Badminton is a sport of precision, speed, agility, and finesse. As intermediate players progress in their skill level, their equipment becomes increasingly important.
If you are progressing in badminton in India, you must choose a racket after a detailed analysis because it will complement your improved skills and allow you to practice in a better way. It will enhance your performance, ensure better skills progression, reduce the risk of injuries, and increase your confidence to play against formidable competitors.
Top Badminton Rackets to Enhance your Skills and Make you A Pro
Intermediate players have a specific need, unlike beginners and recreational players. They have honed their technique and now require a racket that increases their power, precision, and skills. They need a better-quality racquet with increased responsiveness and maneuverability to execute more advanced shots effectively.
1. Yonex Astrox Smash
With a weight of only 73 grams, the racket is one of the lightest-ever designed by Yonex. You may find it contradicting that it is light in weight and still goes by the name "Smash". However, the developed-in-Japan, Yonex Astrox Smash offers a balance between power and speed.
Its hi-flex medium shaft provides excellent speed and precision during smashes, while its head-heavy balance enhances your strength. You can choose the racket if you regularly compete in local competitions and require something to improve your skills further.
2. Yonex Astrox 88D Tour
Yonex has finally introduced an affordable version of its popular Astrox 88 Dominate version racket. It is an excellent alternative for intermediate players who are on the lookout for a modest doubles racket. The Yonex Astrox 88D Tour is chosen by players seeking versatility.
As it is manufactured in Taiwan, the racket is much more affordable than its professional counterpart, however, by no means less effective. The AX88D-T racket is available in two weight categories: 4U and 3U. With stiff flex, Rexis Shaft, Aero+Box frame, and Advanced Rotational Generator System, it will complement your enhanced badminton skills.
3. Yonex Astrox 77 Tour
First released in 2017, Yonex has introduced several generations of the Astrox 77 racket. And, with its latest launch, the company has introduced the Tour version to make it affordable. Yonex Astrox 77 Tour is ideal for an intermediate player with an improved skill set.
It may feel heavier at the start, but once you get used to it, the racket will slice through the air and deliver incredible power simultaneously. Although head-heavy, it is not a conservative racket that is difficult to manage. It will not tire you down because of its advanced Rotational Generator System.
4. Yonex Nanoflare 1000 Game
Launched in June 2023, Yonex Nanoflare 1000 Game is an affordable and austere version of the recently successful NF-1000Z. The NF-1000G badminton racket can be a game-changer for players prioritizing speed and power.
It is a mid-level, even-balance racket with Nanocell Neo graphite and Sonic Flare System for flexibility, high repulsion, and maximum shuttle acceleration. It comes with the characteristic wide frame of the Nanoflare series and aero shape contours for faster swing action & reduced incidents of frame warping.
5. Li-Ning G-Force Extra Strong 9500
The Li-Ning G-Force series is budget-friendly. Among several racket options for intermediate players, one strong racket that stands out is the 2022-edition Li-Ning G-Force 9500. It is an extra strong racket with immense power to smash your opponent.
So, it is ideal for intermediate players with an aggressive playing style. The company has used multi-layer carbon fiber to increase the racket's strength and make it more durable than ever. Li-Ning has also made the racket razor-sharp for reduced air resistance and faster swings.
6. Yonex Arcsaber 11 Tour
When you are an intermediate player who enjoys a game of control and accuracy, you will appreciate the feeling of the Yonex Arcsaber 11 Tour. It may not have all the features of the popular Arcsaber 11 Pro, but it comes very near in terms of playability and feel. It has the same recessed frame design as the pro version.
The all-around ARC11-T racket also has a control-assist bumper for better accuracy and pocketing booster rubber-like material for more elasticity in the frame. The only difference is that the Arcsaber 11 Tour is slightly stiff if compared to the pro racket. However, the difference is minute.
7. Yonex Muscle Power 22 Light
Often, people think that the Yonex Muscle Power 22 Light badminton racket is only a good choice for occasional players. But, it offers decent racket handling and feel to low-to-mid-level intermediate players. It has an isometric racket frame for the optimal sweet spot and a slimmer-than-before high-modulus graphite shaft for faster shots and more stability.
If you have a general grasp of badminton shots, grip, form, and footwork, the Yonex Muscle Power 22 racket can be an alternative. Many players recommend it for practice sessions because of its easy playability, maneuverability, and overall strength.
8. Apacs Nano Fusion Speed XR
It is a decent intermediate racket from the Malaysian brand, Apacs. The Nano Fusion Speed XR weighs 78 grams. It is light in weight with a slimmer frame than conventional rackets for faster swing and maneuverability.
The company has used Nano Fusion technology on both sides of the frame for more strength. It also gives depth and control to your shots by storing energy at the time of impact and releasing it with lightning speed. This racket is ideal for intermediate players with a penchant for fast rallies.
9. Victor DriveX Light Fighter 60
If you enjoy the performance of Victor badminton rackets, you can test the Victor DriveX Light Fighter 60. This medium-stiff racket can deliver incredible control and power. The all-around DX-LF-60-E racket is light in weight at just 73 grams. But, it is powerful at the same time because of its head-heavy frame and the use of H.M.G. material in the racket frame and shaft.
It can deliver consistent shots, facilitate fast returns, and bring force to your smashes, especially in the hands of experienced intermediate players. Choose the racket if you practice the sport several hours a week and want to dedicate more time to the game.
10. Li-Ning Wind Lite 900
The Li-Ning Wind Lite 900 is an exceptionally successful racket. The company re-engineered the popular Windstorm series to make it even more lightweight and agile without compromising power. With 80 grams of weight, it is tailor-made for players seeking exceptional defensive performance on the badminton court.
Choose what's Best for you!
In the competitive badminton world, the importance of selecting the best racket for intermediate players cannot be overstated. If you have a well-suited racquet that enhances your performance and supports your skill, it will undoubtedly elevate your game and contribute to your continued growth and success on the court.