Tell me about the Head Extreme Series...

[Boredsurfer]

... specifically, was there ever a soft version (60-65 RA) of this stick? For some reason I have missed this racket over the years. I do remember hearing the 2009 thru 2011 models were elbow destroyers but that's all I know....

[MattCrosby]

The latest versions the 2.0 and the IG non 2.0 are absolutely brilliant, hit with the Pro and the MP version and they felt like the old Microgel ones, very soft, big sweet spot.

[moonballs]

I played with the extreme pro 2.0 twice since I got it. In winter indoor courts are hard to find and expensive. So I ordered it with the free Wilson synthetic gut strung at 56. It is definitely stiffer than the Pk 5g I have been using for 10 years. It is still too soon but so far no bad vibrations or elbow issues.

[veloduffer]

I don't have any history with Head racquets (except the Arthur Ashe model in the 70s) except for the Extreme Pro 2.0. My previous racquets were Wilson Classic 6.1 and 2012 Six-One 95 BLX and 2012 BLX Pro Open.

I really like the Extreme, as it plays lighter than it is spec'd, as well as less stiff than the RA numbers suggest (probably due to the new grommets). It definitely feels much lighter than the Six-One BLX and similar in stiffness, despite the BLX being spec'd much softer. I find it very forgiving as well, more than the Steam 99S that I've been demo-ing, as it is quite stable in off-center hits that still produce a good penetrating shot.

I hit with a lot of topspin on both sides, plus a slice backhand and serve. The Extreme allows for lots of spin, but it is easy for me to flatten out when I want power. Using a textured poly, like Solinco Tour Bite, can produce some crazy spin with this racquet.

As you can see, I think it is a great racquet. I tried it after reading the TW playtest and agree with everything in their reviews.

[Boredsurfer]

keep it coming guys - I appreciate the feedback.

I wonder if the new grommets would fit on the older frames? Maybe I can get the benfefits of the vibration dampening whilst still reducing the shock of an 70RA frame if I retrofitted a new grommet package into a Microgel version for instance....

I hit with one of the 2012 MP's other day and I really liked it - I feel like the PRO version would be even better. My concern however would be long-term on the elbow, and the goofy head shaped pallets (could switch those out though).

[t-swede]

which of the extreme going from microgel to the latest 2.0 has the tightest string pattern ? i think when browsing here i found some comments about this any thoughts ?

[Doubles]

It's HEAD's answer to Babolat frames like the Pure Drive and Aero Pro. Stiff and powerful, but if you have a fast swing, you'll be rewarded with plenty of spin.

[Bhagi Katbamna]

I really liked the MG Extreme and played with them for more than a year but just could not get used to the grip shape.

[canny]

I love the extreme series. The IG version is a bit stiff compared to the microgel. But I love the feel of the racquet and the amount of spin I can generate.

[ellipticality_224]

I love them, The extreme for me is as good as my prestiges. MP and Pro, both very good sticks.