Head Prestige Pro 2021 vs 2023
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Okinawa Puroresu
Rookie
I mained the Auxetic 1.0 Prestige Pro, and I'm currently awaiting the Auxetic 2.0 Prestige Pro. Once I get decent time with it, I'll update here.
eightseven4015
New User
I played the 2023 for about 1.5 hrs of full hitting on Grapplesnake Tour M8. It feels for the most part, relatively similar to the 2021 with slightly better feel supposedly due to Auxetic 2.0 but I wouldn't necessarily say it's worth the upgrade from the 2021.
It's exactly what you expect from an 18x20 prestige. Connected to the ball, precise and stable. I actually liked the MP a bit more this time round but that's another story.
The 2021 was a pretty solid racket all round and while the 2023 feels good, I personally don't think it warrants a switch.
It's exactly what you expect from an 18x20 prestige. Connected to the ball, precise and stable. I actually liked the MP a bit more this time round but that's another story.
The 2021 was a pretty solid racket all round and while the 2023 feels good, I personally don't think it warrants a switch.
I'm interested in the same question but for the Tour. I've used the Pro Tour 2.0 as my main stick for the past few years but am looking for something slightly more forgiving with a little more power, so I bought a 2021 Prestige Tour on clearance to try. I used it for the first time yesterday, and the results were perfectly what I was looking for: hits a very similar ball to the PT2.0 but with a decent amount more free power without sacrificing control. However, the Prestige Tour 2021 feels absolutely nothing like the PT2.0 and is insanely muted in comparison. It feels more like a Blade than it does the PT2.0. Wondering if the 2023 offers more feedback/connectedness. If not, I'll probably stick with the 2021 for league matches but use my PT2.0 on the practice courts. 
J-Wildcard
Semi-Pro
Yes, unfortunately the tour is basically the new version of the 360+ pro, I guess what you really want is the new tour (V2. 0 auxetic) version but it's expensive currently isn't it.I'm interested in the same question but for the Tour. I've used the Pro Tour 2.0 as my main stick for the past few years but am looking for something slightly more forgiving with a little more power, so I bought a 2021 Prestige Tour on clearance to try. I used it for the first time yesterday, and the results were perfectly what I was looking for: hits a very similar ball to the PT2.0 but with a decent amount more free power without sacrificing control. However, the Prestige Tour 2021 feels absolutely nothing like the PT2.0 and is insanely muted in comparison. It feels more like a Blade than it does the PT2.0. Wondering if the 2023 offers more feedback/connectedness. If not, I'll probably stick with the 2021 for league matches but use my PT2.0 on the practice courts.
That's exactly what I'm asking: if the the 2023 is really any different than the 2021. It won't be available to demo around me because (I've been informed by the clubs themselves) no one carries the Prestige line any more "because it doesn't sell" (and I've always had timing issues with trying the TW demo program). So I'm looking for a comparison from anyone who's hit with both.
Had a brief stint with the 2021 version and currently trying out the 2023 version. Been hitting with it for a week now and so far, I really like the 2023 version and find it more maneuverable and with superior feel. Seems like the 2023 version is more forgiving/has a bigger sweetspot compared to the 2021 version. I'm liking it enough that I'm considering a switch to the 2023 version and whatever Head did with this version, they did it right. It's just "fun" to play with in terms of how the racket strikes the ball and that cracking sound it makes if you connect right. Current racket is a ProKennex Black Ace Pro 97 and find the 2023 Prestige Tour more solid and finding that I more zip in my shots with it.
jklos
Professional
Tour or Pro?
Tour
2023 Tour is definitely solid. Launch angle is higher than my usual frames (which are mostly 18x20). No experience with the 2021 version.
It's up there in terms of feeling most solid all around relative to its static weight. The Origin has it beat there but there's a 20+ point difference in swingweight, and the balance favors the Prestige.
In general, and I haven't really been a Head guy in recent years, Head really seems to be doing solid work all around this year with their lines
It's up there in terms of feeling most solid all around relative to its static weight. The Origin has it beat there but there's a 20+ point difference in swingweight, and the balance favors the Prestige.
In general, and I haven't really been a Head guy in recent years, Head really seems to be doing solid work all around this year with their lines
HitMoreBHs
Professional
If you like the performance of the Prestige Tour Auxetic 1.0 but feel it's too muted, it is well worth trying a 360+ Prestige Pro. I've playtested both a lot in recent months, given the trend is towards larger head sizes and I'm still mainly using the 360+ Prestige Mid.I'm interested in the same question but for the Tour. I've used the Pro Tour 2.0 as my main stick for the past few years but am looking for something slightly more forgiving with a little more power, so I bought a 2021 Prestige Tour on clearance to try. I used it for the first time yesterday, and the results were perfectly what I was looking for: hits a very similar ball to the PT2.0 but with a decent amount more free power without sacrificing control. However, the Prestige Tour 2021 feels absolutely nothing like the PT2.0 and is insanely muted in comparison. It feels more like a Blade than it does the PT2.0. Wondering if the 2023 offers more feedback/connectedness. If not, I'll probably stick with the 2021 for league matches but use my PT2.0 on the practice courts.
The 360+ PPro has much better feedback and more obvious throat and tip flex, and ball-pocketing than the PTour Aux 1.0. I normally use a dampener, but do not on the PTour due to how "insanely muted" it is. On fast strokes hit with good acceleration, the PPro gives the distinct sensation of the racquet flexing and releasing through the impact, which I like a lot. (If you're a golfer, it feels like a shaft that has been optimally matched to one's swingspeed with the highly desireable flex and release through the ball).
Power and spin are very close, but the PPro has a lower stock swingweight (328) and will require a small addition of lead if you want it in the 335+ territory. I prefer the PPro and if I was to switch to a 95, this would be my first choice - I have 4 of them in storage currently. It does not have the low thud frequency of the PT2.0, and it will feel crisper; but is still very comfortable even on off-centre shots. Highly recommend you get one to try.
J-Wildcard
Semi-Pro
I know you were a big fan of the last auxetic version (2021) is this much different. I have heard said the auxetic tech is now on the handle as well as throat is that right which gives a nicer feel then? I still may grab a 2021 version as I heard it was a bit more powerful than the 360+ mp which I do have a few of and like.
vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
I like the 2023 Prestige Pro more. It feels more plush and more stable to me. The frequency of vibration is in Prestige Classic range. I’m loving it.
J-Wildcard
Semi-Pro
Yes, it sounds like they have got the balance right with the layup. Good to hear. How did you find it played I'm comparison to the 2021. It must be very similar from what I have heard but I am pretty fussy/sensitive with regards to the feel of rackets. A big reason why I am such a lover of the Head prestige as it is hard to get the same feel from other manufacturers or even other Head lines. I used to think the radical had a nice feel to a degree back with the IG Youtek series and before but like many prestige lines following on with the graphene it was lost. Has this still got the same increased putaway power from the 360+ mp that the 2021 pro had but with the improved feel then?
dr325i
G.O.A.T.
I am with you on this. The more I use it, the more I like it. It is not hugely different from the 2021 version but some differences are obvious, more muted, but still good feedback, very stable. Great, plush layup.
Okinawa Puroresu
Rookie
These are initial thoughts after getting some playtime with it. Huge disclaimer that I have instead been playing way too much with the PC 2.0 since I ordered them to arrive on the same day:
It plays great! It’s just as plush as the Auxetic 1.0 and I feel like it has just a little more pop with the same level of spin and control. Where it separates itself from the Auxetic 1.0 Pro is when hit the ball right at the sweet spot. You can almost pinpoint exactly when you hit it every time with the racquet whereas I’ve never really experienced that on the 1.0 Pro. That level of feedback goes a long way, along with once again that slightly added pop, makes this Auxetic 2.0 Pro feel like a modern classic.
It plays great! It’s just as plush as the Auxetic 1.0 and I feel like it has just a little more pop with the same level of spin and control. Where it separates itself from the Auxetic 1.0 Pro is when hit the ball right at the sweet spot. You can almost pinpoint exactly when you hit it every time with the racquet whereas I’ve never really experienced that on the 1.0 Pro. That level of feedback goes a long way, along with once again that slightly added pop, makes this Auxetic 2.0 Pro feel like a modern classic.
Wondering the tension you have? I have the prestige pro 2021 strung with head reflex 1.25 at 50 pounds. Switch off between reflex and mlt
vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
I have my Prestige Pro strung up at 55lbs with 1.25 Reflex.
Thanks! Maybe i'll have to try and go up a bit on tension but giving 50 a chance since i'm coming from a full bed of poly.
Okinawa Puroresu
Rookie
Got to have much more extensive playtime with the Auxetic 2.0 Pro today after playing almost exclusively with the PC 2.0.
It still plays like a dream! It doesn’t have as much plowthrough as the PC, but it’s plush while still adding a lot of pop. Maybe it’s because of all my time with the PC, but I’ve found myself being able to flick a lot more sharp angles with the Auxetic 2.0 than I’ve been able to with Auxetic 1.0, on both sides.
When I hit it right at the middle of the sweet spot on either wing (I have a 1HBH), I get to experience both comfort and power. What I love about this Prestige is that, similar to last year, is that I can swing out as much as I need to and place the ball with the exact depth I want. I may just be better at tennis than I was last year, but this version of the Prestige feels like a worthwhile upgrade even for the fans of the Auxetic 1.0 Pro version.
It still plays like a dream! It doesn’t have as much plowthrough as the PC, but it’s plush while still adding a lot of pop. Maybe it’s because of all my time with the PC, but I’ve found myself being able to flick a lot more sharp angles with the Auxetic 2.0 than I’ve been able to with Auxetic 1.0, on both sides.
When I hit it right at the middle of the sweet spot on either wing (I have a 1HBH), I get to experience both comfort and power. What I love about this Prestige is that, similar to last year, is that I can swing out as much as I need to and place the ball with the exact depth I want. I may just be better at tennis than I was last year, but this version of the Prestige feels like a worthwhile upgrade even for the fans of the Auxetic 1.0 Pro version.
I've had the chance to play with the Pro Auxetic 2.0 now since it was released, which includes a few hitting sessions, practice matches, and a local tournament. Unfortunately I'm struggling with the 2.0 vs. my 1.0. I replicated the mods which includes some lead tape in the handle and hoop at 3 & 9. My Aux 1.0 is 345g strung with a 331 swing weight. Using those same mods on the Aux 2.0 it came in at 349g, but haven't been able to get to the local shop to check swing weight but I was able to tell it was more. I've actually backed down on some of the lead tape. I don't think its that far off from the previous version, but for me it is a bit too muted feeling, sweet spot feels smaller, and I'm lacking in the precision that I have in my 1.0. I know this is probably an unpopular opinion, but when making a change I want to feel I'm making an upgrade vs. having to adapt.
To note- I went from the Graphene 360+ to the Aux 1.0 and felt an immediate impact. Everyone's racket journey is different and wanted to share a different perspective.
To note- I went from the Graphene 360+ to the Aux 1.0 and felt an immediate impact. Everyone's racket journey is different and wanted to share a different perspective.
J-Wildcard
Semi-Pro
Yes, interesting to hear your thoughts. What weight is your prestige pro v1.0 unstrung. I am looking a trying to match it. I have only purchased one so far, depends on what the specs are as you say. I need to get the swingweight and balance done on my previous frames and see where I am at roughly.
I don't have the stock specs for unstrung, but with 6 inches of lead at 3 & 9, and call it 8 inches total in the handle the unstrung weight is 325g. I use Head Hawk touch 17g which brings it to about 344/345g. The swingweight and balance was pretty close between the 360+ and Prestige Pro v1.0. As the v1.0 settled in I personally felt that it had a bit more free power and better feel than the 360+. I had high hopes for v2.0 and while it hasn't totally impressed me, I'm going to at least try and get a reading on swingweight and balance to compare to the v.10.
Just had the opportunity to play with Reflex. Was not connecting and didn't feel great right away but about 1 hour into hitting started to really dial it in and felt amazing. Any advise on how to potentially get the string to perform a bit better right off the stringer?
tophersuwita
Rookie
A bit oot, how about MP? I play with Blade Pro 18x20 and I want to have an easier alternative. I really like the Tour 2023 but it is harder than Blade Pro (I used VC 95 and it is easier)
tophersuwita
Rookie
Is it too sluggish for all courter? BP 18 is sluggish but its plow is like a cannonball
tophersuwita
Rookie
How about its serve and maneuverability at net?
tophersuwita
Rookie
How about plow in Tour vs Pro? And is it too unforgiving (I played with VC95 too and found it not difficult but too filmsy)
vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
I’m an all courter and I don’t consider the Prestige Pro to be sluggish. Sluggish is not a word that ever came to my mind.
tophersuwita
Rookie
Wow I have to demo it then beside MP!
Is it still maneuverable for net play and flat served?
vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
Yes, I make mine heavier as I find the stock weight too light for me.
tophersuwita
Rookie
Did you make your Pro more HL or less HL after customization?
vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
It’s about the same but mass is increased and so is swing weight
Hey man just looking for more thoughts on the new MP - Im basically looking for a racquet that falls between the Blade pro 18 20 and auxetic speed pro- mp specs look perfect. What did you like/dislike about the frame. How well dampened was it? Would customising help it much? Just looking for as much info as possible
tophersuwita
Rookie
Just demoed the MP with Hyper G 48 lbs in hitting session+double matches and it really had excellent plow/stability/maneuverability. I could swing fast, my flat serves were bombs, and on the rise shots were dangerous. All in all, with 3 pt HL it really feels like an easier Blade Pro! It seemed very similar to my weighted Regna 100 too (Regna feels more whippy but sometimes erratic).
Nevertheless, I don't want to miss the Prestige Pro. Will I like the 6 pt HL Pro better? Will it feel like easier RF 97? I already have Blade Pro for "difficult racket" so maybe I lean to an easier one.
I cannot demo the Pro therefore I am really torn out between these two.
Nevertheless, I don't want to miss the Prestige Pro. Will I like the 6 pt HL Pro better? Will it feel like easier RF 97? I already have Blade Pro for "difficult racket" so maybe I lean to an easier one.
I cannot demo the Pro therefore I am really torn out between these two.
mhkeuns
Hall of Fame
FWIW, I picked up two Prestige Pro 2021’s while they were on sale that turned out to be the best purchase I’ve made all year. Compared to the 360+ PMP, the Auxetic PP feels softer, yet more solid with better ball pocketing. It actually feels incredible at impact. I have thoroughly enjoyed playing with Solinco WO 18x20.(*while dabbling with Vcore 95 - both 6th & 7th gens) because of its well-roundedness. It can actually do it all, That said, Auxetic Prestige Pro takes the control to another level, and it gave me all the confidence to go fully aggressive on all my shots (*mixing angles and power). I am making a switch and going to stay using the Auxetic Prestige Pro from now on. It is truly a Prestige that is perfect for the modern game.
I can imagine the 2023 Prestige Pro with lower RA will feel even more plush and awesome ball pocketing, Right now, I am completely happy with the 2021 outgoing model.
I can imagine the 2023 Prestige Pro with lower RA will feel even more plush and awesome ball pocketing, Right now, I am completely happy with the 2021 outgoing model.
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J-Wildcard
Semi-Pro
With the same string setup it feels softer than the 360+ mp? I heard most say slightly firmer with slightly more putaway power. I'm Just deciding on strong set up and tension currently before trying.
mhkeuns
Hall of Fame
It does feel more solid and firm on light hitting, but the impact feel during match play is soft and more Prestige-like than 360+. 360+ probably felt a little more connected. The Auxetic Prestige Pro feels more substantial, imo.
tophersuwita
Rookie
I demoed again the MP, but now with PA 100 too. The PA was the best racket for my game, it had free depth, solid return, solid block for faster pace balls, my forehands feel easy, etc etc. Nevertheless, I picked the MP for better feel and thuddy plow. I reckon I'll just adjust my game with
mattimag
Rookie
I think it's Europe only. I can get you one. Pm me if interested
So you prefer it to the blade pro? Does it feel much stiffer than the blade pro? And is at as well dampened as the blade pro?
tophersuwita
Rookie
It feels like an easier Blade Pro and doesn't feel sriff at all. The dampened feel imo is comforting because it still makes a connection when I hit the ball but no jarring vibration like Regna/RF97
optic yellow
Legend
Man I am so excited for mine to get here.
Dont know how your finding yours, but Ive demoed it (mp 2023/24) and unfortunately wasnt as good blade pro for me. The beam is slightly thinner (21.5 constant beam with 17.5mm tapered throat compared to 22.5mm to 21.9mm tapered beam and 22.2 constant throat on BP - measured with digital calliper) and it does feel ever so slightly stiffer. Also has a uniform flex which I dont like compared to flexy throat of my blade pro 18 20 . Does have an excellent dampened but very connected feel and the 99sq headsize (and also tk82s head gripshape) is perfection. My biggest gripe was a severe lack of power at the top of the hoop compared to rest of the hoop. This may have been due to strings being too tight (having now restrung it, it was the cause). Racquet came in on spec at 310g, couldnt swingweight it, but felt more head heavy than my 3 auxetic 1.0 speed pros so in the 330s I would guess. Perfect launch angle and spin but unfortunately just not as stable as blade pro and thinner beam made it feel less powerful as well. The slight extra stiffness just meant I did not feel like messing around with customising was worth it. Really wish head made a 61 ra 99 18*20 racquet, with a constant 22mm beam. Overall is very very good racquet, maybe just slightly prefer it to speed pro but not as good blade pro. Much prefer to tfight iso 305.
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tele
Hall of Fame
new mold, true 98. the new tour(old pro) is a 95.
Kemitak
Professional
Cheers, thanks.
J-Wildcard
Semi-Pro
How is the string pattern on the 16x19 version of the prestige pro? I still am not convinced by the string spacing on the new prestige mold (18x20). You can see the crosses run far too low now which suggests even the 18x20 has to be taken with a pinch of salt as its an open 18x20 already. Which led me to think would i need the 16x19? But it could be more consistent if it is like the prestige radical pro 360+ for instance.
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