Hi. I'm relatively new to badminton. I just played with some friends and some people at the University that I go to. I want to get a racquet, but I dont really know which one to get. One of the coaches/players said I was actually really good for a beginner, he said I had really good defense and placement, but my smashes are weak. Then my friend told me I should get a relatively heavy, stiff, head heavy racquet so I could work on my smashes. I'm not really sure if I should follow his advice, because someone else suggested I buy a SOTX STB 8080+ which is very light. I'm on a tight budget, but I still want a pretty good racquet. So can I get some advice on which racquet to get? What racquets would you guys recommend? (Preferably under $70) Also, what are some good sites to buy badminton racquets from? (I live the USA) Thanks. Edit: Also what strings would you recommend for the racquet I get? And include the tension you think would be appropriate. For example the SOTX STB 8080+ comes with either SOTX Titanium TI-65 (I presume it's a ripoff of Yonex Ti-65), Ashaway Micropower or Microlegend.
Oh and I want a balance between performance and durability, but performance is more important. Also I only play a couple of times a week currently.
based on your level, any carbon graphite racket would work well. Hell, I would even use an aluminum racket just to build up that wrist strength. But if you really want a good racket I suggest armortec 250, its a good all around racket. Also, I've found the Musclepower series to be really good for people switching from aluminum/steel rackets. However, if you are able to get it, then I suggest RSL extreme 6070. It's only $60-80 and is REALLY good for its price. Unfortunately not many people buy RSL =((( for tension anywhere between 20-22 is good =)
The SOTX seems okay. Heck, any SOTX is good performance wise, and because you're a moderate beginner, it would work anyways. You can try the Micropower at 20lbs.