How Do I Choose A Badminton Racket For My Child?
So your little one has shown interest in badminton—maybe they’ve tried a class, maybe they’re rallying with siblings using kitchen utensils, or maybe they’re just captivated by the sound of a good shuttle smash. Now you’re standing in a sports shop or scrolling through endless options online, asking the million-dollar question: how do I choose a badminton racket for my child?
At ULTExplosive Badminton Academy, we’ve coached hundreds of children across Singapore. And if we’ve learned one thing, it’s that the right racket can make or break a beginner’s first impression of the game. Hand a five-year-old a heavy, adult-sized racket and you’ll see enthusiasm drop faster than a sliced drop shot. But give them a tool that’s light, balanced, and made just for them? Suddenly they’re swinging with confidence and asking when the next lesson is.
So let’s break it down—ULTExplosive style. No jargon, no fluff, just practical tips grounded in years of coaching experience.
How Do I Choose A Badminton Racket For My Child’s Age and Size?
It starts with proportions. If your child is four to six years old, they don’t need a full-length racket. Their tiny arms simply can’t handle the reach, and the result is usually a whole lot of missed shots and bruised confidence. That’s why, at ULTExplosive, we use junior-sized rackets with shorter shafts and smaller grips specifically designed for young players.
The rule of thumb? When your child holds the racket at their side, the frame should not touch the ground. That ensures their strokes will be cleaner and more controlled. A too-long racket forces awkward posture and throws timing off, which creates habits we’d rather not have to un-train later.
For kids aged seven to ten, slightly longer rackets with light frames are ideal. We gradually increase shaft length and weight only as the child grows stronger and more technically sound. And don’t worry—our kids badminton lessons include proper racket handling drills that help children adjust to their equipment quickly.
How Do I Choose A Badminton Racket For My Child’s Strength?
Kids don’t need to be strong to start badminton, but they do need a racket that suits their current strength level. Heavier isn’t better, especially in the beginning. A lightweight racket allows young learners to swing comfortably, react quickly, and practice wrist movements without tiring out halfway through the session.
At ULTExplosive, we generally recommend rackets that weigh between 75g to 85g for younger players. The lighter frame helps them focus on technique rather than wrestling with the equipment. One of our seven-year-olds once came in with a full graphite racket meant for adults. After five minutes, he looked like he’d finished a full workout. We switched him to a junior model and by the end of the class, he was grinning ear to ear—and landing clean clears.
Weight affects more than just fatigue. It changes how your child learns to generate power and use their wrist. And when we’re teaching fundamentals like the thumb grip for backhand clears, that control is crucial.
How Do I Choose A Badminton Racket For My Child That Boosts Confidence?
A racket is more than just a tool—it’s your child’s badminton companion. It should feel like an extension of their hand. That’s why grip size matters. Smaller hands need smaller grips. If the grip is too thick, your child will hold the racket incorrectly, which messes with their strokes and causes unnecessary tension in the forearm.
At ULTExplosive, we help parents find rackets with grip sizes suited for junior hands—usually G5 or G6. And for kids who need extra comfort, we’ll add a soft overgrip that improves traction without increasing bulk.
And yes, aesthetics count. If your child lights up when they see a neon pink or superhero-themed racket, go with it. A racket that looks “cool” in their eyes is one they’ll be excited to use. We’ve seen shy kids suddenly blossom in class simply because they couldn’t wait to show off their new gear.
How Do I Choose A Badminton Racket For My Child Based on Playing Style?
This one’s tricky—because when kids are just starting out, they don’t really have a style yet. They’re still discovering how they like to move, swing, and play. So there’s no need to choose between head-heavy, even-balanced, or head-light rackets right away.
Instead, choose a racket that’s evenly balanced, giving them the flexibility to explore both power and control without biasing their development. As they progress, our coaches will assess their tendencies and make tailored recommendations based on their growing game identity.
We once had a student, Ethan, who struggled with smashing using his standard racket. Our coach realised he had naturally quick wrist speed and could benefit from a head-light racket. The change was immediate—his accuracy improved, and he suddenly loved smashes again. That’s the kind of insight you only get through observation and experience, which is why choosing a neutral racket in the beginning makes sense.
How Do I Choose A Badminton Racket For My Child That Grows With Them?
Kids grow fast. So does their ability. That doesn’t mean you need to replace rackets every three months, but it does mean you should choose a racket that can support their development for at least a year. Look for durable frames with good string tension that won’t fray after a few hits.
At ULTExplosive, we often recommend rackets that allow for restringing once the child develops stronger swings. This gives them room to progress without needing a full replacement right away. We also guide parents on maintenance—keeping grips clean, strings tight, and rackets safely stored to prolong lifespan.
And if your child is really enjoying the game? That’s when we sit down with you to talk about investing in a more specialised racket, based on their goals and game style.
How Do I Choose A Badminton Racket For My Child With Guidance?
You don’t have to figure this out alone. One of the benefits of joining ULTExplosive Badminton Academy is that we walk parents through every step—from skill evaluation to gear selection. If your child joins our trial session and we spot mismatched equipment, we’ll give you honest, professional advice based on what works best—not what’s trending online.
We even allow kids to try out academy rackets in their first few lessons, so they can get a feel for what’s comfortable before you commit to a purchase. That hands-on testing often prevents unnecessary spending and ensures your child starts with the right fit from day one.
So, How Do I Choose A Badminton Racket For My Child?
Start with fit, not fancy. Choose based on size, weight, grip, and comfort—not brand labels or adult specs. Let your child be involved in the decision (within reason), and always opt for something they can swing confidently and enjoy using.
At ULTExplosive Badminton Academy, we help kids start their journey the right way—with gear that supports their growth, coaches who personalise their path, and an environment that turns beginners into believers.
Visit ULTExplosive Badminton Academy to book a kids’ trial class or speak with our coaching team about racket recommendations. We’re here to help your child love the game, one rally—and one right-sized racket—at a time.
Click on the link to find out more about TM Tennis Academy’s lesson package. Chat with our head coach today!
About ULTExplosive Badminton Academy
Private Badminton Lessons
Kids Badminton Lesson
Group Badminton Lessons
Whatsapp Us
3 Comments