Squash

Prince Shadow Response 400 Squash Racket Review & Buying Guide (India)

The Prince Shadow Response 400 is an advanced squash racket priced at ₹6,824 in India. Here is who it suits and what to check before you buy.

Instasport

— 3 min read
Prince Shadow Response 400 squash racket, advanced performance racket

Prince Shadow Response 400 squash racket review: an advanced racket at a sharper price

The Prince Shadow Response 400 is positioned for developing and advanced squash players who want power and control in the same frame. At InstaSport the Prince Shadow Response 400 Squash Racket (₹6,824) is listed at ₹6,824 against an MRP of ₹10,999, which is a notable saving for a performance racket. This review explains who it suits, what to verify before buying and how it compares with other options in our catalogue.

What the manufacturer says

Prince's listing for the Shadow Response 400 highlights optimised power transfer, precise control and feel, a lightweight design that reduces fatigue, a balanced feel and durable construction. Those are marketing claims rather than independent test results, so treat them as a description of the racket's intent: a lively, manoeuvrable frame for players who attack and volley a lot. We have not reproduced numbers such as weight, balance point or string pattern here; please confirm these on the product page before you buy.

Who it suits

  • Intermediate to advanced club players who have outgrown a beginner racket and want more control.
  • Players who attack and prefer a racket that feels quick through the air.
  • Players moving up from entry-level frames who want a step in quality without paying a top-tier price.

Who should think twice

  • Complete beginners, who will do better with a forgiving racket in the ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 range.
  • Players with a history of wrist or elbow discomfort, who should check weight, balance and stiffness with a coach before buying.

How to judge a squash racket before buying

Four things matter most: weight, balance, head size and string pattern. Lighter rackets are easier to swing and quick at the front of the court, while heavier rackets deliver more power on the drive. Head-light balance helps manoeuvrability; head-heavy balance adds power. Our guide to squash racket weight and balance explains the trade-offs, and our composite vs graphite guide covers frame material.

Accessories to buy with it

  • Grip: check size and overgrip choice; see our squash grip guide.
  • Balls: use the right dot for your court temperature; our ball dots guide helps.
  • Eyewear: protective goggles are strongly recommended, as covered in our squash eyewear guide.
  • Court shoes: non-marking soles with lateral support.

Getting the most from a performance racket

A good frame only pays off if the setup is right. Ask your stringer for a tension within the range printed on the frame, and consider a slightly lower tension if you want more power or a higher one if you prefer control. Fit a grip size that lets you hold the racket with a relaxed fingertip gap; a grip that is too small encourages squeezing and tires the forearm. Warm up for ten minutes before hard rallies, and use a racket cover to protect the frame from knocks in your kit bag. Regular players should check the frame for cracks around the throat and head after any heavy wall or floor impact.

Alternatives in our range

Our verdict

The Shadow Response 400 is aimed at a player who already knows what they want: a quick, controlled racket for a serious game. At ₹6,824 it is an attractive offer compared with the listed MRP, as long as the weight and balance match your game. If you are still learning, save money with a Power Beast 150 and upgrade once your technique settles. Whichever racket you choose, restring it when it goes dead, and keep it out of hot cars and damp bags.

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Frequently asked questions

How much is the Prince Shadow Response 400 squash racket in India?

InstaSport lists the Prince Shadow Response 400 at ₹6,824, against an MRP of ₹10,999. Prices can change, so check the product page.

Is the Prince Shadow Response 400 good for beginners?

It is positioned for developing and advanced players. Complete beginners usually do better with a more forgiving racket in the ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 range, such as the Prince Power Beast 150.

What else should I buy with a squash racket?

A suitable grip, squash balls matched to court temperature, non-marking court shoes and protective eyewear.

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