yeah in that realm… probably slightly less in my opinion. I’d say the combination of launch angle and stiffness of the aero 98 causes it to feel the most powerful.
18x20 Wilson Shift prototype
- Thread starter kkm
- Start date
yeah in that realm… probably slightly less in my opinion. I’d say the combination of launch angle and stiffness of the aero 98 causes it to feel the most powerful.
Aestheticsaboveallelse
Legend
Both very nice, I think shift is better for me at least as a not so strong player. Shift surprisingly has an even better ball contact feels very soft sweet and unique, also has much easier power that is still very controlled. Shift more spin potential too... Doesn't have as much precision as a pro staff of course. And the pro staff is really good at being very consistent and never erratic etc.
D
Deleted member 775108
Guest
Good quality Female Hitter with a useful data collection based review and comparo with PS 97 v13
I've been playing with a Shift 315 for the last week or so. Coming from a Clash v2 pro.
I like it.
I'm not able to check swing weight but it feels manageable enough to me.
With the Clash a lot of my errors were because I'd hit long. The Shift feels almost as powerful but it's easier to drop the ball in. Volleys are easier to place too, with no issues getting the racquet into position for reflex hits.
Downside is I've lost about 10% of my flat first serve pace, which is a shame. I can place them a little better thoughm At some stage I might try a shift 300 and see if I can get some of that back. I'm struggling to get a lot of slice on a 2nd too, but my flat serve percentage is probably about 10-15% better given the slower speed so overall not so bad.
I'm using lynx Tour at 52lbs and next time I'll probably go a few lbs softer. It isn't quite as comfortable as my Clash pro but not too bad.
Overall I'm going to stick with it. The advantages outweigh the cons for me.
I like it.
I'm not able to check swing weight but it feels manageable enough to me.
With the Clash a lot of my errors were because I'd hit long. The Shift feels almost as powerful but it's easier to drop the ball in. Volleys are easier to place too, with no issues getting the racquet into position for reflex hits.
Downside is I've lost about 10% of my flat first serve pace, which is a shame. I can place them a little better thoughm At some stage I might try a shift 300 and see if I can get some of that back. I'm struggling to get a lot of slice on a 2nd too, but my flat serve percentage is probably about 10-15% better given the slower speed so overall not so bad.
I'm using lynx Tour at 52lbs and next time I'll probably go a few lbs softer. It isn't quite as comfortable as my Clash pro but not too bad.
Overall I'm going to stick with it. The advantages outweigh the cons for me.
ngoster
Semi-Pro
Try contacting Wilson. If it's way out of spec, they may be able to replace it. I think I saw a Tennis Spin video that mentioned that.
Grafil Injection
Hall of Fame
Is the rumour I heard about Shift release quantities correct? Apparently it will be limited release to each retailer rather than general levels. I.e. might be Pro Labs only after the first batch?
Fighting phoenix
Professional
What were the SW's of the X's you got?
numbyumlewis
New User
Is there word that Wilson would actually change the specs once the full release comes? That worries me of buying this and getting use to it, then later buying one more but the specs would be different then the current version. Anyone have intel on this?
If I had to guess, potentially a cosmetic change. I doubt they'd change the specs anymore than other lines when going from one generation to the next.
numbyumlewis
New User
That's what I thought, if that's the case I would like to try this thing out. Anyone in here transition from a Babolat Pure aero VS 2020 to the Shift? I'm curious the differences.
Murmurs for now, not confirmed. I do agree with Soundbyte that if they'd change spcs it wouldn't be major change
numbyumlewis
New User
Darn, I would be upset if they made any changes transitioning into this racket. Hopefully it doesn't happen because I'm very interested in trying the Shift! Looks like the feedback is pretty good
I played with Head Auxetic Speed Pro for about 3 months when it was released and have played with Shift 315 for around 3 weeks now:
Power: ASP >= S315, pretty similar power level with good plow through
Spin: S315 > ASP, speed provides good access to spin but i recall it was better for flat hitting vs shift seems to play better with modern spin oriented strokes and provides really good access to spin more like 18x19 with the last cross being very low
Maneuverability: S315 > ASP, shift feels more like a 98 vs speed moving around 100
Stability: ASP = S315, both solid with good sw and static weight
Serve: S315 >= ASP, slight edge to shift for being bit more maneuverable
Comfort: ASP >= S315, both very comfortable.. shift feels bit more muted and don't require a dampener
If your more flat hitter and like bigger sweet spot would say speed pro would be a better choice vs shift would be for someone who likes/want a 98 spin oriented racket (i.e. babolat vs, extreme tour, vcore 98, etc) but with a player frame weight i.e pro staff without having to customize. If you like tinkering then Shift 300 would be a better option with plenty of room for customization.
numbyumlewis
New User
This helps so much. Thank you!
Very informative, thanks. Just ordered my 300 with MRT service, looking forward to it.
My two 315s arrived today. With plastic still on the handle and UNSTRUNG:
#1. 316.2g, SW307, 32cm
#2. 314.8g, SW 309, 32cm
Say what you want, but that is DAMN good QC. And, these frames are the beefiest unstrung SW in my arsenal. Next closest in the BP (305) and Elevate V3 (303)
EDIT: to be fair, I'm not sure what the unstrung SW is supposed to be, but I'm impressed by the precision of the stats between my two frames.
#1. 316.2g, SW307, 32cm
#2. 314.8g, SW 309, 32cm
Say what you want, but that is DAMN good QC. And, these frames are the beefiest unstrung SW in my arsenal. Next closest in the BP (305) and Elevate V3 (303)
EDIT: to be fair, I'm not sure what the unstrung SW is supposed to be, but I'm impressed by the precision of the stats between my two frames.
Last edited:
Speed Pro is more a counterpunching/defending/grinding with precision racquet, total control oriented, can be clumsy for attacking inside the baseline.
Shift 315 is more an attacking frame, with a lot more power than Speed Pro, especially if you nicely flatten the ball, but is very forgiving too, and you can easily save yourself from the corners and transition, that's a big plus.
Similar comfort, Shift 315 is slightly more maneuvrable, but neither is very maneuvrable, both are heavier feeling. Shift 315 is also much better on serves, they are probably similar on returns, Shift better for attacking second serves, Speed Pro better for absorbing pace and blocking first serves.
Shift is more stable, and has fabulous feel, a specific carbon fibre direct feel with great sound too, it's a new thing and it's difficult to explain. Maybe you can hear it in a video?
Speed Pro has that total control typical for Head racquets, you can put 40 balls in a row on the same spot, but not punch through the court so easily.
Shift has easy depth, and easy control over slightly higher trajectories, you can put 40 balls in a row right at the baseline, and consistently swing out without missing too deep, balls just dip in, that a huge quality
Both are for advanced level players, I don't see how either could be used without consistent long full swings and a lot of footwork
Both are massive and heavy feeling, not maneuvrable, and if you're not very fast with your legs, and swinging early, you'll consistently be late with both, but Shift does allow for shorter backswings and faster blocking much more than Speed Pro with which you really need to be on time, and with a long full swing
Shift 315 is best compared to Ezone 98 Tour 2022, as both are attacking power frames, Speed Pro 2022 is for a different type of player (maybe better compared to Radical Pro?)
Connor35
Professional
Same -- Im a Gen1 Clash player and just received my 300 Shift.
I haven't played a match yet, but was hitting both Clash & Shift last night on the ball machine.
There were definitely shots that 'felt long' off the racquet that landed in thanks to more spin than I get with the Shift.
(Semi-western grip player who tries to hit alot of top spin here).
numbyumlewis
New User
Nni
Nice feedback! So excited to try this racket out !
Which clash? How's is the stability in comparison?
Connor35
Professional
Gen1 100 Tour.
Help me understand what you mean by 'stability' and I'll do my best to answer.
Like how much it seems to twist on off-center volleys or what?
ngoster
Semi-Pro
This^^^
Connor35
Professional
I didn't get a sense off my ball machine; I'll let you know after my match tomorrow.
Last edited:
Connor35
Professional
Played 3 sets today.
It seemed very stable to me on volleys. There was only one volley I missed where it felt like the racquet twisted a bit (i hit it off center , upper right quadrant) and the ball kinda died on my side. But that’s on me.
Definitely loved the spin on ground strokes
ajspurs
Rookie
ACT
Rookie
Had it for a month now, still trying it out, maybe one more string setup and i'll start on it
He was talking about the 300 version tho. Hit with both versions, if you want to have some room for customization, 300 is probably the way to go.
Fighting phoenix
Professional
From my experience, they feel very similar on contact, but the 18x20 offers more control/plowthrough/stability.
numbyumlewis
New User
Played with the 315 shift for about 5 hours now. What a racket, never felt anything like that before! The flex and pocketing is such a strange amazing feeling, especially if you have a heavy forehand with spin. Hard to believe it's an 18 X 20 string pattern with the amount of spin you get on every shot. Control is fantastic, the pocketing def places shots that I know I would have missed, in the court.
I'm very surprised and I guess all the hype is real. Good for Wilson, they introduced a new racket that is worth trying.
I'm very surprised and I guess all the hype is real. Good for Wilson, they introduced a new racket that is worth trying.
Last edited:
alexsoin
Semi-Pro
I was wondering if anyone with Pure Strike 18x20 (gen3) tried Shift 315 and had a chance to compare? Babolat ditched the update of the Strikes for 2 years in a row. My rackets are in really bad shape now and Shift 18x20 seems like a good fit. I'm hearing so much about amazing spin potential and my Strikes are amazing for heavy topspin forehands too! I just probably have to demo the thing (once the final PJ arrives) and see for myself since the feel is apparently too unique. BTW, is there any leaks on how the final product will look coz current light grey version is a little meh for my liking. Thanks
numbyumlewis
New User
The spin potential is crazy for a string pattern of 18 x 20. For reference my last stick was the Babo VS (2020) and I'm surprised to say the shift gets more spin and way more plow (forehand and backhand), the sweet spot is way better too. The feel is very unique, I can for sure say it's different than any on the market. I'm surprised you don't like the PJ! I love it personally.
Fighting phoenix
Professional
Agreed - I’m shocked too as to how much spin I can generate if I want to with this stick. I played with the 16x19 pure strike for a couple years, and this is a way better racquet and gets better spin when I want to hit with spin. Also love the paint job on the shift, and think the pure strikes cosmetics are kinda weird and outdated
numbyumlewis
New User
Yup. I really am surprised by the way it plays and I'm not usually the type to fall for the hype but it's undeniable when you play with it. I currently have two of them and will get a 3rd but guess I'll wait for the final paint job. If you haven't seen the shimmery white/blue in person, I would recommend you do. I find it hard to believe that the new paint-job will be better than the prototype paint.
Tennistennischocolate
New User
An update on this.
Have been using the Shift 315 for the last few weeks for hitting sessions, singles and doubles matches.
I gave up with gut in the mains and switched (leapt) to a full bed of 1.25 Wilson Revolve at 46lbs.
The different string in it has completely changed the racket and more time hitting with it has helped get used to.
Things that are better:
- On the BH it’s so stable, feels more comfortable to hit heavy spin or flat and really nice taking the ball early.
- defensive cross court shots felt better on both sides, much more consistency than before and again lots of spin.
Nothing worse other than power.
Things that are still not comfortable/ confident:
- Flatter forehand. It really felt like I was holding a tuning fork and I got lots of feedback through the handle. I used a dampener but was still bad. Have added 4g of silicone into the hollow handle which helped, but obviously balance has now changed. Was also a bit wild and difficult to control.
- Volleys, it just feels different than other rackets when volleying against hard, flat shots. Still not used to it.
- overall think tension is too low for this string and the rackets power, but an improvement!
Other thoughts:
My strings have worn less than I’d have expected, not sure if it’s a thing but would be interested to hear others’ views.
If the racket really does flex in a different way to most others, I hope someone figures out what the impact of string tension is on this flex - I thought about it and confused myself….
Next:
Going to test a full bed of multi at 54lbs. I’d like to try the poly at higher tension, but am very nervous with my shoulder.
alexsoin
Semi-Pro
I think Shift proto looks better in person and definitely is not the ugliest out there, look at the new Pro Staffs with poopy brown I actually like aggressive looks of Pure Strikes gen3. I’m thinking of demoing Shift right now but what if the final release going to be a bit different?! BTW, I’m not surprised you guys getting a lot of spin on 18x20. I played with a bunch of rackets and string patterns, 18x20 allowing to swing more freely w/o fear of overhitting. More acceleration = more spin!
alexsoin
Semi-Pro
It depends what you are comparing to, I mean the wearing out of the strings. 16x19 and 16x20 patterns in similar head size obviously will wear out [same string at same tension] much more.
I play full polys only and remember the switch from Ezone with quite tight layout for 16x20 to Pure Strike 18x20 (which is not extremely closed 18x20 you can find). I was breaking strings like crazy say 9 out of 10 with Ezone as opposed to Pure Strike I had to cut dead poly 90% of the time.
I see from some responses that the power level is quite high on this Shift 315 which might be a deal breaker for me. Also going over 54 lbs for for full poly in Shift 315might be a death sentence for your elbow considering stiffness and relatively small sweetspot.
Fighting phoenix
Professional
Been playing with the 315 for a bit now - it is fairly powerful and I find that 48 is perfect for comfort and control…after playing with it for a while (6-8 hours) and the tension drops it gets harder to control. I might try 50, but higher than that I agree that it could be too stiff for my arm. Also at 48 the sweet spot feels generous to me.
Tennistennischocolate
New User
Agree with the comments on stiffness - my thoughts were whether the higher tension in a multi would work, or, will be too powerful. Have strung it up now and am hitting today, so will see.
numbyumlewis
New User
I really hope the final release has no change of specs. That would really suck if Wilson did that. Anyone who brought the prototype would be out of luck and sticking with that racket of that specs would be so hard to find another one of its kind in the future. IMO the 315 plays so well I can't imagine it playing "that much better" off some small spec changes.
alexsoin
Semi-Pro
I don't think the specs will be changed but even gloss or non gloss coat can feel quite different. I remember the case for Pro Staffs like 5-6 years ago with some limited versions. Also Wilson is known for really crappy QC, I bet that limited Wilson Lab Shifts have much narrower spec windows as compared to the final lineup (mass production).
numbyumlewis
New User
Ah, interesting mention of the paint. I would have never thought of that lol
