Over time, however, you may start to notice that you’re losing control of the racquet. This is probably a sign that it’s time to replace the grip.
This process is also known as ‘regripping’ and is a normal part of owning a squash racquet. It isn’t hard to do and is definitely preferable to buying a whole new racquet. In this article, we’ll show you how to do it, step by step!
There are a few signs that your squash racquet grip needs replacing. First of all, if your grip stops absorbing sweat as well and becomes uncomfortable in your hand, it’s time to regrip.
You may also notice a bad odor coming from the grip, for the same reason. In any case, it’s best to regrip your racquet sooner than later to prevent your game performance from suffering.
Luckily, regripping a squash racquet isn’t too difficult.
First, you’ll need to buy a new grip. You’ll need to decide whether you’re going with a standard grip or an overgrip.
A Standard Grip: This is, as the name implies, the default grip that squash racquets come with.
An Overgrip: This is a grip that covers the standard one, which makes replacing it easier. However, although it’s thin, it does make the racquet handle thicker. If you have large hands, this is fine; but if not it can be an issue.
In order to regrip a squash racquet, you’ll need:
If you’re just adding an overgrip to your racquet, you can skip this step.
Otherwise, you’ll need to get rid of the grip that’s currently on your squash racquet. To do this, simply peel off the tape on the top of the grip. Then, unravel the grip and throw it out.
You’ll probably notice that the handle is sticky and may have small bits of grip leftover. That’s normal. Just use some disinfectant wipes to get as much off as possible. It doesn’t have to be perfect!
While this isn’t a necessity as most grips are sticky enough to stay in place, some people like to add double sided tape to their handle first. This may prevent the new grip from sliding.
Again, this step isn’t necessary, but you can do it if you like.
When you have your new grip, you’ll notice a paper layer protecting the sticky substance on the bottom, while a transparent plastic film protects the surface on the outside. Don’t remove these just yet – you’ll do so as you wrap the handle.
Most grips come with a piece of tape that you’ll use for securing the grip once it’s wrapped. Set this aside for now.
This involves a few steps, and it’s the same process whether you’re putting a new grip on an empty handle or just adding an overgrip.
On most grips, there will be a side labeled ‘start’, a red strip of tape, or a tapered end to tell you which end to use. Slowly peel off the grip’s top and bottom protective layers.
Place the start on the bottom of the buttcap paqrellel to the end of the racquet, and wrap it around one rotation (counter-clockwise for a righty - clockwise for a lefty). After wrapping the butt cap, slowly start going down the handle.
Work at a slight angle (about 30 degrees) to overlap the grip just a bit (¼ inch approx) as you work your way down. Wrap it tight, but not too tight - be careful not to make the grip too thin. You may even break the grip if you make it too tight!
(Pro Tip) - If you like a knurled grip feel, that is a slightly raised ridge overlap the grip a little bit more (½ inch approx) as you wrap the grip.
If you get to the end of the handle and find that you still have a bit of grip left, you don't have to use it all! You can cut the remaining bit diagonally with a pair of scissors to end it cleanly.
Use the tape that came with the grip (or electrical tape if your grip didn't come with any) and wrap it around the top of the grip to make sure it stays in place.
Even if your grip came with a tape sticker, you may want to add electrical tape just to be sure it stays in place. Most grip tapes will eventually peel off, so you want to keep it as secure as possible.
Pro Tip - Good pro shops may stock a finishing band that is like a thick rubber band to go over the tape and clean it up even more.
Adding an overgrip is optional. If you choose to do so, it’s the same process as adding a standard grip – just repeat the process once more!
That’s all there is to it! You can replace a squash racquet grip all on your own with just a few simple steps.
The hardest part is usually trying to get the angle right while working your way up the handle. Just remember to take your time, and you can always unwrap it and start over. If you do fail though, look up your local racquet store and take it there.
We hope you’ve learned something new from this article! Thanks for reading.
Interested in checking out more news, updates, and products from the world of squash? Have a look at our Team Squash page and signup for the newsletter!
]]>While they do share similarities, there are key differences that separate the two and make them both unique. To find out more about the differences between squash and racquetball, read on!!
Squash is played by either two players (singles) or 4 players (doubles). For this blog we will be discussing singles softball squash, the international game.
The singles squash court has four walls, all of which are playable as long as the ball stays within bounds (under the top red line on each wall and above the tin on the front wall).
In squash,the two players take alternating turns hitting the ball with their racquet to the front wall. The first to score 11 points wins the game. Matches are best of 5 games.
Squash has about 20 million regular players around the world, in 185 countries. The sport is governed by the World Squash Federation (WSF) [link].
Racquetball is a racquet sport also played in an enclosed court and can be played with 2 players (singles) or 4 players (doubles). For this blog we will be discussing singles play with 2 players.
Racquetball is similar to squash in that you serve the ball to your opponent and try to win the rally or have your opponent unable to return the ball.
The ball is bouncier in racquetball compared to squash and is much faster. It is easier to hit the ball because of the bounce.
We won’t delve too deep into the history of these sports, but it’s good to have an overview of squash and racquetball’s beginnings.
Squash was invented around 1830 by students at England’s Harrow School. The sport was perhaps made ‘official’ in 1864, when the school built the first four squash courts. You can learn more about squash’s history here [link to what is squash post].
Racquetball is a more recent sport, having been created by an American man named Joe Sobek in 1950. He was a professional tennis player who created a sport inspired by other racquet games, such as squash and handball.
In both squash and racquetball, the courts are similar in that they have four walls. However the similarity ends there.
In squash, the lower front wall has a “tin” that the players are not allowed to hit and will lose the point if they hit it. As well the 4 walls have a red line at the top that you must keep the ball under. The player who hits the ball on the line or above loses the rally.
In racquetball, one of the strategies is to hit as low as possible on the front wall and have the ball bounce twice before your opponent can hit it again.
Also in racquetball, all the walls of the court are within bounds, including the ceiling after the serve.
In terms of size, a racquetball court is slightly bigger, and 20 feet wide and high and 40 feet long. On the other hand, a squash court is 21 feet wide, 18.5+ feet high and only 32 feet long.
In squash, a player starts the game at Love-All (0-0) and by serving from the service box (left or right) and serving it to where the receiver is standing in the opposite box. If you win a point (your opponent can’t return the ball, it bounces twice, or they hit it out) you start the next point serving from the opposite box. The score is now 1-0. Call the score out before serving.
Squash matches are the best of 5 games with each game played to 11 points and a player must win each game by at least 2 points. The first player to win 3 games wins the match. Squash is PAR scoring (point a rally) so you can win points if you are serving or receiving.
In racquetball, the player starts the service motion within the service box, bouncing it first and then hitting it to the front wall and past the short line of the service box. It must bounce once before it hits the back wall. It cannot touch the ceiling on the serve.
In racquetball, only the player who serves the ball can score points. The rally ends when the ball isn’t returned or it bounces twice.
Racquetball matches are best of 3 games played to 15 points. If needed the third game (tiebreaker) is played to 11. The winner of the game is whoever wins 2 out of 3 games.
There are also differences in the gear used.
The balls used in racquetball and squash are both hollow and rubber. However, racquetballs are bigger and bouncier compared to squash balls and do not need to be warmed up.
A squash ball needs to be warmed up before the match begins to make it bouncier. Typically squash players hit the ball 3-4 times to themselves and then shoot it over to their partner's side and you alternate like this for approximately 5 minutes until the ball is warm to the touch.
The racquets are also different. Squash rackets are longer (27”) and have a smaller head size whereas in racquetball the racquets are shorter (19-22”) and slightly wider. Both have strings and a grip to hold onto.
It’s worth mentioning the difference in the number of players for both sports. While estimates vary, it’s safe to say that there are more squash players than racquetball players.
The number of racquetball players worldwide is estimated to be 5.6 million, whereas there are around 20 million squash players.
Both sports are seeing an increase in popularity worldwide.
Some people may say squash and racquetball are ‘basically the same sport’; well, now you can set them right!
Interested in checking out more news, updates, and products from the world of squash? Have a look at our Team Squash page and signup for the newsletter!
]]>Perhaps the first decision you need to make is which frame shape you want for your squash racquet. Should you go for the classic bridged style, or the longer-string teardrop shape?
We’ll help you make an informed decision by explaining the difference between squash racquet frame shapes!
This could also be called the ‘classic’ head shape for squash racquets.
Popular among more classical styles of players, the closed throat racquet has a rectangular head shape with shorter main strings (the strings running from the throat to the tip of the racquet).
The bridged racquet offers a lot of control to the player. It has a very precise sweet spot more centrally located in the head that can be very rewarding if you hit the ball with the right accuracy.
There are downsides to this style of squash racquet, however.
Firstly, its closed shape means that you’ll need to be more precise with your shots.
Secondly, with a bridged racquet, you’ll have to provide a lot of your own power to the shot. This is because the length of main strings are shorter, which gives you greater control, but also means there’s less trampoline effect and less power.
For this reason, the classic head shape is best suited for players who hit the ball in the center of the string face and with a fuller swing to help add power. It’s also a good choice for squash players who want more control over the ball.
Some great options for closed throat racquets include the Dunlop Sonic Core and the Head Graphene Touch Radical series.
The Teardrop frame shape is the other popular option.
With this ‘open throat’ design, the main strings are longer and run further down into the throat of the racquet. In turn, this provides you with a larger sweet spot and one that also extends more to the tip of the racquet.
Because of the longer main strings and bigger sweet spot, these racquets tend to be more forgiving.
The long strings provide more elasticity and more power, giving you that famous ‘trampoline effect’ on shots hit in the sweetspot.
The downside to open throat squash racquets is that you’ll be sacrificing control. Since the strings are more elastic and the sweetspot is bigger the ball can come off the face at more angles thereby decreasing control.
Overall, a teardrop squash racquet will generally give you more confidence in your shots than a classic racquet would, since the sweetspot is bigger and you won’t have to worry as much about being perfectly precise.
Some popular open throat options include the Tecnifibre Carboflex series, and the Unsquashable Ytec Pro.
In the end, it depends on how you play the sport.
If you’re a player who likes to control the speed of the ball, drops to the front of the court a fair amount, and moves your opponent around with well placed shots you’re better off with a closed-throat racquet. This will give you more control over the ball.
If you’re a player who tends to stay at the back of the court or likes to hit with more power than control, a teardrop squash racquet may be better for you.
It’s also important to remember that personal preference plays a role, too! Through playing the sport, you’ll learn over time which racquet shape feels best in your hand and gives you the best performance.
Happy playing!
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]]>Your pickleball grip position refers to how you hold the paddle while playing. How you grip the paddle determines how the ball will react off the paddle face. Certain grips will enhance spin or slice on the ball or make it easier to hit forehand / backhand shots.
You can also devise a strategy of play to your advantage depending on your opponent’s grip.
(Right handed - Index knuckle on the #2 edge / Left handed - Index Knuckle on the #8 edge). The Index finger is above the thumb and the butt of the paddle grip sits in the heel pad. Also called the Hammer grip.
The Continental pickleball grip is perfect for players who want to keep their grips the same for both forehands and backhands. It is the best all around grip but master of none.
It is the perfect grip for beginners to start with because it keeps things simple and there is no worrying about grip changes during play.
However, as you advance you may find it challenging to hit spin on the ball with a continental grip, especially when the ball is below the net line. Look to the Eastern Forehand or Backhand grips to increase the spin revolutions on the ball.
If you are playing someone who always uses a continental grip their weak spot is on the forehand side from hip to shoulder close to the body. It is tough to get the paddle in position to return or hit a ball in this area.
(Right handed - Index knuckle on the #3 edge / Left handed - Index Knuckle on the #7 edge) The Index finger is above the thumb and the butt of the paddle grip sits in the heel pad. Originally called the Shake hand grip.
The Eastern Forehand is for the advancing player looking to get a bit more spin on their forehand shots.
Hold your paddle in the non-dominant hand, place your dominant hand on the paddle face and slide the hand to the handle to “shake hands”. You will notice the paddle face is more closed and angled down towards the court more. Now when you are hitting the ball on the forehand side you are more able to brush up on the back of the ball and impart more spin. Be sure to swing from low to high on the ball and aim slightly higher to get the ball over the net and dip down on the other side.
For more even more spin you can look at the Semi western grip (Right handed - knuckle on #4 edge / left handed - knuckle on the #6 edge). This is for more advanced players though.
When playing an opponent who has just used an Eastern Forehand you should aim for their backhand side. It will be tough for them to quickly switch grips. Be cautious though - some players can compensate for their weak backhand by using a double-handed backhand grip.
(Right handed - Index knuckle on the #1 edge / Left handed - Index Knuckle on the #1 edge). The Index finger is above the thumb and the butt of the paddle grip sits in the heel pad.
In this configuration the wrist is in a very stable position to hit a natural backhand with spin as well as spin / slice on volleys as you advance to the net.
To achieve maximum spin be sure to swing from low to high as well as aim higher over the net to get the ball over the net.
To achieve even more spin check out the Semi-Western Backhand (Index knuckle on the #8 edge).
Typically you want to have a loose grip on your paddle. Don’t do the “Death Grip”. If you are tight the wrist, arm, shoulder are all tight as well and won’t swing as easily through the stroke.
This is personal preference. Players looking for more control can “choke” up on the handle and closer to the paddle face so they can quickly and easily change paddle direction. Players looking for more power should grip lower down on the handle, creating a longer lever and thus more power.
Playing with a firm or locked wrist will help you control the ball. Too much wrist action creates too many variables (force, angle, etc) and it is harder to get consistent results from your strokes especially on dinks and kitchen shots.
There are two main ways to measure for pickleball paddle grip size, which are:
This is a very accurate method of measuring a paddle grip size, but it requires you to use a paddle to test. The perfect grip to use for an index finger test is the eastern grip. Once you have your hand in the appropriate eastern grip position on the paddle, slide the index finger of your other hand down through the palm and middle finger of the hand on the paddle.
If it runs through smoothly without encountering any difficulty, then the paddle grip is perfect for you. However, the space that the index finger runs through should not be too broad because if there’s too much space between your middle finger and palm, it means the grip isn’t quite the right size. Playing with such a paddle will affect your gameplay and may even cause wrist pain after playing for a long time.
This measurement can be quickly done because it doesn’t require a paddle. All you need is a ruler to accurately measure the gap between the tip of your middle finger and your palm’s bottom lateral crease.
Place the ruler carefully on your palm, such that it aligns with your middle finger with the end of the ruler laying perfectly on the center palm crease. Usually, the length measure ranges between 4-5 inches.
Using the right grip size will not only provide you with comfort while playing the game, it will also help your game performance, and reduce the chance of injuries.
A grip size that is too small may result in injuries to your hand, wrist, and arm due to the additional energy you will need to exert to hold the paddle firmly. A small grip size may also cause the paddle to slip from your hand regularly.
On the other hand, a grip that is too large will cause more stress to your hand because you will struggle to keep your hand comfortably placed around the paddle grip. It may also be challenging to switch grips easily during a game when the grip size is too large.
If you ever have to choose between a large or small grip size, it is advisable to opt for the small grip size because that does give you the option of building it up to a better size with an overgrip.
Pickleball is a great game that’s a ton of fun to play, and to get the most out of it you should make sure that your equipment is right for your body and play-style. Interested in our grips? You can find some in our pickleball grips collection here: Pickleball Grips
We also provide re-gripping services which you can find out more about here: Stringing Services
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]]>The Pickleball third shot drop is a must-know technique. Adding it to your repertoire will help you move on to more serious matches, and is especially important if you want to join tournaments.
In this article, we’ll explain why the shot is so essential to learn, and how you can improve it to become a better player!
Note that this article is for players already familiar with pickleball and its terminology. Need a refresher on the rules of pickleball first? Check out our post that gives some background on pickleball and its rules here.
Before we give you some tips on mastering this move, we should explain what it is.
It’s actually exactly what it sounds like: It’s a drop shot that follows the serve and return serve, which is where the ‘third’ comes from.
With a third shot drop, your goal is to arch the ball up near the baseline, then gently land it in the opponent’s kitchen.
In doing so, you’ll bring the game closer to the net and even out the odds of winning the rally.
While it may sound simple, performing the move can be a real challenge, especially for newer players. Let’s examine why it’s so critical to learn this particular shot.
Controlling the net is crucial in a game of pickleball; in doing so, you'll be able to control the pace of the game and have a higher chance of winning each rally.
If you’re on the serving team, a well-done third shot drop can quickly turn the tide of a rally. It’ll move your team closer to the net to meet the defending team.
Also, because the ball drops slowly, your opponent won’t have a chance to smash it over. They’ll be forced to dink it instead, letting you move closer to the net and get in a better position to control the rally.
These two benefits will even out the chances of your team winning the rally.
Like we mentioned earlier, the serving team is the one that initiates a third shot drop.
But why does a third shot benefit you when you’re serving?
Well, in general, the defending team has a big advantage because they stand close to the kitchen line and are already positioned for anything.
But as the serving team, you sit at the back near the baseline and have fewer options to play. If you just lob the ball over the net, your opponents can just smash it back. They can also block a straight drive into the kitchen.
When you need to shake things up a bit and even the odds, the third shot drop is a great option.
However, keep in mind that it’s not a move that should be used in every situation. It’s best to use it when the defending team is at the kitchen line.
If the serve is short or too high, you’re better off smacking the ball back over instead.
This is arguably one of the most difficult shots to perform in pickleball, so it’s important to manage your expectations.
With enough practice and the right technique, you can master it, but it can take months and will be frustrating at times.
The first thing to remember is that a drop shot is intended to slow down the game by softly landing in the kitchen. A third shot drop is almost always done at/near the baseline.
Let’s break down this shot into 5 steps to make things easier:
Before executing the shot, bend your knees properly so you can swing upward, under the ball. You’ll also want to have a neutral grip on your paddle.
When you aim the shot, there’s one key thing to remember: You’re not aiming for the kitchen. Instead, you’ll want to aim for the apex of the ball’s flight path. If you do it right, the ball will land in the kitchen regardless.
To aim for the apex, imagine a target halfway between the landing spot (for the ball) and yourself. Then, picture that spot being 5-6 feet higher or lower (depending on your goal) and hit the ball in that direction.
To make it simple, you can imagine someone who’s six feet tall standing at the kitchen line; you’d be aiming for their head.
Remember that a short swing will keep your timing in check, while a long swing will do the opposite.
Don’t complicate it by changing your swing in any way – you can keep the same technique you use for any other swing.
Just make sure your grip is neutral, that you hit the ball about 3 inches above the net. Finish the swing with your paddle pointed toward your target landing spot.
Third shot drops are challenging, sometimes even for advanced players. When you’re working on this shot, you’ll have to try and fail repeatedly before getting comfortable with it.
Here are a few simple tips to improve your third shot drop:
Just reading this article isn’t going to help you get the perfect 3rd shot drop. You need to practice it to get better.
To do so, have your partner stand at the kitchen line while you stay at the baseline. Have them hit a shot to you, then practice the move. Your partner will be able to tell you if the ball landed in the right spot, and if not, how to adjust.
Knowing how to execute a third shot drop is crucial. It’s not easy to learn, but if you want to be taken seriously as a player or move onto higher levels, it’ll be worth it.
You can practice it as a dink. Start by dinking the ball close to the net, then slowly move back a few steps until you’re doing the move at the baseline. From here, the third shot drop is essentially a long-distance dink.
Don’t forget to aim your shot to the high point of the ball’s arc!
It’ll take time to master, but with enough practice and time, you’ll get the hang of it.
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]]>Unlike singles pickleball, doubles is a game of cooperation. For every lapse of communication and collaboration, there will be consequences, especially if you are playing against skilled opponents.
The following strategies will provide you with some of the foundations of becoming a good doubles pickleball player:
However, when you continuously aim for the middle of the court, the opposing players may become confused about hitting the return shot, especially when the forehand player is not in the perfect position to hit the ball and the backhand player is not sure if they should step in and take the shot. This strategy can work very well against a team that lacks excellent communication. Poaching:
Hard work is definitely required in playing pickleball but working smart will also win you games. Check out our “Team Pickleball” page for more tips, gear, promos, and more - all related to pickleball!
]]>Generally, pickleball balls are similar to wiffle balls but they tend to be slightly heavier. USAPA, the organization that oversees the affairs of pickleball in the United States, approves a few modifications to different kinds of balls used for indoor and outdoor games. The ball may vary in size, number of holes, bounce, weight, and hardness.
Outdoor court surfaces and the features of the ball tend to make it move faster, so if you want to win, you’ll have to move faster too!
For inside court games, the ball's movement slows down a bit, and will require you to make more calculated moves. Also, shots may travel longer because there’s no wind to hinder the ball’s movement.
While there are obviously some differences between indoor and outdoor pickleball games, some things don’t differ, such as:
Check out our “Team Pickleball” page for more tips, gear, promos, and more - all related to pickleball!
]]>As long as you follow the following guidelines, you can set up a pickleball court in your community, sporting complex, and maybe even in your backyard.
Thinking about building your own pickleball court? Let us help you out with a new net! Check out our selection of pickleball nets here: pickleball nets.
And check out our “Team Pickleball” page for more tips, gear, promos, and more - all related to pickleball!
]]>Just bring in your dollars and we'll accept them just like cash. And, until December 24th you can get your dollars for 20% off from Downtown Kingston!
]]>For high quality footwear and possible advantages while playing on the court, a good pickleball shoe should have the following:
Sole: Indoor pickleball courts can be incredibly slippery, and as such, it is crucial to get a shoe with a natural gum rubber sole that provides a firm grip that will prevent players from falling. However, for an outdoor court, a shoe with a harder gum sole is preferable. Regardless, a good shoe should offer stability and comfortability, whether on an indoor or outdoor court.
Supportive Heel Counter/Cushion: Pickleball courts surfaces can be quite hard (concrete), and as a result are hard on the feet, ankles, knees, and back. It is essential to choose a shoe with extra cushioning to protect the feet and ankles while playing. Playing pickleball requires constant irregular twists and turns, and for that, players can be prone to injuries to ankles, knees, and back; hence, it is vital to get a shoe that will protect you.
Lightweight: Heavy shoes may inhibit players from making continuous movements around the court and may hurt the players’ performance. Lightweight shoes are perfect for pickleball because they offer comfortability and ease of action. Playing pickleball with a heavy shoe may cause the player to get exhausted easily.
Durability: This is a factor to consider when picking a pickleball shoe. Shoes made for extreme durability tend to be heavier and stiffer compared to a shoe made for comfort and performance with softer and more elastic materials. Unfortunately they will wear out quicker but the benefits of performance and comfort may outweigh the durability benefits. If you are playing 1-2 times per week you can expect a good pair of shoes to last at least 1-2 seasons. This depends on your type of court movement, body build, and other similar factors.
Some people believe that a running shoe is good for pickleball. They are light and cushioned and comfortable. However, pickleball shoes have distinct characteristics that make them better for the unique movements found in pickleball versus running.
A pickleball shoe has a lower profile sole made for hard court surfaces that offer the proper amount of traction to move around the court safely. Also a pickleball shoe has more lateral and medial support built into the upper to further aid in stability and protect your foot and ankle.
Running shoes are made for straight ahead movement and have minimal support for sideways motion. As well the higher profile and softer cushion that compresses too easily on the sides creates possible ankle injuries more easily especially when moving backwards on the court.
A properly selected and sized pickleball shoe is one of the best equipment purchases you can make to keep you playing longer.
If you’re in need of some shoes for the pickleball court, check out our great selection here.
Interested in checking out more news, updates, and products from the world of pickleball? Have a look at our Team Pickleball page and signup for the newsletter!
]]>A good paddle can make a big difference in your game and your enjoyment of the sport. But how do you choose a pickleball paddle that suits your needs and preferences? Here are some factors to consider when selecting a pickleball paddle for a new player.
- Weight: The weight of the paddle affects how much power and control you have over the ball. A heavier paddle can generate more power, but it can also cause more fatigue and strain on your arm. A lighter paddle can offer more control and maneuverability, but it can also make you swing harder to get more power. The ideal weight for a paddle depends on your personal preference, strength, and style of play. Generally, beginners should start with a medium-weight paddle (around 7.5 to 8 ounces) and adjust as they gain more experience and confidence.
- Grip size: The grip size of the paddle affects how comfortable and secure you feel when holding and playing. A grip size that is too small or too large can cause blisters, cramps, or slippage. To measure your grip size, grip your paddle with a continental style grip* and check if there is a small gap between your fingers and your palm. If there is no gap, the grip is too small. If there is more than am index finger-width gap, the grip is too large. The ideal grip size for a paddle is one that fits snugly in your hand without being too tight or too loose.
* Also called the shake hands grip - for a right handed person - place your paddle in the non dominant hand. Place your right hand on the face of the paddle and slide it down onto the grip. Your thumb should be below your index finger and your index knuckle should be on the 2nd bevel of the grip or slightly to the right of center. The butt of the paddle should be placed in the meat of your palm. Grip should be firm but not tight or too loose.
- Shape: The shape of the paddle affects how much surface area and sweet spot you have to hit the ball. A sweet spot is the area on the paddle face that produces the best results when hitting the ball. A larger sweet spot can make it easier to hit the ball consistently and accurately, especially for beginners. The shape of the paddle also affects how much reach and spin you have. A longer paddle can give you more reach, but it can also reduce your control and balance. A wider paddle can give you more spin, but it can also reduce your power and speed. The ideal shape for a paddle depends on your personal preference and skill level. Generally, beginners should start with a standard-shaped paddle (around 15 to 16 inches long and 7 to 8 inches wide) and experiment with different shapes as they improve their game.
- Material: The material of the paddle affects how durable and responsive it is. There are two main types of materials used for pickleball paddles: composite and graphite. Composite paddles are made of a core material (such as polypropylene honeycomb) covered by a fiberglass, carbon fiber, or a composite material. Composites or fiberglass faced paddles offer a good balance of durability, weight, power, and control. Graphite paddles are made of a similar honeycomb core material covered by a thin layer of graphite. They are the lightest and most responsive option, but they are also the most expensive generally. The ideal material for a paddle depends on your budget, preference, and performance goals.
New advances in paddle construction are thermoforming and hotmelt construction. Thermoforming is a process where a layer of foam is built around the perimeter of the paddle to help increase stability and power production. The hotmelt process is similar to how tennis racquets are made with a mold, compression, and heat to create a more unified stronger construction and better performance. Currently these processes are found on higher end paddles from Ronbus, SixZero, and Joola.
Choosing a pickleball paddle for a new player can be overwhelming with so many options available. However, by considering these factors and trying out different paddles before buying one, you can find a paddle that matches your needs and preferences. Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for pickleball paddles. The best paddle for you is the one that feels comfortable in your hand and helps you enjoy playing pickleball.
Be sure to check out our in-store paddle demo program.
]]>First on the list is when the strings of the racquet break. However, it is not necessary to wait until the strings are damaged before you upgrade your squash racquet. Some players may swap out their strings based on preference and performance.
You can also choose to upgrade your squash racquet if you notice that you are unable to get the same performance that you used to when the racquet was new. That is an indication that your racquet has lost tension and elasticity and needs new strings.
When you decide to restring your squash racquet, it is advisable to pay attention to every detail that impacts how effective the racquet will be. Such as:
Bumper and grommet strips: The bumper and grommet strips are an integral part of a squash racquet and one that people often don’t pay attention to. A bumper kit helps to reduce the impact of the racquet against the wall and floor as well as help to prevent the strings from breaking. Restringing your racquet without replacing the bumper & grommet strips can result in the strings breaking prematurely.
String tension: It is essential to consider the type of spring tension that is compatible with your playing style. Higher tension stringing of 24-30 lbs is perfect for players who love to control the ball with drops and more accurate placement of the ball.
Lower string tension of 24 lbs and below are suitable for players who aim for power shots because the flexible spring of the string will propel the ball at impact, giving it more power but less control. Similar to how a trampoline works.
String Gauge: A squash racquet strung with thicker strings is best for durability but not for performance because they are less elastic and not as powerful. Thinner strings are more elastic and provide more power as well as provide more cut and spin to the ball, but they tend to break faster.. Thinner strings range from 1.10 – 1.20 mm, while the thicker one ranges from 1.21 – 1.30 mm.
String Composition: Synthetic strings are the most popular choice nowadays and are made of a variety of nylon in different configurations. Multifilament strings (that are synthetic) have taken over from Natural Gut as the preferred choice of string. These strings are made of 100’s-1000;s of fine filaments bound together and either twisted together or bathed in polyurethane to provide excellent performance. Great examples of high end strings are the Tecnifibre 305 or the Ashaway Powernick 18.
Squash Racquet Grip: The grip of a squash racquet is also a vital part that requires attention. A good grip offers the player comfort while playing a squash game. They can also help to absorb sweat while playing. Once the stock grip gets too slippery, that’s a sign that you should replace it with a new grip. There is also the option of buying an overgrip if the regular grip of the racquet seems too small. Popular squash grips are the Karakal Super PU (cushion) or the Wilson Pro (overgrip).
Customizing weight and balance: Another upgrade that can be done is to change the weight and balance of a racquet. This is accomplished by adding lead tape to certain areas of the frame to increase and decrease the balance point. At Racquet Science we use the Babolat Racquet Diagnostic Center to weight, balance, and test the swing weights before and after adding lead tape. The Babolat RDC is also a great tool to match multiple racquets so they have the same weight/ balance as well as determine existing racquet specs and match new racquets to players performance requests.
If you’re interested in upgrading your squash racquet, check out our catalogue of top-quality squash accessories from manufacturers such as Wilson, Black Knight, Ashaway, and Tecnifibre.
Or, leave your racquet in the hands of a world-class expert in upgrades and restringing - Larry Howes. Larry’s provided stringing services at major tournaments, including the French Open, the US Open, the Rogers Cup, the Davis Cup Ties, the Pan American Games, the Women's World Squash Championships, and more. Find out more about Racquet Science’s restringing services here.
Interested in checking out more news, updates, and products from the world of squash? Have a look at our Team Squash page and signup for the newsletter!
]]>Hitting powerful shots is an effective and proven strategy in winning a squash match, as it helps keep the opponent under constant pressure. However, it is vital to know when to take powerful shots and when to refrain; else, it may end up causing more harm than good. A player should put more effort into practicing their shots than trying to build muscles with the hope of having to take powerful shots due to muscular strength.
Interested in checking out more news, updates, and products from the world of squash? Have a look at our Team Squash page and signup for the newsletter!
]]>Whatever the reason for restringing a racquet, here are some quick guidelines to consider when choosing a new string.
Racquet String Tension: Unlike tennis, a racquet with higher string tension will reduce its shot power, though a tightly strung racquet gives more control of the ball. For players who are more inclined to use power as their game strategy, a low tension string of 21-24 lbs should be their go-to because it trampolines more, and as such, rebounds the ball off the strings with greater force. In contrast, those who prefer a controlled play pattern should opt for a racquet with higher tension of about 25-28 lbs.
Racquet String Gauge: This refers to the thickness of the string on the racquet. Thicker gauge strings are more durable. They can be used for a longer time before wearing out or breaking, but because of their thickness will not “bite” into the ball as much for cut and spin. The general string gauge for a squash racquet ranges from 1.10mm – 1.30mm.
Racquet String Construction: There are various types of strings, but the famous ones are Natural Gut strings and the Synthetic Gut strings. Natural Gut strings are made from cow gut and have tremendous elasticity & playability, and as a result, they are expensive. Most manufacturers and players more commonly use synthetic guts strings for squash racquets because of their affordability. However, it is essential to be careful when choosing a synthetic gut string as there are lots of options for various play options. Check with your professional racquet stringer beforehand.
The popular answer to this question would be when they have snapped. However, racquet strings don’t have to snap before you can replace them. There are lots of factors that you should put into consideration when making this decision.
One factor is how frequently you play squash. If you play three or more times a week, it is ideal to restring at least three times per year. Nevertheless, even if you play less frequently, it is still advisable to restring a couple of times a year because racquets tend to lose elasticity over a long period, even if you don’t use them.
Another factor is your playing style. Players with a more aggressive style, who like to play more power should look at stringing their racquet more often. String tends to become more trampoline-like as they stretch out and loose their tension. This increases power for a bit but at the expense of control and you will find balls not staying down the wall or flying erratically.
If you’re interested in changing your strings, check out our catalogue of top-quality strings from manufacturers such as Ashaway and Tecnifibre.
Or, leave your racquet in the hands of a world-class expert in restringing - Larry Howes. Larry’s provided stringing services at major tournaments, including the French Open, the US Open, the
Rogers Cup, the Davis Cup Ties, the Pan American Games, the Women's World Squash Championships, and more. Find out more about Racquet Science’s restringing services here: Stringing Services
Interested in checking out more news, updates, and products from the world of squash? Have a look at our Team Squash page and signup for the newsletter!
]]>There are some rules in place for standard singles squash matches, and they include the following:
Here are some of the basic terminologies to know to enjoy and have an in-depth knowledge of squash.
The story of squash dates back to 1830 at Harrow School, a public school in Greater London, England. The game started with young boys who found out that hitting a punctured racquetball against the wall makes for an exciting game because it requires more effort than a normal racquetball would.
About 30 years later, the school built proper courts for squash, and it went from being just a game played by students in their leisure to an official sport for the school. Gradually, this sport became popular among other schools in England, and in 1920, the first professional squash championship took place in England.
The first two squash national associations formed were the United States Squash Racquets Association and the Canadian Squash Racquets Association, created in 1904 and 1911. Despite being invented in England, squash didn’t have an independent association until 1928, when the Squash Racquets Association gained full status.
Both sports are often mistaken for each other because of some similarities they share. However, some factors can distinguish them. Such as:
The Equipment: The squash ball is 1/2 the size of a racquetball’s and has very low bounce in comparison. The racquet used for squash is much longer at 27 inches whereas a racquetball racquet is 22 inches long.
Rules: The rules differ for both sports. For example, in squash, either the server or receiver can score points, but in racquetball, only the server can score points. In racquetball, the ball has to bounce at least once after a serve before the receiver can return the serve, but in squash, the receiver can hit the ball without letting it bounce.
Court: In squash the front wall has a tin on the lower portion of the wall which you are not allowed to hit without it being a fault. As well the ball is not allowed to touch the walls above the top red line whereas in racquetball the ball can bounce off any part of the walls as well as the ceiling.
Interested in checking out more news, updates, and products from the world of squash? Have a look at our Team Squash page and signup for the newsletter!
]]>As with every sport, pickleball has its own set of unique rules. These are a general outline to get you started.
Here are some terms that anyone new to pickleball should become familiar with:
Around-The-Post (ATP): When a shot goes outside the net posts and not actually over the net.
Backhand: When a player hits the ball with the back of the paddle face, with their arm placed across the body.
Dink: A shot taken with the paddle face open, around the kitchen line, and carefully aiming to land the ball at the opponent’s non-volley zone.
Rally: The act of hitting the ball back and forth between two teams after the serve.
Half-volley: When a player takes a shot immediately after the ball has bounced.
Lob: A shot taken over opponents' heads to drive them back to their baseline.
Baseline: The line at the end of the court, and it is usually 22 feet away from the net.
Centreline: This line extends from the non-volley line to the baseline to divide the even service court from the odd service court.
Nasty Nelson: When a player intentionally aims at hitting the non-receiving player of the opposing team with the ball.
Ernie: A volley taken close to the net by a player positioned outside the boundary of the non-volley zone.
The origin of pickleball goes back to the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island - not far from Seattle, Washington, home to Joel Pritchard. Along with his friends, Benny McCallum and Bill Bell, they invented pickleball when they were trying to create a game that could entertain kids and accommodate the whole family.
Their original plan was to play badminton, but in the absence of a shuttlecock, they made do with a wiffle ball. They then lowered the net and made paddles with plywood. While playing the game, Pritchard’s family dog, Pickle, would chase after the ball and run into the bushes to hide it. Hence, “Pickle’s ball” and later modified into Pickleball.
Another version of how the sport derived its name states that Pritchard’s wife, Joan, came up with the name, using the idea of Pickle Boat, which consists of spare or borrowed rowers from other crews. This analogy makes sense, considering that pickleball is a sport borrowed from other sports.
McCallum incorporated Pickleball, Inc in 1972, and since then, the game has kept growing. First, it became a popular family game played in backyards and then became a standard court game with formal rules. There are several pickleball competitions held around the country and the world. Such examples are the U.S Pickleball National Championships, first held in 2008, and the U.S. Open Pickleball Championship since 2016. Pickleball had its first international break in the 2002 Special Olympics when Glendolyn Sanchez-Vicario represented Spain. Fast forward to 2021, the International Federation of Pickleball now consists of 57 member countries worldwide.
Interested in checking out more news, updates, and products from the world of pickleball? Have a look at our Team Pickleball page and signup for the newsletter!
]]>Retail: We are open for business and are taking the preventative steps necessary to keep you safe.
Curbside: We offer curbside delivery if you prefer. Please call for details.
Online: We are offering free local delivery on $89+ orders in Kingston, ON and free delivery across Canada on orders $199+.
If you have any questions please contact me directly at Larry@racquet-science.com or at the store at 1.613.766.3231.
I hope you and your family are safe during these testing times.
All the best,
Larry Howes.
]]>For tournament details go to Windy City 2020
For all the news from the PSA click PSA
]]>Our main stringer, Larry Howes has been stringing for 20+ years. Being a Master Racquet Technician I have strung at the US Open in New York, French Open in Paris, been the Davis Cup stringer for 2 years, and 3 Rogers Cups in Montreal. Plus I run the show at Racquet Science and string everyday... 16K+ racquets and counting :)
Yesterday was a first time experience though. A customer brought in his Power Angle racquets for fresh string. Power Angle has a unique string pattern in that the strings run on a 45 degree angle to a conventional pattern. Never one to shy away from a challenge I studied the pattern, read what I could online, cut out the old string, and mounted the frame in the machine. Deep breath and I started... I am very happy to say it turned out great (not to brag or anything) and clicked off another box in the experience list.
If you want to see more info on Power Angle their website is here and I have attached a few pics below.
There isn't a ton of info on stringing these. If other shops / stringers want help in stringing a Power Angle racquet feel free to contact me and we can walk through it together.
Thanks for reading.
Larry Howes
]]>Both men's and women's divisions and 24 teams in total.
Starts Saturday @ 9:30am and goes till Sunday.
Jesters info - https://www.squashontario.com/university-squash
]]>It is free to go watch and there are over 500 entrants of all calibers so a load of great matches.
There will be vendors on site (Racquet Science is proud to be a sponsor and vendor) showing off the latest and greatest gear and selling it too :)
To see the playing schedule / info go to 2019 Canadian Pickleball Championships.
I find the schedule a bit confusing so if you have any questions call us and we can help answer any questions 613.766.3231
]]>It looks like an amazing venue.
Be sure to check it out on the tournament site : - https://psaworldchampionships.com/
]]>We were really looking forward to seeing Ramy back in tournament action!
Check out the tournament website at - World Championships
]]>Check it out on PSA Squash TV.
]]>Tough to see fellow Canadians Sam Cornett and Danielle Letourneau battling it out first round against each other but that's how draws work :(
* Danielle plays Amanda Sohby today at 19:30 EST, GOOD LUCK Danielle!
Great match between Marwan Shorbagy and Diego Elias yesterday. Marwan has been out for a while and Diego is on a good roll. Marwan is so mentally tough you just never can tell.
* Diego is my pick to win the tournament :)
Does there seem tension between the PSA Squash TV announcers? Maybe I am just being overly sensitive?
Lots of contact and injuries this ToC - Castagnet, Gawad, Makin, etc. Has something changed in the rules / reffing outlook?
That is all for now. Enjoy the ToC!
]]>Salming kindly sent a pair for me to playtest which I have started and I must say I am overall very happy with them right now. It has only been 5 hours of court time and time will tell :)
I feel one of the biggest compliments to a shoe is that you don't think of it being on your foot during and after the match. The Hawk fit like a glove on my medium width foot and the cushioning both heel and forefoot is exceptional.
My areas of concern for this shoe are:
The plan is to wear them over the next two months and report back the wear and overall impressions with pics. Stay tuned.
5 Hours So Far: minimal wear signs and shoe feels great.
A big Thank You to Brian Mills and the team at Salming for providing the Hawk to playtest.
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David has won 2 matches so far and is now into the quarterfinals.
Lisa has won 1 match so far and is into the round of 16.
You can check out the action at: https://www.wmsquash.com/
Live streaming is available too at: https://www.wmsquash.com/live/
Some of Davids and Lisa pics from the event below.
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