Arm friendly alternative/upgrade from the IG Prestige Pro?

[Doubles]

Been using these frames going on 4 years now, and I'm potentially looking to get something new, and something relatively arm friendly. I've tried the Graphene Prestige Pro, Graphene Radical Mp and Pro, Babolat Pure Strike, Wilson Pro Staff 97, Blade 98, and a few others but nothing quite has the feel I'm looking for.

I was almost considering something like the TFight 295 (because it's so cheap) and modding the hell out of it, but the RA rating has me a bit concerned it'll be harsh. I've only hit with one Tec before, (the 315 ltd.) and it was far softer so I don't know what to expect in terms of comfort of the 295.

What do you all think would be worth at least demoing? I like players racquets, but wouldn't mind something on the lighter side that I could customize myself. Any suggestions?

 

[GreenClay]

I used to play the the Prince Tour 100. Large sweetspot and very easy on the arm. Recently switched to the new Yonex DR 98 (which also comes in a light version). The DR is easy on the arm (though not as soft as the Tour 100), but it feels more connected to the ball than the Tour 100.

 

[topspn]

Angell foam filled racquet custom spec’d. Your arm and game will thank you

 

[Scribbles]

I like the Pure Control Tour as an alternative to the IG Prestige Pro. It has a lot of feel, comfort, control, and flex. Only issue I had with it was it was pretty low-powered. Some lead at the top of the hoop might help with that.

 

[skydog]

Pro Kennex Q Tour. As arm friendly as your going to get with a classic Head heritage racket feel. Seppi's racket coming from Head. On the TW review, Mark Boone refers to it as well.

 

[kailash]

+1 for Pro Kennex Q Tour & Babolat Pure Control Tour.

You may also want to try the Volkl C10 Pro & Super G 10 325.

 

[Doubles]

+1 for Pro Kennex Q Tour & Babolat Pure Control Tour.

You may also want to try the Volkl C10 Pro & Super G 10 325.

I'll add the Pro Kennex to the list, but the Pure Storm/Control is never something I've been interested in. Weird feel and it's always irritated my elbow. I'll look at the Volkl as well.

 

[warney]

+1 for Pro Kennex Q Tour & Babolat Pure Control Tour.

You may also want to try the Volkl C10 Pro & Super G 10 325.

+1 for Volkl Super G 325.. i played with IGPP for half a year and have SG10 right now. Sg10 is easier yo play with, than Prestige Pro and is much softer..

 

[Doubles]

Thoughts on the Tfight 320? I have a chance to get one for a reasonable price, but I couldn't demo it in advance before I buy it. (Online auction). Is it arm friendly?

 

[Scribbles]

I'll add the Pro Kennex to the list, but the Pure Storm/Control is never something I've been interested in. Weird feel and it's always irritated my elbow. I'll look at the Volkl as well.

Did you have elbow irritation with both the non-Tour and Tour version? The non-Tour version irritated my elbow and arm a bit but the Tour was comfortable for me. I think the lack mass and stability from the non-Tour version caused me to instinctively grip the racquet a bit tighter.

 

[AMGF]

Donnay seems to have arm friendly foam filled frames. Never tried them, but last year's models are for sale at 150$.

+1 for Angell. Sweet hitting frame.

 

[Doubles]

Donnay seems to have arm friendly foam filled frames. Never tried them, but last year's models are for sale at 150$.

+1 for Angell. Sweet hitting frame.

I can't afford an Angell frame, let alone the 2-3 I would need so that's really out of the question for the time being. I'd consider a Donnay, however. What one's specifically would you recommend?

 

[Doubles]

Did you have elbow irritation with both the non-Tour and Tour version? The non-Tour version irritated my elbow and arm a bit but the Tour was comfortable for me. I think the lack mass and stability from the non-Tour version caused me to instinctively grip the racquet a bit tighter.

I've had irritation with both. Honestly I've never found any Babolat to not hurt my arm in some way or another.

 

[AMGF]

I can't afford an Angell frame, let alone the 2-3 I would need so that's really out of the question for the time being. I'd consider a Donnay, however. What one's specifically would you recommend?

Based on your preferences, I'd try this one:
http://www.xenecoretennis.com/shop/product.php?id=110

Keep in mind, I have not tried them. I just like the polarized set up, open string pattern and foam filled frame for 150$... If they had a demo program for Canada I'd try one for sure.

 

[SpinToWin]

As you may know, I made the switch to the PS 95 from the IG Prestige Pro, and it's an option you should consider, especially with the current prices. Add lead at 12 and some blue tack in the buttcap and it's a beauty. Instead of leather I personally would advise using a thin synthetic grip (for instance Wilson Featherlight), as using (added) weight effectively can make or break this frame IME.

 

[Cerps]

As STW suggests, ps95 is a great choice! I would try the IG Radicals as well.

 

[Doubles]

As you may know, I made the switch to the PS 95 from the IG Prestige Pro, and it's an option you should consider, especially with the current prices. Add lead at 12 and some blue tack in the buttcap and it's a beauty. Instead of leather I personally would advise using a thin synthetic grip (for instance Wilson Featherlight), as using (added) weight effectively can make or break this frame IME.

My issue with this is that I don't have any way to demo the racquet. If I could get it for cheap enough I could warrant that, but I'm not finding it cheaper than $110 per racquet which for a college student is a lot to spend on frames that I haven't hit with. Also, if it needs a lot of modding I'm hesitant as the most time I spend messing with variables the less time I get to spend playing competitively. If you know where I can get them for cheap though, please let me know.

As STW suggests, ps95 is a great choice! I would try the IG Radicals as well.

I've played with the IG Radicals, as I was debating between them and the Prestiges when I first got mine. The Pro had an awkward weight distribution which resulted in a cumbersome racquet, and the MP was really a gutless wonder. No matter where I placed lead on it I could never find a comfortable distribution that gave it power. It was nothing like the MG that I liked.

 

[Backhanded Compliment]

I can't afford an Angell frame, let alone the 2-3 I would need so that's really out of the question for the time being. I'd consider a Donnay, however. What one's specifically would you recommend?

you might luck out and find one used... pretty easy to customize and i think you would really like it. Had my TC95 63RA 16x19 for just over a week and softer better prestige pro with a little prostaff85 thrown in is nice. Even the RA70 version would fit your bill. Snag one if you can.

 

[smalahove]

I used to play the IG Prestige Pro, and to me, the Textreme Tour 95 is the frame the Graphene Prestige Pro should have been. When it comes to arm-friendliness, you won't find a better crisp/plush/friendly combo imo.

 

[SpinToWin]

My issue with this is that I don't have any way to demo the racquet. If I could get it for cheap enough I could warrant that, but I'm not finding it cheaper than $110 per racquet which for a college student is a lot to spend on frames that I haven't hit with. Also, if it needs a lot of modding I'm hesitant as the most time I spend messing with variables the less time I get to spend playing competitively. If you know where I can get them for cheap though, please let me know.

Have you checked the FS forum? Sometimes you find very cheap stuff there.

 

[sma1001]

+1 for Volkl Super G 10. Same string pattern and plow through of the IG PP. On the soft side of crisp, but not muted. Worth a try certainly.

 

[topspn]

I can't afford an Angell frame, let alone the 2-3 I would need so that's really out of the question for the time being. I'd consider a Donnay, however. What one's specifically would you recommend?

Angell is not expensive when you purchase more then one racquet in an order and get 10% reduction. It will come out less per racquet then Donnay.

 

[B Cubed]

I'd second the Prince Tour 100. The port versions had been referred to as close comfortable feeling of the Speed. I personally found them to feel like old school plush Head rackets. There is flex, sizable sweet spot, good controllable power, and awesome precision. All for a good price these days. Having said that I've heard good things about Volkl's feel.

 

[Doubles]

you might luck out and find one used... pretty easy to customize and i think you would really like it. Had my TC95 63RA 16x19 for just over a week and softer better prestige pro with a little prostaff85 thrown in is nice. Even the RA70 version would fit your bill. Snag one if you can.

I'll look around but I need at least 2-3 given the rate that I eat through strings. I'd hate to snag one for cheap and then not be able to find a match for it. Also, if I'm looking for soft, arm friendly racquets are you sure the 70 RA would be a good match? Lol. I'm used to my 66RA Prestiges that are all 3-4 years old and quite flexed in.

 

[CosmosMpower]

Current IG Prestige Pro user and tried a lot of the newer Head frames and none of them feel the same. I was getting some tennis elbow with a few different polys and changed to Technifibre X1 Biphase string and it makes the racquet feel so plush and comfortable.

 

[Doubles]

Angell is not expensive when you purchase more then one racquet in an order and get 10% reduction. It will come out less per racquet then Donnay.

My math is quite awful but I just put 3 in the cart at with the discount came out to $540, which is more than the Donnay. Honestly, not too interested in either racquet as I cannot demo them. I'd have to score them for dirt cheap.

 

[Doubles]

Current IG Prestige Pro user and tried a lot of the newer Head frames and none of them feel the same. I was getting some tennis elbow with a few different polys and changed to Technifibre X1 Biphase string and it makes the racquet feel so plush and comfortable.

I've been using Tour Bite, which likely isn't helping the equation here, but I've tried other softer poly strings, as well as hybrids and my arm still hurts. X1 would last maybe an hour or two in my racquet. Too much money for me to shell out.

 

[CosmosMpower]

An hour or two? You must hit like a beast. I played my last set of X1 from August till January and didn't break them and I used the 17 gauge. They were good and frayed in the center when I cut them out.

 

[Doubles]

An hour or two? You must hit like a beast. I played my last set of X1 from August till January and didn't break them and I used the 17 gauge. They were good and frayed in the center when I cut them out.

I have a fast swing and love topspin on the forehand side. Plus I only really hit spin serves. Nothing outside of Kevlar lasts me a really long time.

 

[teekaywhy]

+1 the textremes, both the 95 and 100.
Keep the Yonex DR 98 on the short list as well.
I've heard good things about the Volkl C10s. If you can get used to the pallet shape.

 

[SpinToWin]

I've looked through the Bay and found a few PS 95 below 100$ @Doubles

If you find an especially good offer you could snag it for an extended demo (it is a fun frame to have in the back regardless).

 

[Doubles]

+1 the textremes, both the 95 and 100.
Keep the Yonex DR 98 on the short list as well.
I've heard good things about the Volkl C10s. If you can get used to the pallet shape.

I'll look at the Princes. Cannot afford a $200 racquet so the Yonex is off the table.

I've looked through the Bay and found a few PS 95 below 100$ @Doubles

If you find an especially good offer you could snag it for an extended demo (it is a fun frame to have in the back regardless).

I'll look around.

Also, I still have the chance to snag some Tec frames for cheap, but that stiffness rating worries me. Are they as firm as advertised? Anyone know?

 

[topspn]

My math is quite awful but I just put 3 in the cart at with the discount came out to $540, which is more than the Donnay. Honestly, not too interested in either racquet as I cannot demo them. I'd have to score them for dirt cheap.

That is $180 a racquet which is less expensive then the over $200 donnay or a $219 RF97A on TW. For your own custom spec racquet! Anyway, if you have to demo then another question

 

[Doubles]

That is $180 a racquet which is less expensive then the over $200 donnay or a $219 RF97A on TW. For your own custom spec racquet! Anyway, if you have to demo then another question

I see what you're saying, but the Donnay's linked in here were $150 per racquet. Also, the RF97A is a heavy, stiff frame, the opposite of arm friendly, to me anyway. If I could find an Angell for cheap, I might try it, but I can't afford almost $200 per racquet. Poor college student and all.

 

[warney]

Thoughts on the Tfight 320? I have a chance to get one for a reasonable price, but I couldn't demo it in advance before I buy it. (Online auction). Is it arm friendly?

i have tried this one too (320 TP ATP)! I won't say it's arm friendly, but it's softer than IG Pro. However it does not have plow, stability of IG Pro. And string pattern is very open in middle and makes for high launch angle.

 

[teekaywhy]

I'll look at the Princes. Cannot afford a $200 racquet so the Yonex is off the table.

I'll look around.

Also, I still have the chance to snag some Tec frames for cheap, but that stiffness rating worries me. Are they as firm as advertised? Anyone know?

Haven't had much experience with the TF frames, but did hit one for a little. I think it was the 325 Dynacore. Very solid and decent pop. I liked it at the time.

With a little patience and smart shopping, you can snag the DR or even the AI for less than retail. Same goes for the Textremes. To be honest, I've only had to pay full retail for my collection on just a small handful. And that was on purpose (the Angell's being the toughest to find in the secondary market).

Have you tried Tour Bite Soft? That's my string of choice. It''s not that much softer than TB, but I love it.

 

[Backhanded Compliment]

I'll look around but I need at least 2-3 given the rate that I eat through strings. I'd hate to snag one for cheap and then not be able to find a match for it. Also, if I'm looking for soft, arm friendly racquets are you sure the 70 RA would be a good match? Lol. I'm used to my 66RA Prestiges that are all 3-4 years old and quite flexed in.

The thing is Angell's quality control is great so you can always snag another. The RA70 is actually a 64 when strung. The RA63 would work too but it is a marked flex difference (58 strung) from the 66RA IGPP (nothing noodley but still you would notice... could be a good thing). The Angell TC97 also sounds like it would work for you (strung it is like RA62). Often you can find matched pairs and if they are lighter than your specs you can easilly weight them up... they customize well.

 

[Doubles]

The thing is Angell's quality control is great so you can always snag another. The RA70 is actually a 64 when strung. The RA63 would work too but it is a marked flex difference (58 strung) from the 66RA IGPP (nothing noodley but still you would notice... could be a good thing). The Angell TC97 also sounds like it would work for you (strung it is like RA62). Often you can find matched pairs and if they are lighter than your specs you can easilly weight them up... they customize well.

I'm using 4 year old prestiges strung hundreds of times so I want the softest frame possible for the ease of transition. I guess id go with the 62 then.

 

[Doubles]

Haven't had much experience with the TF frames, but did hit one for a little. I think it was the 325 Dynacore. Very solid and decent pop. I liked it at the time.

With a little patience and smart shopping, you can snag the DR or even the AI for less than retail. Same goes for the Textremes. To be honest, I've only had to pay full retail for my collection on just a small handful. And that was on purpose (the Angell's being the toughest to find in the secondary market).

Have you tried Tour Bite Soft? That's my string of choice. It''s not that much softer than TB, but I love it.

Tour Bite soft was too springy and mushy for me. Hyper G is a decent middle ground, but I'm too used to Tour Bite. Also is the DR like the AI? If so I'll pass. I hit with an AI before and it's nothing like a Prestige.

 

[donnayblack99]

Pro Kennex Redondo Mid or Midplus... are the only way to go as a Prestige Mid/MP replacement. You get the plow of the Prestige Classics with the arm comfort of 100% graphite. They all have the same mold except the Head's have the capped grommets all the way around.

 

[Doubles]

Pro Kennex Redondo Mid or Midplus... are the only way to go as a Prestige Mid/MP replacement. You get the plow of the Prestige Classics with the arm comfort of 100% graphite. They all have the same mold except the Head's have the capped grommets all the way around.

I use the pro, not the mp. Looking to stay with the open pattern.

 

[Backhanded Compliment]

I'm using 4 year old prestiges strung hundreds of times so I want the softest frame possible for the ease of transition. I guess id go with the 62 then.

I agree the TC97 would have the easiest transition... the similar box beam would equate well too. I personally love the D beam of the TC95 but it does move through the air like a knife and less like a prestige (which has a very deliberate feel overall). The cap-like grommets on the Angells also appeal to me as a one time prestige player. No matter what Angell you try I bet you'll like the overall sensation of play. Not flashy... just solid... and they serve really really well.

 

[Doubles]

I agree the TC97 would have the easiest transition... the similar box beam would equate well too. I personally love the D beam of the TC95 but it does move through the air like a knife and less like a prestige (which has a very deliberate feel overall). The cap-like grommets on the Angells also appeal to me as a one time prestige player. No matter what Angell you try I bet you'll like the overall sensation of play. Not flashy... just solid... and they serve really really well.

If I could afford it is opt for the 95, but I don't think it's a possibility now. I'll keep on the lookout for a pair in the specs that I want.

 

[Christian Olsson]

Volkl SG10-295. Solid as a rock and is easy to customise. And it looks fabulous! Feel is sublime!!

 

[tmc5005]

Been using these frames going on 4 years now, and I'm potentially looking to get something new, and something relatively arm friendly. I've tried the Graphene Prestige Pro, Graphene Radical Mp and Pro, Babolat Pure Strike, Wilson Pro Staff 97, Blade 98, and a few others but nothing quite has the feel I'm looking for.

I was almost considering something like the TFight 295 (because it's so cheap) and modding the hell out of it, but the RA rating has me a bit concerned it'll be harsh. I've only hit with one Tec before, (the 315 ltd.) and it was far softer so I don't know what to expect in terms of comfort of the 295.

What do you all think would be worth at least demoing? I like players racquets, but wouldn't mind something on the lighter side that I could customize myself. Any suggestions?

Yes my current list of top 10 arm friendly racquets includes:

Yonex EZone Ai 98

HEAD YT Graphene Prestige Pro

PACIFIC X Feel Pro 95

Prince Tour Pro 98

Prince Tour 98 ESP

Pro Kennex Kinetic KI5 315

Technifibre 2013 Tflight 315 16M LTD

Volkl Power Bridge-10 Mid (93)

Volkl Organix 10 325G

WILSON 2014 Pro Staff 95S

 

[topspn]

Redondo also a good racquet and very good on price. Comfort galore and very solid stick. One con is you won't be able to hit a big first serve.

 

[Jocke]

If you're up to a little customization...have you considered the Prince Textremes? I really like the Tour 100T (290 g) with a few grams in the head and about 10 g in the handle. Really soft on the arm and a lot better feel than the Princes with EXO3 grommets.

Or Tour 100P (305 g) if you prefer 18 x 20 pattern...