What does the number in a squash racket's name mean?

On most rackets here, the number is the frame weight in grams. Each listing gives the same figure in its specifications:

• 120 g: Tecnifibre Slash 120, Slash 120 Power and Carboflex Neo 120.
• 125 g: Tecnifibre Slash 125, Carboflex Neo 125 and Neo 125 NS, Dunlop FX 125 Pro Lite and CX 125.
• 130 to 132 g: Tecnifibre Slash 130 and Carboflex Neo 130, Dunlop FX 130 and CX 132.
• 135 g: Tecnifibre Slash 135 and Carboflex 135 X-Top, Dunlop Sonic Core Elite 135.

Not every name works this way. The Nassau BRGP 130 lists an unstrung weight of 135g, so read the spec line. A lighter frame swings faster: Tecnifibre calls the Carboflex Neo 120 the lightest racket in its range. A heavier one adds power: the Carboflex 135 X-Top has 135 g of weight with inertia to help with heavy hits.

Head size and balance: power or control?

Most frames that list a head size have a 500 cm2 head. Dunlop says the 500 cm2 head of the Sonic Core Revelation gives a larger sweet spot. The Dunlop CX 125 has a smaller 470 cm2 head and a 14x18 string pattern, which Dunlop ties to pinpoint accuracy. The Slash 125, 130 and 135 sit in between at 485 cm2.

Balance changes the feel too. The Dunlop FX, CX and Sonic Core Elite rackets are head light, for quick moves. The Tecnifibre Carboflex Airshaft 125 is head heavy, and the Dynergy 125 has its balance point in the middle.

Rackets made with top players

Tecnifibre designed the Slash range for Mostafa Asal. The Carboflex Neo 125 NS is Nour El Sherbini's signature frame: the same 125g as the standard Neo 125, with a thinner handle. The Dunlop Soniccore Ultimate is listed as the signature frame of Diego Elias.

If you play now and then and want power, start with the Carboflex 135 X-Top, which Tecnifibre describes for amateur and occasional players. Then add squash shoes and grips or balls from squash accessories, or see all squash gear.