You might have often noticed that the frame of the badminton rackets holds two different shapes: Oval and squarish, as oval-shaped rackets hold a round-shaped head, whereas squarish-shaped rackets hold a less circular shape head.
The traditional rackets holding an oval head shape existed long before the isometric racket. On the other hand, the isometric racket only came into existence in 1980 and was first introduced by the brand Yonex. Since then, players have preferred these squarish shape rackets over round-head rackets.
And today, in this article, we will learn more about isometric head-shape technology:
So let’s dive in:
Isometric Head-Shape
A Japanese company, Yonex, introduced isometric head-shape technology, which is now a world-leading feature of all badminton rackets. The first-ever isometric head-shaped racket was launched in the market in the 1980s.
The isometric technology generally refers to the racket’s head shape squared off at the head’s tip that is designed to keep vertical strings at a similar length, as well as the horizontal strings, to produce an expanded sweet spot in all directions.
These rackets are best for beginners and those new to this sport, as it helps them to hit a shot efficiently.
On the other hand, if we talk about oval-shaped rackets, they provide a smaller sweet spot, but if the shuttlecock is hit through that sweet spot, it provides you excellent power.
Every isometric racket has a different head size; some are wider, and some are narrower (although the difference may not be too obvious). A larger racket head will relatively widen the sweet spot, adding weight to the racket.
Benefits of an Isometric Head Shape Racket
- Isometric head-shaped rackets provide larger space for the stringed area (the striking point).
- It helps the players to respond quickly with shots without missing the shuttlecock.
- It helps beginners and new players to learn basic skills and improve their game.
- Also, it helps to keep the vertical strings at a similar length and enables the horizontal strings to produce a bigger sweet spot.
Final Words
If you are a beginner or new to this sport, practice and play with an isometric head shape badminton racket, as it gives you a larger sweet spot compared to the oval head shape rackets.
But suppose you are an advanced or a professional level badminton player. You can surely opt for an oval shape racket, as it provides much more consistency than squared shape rackets.