I don't disagree. Ive just always been shocked by the general pricing. Even relatively new Baiardo Tune machine is ridiculously overpriced. But I guess for "commercial",since that's it's intended audience, they can get away with that price.
Diary of a Racketaholic
- Thread starter Ross K
- Start date
mmazzinin1
New User
Considering that you guys are "Racketaholics" and so I assume most of you own a considerable amount of rackets that you more or less love- how do you handle/manage racket rotation?
In my case, for instance, I have 3 rackets that I truly love: 2 PKs frames (BA Pro 97 and 7G) + a Head Pro Tour 630 Made in Austria (capped). I really struggle to manage their usage when I go on court. Which one should I use today?
What do you guys do? Do you go with just one mainly and relegate the others to be merely back-ups? Or do you decide based on the opponent and/or based on your body condition? Or do you just rotate them on a weekly basis as I do with my wristwatches? There is also the stringing issue to keep in mind that complicates the racket choice more than with wristwatches
Cheers
In my case, for instance, I have 3 rackets that I truly love: 2 PKs frames (BA Pro 97 and 7G) + a Head Pro Tour 630 Made in Austria (capped). I really struggle to manage their usage when I go on court. Which one should I use today?
What do you guys do? Do you go with just one mainly and relegate the others to be merely back-ups? Or do you decide based on the opponent and/or based on your body condition? Or do you just rotate them on a weekly basis as I do with my wristwatches? There is also the stringing issue to keep in mind that complicates the racket choice more than with wristwatches
Cheers
Anyone here use Asics match shorts? I've debating picking some up (discounted) or going with Vuori Kore shorts. I've never owned either but love Vuoris sweatpants.
I realized that the big brand shorts are priced higher as these "social media" brands like Birddogs, Vuori, Ten Thousands, etc
I realized that the big brand shorts are priced higher as these "social media" brands like Birddogs, Vuori, Ten Thousands, etc
Classic-TXP-IG MID
Hall of Fame
Considering that you guys are "Racketaholics" and so I assume most of you own a considerable amount of rackets that you more or less love- how do you handle/manage racket rotation?
In my case, for instance, I have 3 rackets that I truly love: 2 PKs frames (BA Pro 97 and 7G) + a Head Pro Tour 630 Made in Austria (capped). I really struggle to manage their usage when I go on court. Which one should I use today?
What do you guys do? Do you go with just one mainly and relegate the others to be merely back-ups? Or do you decide based on the opponent and/or based on your body condition? Or do you just rotate them on a weekly basis as I do with my wristwatches? There is also the stringing issue to keep in mind that complicates the racket choice more than with wristwatches
Cheers
I just tend to have 3 or 4 of the freshest/freshly strung racquets that I'm trying to hit with (in that part of the rotation - then I'll change to a new set of 3 or 4 when I feel I want to make a change), and I hit with a "chosen" one... and if it's working I just continue. If not, I then choose another based on how I'm playing on the night or maybe my opponent... then see how that racquet is working, and so on. An example here... the other night, I was hitting well with my Volkl PB10 MP in the pre-game warm-up/hitting, but felt I might get more help during the doubles match from a 100 sq. inch racquet (both on return and at the net), so I switched to my Gravity Pro. Turned out to be the right choice... and I played very well.
I also tend to try to string racquets that fit into different categories amongst the 3 or 4 in the rotation. For example... a controlled classic players frame, a controlled modern players frame, an open pattern (16x19) for more spin, and a powerful frame (e.g. a Prestige, an Extreme Tour, a ZUS 95 63RA, and an Extreme Pro/Dunlop Srixon SX 300 Tour). That way I can use a different racquet in each rotation depending on my energy levels, how well I'm playing, my opponent and their strengths and weaknesses, etc.
When I am just having a hit with a friend/hitting partner for practice/fun/fitness... I then try to use all 3 to 4 of my freshly strung racquets in the one hitting session (just so I can feel like I'm utilising all the racquets, using them all evenly, and making sure all the strings are at a fairly even/same level of wear and tear). I also might tend to start the night with the most controlled/demanding racquet (that takes the most effort and technical proficiency), and then slowly move to racquets that progressively provide more help/assistance. Example here... start the night with the PB10 MP/PT630/VCP 97HD type of racquet, and finish with a Pure Aero/Dunlop Srixon SX 300 Tour/G360+ Extreme Pro type of racquet.
Hope that helps and answers your question.
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Power Player
Bionic Poster
Considering that you guys are "Racketaholics" and so I assume most of you own a considerable amount of rackets that you more or less love- how do you handle/manage racket rotation?
In my case, for instance, I have 3 rackets that I truly love: 2 PKs frames (BA Pro 97 and 7G) + a Head Pro Tour 630 Made in Austria (capped). I really struggle to manage their usage when I go on court. Which one should I use today?
What do you guys do? Do you go with just one mainly and relegate the others to be merely back-ups? Or do you decide based on the opponent and/or based on your body condition? Or do you just rotate them on a weekly basis as I do with my wristwatches? There is also the stringing issue to keep in mind that complicates the racket choice more than with wristwatches
Cheers
I find what I like and then play a UTR/USTA season with it. After that if I want to try something, I do it then before the next season starts. Although if things are not working out, I will make a change midseason if I have to. I did that this season and it worked (went back to my PK).
I personally don't like switching frames every week or for doubles or whatever. I want the consistency in response from using the same frame. The opponent doesn't matter to me, that is more about how well I am playing and what strategies I am executing.
EggSalad
Hall of Fame
I’m not familiar with the ASICS but the Vuori kore shorts are incredible. I went from ‘I can’t believe I was paying that much’ to them being the only shorts I play in.
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That's how I felt with their Ponto Pants. Maybe it's time to order more Vuori gear...
gino
Legend
Loved this Q. We’re all very different in our preferences and priorities obviously. My way of holicing could be very different than the next holic. Anyways, here’s how I see it:Considering that you guys are "Racketaholics" and so I assume most of you own a considerable amount of rackets that you more or less love- how do you handle/manage racket rotation?
In my case, for instance, I have 3 rackets that I truly love: 2 PKs frames (BA Pro 97 and 7G) + a Head Pro Tour 630 Made in Austria (capped). I really struggle to manage their usage when I go on court. Which one should I use today?
What do you guys do? Do you go with just one mainly and relegate the others to be merely back-ups? Or do you decide based on the opponent and/or based on your body condition? Or do you just rotate them on a weekly basis as I do with my wristwatches? There is also the stringing issue to keep in mind that complicates the racket choice more than with wristwatches
Cheers
Match Bag: 3 PST, 3 PSVS, and 2 PA98 in the match bag. I know based on my own game and comfort level I could game any of those frames. I like the strikes for singles and PA98 for dubs. Sometimes I’ll load up a Wilson match bag with RF97As and 6.1 95 frames.. lastly, the HEAD Youtek IG Speed 300. Have a bunch of those and was my favorite frame (to win points with) in my college tennis days, but with a new 59 RA alot of them have softened too much. So for that reason I prefer the strike stuff, easy power/spin and top tier feel for a Babolat
Collectibles: I’m a big fan of specific frames from specific years. A lot of guys here like to cycle through the “racket du jour” or what’s hot currently. I really appreciate that because I don’t have the time to test a lot of new stuff, so it’s cool getting perspective from some of the regular guys here that try a variety of rackets, but not really “my thing.”
I prefer the idea of collecting frames that have some inherent value (sentimental usually) or something I know I’ll like. For instance, I have 15+ 6.1 95 frames, because I learned the game with them.
Those collectible frames go out for light hits and I try to theme some hits and take them out in fun creative ways. For instance, I’ll do a “box beam” ball machine hour and bring 5-10 types of box beam frames. Another one I like to do, is 6.1 95 hitting sessions. I’ll cycle through 10 layups of the same mold just casually hitting on the ball machine.
I like the idea of a select few frames I can rely on to play points (always string those more regularly) and then everything else is just for fun/light hitting. Different strokes for different folks
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ClownCar96
Rookie
Built in lining with vuori core… so are you barebacking to play? I own 4 pairs, thought briefly to wear for tennis but wasn’t sure on the lining with or w/o underwear!
If I ran a shop I would not use a Briffidi, as awesome as it is. It moves around and needs to be recalibrated frequently, and also requires a phone to use. So yes, much better than shelling out thousands for us home customers, and soooo much better than other homebrew methods of calculating SW, but I would go for the Yonex Precision thing or the Baiardo Tune (basic) if I had a shop.
Fintft
G.O.A.T.
Until a couple of weeks ago, I was down to 2 models. I always go with one mainly, generally speaking ( now I got 5 models)Considering that you guys are "Racketaholics" and so I assume most of you own a considerable amount of rackets that you more or less love- how do you handle/manage racket rotation?
In my case, for instance, I have 3 rackets that I truly love: 2 PKs frames (BA Pro 97 and 7G) + a Head Pro Tour 630 Made in Austria (capped). I really struggle to manage their usage when I go on court. Which one should I use today?
What do you guys do? Do you go with just one mainly and relegate the others to be merely back-ups? Or do you decide based on the opponent and/or based on your body condition? Or do you just rotate them on a weekly basis as I do with my wristwatches? There is also the stringing issue to keep in mind that complicates the racket choice more than with wristwatches
Cheers
mmazzinin1
New User
Very interesting replies, thanks for that.
So far, I have always used (mainly) one racket per season as well. But recently I feel more open to changes and here come the dilemma of making the "choice of the day". The approach I am having now is to get creative during coaching sessions, and stick to one main racket for the more serious matches...but I find myself awake at night thinking pros and cons for the racket that will likely accompany me during the next day hit.
I am just afraid that these frequent changes, especially with rackets that are inherently different, could delay/slow down the achievement of the perfect player-racket connection. But probably that is not the end of the world
So far, I have always used (mainly) one racket per season as well. But recently I feel more open to changes and here come the dilemma of making the "choice of the day". The approach I am having now is to get creative during coaching sessions, and stick to one main racket for the more serious matches...but I find myself awake at night thinking pros and cons for the racket that will likely accompany me during the next day hit.
I am just afraid that these frequent changes, especially with rackets that are inherently different, could delay/slow down the achievement of the perfect player-racket connection. But probably that is not the end of the world
Superchoo
New User
Considering that you guys are "Racketaholics" and so I assume most of you own a considerable amount of rackets that you more or less love- how do you handle/manage racket rotation?
In my case, for instance, I have 3 rackets that I truly love: 2 PKs frames (BA Pro 97 and 7G) + a Head Pro Tour 630 Made in Austria (capped). I really struggle to manage their usage when I go on court. Which one should I use today?
What do you guys do? Do you go with just one mainly and relegate the others to be merely back-ups? Or do you decide based on the opponent and/or based on your body condition? Or do you just rotate them on a weekly basis as I do with my wristwatches? There is also the stringing issue to keep in mind that complicates the racket choice more than with wristwatches
Cheers
Just thinking about rackets for different conditions; anyone remember a Rafa interview from a year or two back, where he mentions changing his racket balance depending on what surface he’s playing on?
Anyone have any idea what adjustments his team make to his racket? e.g slightly increasing balance on faster surfaces so he can hit through the ball more.
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RF_PRO_STAFF
Professional
Tennis rackets are a true valuta in this thread.
RF_PRO_STAFF
Professional
I just play with whatever I feel like playing that day. Except for when playing matches, I only use the '23 VC95 in those.Considering that you guys are "Racketaholics" and so I assume most of you own a considerable amount of rackets that you more or less love- how do you handle/manage racket rotation?
In my case, for instance, I have 3 rackets that I truly love: 2 PKs frames (BA Pro 97 and 7G) + a Head Pro Tour 630 Made in Austria (capped). I really struggle to manage their usage when I go on court. Which one should I use today?
What do you guys do? Do you go with just one mainly and relegate the others to be merely back-ups? Or do you decide based on the opponent and/or based on your body condition? Or do you just rotate them on a weekly basis as I do with my wristwatches? There is also the stringing issue to keep in mind that complicates the racket choice more than with wristwatches
Cheers
For non match-days, I usually bring four different frames in my bag. Sometimes I use all four in the same session but mostly just one or two.
EggSalad
Hall of Fame
Yup. Just me and the shorts. Commando tennis. Although, the built in liner is there so you don’t need anything else.
ryushen21
Legend
As much as I know it makes no sense for me to have one, I still want one. I think it's a good tool to have even though the majority of my players use their racquets in stock form. I have a few players who are making slapdash mods to their frames without considering the changes in weight balance and swing.
I've looked at all the machines and the prices are definitely shocking, especially the new Wilson Baiardo Tune Pro. It certainly doesn't feel like these machines should cost thousands of dollars.
tim-ay
Hall of Fame
I've seen the world in new light. Any frame, with a reasonable spec for it, can be 27.25 in 10 min or less. It's not a new holic door, it's just the mirror.
topspn
Legend
I’m waiting very impatiently for my ZUS 27.25
tim-ay
Hall of Fame
Mine is sitting here next to me. My normal courts are closed today due to clean up from the 'cane. I'm going to have to find a place for a lunch slinger hit.
Looking forward to serving with this one as it was already God-tier serving frame. Really looking forward to hitting the Rads also, that frame is perfect for this set up. Was able to take off about 4 grams of the 5.5 I had on the head. 330SW now.
topspn
Legend
Jeebus so you now have a ZUS 27.25 and Rad already? Filling in an extra .25 somehow, diy longbodies. Damn well done
EggSalad
Hall of Fame
Mayami is liquidating their US warehouse. 40% of sets and reels. The discount code is on their home page. I'm really tempted to buy a reel of hit pro, even though I have 8 sets of it already and can't play for another month or so. But, on the other hand; it's only 3 Honey Dueces.
SupahMan5000
Hall of Fame
I plan on getting 3 honey deuces so there goes my string moneyMayami is liquidating their US warehouse. 40% of sets and reels. The discount code is on their home page. I'm really tempted to buy a reel of hit pro, even though I have 8 sets of it already and can't play for another month or so. But, on the other hand; it's only 3 Honey Dueces.
RF_PRO_STAFF
Professional
97 showdown tonight. I dropped the PS97 V14 but the UP16 V4 and Percept 97 are going toe to toe. I removed the Oehms leather on the UP and replaced it with Head Ultimate, my favorite synthetic grip right now. I've never played the UP (V3/V4) without leather so I'm curious how it will feel with synthetic. Had to add 7.5g of tungsten putty to get the balance point HL enough again.
Specs with Hawk Touch 1.20, Supergrap, rubber band dampener:
UP16 V4: 334.8g - 31.7 cm - 321 SW
Percept 97: 336g - 31.8 cm - 319.5 SW
Only played the UP16 with 1.25 strings before so the SW dropped from 325 strung, but I'm keeping it at 321 for this comparison.
Specs with Hawk Touch 1.20, Supergrap, rubber band dampener:
UP16 V4: 334.8g - 31.7 cm - 321 SW
Percept 97: 336g - 31.8 cm - 319.5 SW
Only played the UP16 with 1.25 strings before so the SW dropped from 325 strung, but I'm keeping it at 321 for this comparison.
Vicious49
Legend
Why? Because she's obviously not stable for wanting to be with 10 minute bathroom break Tsitsipas?
Same. I use the Regna 98 during matches and bring several racquets for doubles play.
You have that staple gun that the rest of us don't have. So not as easy for us to remove and reinstall the butt cap.
FrankyRelax
Semi-Pro
Mayami is liquidating their US warehouse. 40% of sets and reels. The discount code is on their home page. I'm really tempted to buy a reel of hit pro, even though I have 8 sets of it already and can't play for another month or so. But, on the other hand; it's only 3 Honey Dueces.
I got a reel of hit pro and I've never played it yet. LoL. 65 dollar reel is too tempting to pass up
tim-ay
Hall of Fame
, yeah. Heck he might be a good guy, but still, if she was my daughter I'd have to do the talk with her. "Honey, he's a loser. I really think you would be better off aiming higher, you're better than that. That guy at the smoothie shop who flirts with you is really nice, why don't you talk to him more?"j/k, Steph is ok. And the Badosa crush will likely return in Miami.
tim-ay
Hall of Fame
It's 14.99 from Amazon. haha. Everyone can have it.
KC!
Professional
I’ve always just used resin to put back on because I was scared of cracking pallet. Interested in which gun you ordered & staple size?
tim-ay
Hall of Fame
I decided to just get a cheapy one since using the pneumatic always made me not want to do it. I bought the Wetols staple gun, comes with 3000 staples and a staple remover which actually works. I guess it is 19.99 now with a 10% off coupon click thing, so 17.99. big bucks. lol. It has a driving force adjustment screw on top, I just cranked that up to highest setting and used the narrow U-shaped staples. some go all the way some go about 3/4 and I just tapped them the rest of the way in with a hammer. Fast and simple as it gets. Cheap too.
Vicious49
Legend
What? I always thought it was a special high powered gun with specific staples required.
Mind blown!
SupahMan5000
Hall of Fame
Watched a friend of mine do the bottle cap method (but with an O Damp)
Pretty easy and fast for him
gino
Legend
Lol holic currency has now officially converted to honey deuces I love it
KC!
Professional
Thank you, this beats epoxy resin. Especially if I ever need to remove butt cap again. I had one I extended that I had to cut off butt cap to remove wood & get back to regular length. And order a new butt cap
I over thought the staple gun thinking it had to be Pneumatic too.
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Vicious49
Legend
I just measured it. 4 o-damps compressed down equals 1 inch. So for the .25" using 1 o-damp may be easier than the bottle cap method.
tim-ay
Hall of Fame
Everything happened very fast, but I've put a lot of thought into this over time. At first it was just reading how people did it. Then it was my 6G, but that was a cut down.Thank you, this beats epoxy resin. Especially if I ever need to remove butt cap again. I had one I extended that I had to cut off butt cap to remove wood & get back to regular length. And order a new butt cap
I over thought the staple gun thinking hit had to be Pneumatic too.
Brain accelerant added when the 345 SW Wout was just a freaking log at 27.5. After it's transformation at 27.25 into one of the best sticks ever, gears started turning.
I don't think every racket is a fit for this mod so I wanted to be able to easily reverse it. And seeing what Solinco did made me realize it's all about the staples and then using scale, balance board, Briffidi to get the specs you want. I wouldn't mod a blade pro into 27.25 as it would become the over spec Wout instantly. But the Rads???? holy smokes it's like they designed it for this mod. Zus should be good too. The UP is still a UP so.... jury's out. I'm sure it's better than 27 though. I wouldn't do a PA '27 to 27.25, that's just crazy. I might take the PA+ to 27.25 eventually though. Lot's of testing to come.
tim-ay
Hall of Fame
It's going to take off about 10SW. But I found with the 6G that adding lead back on to the head to get around 330SW (my favored spec) nailed it. Truly nailed it. Don't be afraid if you have a Briffidi. But cutting down is worth taking your time to decide as it is certainly a more thoughtful step than increasing with this 'bottle cap' method. That O damp idea is freaking brilliant and would be the way I do it when I run out of bottle caps my wife got for me. ha!
ryushen21
Legend
I looked at those but couldn't stomach the price. Are they really that good?
EggSalad
Hall of Fame
I personally love them. I’m not sure if they will be significant better than other tennis shorts but I like that they aren’t baggy, you don’t feel them when you move, they are well made and just very comfortable. They are great off the court too.
My wife got me my first pair as a gift, and I’ve got like 5 pairs now.
ryushen21
Legend
I might have to give them a try then.
Holy crap, did anyone see that shot Murray just made?!
KC!
Professional
Unreal! 2-2 almost 40 minutes in now. This is going to be a marathon.
ryushen21
Legend
I think it's the current Radical PJ w/ CAPs.
KC!
Professional
Murray just cracked…
Jerry Snyder
New User
Don’t be a dick……even if the post is over a decade old
