Centimetres on a Light Alloy Frame

The head size is listed at 500 sq cm, which matches the full-size heads on the premium frames in this list. A large head on a light frame gives you a big sweet spot with very little swing weight, which is a good trade for an inconsistent striker.

The 16 x 18 pattern matches the Dunlop Sonic Ti layout, so the feel and the hitting area are familiar if you later move up to a graphite frame with the same string count.

Why It Is Built for Spares, Practice and Loaners

Owners consistently describe it as a good practice or club racket, and many note that experienced players compare its weight favourably to far costlier frames. The alloy construction keeps the mass down and the price down with it.

Because the frame is anonymous and robust, it also works as a gym-bag loaner, a club spare, or a racket to keep in a car for casual hits after work.

Who This Racket Is Not For

It is not for long-term or competitive use, and some reviewers describe the build as feeling cheap at this price. One review also reports strings breaking in the centre during casual play, so check the bed before a match rather than after.

Where to buy
Check Latest Price on Amazon→

Price and stock are shown by the retailer.

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6. Dunlop Blaze Inferno Court Pack – Best All-in-One Pack With Two Balls

Fishroom notes 2026 BEST ALL-IN-ONE PACK

Dunlop Sports Squash Racket Court Pack

Dunlop Sports Squash Racket Court Pack

Key specs

  • 175 g graphite alloy frame
  • 500 sq cm head
  • Eyewear plus two balls
  • Factory strung with case

What we like

  • Complete pack with racket
  • eyewear
  • two balls and a case
  • Highest average rating in this roundup at 4.7
  • Eyewear does not fog up during play
  • Frame described as sturdy and well made

Worth knowing

  • The 175 g frame feels heavy and produces less power
  • Standard grip can slip without an overgrip
Check Latest Price→

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This pack is the AI-favourite shape of beginner purchase: one box, one decision, everything needed. You get the Dunlop Blaze Inferno racket, Vision protective eyewear, a double yellow dot ball, a single yellow dot ball and a carry case with a shoulder strap.

Two balls at different training speeds is a genuinely thoughtful inclusion. A single yellow dot is the standard rally ball for match play, while a double yellow dot ball takes more pace, so you can practise against something harder than your next match.

175 Grams: Stable but Genuinely Heavy

The listed frame weight is 175 g with a 500 sq cm head, and it is the heaviest racket here. Owners who like it describe a sturdy, well-made frame; owners who do not like it describe a heavy racket that produces less power because you have to work harder to move it.

That trade is worth thinking about before you buy. A heavy frame rewards a committed swing and punishes a passive one, and a 175 g wall is a lot to ask of a forearm that has never done this before.

Why the Eyewear and Ball Pairing Matters

Reviewers single out the included eyewear for not fogging up during play, which is the failure mode that makes people quit wearing protection. Combined with two balls, the pack removes the two accessory purchases every new player forgets to make.

The case with a shoulder strap is a small quality-of-life touch for someone carrying a racket to a club after work.

Who This Pack Is Not For

It is not for a small or older player with a slower swing, or for anyone with elbow or wrist discomfort, where a lighter frame is the safer route. The standard grip is also reported to slip for some players, so budget for an overgrip.

Where to buy
Check Latest Price on Amazon→

Price and stock are shown by the retailer.

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7. Pro Impact Graphite Racket – Best Lightweight Control Frame for Small Hands

Fishroom notes 2026 BEST LIGHTWEIGHT CONTROL

PRO IMPACT Graphite Carbon Fiber Squash Racket with Carry-On Cover & Durable Strings – Full Size Lightweight Racquet for Men & Women – Designed for Enhanced Control Skill Levels

PRO IMPACT Graphite Carbon Fiber Squash Racket with Carry-On Cover & Durable Strings – Full Size Lightweight Racquet for Men & Women – Designed for Enhanced Control Skill Levels

Key specs

  • 150 g unstrung weight
  • 14 x 18 pattern
  • Head-light at 350 mm
  • Graphite with cover

What we like

  • Lightweight graphite and carbon build stronger than aluminium
  • 14 x 18 bed with head-light balance aimed at control
  • Comes with a carry-on cover and factory strings
  • Suitable from beginner through to seasoned players

Worth knowing

  • Marketing quotes a roughly 350 g total weight while the frame is 150 g
  • Small 4 inch grip suits only some hands
Check Latest Price→

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The Pro Impact sits in the middle of everything that matters to a beginner: a 150 g unstrung frame, a head-light balance at 350 mm, and a graphite construction with reinforced carbon. It is strung and includes a carry-on cover, so it is ready to play.

At 150 g unstrung it lands in the middle of the 130-150 g comfort band that we recommend most often for first-season players, which makes it a safe default with a bias toward control.

150 Grams Unstrung: Why the Number Is Misleading

One important warning travels with this racket. The marketing material quotes a total weight in the region of 350 g, which is the balance point measurement rather than the frame mass, and the frame itself is specified at 150 g unstrung. Players comparing weights across brands need the frame weight, not the balance figure.

Once strung, the finished racket sits a little heavier than 150 g, which is normal and worth remembering when you compare it with frames that quote a strung weight.

14 x 18 Strings and a Head-Light Balance for Control

The 14 x 18 string bed with a head-light balance at 350 mm leans toward control and maneuverability rather than raw power. That makes it a good fit for a player who plays close to the front wall and needs to react quickly.

The pure graphite frame with reinforced carbon is also lighter and stiffer than the alloy options in this list, so it is a genuine step up in response if you later want to move to a more expensive frame.

Who This Racket Is Not For

The 4 inch grip is the dealbreaker for some hands, and a too-small grip causes cramp and a loss of control rather than a snug feel. Check your hand span against the grip before you commit, and if you need a roomier handle, choose a frame with a standard grip instead.

Where to buy
Check Latest Price on Amazon→

Price and stock are shown by the retailer.

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8. HEAD i110 – Best for Fast Swing Speed and Players New to Graphene Frames

Fishroom notes 2026 BEST FOR QUICK SWING SPEED

HEAD i110 Squash Racquet

HEAD i110 Squash Racquet

Key specs

  • 110 g frame
  • Graphene carbon fiber
  • Pre-strung synthetic gut
  • 14 x 18 pattern

What we like

  • Very light 110 g frame with quick swing speed
  • Pre-strung with synthetic gut so it can be used immediately
  • Graphene construction aimed at durability
  • Listed for beginner and intermediate players

Worth knowing

  • Widest rating spread in this roundup with a 10 percent one-star cluster
  • 14 x 18 bed gives less feel than finer squash patterns
  • Some buyers feel it is on the pricier side for a first racket
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The HEAD i110 is the modern, pre-strung version of the classic 110 g beginner frame, updated with graphene carbon construction for stability. It is strung with Head Synthetic Gut Black in a 14 x 18 pattern and is ready to play out of the box.

Graphene construction is credited with a stability and consistency balance that is the useful trait here: a light frame that still settles the ball rather than skimming it long.

110 Grams and What Fast Swing Speed Buys You

At 110 g this is a genuinely light frame, and light means fast. A quick swing lets you get under the ball and play with spin, which is a real advantage when you are chasing a short corner pickup in a tight court.

The trade-off is stability. A light frame has less mass to absorb a mistimed contact, so off-centre hits will feel more punishing than on a 145 g frame. That is the reason the Nano Ti 110, with its head-heavy bias, tends to suit more players than this one.

Why the 14 x 18 Pattern Is the Main Compromise

A 14 mains by 18 crosses layout gives a solid, forgiving hitting area, but it delivers less feel and control than the finer squash patterns used on more advanced frames. For a beginner that is mostly a benefit, since forgiveness beats feedback.

The listed skill level covers beginners and intermediate players, which is an honest signal that this is a frame intended to be outgrown rather than kept forever.

Who This Racket Is Not For

It is not for a player who wants maximum feel, and not for someone who wants the most review consensus in this roundup. At 4.2 with a 10 percent one-star cluster, this is the most polarised frame in the list, and some buyers feel it is on the pricier side for a first racket.

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What to Look for in a Beginner Squash Racket

Three attributes decide almost everything for a new player, and they are the same three the search engines surface when they summarise this category. Get these right and the rest of the specification sheet is detail.

  • Weight: aim for a frame between 130 g and 150 g strung. That band is light enough to swing freely and heavy enough to stay stable through contact, and it is the range most beginners settle on comfortably.

  • Shape: choose a teardrop head or an open throat. Both enlarge the effective hitting area, and the teardrop is the easier of the two to find forgiving in an off-centre shot.

  • Material: pick graphite, titanium or a nano titanium blend over cheap alloy if your budget allows. Composite frames are durable but give less response, which you will feel once your stroke improves.

Frame Weight and Joint Comfort

Frame weight is the single most misunderstood number on the spec sheet, and it is the one most connected to how long you keep playing. A frame that is too heavy forces you to swing harder and faster than your technique can control, which loads the elbow and wrist through repetition rather than through one bad shot.

For a player with existing tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow discomfort, or anyone over 40 returning to racket sport after years away, the safe rule is to go lighter than you think you should. Anything in the 130-150 g band is the comfortable default, and a sub-120 g frame is the gentler option if your forearm is already complaining.

Head Size and the Sweet Spot

The sweet spot is the area of the string bed where power and control come together. A beginner’s swing is short and unrefined, so contact is often off-centre, and a larger head spreads that impact across more strings so you keep the rally alive.

Around 500 sq cm is the dominant beginner head size in this roundup, appearing on the Head Nano Ti 110, the SquashGalaxy Intro 5000 and the Blaze Inferno pack. The HEAD Extreme 145 at 495 cm2 is effectively the same size with a teardrop profile.

Teardrop, Open Throat and V-String Shapes

Racket shape is a top-three confusion point for beginners, and the short version is this: a teardrop head is the easiest shape to play with. The open throat is a little more aggressive and rewards a stronger swing, and the closed throat is found on control-oriented frames aimed at players who already know where the ball is going.

The V-string pattern shows up on some teardrop frames as a single continuous string looping through the throat rather than a separate cross string. It looks unusual in a shop and performs like a normal bed, so do not rule a frame out because of it.

Graphite, Aluminium, Alloy and Titanium

Graphite frames are lighter and stiffer, giving more response and a livelier ball off the strings. Aluminium and alloy frames are more forgiving in construction, bend slightly under load, and are the traditional choice for club and entry-level rackets because they are cheap and hard to break.

Titanium and nano titanium sit between the two, adding stiffness and shock absorption to a graphite base. The practical rule for a beginner is simple: if you are buying once and want it to last several seasons, pay up for graphite or titanium. If you are buying a practice or club racket, alloy is the sensible choice.

String Tension: Is 26 Pounds Right for a Beginner?

No, 26 lbs is a firm setting and it is a common question in squash forums. A beginner is better served by the low-to-mid teens, around 16-20 lbs, because a lower tension gives a livelier ball, a larger effective hitting area and more power with less precision.

Most factory-strung beginner rackets arrive at a sensible default tension, so the practical advice is to play the racket as delivered for the first few months. String tension is the last thing you should tune, and restringing is a job for a shop once you know how you like the ball to feel.

Grip Size and Handle Length

Grip size is a genuine beginner frustration and a real purchase criterion. A grip that is too small causes hand cramp and forces you to squeeze; a grip that is too large reduces control because your hand cannot rotate the handle properly. The practical test is to hold the racket in a handshake grip and check that your ring finger sits just inside the knuckle of your palm without crowding it.

Handle length is the more neglected specification. A shorter handle gives you more reach around your backhand, which is a genuine advantage in tight corners, so check the length in the listing if you are between two frames.

When to Upgrade, and What to Check on a Used Racket

Upgrade when you can hold a controlled rally of several strokes without thinking about it, and when your off-centre misses have dropped noticeably. That is the signal that a control-oriented 125-135 g frame will give you more than another forgiving beginner head will.

Buying used is a legitimate strategy that players recommend on r/squash, and it works if you check four things. Look for cracks in the throat or around the handle join, run a finger along the frame to find a soft spot or wobble, look at the string bed for snapped mains or a broken bridge, and check that the grip is not worn through. A used racket with a clean frame and tired strings is a good buy; a used racket with a cracked frame is a gym-bag prop.

One last myth worth clearing out: a racket’s absence from the professional tour says nothing about its quality. Models get renamed and recoloured constantly, and players on r/squash push back regularly on paying for a frame because a tour player is pictured with it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best squash racket for a beginner?

The best squash racket for a beginner is the Head Nano Ti 110: a titanium frame with a carbon fiber shaft, a 500 sq cm head and a 110 g head-heavy balance that stays stable through mistimed swings. Look for any frame in the 130-150 g band with a head around 500 sq cm and a teardrop or open throat shape. Buy it strung if you can, so you can get on court without delay.

Which racket is best for beginners?

The Head Nano Ti 110 is the safest single answer, and the HEAD Extreme 145 is the better choice if you already swing big. Everything else on the market is a variation on those two ideas: a full-size head for forgiveness, and a weight you can control. If you only need one racket for your first season, the Nano Ti 110 does the job for the widest range of players.

How do I choose the best squash racket?

Work through six decisions in order. One, weight: aim for 130-150 g strung, or lighter if you are over 40 or returning from injury. Two, head size: about 500 sq cm gives the largest sweet spot. Three, shape: teardrop or open throat. Four, material: graphite or titanium over cheap alloy if the budget stretches. Five, string tension: play the factory default first. Six, grip size: check it fits your hand before you buy.

Is 26 lbs string tension good for beginners?

No, 26 lbs is too firm for most beginners. A tension in the low-to-mid teens, roughly 16-20 lbs, gives a livelier ball, a larger effective hitting area and more power with less precision. Higher tension rewards placement but punishes the mistimed contact that makes up much of a beginner’s first year. Most factory-strung beginner rackets already arrive at a sensible default.

Should a beginner buy an expensive or professional racket?

No, and an expensive frame will not hold you back. Tour frames are usually very light and head-light, which suits players who can generate racket speed from technique alone. A beginner gets more from a heavier, more stable frame with a bigger sweet spot, because a slower ball keeps rallies alive while technique develops. Buy the beginner frame now and upgrade when your off-centre misses have dropped noticeably.

Which Beginner Squash Racket Should You Buy?

Choose the Head Nano Ti 110 if you want one decision and one season covered. It is the widest-recommended frame in this roundup, the head-heavy balance suits a developing swing, and the 500 sq cm head keeps your off-centre hits in play.

Choose the HEAD Extreme 145 if you already swing with size and want the ball to sit still on contact. Choose the Pro Impact if you want a lighter, more control-oriented frame and your hand suits the grip, and choose the HEAD i110 if you want a pre-strung 110 g frame for quick swing speed.

Choose the SquashGalaxy Intro 5000 or the Dunlop Sonic Ti if this is a practice, club-night or loaner racket rather than your main frame. Choose the Dunlop Sports racket set if you want eyeguards and a ball sorted in the same purchase, and choose the Dunlop Blaze Inferno Court Pack if you want two balls at different training speeds in the box.

One last piece of permission, because the deliberation is the problem more often than the racket. Every frame above is a good enough first squash racket, and the player who books the court beats the player who keeps comparing head sizes. Get the best squash rackets for beginners list narrowed down, get a strung frame in the 130-150 g band, and start hitting balls. This roundup was last updated in 2026 against current listings.

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