Wilson Hits Homerun with Wilson Steam 99S (mini review)

Okay, extreme weather looks to be shifting. Free time looming hopefully, so frame off to stringer for my first look at full job 4G 16 gauge. Going in @ 53 lbs. Hope that's not too low. I did have some issues with my J100 re strings/lower tensions/overpowered performance. Anyhow, different frame of course... bring it on!

Ross K said:

Okay, extreme weather looks to be shifting. Free time looming hopefully, so frame off to stringer for my first look at full job 4G 16 gauge. Going in @ 53 lbs. Hope that's not too low. I did have some issues with my J100 re strings/overpowered performance. Anyhow, different frame of course... bring it on!

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I also had mine strung @ 53# with 4G, but I thought it was slightly overpowered, but that was just hitting for 1.5hrs. I think I will go to 55# when I'm ready to restring.

tlm said:

I have hit with this racket enough times to know that it is not for me. Have tried different string set ups and I am heading back to my prince rebel.

The 99s is fun and with brand new poly at high tensions it can play pretty good for a hour or so, but to me this is a toy racket. It is a rocket launcher with a lot of spin, but not much consistent control.

Maybe for dubs or for players with moderate swings, but not for slugging it out with full swings. I played one set with the spin and one set with my rebel. The 99s can hit some great shots and if you are right on the money it is great, but not much room for error.

When I played the 2nd set with my regular racket I played much better and a lot more consistent. When it comes to playing matches it is hard to beat consistency. I am sure that a lot of players will play well and get some benefits from this racket but it is not for me.

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I had to sell my 99S because it was bothering my shoulder, was likely a swingweight/balance issue with my sensitive surgically repaired shoulder.

drak said:

I had to sell my 99S because it was bothering my shoulder, was likely a swingweight/balance issue with my sensitive surgically repaired shoulder.

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Thats surprising because it did seem like a arm friendly racket.

drak said:

I had to sell my 99S because it was bothering my shoulder, was likely a swingweight/balance issue with my sensitive surgically repaired shoulder.

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tlm said:

Thats surprising because it did seem like a arm friendly racket.

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No way, the 99S is fairly arm friendly. Absolutely no arm issues with it...

tlm said:

Thats surprising because it did seem like a arm friendly racket.

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let me stress, it's a swingweight/balance issue with ME and NOT a stiffness kinda thing

Update on the 15L Black Code. After warming up with it for about 10 minutes the other night before a singles match I decided to stick with the 4G for the match. I hit today for about an hour with the Black Code, about 30 min of hitting/warmup type stuff and then five games of 11s.

String felt softer, more comfortable and more powerful than the 4G just like I suspected it would. I thought the 4G offered more spin and that sudden dip at the end better than Black Code. After a about 30-40 minutes of hitting the string really started moving a lot and not snapping back nearly as much. I checked the notching of the Black Code afterward and it was notched about 3/4 of the way through so durability will definitely be an issue for me.

If you're a 3.0-4.0 I think the 15L Black Code might be a nice fit. If you're a 4.5 and up that hits hard and is consistent then I would stick with the 4G in 16g or 15g due to the durability and overall longer playability of the string. I haven't really hit with 15g 4G but I plan to experiment with it soon. I normally string the 16g 4G at 58lbs and will probably go 55 or 56lbs in the 15g. Probably 55lbs.

A lot of this is probably common sense but thought I would throw it out there.

Well I am having some elbow discomfort and its gotta be coming from the racquet. It feels good not harsh sox think its gonna be a balance issue more than stiffness.

It's been a bit of love hate so far actually love and indifference. As per my previous post their seems to be a very narrow range of tension and string where i really love it's performance and feel. I think this racquet can be a great tool for the Medium to low power player in the 4.0 and sub levels but I don't ever see this racquet being a staple of the higher level players I hate to say that because I love the balance and the feel of the stick. For those of you familiar with golf I see this stick as a mid level game improvement type racquet with some hi level characteristics but not a players racquet. This is my honest opinion and feedback doesn't mean others can't feel totally different. I am going to keep tinkering hoping to find a groove forth is stick

By the way could they have made it look just a bit more walmart !! Man Wilson dropped the ball there.

Centerforward71 said:

Well I am having some elbow discomfort and its gotta be coming from the racquet. It feels good not harsh sox think its gonna be a balance issue more than stiffness.

It's been a bit of love hate so far actually love and indifference. As per my previous post their seems to be a very narrow range of tension and string where i really love it's performance and feel. I think this racquet can be a great tool for the Medium to low power player in the 4.0 and sub levels but I don't ever see this racquet being a staple of the higher level players I hate to say that because I love the balance and the feel of the stick. For those of you familiar with golf I see this stick as a mid level game improvement type racquet with some hi level characteristics but not a players racquet. This is my honest opinion and feedback doesn't mean others can't feel totally different. I am going to keep tinkering hoping to find a groove forth is stick

By the way could they have made it look just a bit more walmart !! Man Wilson dropped the ball there.

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I have used rackets in the past that even though they felt comfy ended up being hard on the arm, you don't know for sure until you use it for a while.
Like you said it is a game improvement racket, for most players with full swings this thing is to powerful. Just like I thought it would be, it is not much different than the vortex racket. Great for spin but to much of a rocket launcher for me.

couch said:

Update on the 15L Black Code. After warming up with it for about 10 minutes the other night before a singles match I decided to stick with the 4G for the match. I hit today for about an hour with the Black Code, about 30 min of hitting/warmup type stuff and then five games of 11s.

String felt softer, more comfortable and more powerful than the 4G just like I suspected it would. I thought the 4G offered more spin and that sudden dip at the end better than Black Code. After a about 30-40 minutes of hitting the string really started moving a lot and not snapping back nearly as much. I checked the notching of the Black Code afterward and it was notched about 3/4 of the way through so durability will definitely be an issue for me.

If you're a 3.0-4.0 I think the 15L Black Code might be a nice fit. If you're a 4.5 and up that hits hard and is consistent then I would stick with the 4G in 16g or 15g due to the durability and overall longer playability of the string. I haven't really hit with 15g 4G but I plan to experiment with it soon. I normally string the 16g 4G at 58lbs and will probably go 55 or 56lbs in the 15g. Probably 55lbs.

A lot of this is probably common sense but thought I would throw it out there.

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Stop beating around the bush and go for 60lbs, if string starts to move in 40 min, that means its no longer fully snapping back, no longer giving you full spin.

Anton said:

Stop beating around the bush and go for 60lbs, if string starts to move in 40 min, that means its no longer fully snapping back, no longer giving you full spin.

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I think the higher tension is just going to shorten string life even more. I'm still messing around with this but at 64 lb poly strings broke in ~3 hours. The strings start notching in minutes. It appears that the higher tensions may be too abrasive?

I may try an extremely low tension and see what happens........

couch said:

Update on the 15L Black Code. After warming up with it for about 10 minutes the other night before a singles match I decided to stick with the 4G for the match. I hit today for about an hour with the Black Code, about 30 min of hitting/warmup type stuff and then five games of 11s.

String felt softer, more comfortable and more powerful than the 4G just like I suspected it would. I thought the 4G offered more spin and that sudden dip at the end better than Black Code. After a about 30-40 minutes of hitting the string really started moving a lot and not snapping back nearly as much. I checked the notching of the Black Code afterward and it was notched about 3/4 of the way through so durability will definitely be an issue for me.

If you're a 3.0-4.0 I think the 15L Black Code might be a nice fit. If you're a 4.5 and up that hits hard and is consistent then I would stick with the 4G in 16g or 15g due to the durability and overall longer playability of the string. I haven't really hit with 15g 4G but I plan to experiment with it soon. I normally string the 16g 4G at 58lbs and will probably go 55 or 56lbs in the 15g. Probably 55lbs.

A lot of this is probably common sense but thought I would throw it out there.

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Ah, nice to know this as Black Code was a contender for me. I say 'was' but what you say has got thinking it's a probably non-starter now. I like that big dip at the end thing. Plus, if 4G retains playability longer, well, I can't see much point then to BC.

So then, what's next in 'the couch poly play-tests'!?

I've used my 99s for a couple of hours now so i'm getting familiar with how it plays.

Here's my take.

I'm probably a 4.5 in the US system and in the 6's in the UK.
My strength is my forehand and i have a below average THBH but an above average slice. My serve is ok. Not particularly big but fairly accurate.
My gamestyle is counterpunching.
Previous racket was a stock APD GT strung with Focus Hex @ 55lbs.
Currntly using a 99s strung with factory Wilson Enduro
I think the swing weight of this racket is "slightly" lower than the APD GT out of interest.

Here's my take.

Groundstrokes
It took all of a couple of strokes to find my range with this stick. I had preconceived ideas that this racket would be similar to my APD GT and i was not wrong. My forehands were going deep with good spin from the off. After about 5 mins my hitting partner walked to the net to tell me how much spin was on the ball and he misjugded a few. Success! This racket definately provides more spin than the APD GT but it was the good sort of penetrating spin. Slice shots had more "feel" however, as i really managed to knife quite a few once i dialled this shot in.

Volleys
Here's where i disagree with a lot of people. At net, again, i have much more "feel." I've barely missed a volley on the backhand or forehand. There is plenty of mass in the racket and i definitely vollyed better than with my previous racket. I find it just as nimble but my touch is excellent. It has a different feel to the APD GT on impact.

Serves
Again, i served better than i do with my APD GT. I'm definitely getting more bite and pace on the ball. This was also noted by my hitting partner.

Returns
Again, theres plenty of mass to block a return or i can take a full cut at the ball and not worry about the ball sailing long.

Overall Impressions
I am a bit of a Wilson hater to be honest and am not a fan of their current icon lol. I am a Babolat fanboy and a fan of their current icon so for me to make the switch from a Bab to another brand especially Wilson is a big deal.
This racket suits me and my game perfectly. I have no arm / shoulder issues as some have had which is probably unsuprising as ive used APD's for 4 years. I wonder how this racket will play with ALU Rough which is what i'll be putting in next?
Do i think this racket will make me any better? Possibly? In 2 hours and 2 sets i've missed less. Time will tell however. Do i believe the spin hype. Definately in my experience. I've also experienced shots that i swear looked to be sailing long only for it dive into the court.
I think this racket is better suited to players who like to impart a lot of spin to the ball. Flatter type hitters are probably best suited to something else. Thats not to say they wont like this racket.

Kind Regards

DD

doctor dennis said:

I've used my 99s for a couple of hours now so i'm getting familiar with how it plays.

Overall Impressions
I am a bit of a Wilson hater to be honest and am not a fan of their current icon lol. I am a Babolat fanboy and a fan of their current icon so for me to make the switch from a Bab to another brand especially Wilson is a big deal.
This racket suits me and my game perfectly. I have no arm / shoulder issues as some have had which is probably unsuprising as ive used APD's for 4 years. I wonder how this racket will play with ALU Rough which is what i'll be putting in next?
Do i think this racket will make me any better? Possibly? In 2 hours and 2 sets i've missed less. Time will tell however. Do i believe the spin hype. Definately in my experience. I've also experienced shots that i swear looked to be sailing long only for it dive into the court.
I think this racket is better suited to players who like to impart a lot of spin to the ball. Flatter type hitters are probably best suited to something else. Thats not to say they wont like this racket.

Kind Regards

DD

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Great review! What was your setup in pounds/kg? I'm thinking on stringing it with a full bed of Pacific Xcite at 25kg.

fibonacci888 said:

Great review! What was your setup in pounds/kg? I'm thinking on stringing it with a full bed of Pacific Xcite at 25kg.

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Couldn't say for sure what it is as that's what it came with. Its probably in the middle of its recommended tension ranges.
When they break I will be going with ALU Rough at 55lbs which is roughly the same in kg as you will string the xcite.
I'm looking to keep stringing at 55lbs with this racket.

Doctor dennis. Nice one mate. Which club do you play at ?

Great Review. Let us know when you cut out the factory string. ?

Federerkblade said:

Doctor dennis. Nice one mate. Which club do you play at ?

Great Review. Let us know when you cut out the factory string ?

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I play at tipton. You play at Newbridge don't ya?

I'll see how I get on with the strings this week and how they are performing once i put more hours into them.

I have noticed a bit of movement in them which is a bit annoying but may be to be expected from such an open pattern I'm not sure.

Possibly next weekend I'll be restringing.

doctor dennis said:

Volleys
Here's where i disagree with a lot of people. At net, again, i have much more "feel." I've barely missed a volley on the backhand or forehand. There is plenty of mass in the racket and i definitely vollyed better than with my previous racket. I find it just as nimble but my touch is excellent. It has a different feel to the APD GT on impact.

DD

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Actually I don't think I have read a review where anyone did not like the frame on volleys. I have always said that the feel and touch of this frame are shockingly nice and a definite strength of this frame. This was my worry about the frame when I demo'd it a month ago, but was so so please with how great it was, volley feel was 90% of why I was sold on the frame so quickly as I come to net a ton in singles and live within a foot of the net in doubles.

Great honest review and nice to read from a self-proclaimed Babolat fanbay

Everyone seems to be stringing this up with a stiffer poly at higher tensions. I strung mine up with Cyclone at 52, like I do with most of my other sticks.

Will I have a tension loss or 'rocket launcher' issue? I haven't had a chance to hit the courts yet (awful weather in the Northeast).

Anton said:

Stop beating around the bush and go for 60lbs, if string starts to move in 40 min, that means its no longer fully snapping back, no longer giving you full spin.

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Not sure if you're serious or not but why would I string BC at 60lbs if I'm comparing it to 4G at 58lbs? Seems like I would want to string both strings at the same tensions to get a fair comparison. Yes, I could easily string BC at 60, probably even 62 because it is softer but what's the point? The higher tensions are just going to decrease durability. Maybe I'll get about 45 min out of it at 60lbs. That would be great!

The point was to give feedback on BC 15L and compare it to 4G 16g. For me, 4G is the clear winner in this comparison. Not only for durability but longer-term playability.

racertempo said:

Actually I don't think I have read a review where anyone did not like the frame on volleys. I have always said that the feel and touch of this frame are shockingly nice and a definite strength of this frame. This was my worry about the frame when I demo'd it a month ago, but was so so please with how great it was, volley feel was 90% of why I was sold on the frame so quickly as I come to net a ton in singles and live within a foot of the net in doubles.

Great honest review and nice to read from a self-proclaimed Babolat fanbay

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Your probably right. I think I may have read elsewhere on the net that it is not too great at the net.
"Feel" is one of those words used to describe a racket that you can't really explain as its different for everyone.
The "feel" on this racket is amazing As you agree. On volleys, finesse shots and slices I feel really connected to the ball. It's completely different to the APD. Don't know if that's a Wilson thing or specific to this racket but its impressive.
I think this racket will serve me well when the doubles season starts.

Ross K said:

Ah, nice to know this as Black Code was a contender for me. I say 'was' but what you say has got thinking it's a probably non-starter now. I like that big dip at the end thing. Plus, if 4G retains playability longer, well, I can't see much point then to BC.

So then, what's next in 'the couch poly play-tests'!?

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I think it depends on your level/ability. BC felt good in the racquet but is just not as durable and playable long enough for me. Again, I think 4G is a clear winner at this point for this frame if you are an upper level player.

Not sure if there will be any additional play tests. I think I've pretty much settled in on 4G. I'd rather get more used to the frame at this point than mess around with strings. 4G performs well in this racquet for what I need. But I'll let you know if I try anything else.

couch said:

I think it depends on your level/ability. BC felt good in the racquet but is just not as durable and playable long enough for )

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I agree, ive always found black code and Hyperion to have a good deal less longevity over the silver strings like alu and tour bite.

How much less power does 4g have compared with alu? Never tried 4g but have used loads of alu.

couch said:

I think it depends on your level/ability. BC felt good in the racquet but is just not as durable and playable long enough for me. Again, I think 4G is a clear winner at this point for this frame if you are an upper level player.

Not sure if there will be any additional play tests. I think I've pretty much settled in on 4G. I'd rather get more used to the frame at this point than mess around with strings. 4G performs well in this racquet for what I need. But I'll let you know if I try anything else.

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couch - I am a 4.0 player and have used a 17 gauge string (multi) for the last roughly 20 years. I'm reluctant to go with a 16 gauge string, but am curious about the 4G 16L.

PED said:

I agree, ive always found black code and Hyperion to have a good deal less longevity over the silver strings like alu and tour bite.

How much less power does 4g have compared with alu? Never tried 4g but have used loads of alu.

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Not sure, maybe 10-15% less power. I think you could string 4G a few lbs lower and get similar power with better durability. Alu Power only lasted about an hour in a heavy hitting session for me so I ruled it out right away. I was actually quite concerned after that happened because I really liked the racquet but if I couldn't keep strings in it then what's the point?

Again, I think strings are going to be extremely relative to one's ability level with this racquet. I'm a 5.0 player and 4G is a good option for me. I'm using 16g at the moment and it seems to be lasting 3-4 hours depending on the type of hitting. I will experiment with 15g now that its out but I'm really liking the 16g with its combination of power, playability, and durability. Time will tell on the durability side though.

couch this i think will decide if a racquet is a genuine real deal. If strings are lasting only 2 hrs in it for a proper hitter and the snap back effect dies then unless you have a fair bit of cash (as 4g aint cheap) and your own stringer then its not realistic no matter how good the frame and pattern is

srvnvly said:

couch - I am a 4.0 player and have used a 17 gauge string (multi) for the last roughly 20 years. I'm reluctant to go with a 16 gauge string, but am curious about the 4G 16L.

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I would definitely try the 16L, that would be a good place to start. I typically used a 16L or 17g poly in my racquets and had no issues going to a 16g in this stick. I would probably string the 16L at the same tension you are using now due to the open string pattern plus that will give you a good reference point. Not sure if you have TE or shoulder issues. If you do, then you may want to start out a couple lbs lower than your usual tension. This racquet really is quite plush for its higher stiffness due to the open string pattern.

Good luck!

Federerkblade said:

couch this i think will decide if a racquet is a genuine real deal. If strings are lasting only 2 hrs in it for a proper hitter and the snap back effect dies then unless you have a fair bit of cash (as 4g aint cheap) and your own stringer then its not realistic no matter how good the frame and pattern is

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Yes, that is a very valid point. That's why I was extremely concerned after alu broke after about an hour. I have settled on 16g 4G for now. If I can get 4-5 hours of hitting, singles/doubles play then I will be ok. I think that will be doable. If not, then I will start using the 15g. Just don't have the experience with the 15g to make any assessments. But I would guess an additional 2 hours with the 15g. Heavy hitting, consistent players may have to opt for the 15g to make it a feasible racquet with respect to durability and cost ratio.

Oh, and by the way, I get an extremely good deal on 4G and own my own stringer so that certainly helps. However, I don't want to go broke nor string racquets every other day.

BTJ so far you and I are drawing the EXACT same conclusions.

Here is what I am finding so far after about 5 strings setups.

1. Tension drop is faster initially than other racquets even with good tension mtce polys

2. I am finding that there is a VERY narrow sweet range for this racquet between losing control and being to harsh. So far for me it's that 50-53 range, playing tension not stringing tension. So if you don't mind stringing often then no issue here.

3. The racquet feels greatly balanced for me and solid yet not too broomstick like although its stiff. Although I like stiff racquets so that's personal.

4. I hit with above average spin and honestly don't see the major spin difference. Others may experience more if the are not already producing spin but that factor is null for me so far

5. I'm a decent net player and cannot seem to find my range on volleys yet. I feel the racquet moves well to where I command it but range is off. This may have to do with next factor

6. Ball trajectory is definitely a little higher than normal may be affecting the above issue ?

7. Funny thou deffensive return of serve has been good for me but I believe function of strings here not racquet

After initially falling in love with this stick I am holding a bit of reservation mostly because of the inconsistent play over the hours of a string job. I will sacrifice some performance for consistency because I don't want a racquet feel I have to be chasing the way it performs over a 4-6 hour string job life. I'm gonna do some more testing with other strings and materials and see. I have not tried gut or multi but I am starting to think that a gut or multi in the mid 60s might do well here. Lets see....

Experiment officially overrrrr

Man never have I seen a racquet that affects a string bed this much as far as change of tensions. Last setup strung at 57 First test came in at 53. 1 hr play to 47 1 more hour to 43 and 1 ,more hour to 41 and this is with a very very good tension mice poly.

Wilson I love the racquets feel, balance and some play characteristics but anyone that has any kind of power strokes cannot be chasing the change in tension. I played a match today and literally in the sets I could feel the obvious change is play. Whatever you can get from the stick farrrr outweighed by this inconsistency.

PS been having elbow discomfort which I never have. Overrrr

Centerforward71 said:

Experiment officially overrrrr

Man never have I seen a racquet that affects a string bed this much as far as change of tensions. Last setup strung at 57 First test came in at 53. 1 hr play to 47 1 more hour to 43 and 1 ,more hour to 41 and this is with a very very good tension mice poly.

Wilson I love the racquets feel, balance and some play characteristics but anyone that has any kind of power strokes cannot be chasing the change in tension. I played a match today and literally in the sets I could feel the obvious change is play. Whatever you can get from the stick farrrr outweighed by this inconsistency.

PS been having elbow discomfort which I never have. Overrrr

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Exactly to much variance in tension and control sucks. I had no arm problems but this is a toy racket for players that have no power and can't produce spin. My friend got to test one a year ago and he told me it was way to powerful and he was right.

Like I have already mentioned I used the vortex racket a few years ago and this thing is almost identical, just has a Wilson name on it. Oh and of course the huge difference of 1 less x's according to chicagojack. Which does not mean a damn thing, it is the open pattern that creates the extra spin and the string eating and loss of control.

Some players may benefit and play good with this racket, but I think this overhyped rocket launcher is going to fade in popularity quickly. As you found out it can do some great things but the stringbed is so inconsistent not many players with full swings are going to use it.

Had a hit with a 99S on indoor Har-Tru this morning, all the pros there sponsored by Wilson (and all using 98 Blades). Agree it was awfully inconsistent, any small gain in spin really offset by control problems, can't imagine playing with one when the poly starts to lose a bit of return.

Centerforward71 said:

Experiment officially overrrrr

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Rats Center! I just bought another frame from TW.....I would have bought yours so you could get your dough back

I like these frames a lot....enough to deal with the crappy string life I guess.

Or, I am just a sucker for punishment. I guess we'll see which!

I am going to try another test, before going with poly again, where I use a cheap multi and string it tight. We probably know the result but it'll only be a couple of dollar experiment.

After that I am going to try a poly at like 35 and see what happens.

If all fails, I'll just keep running 55-60 lb and use a cheap poly (Gosen Polylon 16) and restring frequently. These frames are easy to string even for a non expert like me.

drakulie said:

Was invited to the Wilson SET (Spin Effect Tour) event yesterday, where the highlight of the upcoming Wilson Products for the 2013 Year was surely the Wilson Steam 99S.

Specs:
99 square inches
27 inches length
strung weight: 11.3
balance: 2 pts HL
string pattern: 16:15
cross section: 24 mm

All attendees were able to hit with all the 2013 Wilson frames, but what made this event special, was being able to demo the 99s. Not only that, but be able to actually find out if it does in fact provide more spin.

Wilson set up one court with a computerized tracking system to determine the amount of spin, pace and height hit on ground strokes.

Racquets provided for this play test were the Babolat Aero Pro Drive, Head Speed MP 315, and Steam 99S. All were strung with Luxilon 4G. And balls were fed with a ball machine.

Here are my test results:

Most pace (average):
1. Head Speed MP
2. Steam 99S
3. Aero Pro Drive

Highest Net clearance (average):
1. Steam 99S
2. Aero Pro Drive
3. Head Speed

Most Spin (average):
1. Steam 99S
2. Head Speed
3. Aero Pro Drive


My average spin on the Steam was over 2800 RPMs, reaching up to 3,300 RPMs on a few shots.

Average on the Head was 2,500 with highest being 2800 RPMs on a few shots.

Average on the Aero was 2,300 RPMs with a few shots at 2600 Rpms.

A few more notes:

Hit a few fhs with the steam a little over 80 mph (which were the fastest I recorded), and average height over the net was 63 inches.

The frame was incredibly comfortable to swing and hit with. Has a great cushiony, but very responsive feel at impact. Easy to generate power, tons of spin, and surprisingly, easy to control the shots. Great to volley with and serves were simply amazing. The heaviness of spin shots was just sick. This frame is going to be very attractive to a very wide range of players, from recreational, to mid level players, to advanced. As far as I could tell, frame really has no weaknesses.

I definitely believe this racquet is going to absolutely dominate public courts everywhere. This frame truly is a SPIN monster. Wilson absolutely knocked it out of the park with this one and Hit a Home Run.

One more note:
Every tester I saw, hit with much more spin with the 99S than with any other frame. This was backed up by the data of every playtester.

Sorry for the short review, I'll try and answer as many questions as I can.

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Drakulie-

Quick question----

Do you recall during this playtest how long each of the frames was being used while the ball rpm/speed was being measured?

Specifically, did every tester start with a brand new string job or were the same frames used over and over that day and the results were remaining consistent?

I ask as many of us have noted very short string life, and how the racquet "feels" different as the strings quickly age...but I wonder if the actual performance (empirically measured quantities such as ball rpm and speed), is staying relatively constant....or at least more constant than we might be giving it credit for, even though the frame "feels" different? (I hate the word "feel" as it is non definable in a consistent manner........)

If the performance of the frame really was degrading within an hour or two....it seems as though test results would show degradation as the day wore on. In a simple scenario, player A "Drakulie" hits with frame A at 9AM for 15 minutes, results are measured, then player A "Drakulie" hits same frame A /same string job A at 1PM (after several others have whaled away with it from 915AM to 1PM), and Player A "Drakulie" results are measured again and are within measurement error, or have degraded X%, of those obtained during the 9AM test.

Buford T Justice said:

Drakulie-

Quick question----

Do you recall during this playtest how long each of the frames was being used while the ball rpm/speed was being measured?

Specifically, did every tester start with a brand new string job or were the same frames used over and over that day and the results were remaining consistent?

I ask as many of us have noted very short string life, and how the racquet "feels" different as the strings quickly age...but I wonder if the actual performance (empirically measured quantities such as ball rpm and speed), is staying relatively constant....or at least more constant than we might be giving it credit for, even though the frame "feels" different? (I hate the word "feel" as it is non definable in a consistent manner........)

If the performance of the frame really was degrading within an hour or two....it seems as though test results would show degradation as the day wore on. In a simple scenario, player A "Drakulie" hits with frame A at 9AM for 15 minutes, results are measured, then player A "Drakulie" hits same frame A /same string job A at 1PM (after several others have whaled away with it from 915AM to 1PM), and Player A "Drakulie" results are measured again and are within measurement error, or have degraded X%, of those obtained during the 9AM test.

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I used racquettune use through out testing plus my balls launching is plenty proof then having to flip to get the star spin. Sorry but this racquet is a game improvement stick not a players stick. Period.... Is anyone I mean anyone on tour using it ? Maybe but I haven't seen

Centerforward71 said:

I used racquet through out testing plus my balls launching is plenty proof then having to flip to get the star spin. Sorry but this racquet is a game improvement stick not a players stick. Period.... Is anyone I mean anyone on tour using it ? Maybe but I haven't seen

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My thought process above is just to take a purely empirical approach.......I am curious as to what the actual frame is doing over time with regard to measured changes in ball velocity and rpm. That's about the only thing that I think we can put a quantifiable (numerical) value on.

Of course, in the end, each player will have to choose based on their "gut" vibe, but having " numbers" seems like it might help provide some formality to the assessment (at least to me).

Judging from a few recent posts I've just caught up on on TT, seems the backlash has begun a bit eh? :wink:

Anyhow, just ordered up a few sets of Tour Bite in 16g to take a look at after 4G 16g next week. Really looking forward to that as TB is just about my fav poly - in some racs...

Wonder if the yellow Yonex poly (the Poly Pro Tour) may also be a contender?

I do fancy going gut/poly too a little down the road... Pacific Gut/MSV Co-focus?

ANYONE got any feedback on the 4GS?? Very curious to hear feedback/views on this... Q. Who exactly who is it intended for?

Away from stringing issues, how do ppl find the Wilson overgrip the frame comes with? Must say I think I like it.

Has anyone tried full bed of Kevlar strings on these strings. I am wondering how a 18 g Kevlar string at 45 - 50 lbs range would feel on this racquet ?

Ross K said:

Away from stringing issues, how do ppl find the Wilson overgrip the frame comes with? Must say I think I like it.

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I also like it and I believe it's called Sublime.

But, if you sweat a lot (I am a sweaty pig) it gets a little too slippery in my opinion, so I added a Super Grap on top.

MesQueUnClub said:

Has anyone tried full bed of Kevlar strings on these strings. I am wondering how a 18 g Kevlar string at 45 - 50 lbs range would feel on this racquet ?

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I was wondering about that as well.....I'm just a little bawk bawk ( think of the sound a chicken makes . ) to try it.

I hate to say "I told u so"(I mentioned the vibration in this frame and warned you all)... but no, everybody loves saying that.. haha! You guys with shoulder and elbow issues, this vibration through the frame is what is causing them. I will equate it to the ultra stiff babolat frames. They were like this until they added the "cortex" system. If U can find a PRE cortex system racket it is a very nasty, harsh for the arm racket (one pure drive felt like i was hitting with an aluminum bat!). I think the cortex system also takes away from the overall stiffness of babolat frames now, and makes them way more playable. Hopefully in wilsons near future they will either devise a version of the cortex for these frames or make them less stiff, or both. Oh, and if for you other guys, you think it is weight and swing balance, well, just use lead/silicone to change that. But, like I said, don't think it will help much(except silicone, which is a very good shock absorber). Good luck.

chunlimeyers said:

I hate to say "I told u so"(I mentioned the vibration in this frame and warned you all)... but no, everybody loves saying that.. haha! You guys with shoulder and elbow issues, this vibration through the frame is what is causing them. I will equate it to the ultra stiff babolat frames. They were like this until they added the "cortex" system. If U can find a PRE cortex system racket it is a very nasty, harsh for the arm racket (one pure drive felt like i was hitting with an aluminum bat!). I think the cortex system also takes away from the overall stiffness of babolat frames now, and makes them way more playable. Hopefully in wilsons near future they will either devise a version of the cortex for these frames or make them less stiff, or both. Oh, and if for you other guys, you think it is weight and swing balance, well, just use lead/silicone to change that. But, like I said, don't think it will help much(except silicone, which is a very good shock absorber). Good luck.

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Ditto, racquet doesn't feel harsh but my arm tells me different. I normally can hit every day couple of hours with minor to no discomfort with my regular racquet.

So I played with the 99s all week.

Strung Pacific natural 54/MSV Co Focus 48.

Broke the main string at the top cross tieoff on a mishit friday during warmup.

My impressions so far:

1) Forehand is tricky. I can place it left to right the way I want, but fi I don't front load down low, I'll throw the ball long. What I mean is, I can't hit off my back foot. I've tried every way I can think of, it just doesn't work consistently. If I load on my front foot correctly the ball is perfectly placed depth wise. Swing speed must be fast.

2) Volleys are very good. The stiff RDiS I play with is known as a good volley stick. This one is better. The ball trajectory on the 99s is different. Once I dialed that in over 2 hours, its better. Touch is better, slice is much better.

3) 1HBBH. This is why you use this stick. If you have a 2HBH I have no idea, I don't hit one. !HBH is sublime. Effortless power, effortless low flick and grab as you come up and out. Feels sexy is the only way I can describe it.

4) Serves. Nothing to see here. No better than my RDiS.

5) String life. Strings moved alot. I did not notice any more wear than my RDiS. If I had not mishit I imagine I would have broke the mains first at 8-12 hours. I have broken the gut like this before on other sticks with a mishit.. par for the course with gut.

6) Tension. 51 right after stringing with an electronic machine. after 1 hour 49. after 4 hours 47. I broke it before I could measure at 8. This is almost identical to my Yonex setup...

For those of you that are having tension issue, I notice each and every one is using poly in the mains. All polys suck at tension maintenance. The best maintenance sticks for full poly beds have always be 18x20. I'm not sure why people are shocked that a bed with less string loses tension on a full poly setup faster. Its common sense.

With gut in the mains tension isn't an issue. As I bought this stick with the intent to use gut in the mains the tension performance of poly is a non issue for me.

I strung the stick up this time with pacific natural mains and Gosen Sidewinder in the crosses. I'll play all week and report back. Sidewinder is a geared poly and is a bit softer than msv with a bit more power. I'm curios to see if it slides better and what it does to the gut.

Oh, I also ordered another 99s so I don't have a fit on court if I break a string during warm up when I had planned to test it all day

For those that are having depth and launching problems: My conclusion is that your swing speed is not fast enough or you are pulling up on the stroke. Wilson markets this stick like it'll make everyone better. It won't. If you have bad form or you don't play with a semi-western or full western with a fast head speed you'll launch balls to the moon. If you hit a flat ball, this stick is *NOT* for you.

Every pro at the club that used it (bar one who is a chip and charge player) put more rotations on it than I could. Makes sense. They swing faster than I can. All of them remarked at the silly spin they could generate with it.

In short, If you know what you are getting into string wise, and you have *good form* with a fast closed grip, you might want to give this thing a try. It's definitely not for everyone.

Forgot to mention returns.

Forehand return much the same as Forehand groundstroke. Shorten the backswing make sure you come through all is good. Poke at it; kiss it goodbye.

Backhand is interesting. I hit my backhand returns with a bit of slice. This turns out to be a problem with the 99s. The thing slices so hard I can't keep it in the court half the time.

I'm going to try not crossing over tomorrow with my right foot and turn. Instead I'll shift up partially with my right foot and use my abs and a shorter stroke. I've never had to do this before on my returns unless I was returning against a giant server and even then it was more of a volley.

I think if I do this I'll lessen the setup time and won't feel like I need to slice cause I'm "late" on the return.

Still not sure about it.

Great stuff.

I have a 105s and I agree with EVERY SINGLE THING you have said here. Every time I hit a defensive shot with the backfoot, the ball sails long. If you stay on top of it and drive, it is sublime.

I also agree it is not 2HBH friendly, I did notice that my 1 handed topspin backhand worked fine. Perhaps I need to experiment with that more.

I am going to replace the current 4G full-bed with a gut hybrid. Hopefully, that will provide a bit more control.

wmilas said:

For those that are having depth and launching problems: My conclusion is that your swing speed is not fast enough or you are pulling up on the stroke. Wilson markets this stick like it'll make everyone better. It won't. If you have bad form or you don't play with a semi-western or full western with a fast head speed you'll launch balls to the moon. If you hit a flat ball, this stick is *NOT* for you.

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Quoted for truth, this stick isn't for everyone but I really like mine.

Power is effortless. I'm trying the Tour bite Soft 16g in mine tomorrow. The 99s tore right through the 16l tour bite which isn't really a surprise

I'm also surprised people are complaining about arm issues, this thing is like a pillow IMO. Much softer feeling than my Prestige S.

Gut/poly hybrids feel amazing in this frame. The only issue I have with it is durability. I'm only getting about 6 hours on them before the gut snaps. This is with 16g Prince gut mains.

I am testing full beds of Silverstring and Iontec salmon both in 1.25 and am really enjoying the Iontec. It's got a real nice solid feel without being to trampoliney(I know it's not a real word but that's the only way I could put it) like other polys I've tried. Not as spinny as gut/poly but way more than enough for me.

Overall, I am really liking these sticks. The spin is nice and the sweetspot is huge but the biggest reason that I will be sticking with these racquets is the comfort. The 99S is one of only 2 racquets that I can play with a full bed of poly. The EXO3 Tour is the other.

tennis_nut said:

Gut/poly hybrids feel amazing in this frame. The only issue I have with it is durability. I'm only getting about 6 hours on them before the gut snaps. This is with 16g Prince gut mains.

I am testing full beds of Silverstring and Iontec salmon both in 1.25 and am really enjoying the Iontec. It's got a real nice solid feel without being to trampoliney(I know it's not a real word but that's the only way I could put it) like other polys I've tried. Not as spinny as gut/poly but way more than enough for me.

Overall, I am really liking these sticks. The spin is nice and the sweetspot is huge but the biggest reason that I will be sticking with these racquets is the comfort. The 99S is one of only 2 racquets that I can play with a full bed of poly. The EXO3 Tour is the other.

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try 15g gut, that should last longer

Although I am not looking for a new racquet, I find the 99S very intriguing. I understand the theory of why the 99S produces relatively more spin. If I take a 16x19 racquet like the PB10 Mid, X10 Mid, or BLX SixOne 95 and put the (poly) crosses in at a lower tension than the (poly) mains - say, 52lbs for the crosses and 55lbs for the mains - should I not be able to get similar amounts of spin since the mains will slide easier against the crosses? I can also add some lead at 12 o'clock (say, 3-5g) to increase the SW and polarization, which would again increase spin considerably. Just curious...

chunlimeyers said:

I hate to say "I told u so"(I mentioned the vibration in this frame and warned you all)... but no, everybody loves saying that.. haha! You guys with shoulder and elbow issues, this vibration through the frame is what is causing them. I will equate it to the ultra stiff babolat frames. They were like this until they added the "cortex" system. If U can find a PRE cortex system racket it is a very nasty, harsh for the arm racket (one pure drive felt like i was hitting with an aluminum bat!). I think the cortex system also takes away from the overall stiffness of babolat frames now, and makes them way more playable. Hopefully in wilsons near future they will either devise a version of the cortex for these frames or make them less stiff, or both. Oh, and if for you other guys, you think it is weight and swing balance, well, just use lead/silicone to change that. But, like I said, don't think it will help much(except silicone, which is a very good shock absorber). Good luck.

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The best "shock absorber" is more weight. Silicone is great at providing the feel of a more comfortable racket but the only thing that is going to make a light stiff racket easier on your arm is more weight if all other things are left equal. Not a piece of plastic in the throat of the racket.