Sports Rackets

sports equipment · hitting games · racket sports

Three key parts. Every racket has a head (the wide flat part), a grip (the handle), and a throat (the connection between them). The head's flat surface, called the face, is what actually strikes the ball or shuttlecock.

Striking power. The racket lets you hit a ball or shuttlecock much harder and faster than you could with your hand alone. The longer handle gives you leverage to generate more speed and power.

Many sports use them. Rackets aren't just for tennis. You'll find them in badminton, squash, racquetball, and even ping-pong (though ping-pong paddles are smaller and different). Each sport uses slightly different racket designs.

Tough construction. Rackets are built to handle lots of impact and stress. The throat area between the head and handle is especially reinforced because that's where cracks usually form from repeated hitting.