The price of a racket greatly depending on the quality of the materials used and the technologies developed for it. Generally speaking, more expensive rackets are made with higher quality materials and advanced technologies.
While some rackets feature higher-quality materials and technologies, no racket can be defined as the best for all types of players. In fact, the question to ask is not: What is the best racket? The question is: What is the best racket for me? To help you answer this question, you can consult our unique system of icons in each racket's file, describing the main characteristics.
The prices of strings listed when purchasing a racket all include a stringing service. Only the prices of strings purchased in reels or in small packs do not include the price of a stringing service.
TENNIS: Depending on the experience level of the stringer, the type of string chosen, and the type of racket being strung, the time required can vary from 15 to 35 minutes.
BADMINTON: A badminton racket usually takes a little longer to string than a tennis racket. Depending on the experience level of the stringer, the type of string chosen and the type of racket to be strung, the time required can vary from 20 to 45 minutes.
If you come to the store, we guarantee a 24-hour turnaround. If the stringers' schedule allows, it is also possible to have your racket ready the same day for an additional $3.
When you buy racket online, your racket will be strung and shipped within one business day following your order.
Most companies offer a good value ball model that they call the championship. In the championship models, they offer balls for harder surfaces (extra duty or hard court) or for regular surfaces (regular duty or All surface).
Then there are higher quality models that will generally give a better feel or last a little longer (e.g., Penn Marathon, Wilson US open, Dunlop ATP)
There are also some specialized clay balls (Ex: Wilson Rolland Garros).
Finally, there is a full range of depressurized balls usually used by juniors and beginners. These balls have less pressure and bounce less, which makes it easier to keep the ball in the court and thus helps learning.
The 3 main categories of ball colors are as follows:
Blue dot: Ball with a higher bounce and a higher speed.
Yellow dot: Ball with a medium bounce and an average speed.
2 yellow dots: Ball with a low bounce and a slow speed.
In general, beginners will use a ball with a higher bounce because it is easier to play. The advanced players will favor a ball with a lower bounce to promote wider movements on the court.
Another point to consider in the choice of the ball: the ambient temperature. When the temperature is lower, the ball will tend to bounce less. It is then recommended to use a faster ball. Following the same logic, it is recommended to take a slower ball when the ambient temperature is higher.
Both types of shuttlecocks have a similar head made of cork. The difference lies is in the skirt, which can be made of nylon or feathers (usually cut goose feathers).
The nylon shuttlecock has the advantage of being more durable and more accessible because it is less expensive to use due to the smaller quantity of shuttlecocks used in matches. However, because of its nylon construction, it is lighter, which provides a little less feel when touching the racket. In addition, the skirt tends to crush a little more on impact, so the flight is a little less consistent.
The feathered shuttlecock is heavier, which provides a better feel when hitting. In addition, the skirt does not deform as much at impact, ensuring a more consistent flight and better deceleration. However, this flywheel is much less durable, which increases the cost of use.
With new products designed for children (shorter rackets, low-pressure balls), tennis has become much more accessible for young kids. While most lessons offered by tennis schools begin around the age of 5, nothing prevents a parent from equipping their child with a small racket and a foam or low-pressure ball to introduce them to the sport before the age of 5.
String prices range from $29 to $75, but the vast majority are between $30 and $ 40, including the stringing service.
String prices range from $22 to $30, including the stringing service.
These two types of shoes are designed to make lateral movements and stop and go. They are therefore designed to offer stability when moving laterally.
However, since tennis is generally played on more abrasive surfaces, the construction of tennis shoes is generally more robust, and the rubber of the sole is harder.
Badminton shoes will usually have softer rubber soles to match the smoother surfaces of indoor gyms. In addition, they will be lighter and more flexible to effectively respond to the very quick changes in direction required for this sport.
Choosing the right handle size is important to ensure that you have better control over your strokes and avoid the risk of arm injuries.
To learn how to choose the right handle size, consult our expert capsule.
Fradette Sport is the main sponsor of a regional badminton circuit that located in the Quebec region. It is a series of several tournaments held throughout the season.
These tournaments are organized in a very professional manner and allow participants to measure themselves against new players in a fun way. The pool format guarantees participants to play several matches, which is very appreciated.
For more information, please visit the Yonex/Fradette Sport website.