Modern Peak rackets are typically composites of multiple materials, functionally categorized into core materials and surface/outer layer materials.

1. Core Materials (Determine the racket's "feel" and "power")

This is the main material of the thicker middle layer of the racket, directly affecting the "feel" of the shot.

Polymer: The most common and economical core material. Provides a good feel and decent shock absorption, but with a muffled sound. A top choice for entry-level and recreational rackets.

Nomex (aramid honeycomb): A lightweight honeycomb material, very rigid and responsive. Produces greater power and a louder sound, but with a "harder" feel and slightly less control. Commonly found in mid-to-high-end rackets that prioritize power.

Aluminum: Primarily used in entry-level, inexpensive rackets. Lightweight but with average strength, prone to deformation, and a lower performance ceiling.

1. Foam and Other Composite Foams: Emerging high-end core materials. By mixing foams of varying densities, an excellent balance of power, control, and feel can be achieved. Typically used in top-tier professional or flagship models.

2. Outer/Surface Materials (Determine the racket's "performance" and "durability"): This is the thin layer covering the core, in direct contact with the ball, and has the greatest impact on spin, control, and power.

Carbon Fiber: Currently the absolute mainstream and benchmark in the high-end market. Characteristics: Lightweight, high strength, and sufficient rigidity. Provides excellent power transfer, precise control, and excellent "feel feedback." The surface usually has a carbon fiber texture, which helps increase friction and enhance spin.

Fiberglass: More flexible and resilient than carbon fiber. Offers a larger "sweet spot" and a softer feel, with good shock absorption, but power transfer and rigidity are not as good as carbon fiber. A common choice for high-performance, control-oriented rackets.

Hybrid Materials: Such as carbon fiber/fiberglass blends. The design aims to combine the advantages of both, such as using carbon fiber for increased strength in the frame and glass fiber to expand the sweet spot on the hitting surface. This is a great marketing selling point.

Graphite: Often confused with carbon fiber, but strictly speaking, early rackets used more graphite, with similar performance but generally inferior in manufacturing process and strength compared to modern carbon fiber. Currently, rackets labeled "graphite" are mostly mid-range products.

Market Trends:

Entry-level/Recreational: Polymer core + glass fiber/ordinary graphite surface layer.

Mid-range/Advanced: Nomex or premium polymer core + carbon fiber surface layer.

High-end/Competitive: Advanced foam or Nomex core + high-quality carbon fiber surface layer, with refined manufacturing processes (such as non-porous design and edge technology).

Key Parameters of Peak Rackets:

Weight: Typically between 190g-250g. Lighter rackets (<200g) are more agile and easier to control; heavier rackets (>220g) offer greater power and better stability.

Racquet Face Shape: Standard wide (large sweet spot, suitable for beginners), elongated (increases reach), blade-shaped (for power and speed).

Thickness: Typically 13mm-16mm. Thicker rackets generate more power, while thinner rackets offer better control and agility.

Balance Point:

Head-heavy: Greater power, larger swing inertia.

Head-light/Balanced: Better control, faster reaction time at the net.

Grip Size: Common circumferences are approximately 10cm (4 inches) and 10.5cm (4.25 inches), catering to different hand sizes.

Grip Leather: Breathable, sweat-wicking, and slip-resistant.

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