HEAD Radical 135 SB 2026 Squash Racket – Precision, Control & Manoeuvrability
Overview
The HEAD Radical 135 SB 2026 Squash Racket is designed for advanced and competitive players who demand exceptional control, precise shot placement and quick handling. Featuring a slim, aerodynamic frame and an even balance, this racket is particularly suited to tactical players who rely on accuracy, touch and fast reactions around the court.
Updated with HEAD's Hy-Bor technology for enhanced stability, the Radical 135 SB delivers a controlled and consistent response during demanding rallies. Its 135g unstrung weight provides additional stability compared with the lighter Radical 120 SB, while the Slimbody construction allows players to manoeuvre the racket effectively when retrieving tight shots along the side walls.
With its distinctive black and orange design, versatile Adaptive Fan Pattern stringing system and control-focused construction, the Radical 135 SB 2026 offers a combination of precision, stability and responsiveness for accomplished squash players.
Key Technologies
Hy-Bor Technology
Introduced to the 2026 Radical range, Hy-Bor technology enhances perceived frame stability during ball impact. This helps deliver a more consistent response and improved confidence when executing precise shots under pressure.
Slimbody Construction
The slim 16mm aerodynamic beam improves manoeuvrability and allows players to position the racket closer to the side walls. This design supports quick reactions, controlled defensive retrievals and accurate attacking shots.
Adaptive Fan Pattern (AFP)
HEAD's Adaptive Fan Pattern technology allows the racket to be strung using two different configurations. The standard 14 x 17 pattern provides a more responsive string bed, while the alternative 18 x 17 fan pattern offers a denser configuration for enhanced control and precision.
High Modulus Carbon Construction
The high modulus carbon frame provides a strong, responsive structure designed to support stability, accurate ball placement and consistent performance during competitive play.
Graphene Inside
Strategically incorporated Graphene reinforcement helps strengthen the frame, improve stability and support efficient energy transfer during ball contact.
HEAD Radical 135 SB 2026 Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Brand |
HEAD |
| Model |
Radical 135 SB 2026 |
| Product Code |
210076 |
| Player Level |
Advanced / Competitive |
| Playing Style |
Control / Precision |
| Unstrung Weight |
135g |
| Head Size |
475cm² / 74in² |
| Balance |
Even / 350mm |
| Length |
685mm / 27 inches |
| Beam Width |
16mm |
| Head Shape |
Classic |
| String Pattern |
14 x 17 / 18 x 17 AFP |
| Factory Strings |
HEAD Reflex 18G (1.20mm) |
| Grip |
HEAD Hydrosorb Pro |
| Construction |
High Modulus Carbon / Graphene |
| Technologies |
Hy-Bor, Slimbody, Adaptive Fan Pattern |
| Colour |
Black / Orange |
| Racket Cover |
Not Included |
Pro / Player Review
The HEAD Radical 135 SB 2026 is a control-oriented squash racket that rewards technically accomplished players with excellent feedback and accurate shot placement. Its classic head shape and relatively compact hitting area provide a direct response, making it particularly effective for tight drives, controlled drops and tactical front-court play.
The 135g frame offers a stable feel without becoming excessively cumbersome, while the even balance helps maintain manoeuvrability during fast exchanges. The Slimbody construction is especially useful when retrieving balls close to the side wall, where racket clearance and quick preparation are essential.
Compared with the HEAD Radical 120 SB, the 135 SB offers additional mass and stability, although players who prioritise the lightest possible racket may prefer the 120g alternative. The 135 SB also places greater emphasis on control and direct feedback than larger-headed, power-oriented squash rackets.
Its main limitation is that the precision-focused design may be less forgiving for developing players who struggle to make consistent contact with the centre of the string bed. Players seeking effortless power and a larger sweet spot may benefit from a more power-oriented model.
Overall, the Radical 135 SB 2026 is an excellent option for advanced players who value precision, stability and manoeuvrability over maximum power.
Q: Who is the HEAD Radical 135 SB 2026 best suited for?
A: It is designed primarily for advanced and competitive squash players who prioritise control, precise shot placement and fast racket handling. It particularly suits tactical players who use accurate drives, drops and changes of pace.
Q: What is the difference between the Radical 135 SB and Radical 120 SB?
A: The Radical 135 SB has a 135g unstrung weight compared with the 120g Radical 120 SB. The additional weight provides greater stability and a more substantial feel at impact, while the lighter model offers easier acceleration and reduced overall mass.
Q: What does Slimbody mean?
A: Slimbody refers to HEAD's thin, aerodynamic racket frame design. The 16mm beam improves handling and helps players retrieve balls close to the side walls, making it particularly beneficial during fast, technical rallies.
Q: Does the Radical 135 SB 2026 offer good power?
A: The racket can generate effective power when used with good technique, but its primary strengths are control, stability and precision. Players who rely on powerful, effortless hitting may prefer a racket with a larger head or a more power-focused design.
Q: What is the benefit of the Adaptive Fan Pattern?
A: The Adaptive Fan Pattern allows players to select between a standard 14 x 17 string pattern and an alternative 18 x 17 fan pattern when restringing. This provides flexibility to adjust the string-bed response towards greater power or control.
Q: Is the HEAD Radical 135 SB 2026 suitable for beginners?
A: Although beginners can use the racket, it is primarily designed for experienced players with consistent technique. Its control-focused characteristics and more defined sweet spot are generally better suited to intermediate-to-advanced and competitive players.
Q: Does the racket come pre-strung?
A: Yes. The HEAD Radical 135 SB 2026 comes factory-strung with HEAD Reflex 18G squash string, providing a responsive starting setup suitable for control-oriented play.
Q: What is new about the 2026 version?
A: The principal update is the introduction of Hy-Bor technology, designed to improve perceived frame stability and provide a more consistent feel at impact. The 2026 model also features refreshed asymmetric black and orange graphics.
