Are tweener racquets appropriate for 5.0 players?

[seacard]

I'm a 4.5 player that has always played with "Player" racquets (Prince Precision Response, PS85, HPS 6.1, iPrestige, RDS001). I've been demoing the nCode nPro Open X lately, and feel pretty good playing with it. It's a lot more powerful than what I'm used to, but I feel like I'm getting a good handle on it.

My question is, if I continue improving and get to, say, 5.0 level, would this racquet be holding me back? Or are there good 5.0 level players that use lighter racquets like that one?

[frekcles]

IMO it's not about the racquet but the person using the racquet. If you're a 4.5 you should be able to use any racquet that you want. It's how you use it that counts.

[Craig Sheppard]

Man, strong 4.5 players around here use the Pure Drive, so I can't say anything bad about the Open X... sounds like you're taking an ego hit or something using the nPro... I'd stick with it if it works for you. I don't see any reason for you to change if you keep winning and improving. Now, if you start playing 5.0 players and feel like your getting pushed around by using a lighter racket, then you could look into maybe some led tape or something, but unless that happens leave well enough alone is what I say.

[Gmedlo]

If you're really that worried about it, you can always use lead. Leaded up tweeners, I find, play great. Often much better than stock players racquets.

[sharp*shooter]

Sounds ok but as someone said i'd be worried about the weight because when i've used light rackets against harder hitters I really have to grip the racket tight or I find it just gets pushed out of my hand. Saying that the nPro Open X doesnt look too bad at all. 11.3 ounces isnt really light.

[ollinger]

These labels given to racquets should not be taken too seriously. One only need try different types of racquets and see what you play best with.

[Bhagi Katbamna]

The best racket for you is the one that you play the best with that doesn't hurt your arm.