Which Badminton Grip is the Best for Me?
One of these days, I was watching a YouTube video about badminton matches when the person started talking about grips. I do not know the person’s source, but apparently, badminton grips are responsible for 30% playability!
This took me by surprise, but then I went on to do my own research. The result? I am better at badminton than before - due to one small change - my grip! I am still not sure about the 30% playability statement but having the right grip wound around your racket’s tail can make a big difference.
Let’s put this into perspective. You are a top-notch badminton, smashing your way through the court. However, something is holding you back. You do not know what, but you know you are not 100% on the court. You check your racket; it’s in great shape. The shuttlecock is great as well. Your shoes have X-cushioning and Hexa Foam, making you feel like a bird on the court.
Right Grip is Everything for the Right Serve.
Then what is it? You notice how you hold your racket and how the grip you use over your racket’s tail somehow does not sync. And there it is! The thing that only makes you give your 70% on the court. Not 100%!
I know this because I was once the badminton player who would blame the wind for my poor performance on the court (even when playing in an indoor setting). However, this one upgrade took my game to the next level. I had been playing for years with the stock factory grip that came with my racket.
While it did the job, I still had sore hands and blisters after long matches. My sweaty palms would also cause the racket to twist in my grip on hard smashes. I decided to experiment with some upgraded badminton racket grip options.
After trial and error, I found the perfect replacement grip for my playing style - one with a traction surface to keep the racket stable in my hand and enough padding to prevent abrasion. The improvement was dramatic. I had more control over my shots and was a better player with blister-free hands.
In this post, I’ll share tips for choosing the right badminton racket grip for your needs and playing style. Whether you want more shock absorption or need help with a sweaty grip, there are many options to upgrade your racket handle and transform your game. Even your serve!
Options to Choose From
When it comes to badminton rackets, there are a few options. Hundred’s GTO 20 Boost Overgrip works the best for me. It is a dry-palm badminton racket overgrip that has dramatically changed my gameplay. The GTO 20 Boost is manufactured using polyurethane material that gives it a tacky texture and helps reduce vibrations to a minimum during matches and rallies.
The GTO 20 Boost is an overgrip type of badminton racket grip. Some other types of racket grips include:
Towel Grip
The grip provides comfort and absorbs perspiration thanks to its absorbent cotton construction. The fluffy, smooth texture feels pleasant in your hands. As the cotton dries out, towel grips require more frequent replacement.
Synthetic Grip
Grips composed of sturdy synthetics, such as PU, are resistant to weather and maintain their sticky texture for extended periods of time. They give a solid, supporting sensation. Though less absorbent, the material is easily cleaned.
Replacement Grip
Replacement grips are pre-shaped grips that fit around the racket to replace old and worn grips completely. They come in different thicknesses and materials. Hundred’s GTR 19 is a fantastic replacement grip I have used.
Note: Each grip style has perks and downsides. Try several grips, such as cotton, synthetic, replacement, and overgrips, to know which best suits your playing style.
Factors to Consider
There are a few factors to consider when choosing a badminton racket grip:
Materials
Cotton, polyurethane (PU), and hybrid mixes are some materials used to make grips. Cotton gives absorbency and softness, while PU delivers greater weather resistance and durability. Hundred’s GTO 20 and GTR 19 are manufactured using PU for similar purposes and a better texture.
Thickness
Replacement grips are often thicker for better absorbency and cushioning. Since overgrips cover the existing handle, they are thinner.
Tackiness
Certain grips are naturally stickier or more tacky than others, which helps prevent the racket from twisting in your hand—especially while you're perspiring.
Durability
Durable grips hold their playability and texture before breaking down and needing replacement.
Absorbency
Grips manufactured from cotton terry cloth help absorb sweat and keep the palms drier. Synthetic grips don’t absorb much moisture.
Comfort
Choose the grip size, form, and softness that best suits your hand.
Note: When choosing the best grip for you, consider your sweating levels, preferred thickness, the requirement for cushioning, and any racket twisting problems. Narrowing down preferences may be achieved by experimenting with various materials and styles.
Gripping On
I do not view this as an article where I impart knowledge but as a medium to tell my story. Being a badminton player is not as easy as people think. Therefore, even the smallest things, such as the grip, matter.
For any badminton player, having the right racket grip may make all the difference in the world. Having endured painful hand sprains and blisters due to a worn-out stock grip, I eventually took the time to discover the ideal replacement that fit my strategy.
For me, that meant having a tac surface to keep the racket securely in place during furious bouts and a grip with sufficient cushioning to avoid blisters and abrasions. I feel more confident in my stability and racket control now that I've switched grips.
I hope my journey helps others be the best version of themselves in this game we all love and cherish. This is what my story is about. This is what Hundred is all about.
