Yonex Astrox Lite 45i Badminton Racquet

Power without bulk. That is the core promise of the Yonex Astrox Lite 45i, and it delivers on it in every part of the design.

The frame is built from H.M. Full Graphite on both the frame and shaft, keeping the total weight at just 78g (5U). That is genuinely light for a head-heavy racquet, and the combination of those two qualities — light overall, heavy at the head — is what gives the 45i its character. The head-heavy balance point means the racquet loads energy into smashes and clears naturally, adding punch to every overhead shot without the player needing to muscle the shuttle. The Hi-Flex shaft amplifies this further, bending through the swing and snapping through at contact in a clear hammer effect that transfers maximum repulsion into the shuttle.

The frame shape is Yonex's signature ISOMETRIC design, which squares off the top of the head to expand the sweet spot by up to 7% compared to a conventional oval frame. Off-centre hits still produce full power and control — a real advantage in the middle of a fast doubles exchange where perfect contact is not always possible. The Aero-Box frame construction pairs aerodynamic contouring at the top of the hoop with Yonex's box-section profile lower down, cutting air resistance on the swing while maintaining the torsional stability needed for accurate placement.

Nanomesh Neo binds the graphite fibres to the resin at a molecular level, making the frame and shaft simultaneously stronger and more flexible. It speeds up the return of the shaft after contact, so the racquet is back in position for the next shot faster. The Built-in T-Joint eliminates flex at the critical junction between shaft and frame, removing head twist that costs accuracy on angled smashes and net shots. The Control Support Cap at the base of the handle provides a wider, textured surface for a secure grip and faster grip changes during intense rallies.

At 675mm length with a 7.0mm slim shaft, the 45i is dimensioned for speed. The slim profile cuts drag on the swing arc, which directly translates into faster head speed and more pace into the shuttle.

Arrives factory-strung and complete with a full cover.

Available in Blue Silver and Scarlet, in grip sizes G4 and G5.