HEAD Radical 160 Squash 57 (Racketball) Racket
The HEAD Radical 160 Squash 57 (Racketball) Racket is a lightweight performance racket for experienced Squash 57 players seeking fast handling, power and control. The 160g unstrung frame combines a 690cm² teardrop head with an even 278mm balance, giving quick-swinging players manoeuvrability without sacrificing stability. Auxetic 2.0 and Graphene Inside enhance feel and energy transfer, while Power Channels, IGS2 and PowerRAILS reinforce the frame. An Adaptive Fan Pattern also lets players tailor the string-bed response towards power or control.
Product Technologies:
- Auxetic 2.0: HEAD's Auxetic construction is engineered to react dynamically at impact, expanding and contracting according to the applied force. This is designed to provide more immediate feedback and a connected hitting sensation.
- Graphene Inside: Graphene is strategically positioned within the frame to strengthen its construction, improve stability and optimise energy transfer from racket to ball.
- IGS2: The Inner Grommet System 2 reduces the number of exposed grommet holes around the frame, helping HEAD achieve useful stiffness while keeping unnecessary weight down.
- Power Channels: Moulded channels through the throat allow the main strings to extend further into the frame. The longer mains support additional power while the throat construction maintains stability.
- PowerRAILS: Structural reinforcement within the frame is designed to increase stiffness and stability, helping create a solid response when striking the Squash 57 ball at pace.
- Adaptive Fan Pattern: HEAD's adaptable stringing system allows the racket to be configured to favour either additional power or greater control, giving players more flexibility when setting up the string bed.
- High Modulus Carbon: The performance-focused carbon construction provides a strong, responsive frame while allowing the Radical 160 to maintain its lightweight 160g specification.
Staff Pro Review:
The Radical 160 is best suited to confident Squash 57 players who already generate plenty of racket-head speed. At 160g it feels particularly quick through preparation and recovery, while the even balance prevents the head from becoming cumbersome. The combination of Auxetic 2.0, Graphene Inside and the frame's reinforcement technologies gives this lightweight model a more stable platform for attacking drives and controlled placement.
FAQs
Q: What advantage does the Adaptive Fan Pattern give when restringing the Radical 160?
A: It gives players the option to alter the string-bed configuration according to their preferred response. One arrangement can be used to emphasise power, while the alternative configuration can provide a more control-focused response.
Q: Why are Power Channels useful on a lightweight 160g racket?
A: Power Channels extend the effective length of the main strings while maintaining stiffness around the throat. This helps the string bed contribute additional power, which is particularly useful on a lightweight frame designed for players with fast swings.
Q: How do Auxetic 2.0 and Graphene Inside work together?
A: They address different aspects of the racket's response. Auxetic 2.0 is designed to improve feedback and feel as the frame reacts at impact, while Graphene Inside reinforces key areas to support stability and efficient energy transfer.
