Help retiring from Vcore 95 2023

[Codealias]

Hi all,
Long-time lurker...

I'm giving up on the vcore 95 and need some help! I'm a 3.5 level, 4.0 on good days.

Racquet Journey
1. Pure Drive 2019 - too stiff for arm
2. Pure Aero 2020 - good but didn't love the feel
3. Vcore 98 2019 - coach convinced me on Yonex. Loved my Galaxy black.
4. Vcore 95 2021 - convinced by you all that 95 was the way to go!
5. Vcore 95 2023 - upgraded and liked the additional pop but ultimately realized that if I'm not giving 100% and dialed in for the day, I often end up defeating myself - hitting short on defensive shots, weak volleys, etc. Love how the racquet plays otherwise.

Wish list
- More forgiveness (moving up to 98)
- A little bit more free power
- Emphasis on control, feel and maneuverability

Demos so far
1. Blade v8 16x19: butter! Amazingly soft feel, responsive, controlled. Whippy through the air. No free power but didn't feel underpowered either (as some reviews state). Wouldn't mind a little more pop? Solvable through lead? Wait for v9? The plush feel is really nice.
2. Ezone 98 2022: power! Free power, deeper balls but somehow didn't love the feel. Mildly concerned about stiffness in long term but didn't have any issues with gameplay demo. Felt much head heavy compared to vcore 95.
3. Head Boom Pro 2022: seemed like a sleeper option with controllable power, good feel and maneuverability. Felt quite good, though perhaps not standout. Decent pop, two-handed backhands were much more forgiving that vcore 95. Need to put a few more hours in.

What have I missed? The blend of these three would be perfect....overall playability of Head Boom Pro, feel and control of the blade, and the extra pop (though perhaps dialed down a bit) of the ezone 98. Thought a little about the vcore 98 2023 but wanted to see what else is out there since I've been Yonex committed for a few years now.

 

[Sackingsfanatic]

My main is the Vcore 95 (2023) like you. Before you commit to switching racquets try adding some lead in the head to up its swing weight. You'll probably get some better depth and pop. I think the racquet is a great blend of classic (e.g. feel, precision) and modern (e.g. more spin friendly).

 

[badmice2]

If you like the Blade, also consider:
Head Speed - swiss army knife
Head Gravity - butter and feel
TF40 315
Wilson Ultra Pro

Some sleeper choices:
Dunlop 200CX/CX Tour
Volkl C10 Pro
Prince Phantom 97

There's no right answer for the right frame, there's only a right answer for the right frame for you.

 

[McLovin]

I’d also add to the long list of demos:

• Solinco Whiteout (I preferred the 18x20, but 16x19 might give you a bit more power).
• Head Extreme Tour

If I could have made my extension of the Extreme work, I might have switched to it (I prefer 27.5” frames). The Whiteout reminded me a lot if the Pure Control 2001. Sadly, I’m old & need more power, so I went with the Blackout XTD.

 

[Soundbyte]

The Angell k7 series are on sale. Give them a look. You'd probably want Red or Cyan.

 

[naturalexponent]

give the percept 100d a shot

 

[Ryebread]

Do you typically like a lower launch angle?

 

[Fintft]

Shift 300, Artengo TR960, Prokennex KI5 295

 

[socallefty]

Stop blaming the racquet. Just go play or take some lessons.

 

[Chairman3]

If you liked the Pure Aero try the 2023 version.
Tamed the power, slightly muted but not so stiff feeling. They moved the needle away from just "spin frame" and made it a bit more of an all-rounder.
This is not my usual type of frame, but I really liked it.

 

[Trip]

@Codealias - Welcome. That's a pretty varied line up over what appears to be a roughly one-per-year rate of frame hopping. I think you could definitely benefit by settling on something for at least a few seasons. As for head size, if it's just for rec fun, play with whatever you want. If you want to be at least a bit competitive, though, even casually, then yeah, I think moving up in head size to a 98-100 -ish size frame is probably a good idea, for the added forgiveness and free power, among other qualities.

That said, I'm curious: if you loved your 2018 VCore 98 (Galaxy Black) so much and you still have it, why not just return to it? I'm sure it's a decent enough stick, and, optionally with some light customization, probably splits the middle ground of what you're looking for as well as most current frames. If you no longer have it, though, or just want to load up on something currently available, that's understandable. Noting your original post on what you're trying to key in on, I would look at medium beam width, more raw/connected pleeners (player/tweener hybrids) with more calm string beds, and <= 325-ish swing weights (to maintain that quick feel you seem to like), namely the following:

- Babolat 2024 Pure Strike 100 16x19
- Dunlop 2024 CX 400 Tour
- Revisit: Head Boom Pro (not really that raw/connected, more muted/muffled, but including it because you had such a positive experience)
- Head Auxetic Radical MP (w/ a 5-10g heavier grip)
- Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 (w/ 2-3g at 12, 11 and 1, or 10 and 2)
- Tecnifibre TFight ISO 300 (w/ handle and hoop weight)
- Wilson Blade 100 v8 (w/ 1-2g at 9 and 3 each)
- Yonex Percept 100 and/or 100D (both w/ 1-3g at 12)

Hope that helps give an idea of what to look for. Any questions, feel free.

 

[Rosstour]

Stop blaming the racquet. Just go play or take some lessons.

If he's a 3.5 I don't think there's any shame in him admitting he can't get the most out of a 95in head.

 

[Codealias]

My main is the Vcore 95 (2023) like you. Before you commit to switching racquets try adding some lead in the head to up its swing weight. You'll probably get some better depth and pop. I think the racquet is a great blend of classic (e.g. feel, precision) and modern (e.g. more spin friendly).

Will be trying 2g each at 10 and 12

 

[Codealias]

Do you typically like a lower launch angle?

Prefer to get some clearance

 

[Codealias]

@Codealias - Welcome. That's a pretty varied line up over what appears to be a roughly one-per-year rate of frame hopping. I think you could definitely benefit by settling on something for at least a few seasons. As for head size, if it's just for rec fun, play with whatever you want. If competing is of at least some interest, though, then yeah, I think moving up to at least a Yonex-97 or conventional-98, otherwise a 99+, is probably a good idea, for the added forgiveness and free power, among other qualities.

That said, I'm curious: if you loved your 2018 VCore 98 (Galaxy Black) so much and you still have it, why not just return to it? I'm sure it's a decent enough stick, and, optionally with some light customization, probably splits the middle ground of what you're looking for as well as most current frames. If you no longer have it, though, or just want to load up on something currently available, that's understandable. Noting your original post on what you're trying to key in on, I would look at medium beam width, mid-60's RA, raw/connected pleeners (player/tweener hybrids) with more calm/composed string beds, and <= 325-ish swing weights (to maintain that quick feel you seem to like), namely the following:

- Babolat 2024 Pure Strike 100 16x19
- Dunlop 2024 CX 400 Tour
- Revisit: Head Boom Pro (not really that raw/connected, more muted/muffled, but including it because you had such a positive experience)
- Head Auxetic Radical MP (w/ a 5-10g heavier grip)
- Tecnifibre TF40 315 16x19 (w/ 2-3g at 12, 11 and 1, or 10 and 2)
- Tecnifibre TFight ISO 300 (w/ handle and hoop weight)
- Wilson Blade 100 v8 (w/ 1-2g at 9 and 3 each)
- Yonex Percept 100 and/or 100D (both w/ 1-3g at 12)

Hope that helps give an idea of what to look for. Any questions, feel free.

Appreciate the thoughtful and detailed reply, thank you (and everyone so far too).

Switching every 1.5 years =) I tend to sell off the prior racquets as I'm switching: 1) I don't want to give myself the excuse to go back and forth between new and old sticks. 2) My wife would be unimpressed with too many sticks lying around. The neon blue Gamma stringing machine was a big compromise.

Head Boom Pro: played a couple more hours tonight. Decent all around with the forgivability BUT it felt heavy towards the end of 2nd set and started to notice the relative stiffness. So I think the specs you've outlined are spot on.

Off to study all these suggestions.

 

[yonexRx32]

Head graphene XT Radical S. And more time practicing instead of debating racquets. There's no magic wand to make a 5.0 out of a 3.5

 

[gp141]

I am in the same situation. Another user is as well in the Percept thread. The 95 can definitely be a challenge for us players that can play well when we are 'on' but if you're having a day where you're losing focus or not playing great (which can be often if you are in the 3.0-4.5 range), the head definitely feels psychologically limiting. I would have sessions where it felt like I was shanking 50% of my shots and I know I can't really blame the racket, it's more down to footwork and focus, but still, there's no denying that you have less room for error with a 95".

Myself and the other person switching from the VC95 are both currently trying the Percept 100D. So far, I like a lot of things about it, it's a very playable frame. But launch angle may be slightly low for your liking from what you said above. I've felt in the situations you mention (e.g., "hitting short on defensive shots") the 100D is a clear improvement. My 2HBHs have been great and returns have been good too. I've had a tendency to overhit a little if I'm swinging out aggressively, but I'm still finding the limits of the racket. I prefer the feel of the VC95, it's plusher to me, and he 100D is also noticeably lighter than the VC95 so I'll probably bulk mine up a bit with some extra lead. The VC95 had an almost perfect balance of weight and manoeuvrability for me.

You could probably look at the Gravity too, I haven't played it but seen good reviews from people moving from Yonex.

I do think switching from the VCore 95 will be hard, it's an amazing racket imo.

 

[bobeeto]

Wilson Ultra Pro 16m.

Banger

 

[Codealias]

I am in the same situation. Another user is as well in the Percept thread. The 95 can definitely be a challenge for us players that can play well when we are 'on' but if you're having a day where you're losing focus or not playing great (which can be often if you are in the 3.0-4.5 range), the head definitely feels psychologically limiting. I would have sessions where it felt like I was shanking 50% of my shots and I know I can't really blame the racket, it's more down to footwork and focus, but still, there's no denying that you have less room for error with a 95".

Myself and the other person switching from the VC95 are both currently trying the Percept 100D. So far, I like a lot of things about it, it's a very playable frame. But launch angle may be slightly low for your liking from what you said above. I've felt in the situations you mention (e.g., "hitting short on defensive shots") the 100D is a clear improvement. My 2HBHs have been great and returns have been good too. I've had a tendency to overhit a little if I'm swinging out aggressively, but I'm still finding the limits of the racket. I prefer the feel of the VC95, it's plusher to me, and he 100D is also noticeably lighter than the VC95 so I'll probably bulk mine up a bit with some extra lead. The VC95 had an almost perfect balance of weight and manoeuvrability for me.

You could probably look at the Gravity too, I haven't played it but seen good reviews from people moving from Yonex.

I do think switching from the VCore 95 will be hard, it's an amazing racket imo.

Super helpful. Will search through that thread.

How did you decide on Percept though?

 

[eStarfish]

I went through a similar racquet journey. Vcore 95 2021, Boom Pro, Vcore 95 2022, VCP 97D, EZ 98 2022.
I've settled on Vcore 98 2023. Super easy transition from the 95. 98 just makes things a bit easer than the 95. More forgiving on off-center hits, more free power. Not as laser precise as the 95 but still acceptable. I really tried to make the new VC95 work for me but concluded it's just too demanding of a stick for me (4.5 all court player FWIW).
You're not wrong about the v1 Boom Pro. Its a bit of a sleeper racquet and might just be the ticket for you. Really comfortable which helped when I was having some mild elbow discomfort..
Try the Vcore 100. At a 3.5 level you might appreciate the extra power and margin for less-than-pefrect strikes.

 

[gp141]

Super helpful. Will search through that thread.

How did you decide on Percept though?

There are no good demo programmes near me so that was the first issue. To keep it simple, I just focused on Yonex (don't know why, but I like the brand - nothing scientific here).

Like you, I noticed some consistency problems in my game that I felt a bigger head size would help solve. Particularly my 2hbh and my returns (both strengths that felt like I couldn't consistently exploit with the 95). I thought going with a 97 or 98 risked leaving me in the same place, so wanted to focus on looking at 100" rackets.

I like the VC95 a lot, but heard the VC100 is quite launchy, and I found the 95 had a good launch angle so I didn't want it to be any more than that, so I didn't consider the VC100. I can generate a lot of my own power and never found this an issue, so I thought, let's not go with Ezone 100 as that's Yonex's power line.

From there it was simple, I decided to look at the new Percepts. As I wanted the bigger head size, it was between the 100 and 100D, and the 100D sounded more interesting because of the string pattern. Watched a couple of reviews from people like Jonas/Tennis Nerd and @Tan Tennis and everything sounded like a decent fit for what I was looking for, so I went ahead and bought it.

In a perfect world I would have demoed a few different options, but it would have ended up costing me quite a lot of money with fees and postage.

I don't feel any regrets so far with my choice and I think it has a lot of potential to be a long term racket for me based on my experience so far. I've only played twice with it, but the good thing is that I'm looking forward to playing with it more as I think there's a lot of upside in this racket for me. The main "downside" would be a slightly less plush feeling than I got with the VC95 and the balls I've hit have felt less heavy. But, that'll come with technique and adjustment to the new racket. I'll also add some extra weight but haven't experimented beyond adding 1g at 12oclock yet (which felt good).

 

[fuzz nation]

Appreciate the thoughtful and detailed reply, thank you (and everyone so far too).

Switching every 1.5 years =) I tend to sell off the prior racquets as I'm switching: 1) I don't want to give myself the excuse to go back and forth between new and old sticks. 2) My wife would be unimpressed with too many sticks lying around. The neon blue Gamma stringing machine was a big compromise.

Head Boom Pro: played a couple more hours tonight. Decent all around with the forgivability BUT it felt heavy towards the end of 2nd set and started to notice the relative stiffness. So I think the specs you've outlined are spot on.

Off to study all these suggestions.

I have an absurd collection of older frames at home, so I'm not going to get on anybody's case for keeping more than just one primary model on hand. If you're not competing to earn your lunch money like the killers on TV and you have fun using more than one racquet, that's great. Fun is what keeps us coming back and no matter what racquet we might be using, we still need decent fundamentals to produce decent shots with it, right?

I strongly encourage you to get a few packs of lead tape and try a little of your own tailoring. If the stuff doesn't help with one racquet or another, just peel it off and go back to your stock layout. I use 1/4" lead tape on the hoop of a frame if I feel like it needs stability or maybe a little free power, but I use 1/2" tape on my handle if my racquet needs extra head-light balance (I like to place it on my handle and cover it with my overgrip).

There could easily be six or eight different models out there that could be great for you with a little dialing in. This can be a little bit of a process, so take your time and enjoy it (and keep notes as you go - very handy). I'm convinced that there's no single perfect frame for any of us, pretty much because we're more sharp on some days and not-so-much on others. One day a racquet may seem to unlock every ounce of our potential, but then we get out there on another day with a little sleep deprivation or who knows what and the racquet seems to have lost all its mojo.

Even though it's reasonable to say that "it's the player and not the racquet", I also think that it's a real issue when our racquets become distractions - we have the impression that they're working against us. That's a gremlin that can probably only be chased away with a racquet switch. Yaddah-yaddah...

If you want to get into something that's a little on the softer side, maybe look over what's available from Prince and Dunlop. My Yonex experiences have been mixed, but that 98 that you loved might be the best reference to work from for you. If the demands of the VCore 95 are too much too often, I'd bet that a 98 with a similar combo of weight, balance, and flex could put you in a better situation without much fuss.

I've found that the square-ish head shape of Yonex frames can make them play a little "bigger" than more traditional oval-shaped racquets. So it could be that if you previously loved a VCore 98, you might be more at home with some oval-shaped heads/racquets that are 100". Just a thought since you're looking at brands other than Yonex.

 

[aaron_h27]

Pro Staff 97 for sure. Precision and Stability

 

[parasailing]

Long time Blade 98 and TF RS 305 user but this is the first Yonex I felt really comfortable using. It swings through the air quickly and is very comfortable to use.

The Vcore 95 has great precision and it has one of the biggest sweet spot for a 95 sq inch racquet. Serves is where this racquet excels and groundstrokes are solid.

I think this racquet is definitely more for first strike tennis racquet and serve and volley. The longer the rally, the more likely you will lose the point. It doesn't have the defense ability of the Blade 98 or the Percept 100D.

The only downside is hitting backhand slices with depth and keeping it low but otherwise the racquet is a gem.

If you can handle the weight, I would also toss in the Shift Pro if you looking for a racquet that turns defense into offense.

 

[nyta2]

Stop blaming the racquet. Just go play or take some lessons.

i feel it is a rite of passage to go down this black hole of finding the right racquet...
as a recovering racketaholic, it's been 29d and a handful of hours since i bought a new racquet...
i could have gotten alot more lessons if i had listened to ttw advice and:
a) not used the rf97, because i am a mortal rec player
b) used any of the of top popular (lighter) players racquets
but i needed to touch the flame to learn it was hot...

 

[AmericanTwist]

Op you didn't say you were shanking shots a lot (can return decently with a 95 head) so I would add weight as sackings has mentioned. If you find you can't return well then you can go up in head size. The dunlop cx 200 tour 18x20 or 16x19, prince ats 95 or tt 95 are also good choices for a 95 head. People should always add weight if they find their sticks a bit anemic but like it otherwise especially for the control.

 

[Chuonfood]

Check out the Blade 100 v8, it has more free power than Blade 98, still has awesome comfort, good control for a 100, whippy, very maneuverable higher net clearance than most 98s, overall great stick. I played with Vcore95, RF97, Pure Drives, Pure Aeros, GPros etc in the past.

 

[lulo]

give the percept 100d a try

This is a good one

 

[2ndServe]

Haha I think you guys are going to make our boy broke. I think I’ve seen pretty much every racket here listed. Try lead, try looser string setup, try thinner strings?

 

[aaron_h27]

Pro Staff 97 or Ezone 98 is the answer.

I wouldn't go straight from 95 > 100. Clearly you like smaller head sizes

 

[Codealias]

There are no good demo programmes near me so that was the first issue. To keep it simple, I just focused on Yonex (don't know why, but I like the brand - nothing scientific here).

Like you, I noticed some consistency problems in my game that I felt a bigger head size would help solve. Particularly my 2hbh and my returns (both strengths that felt like I couldn't consistently exploit with the 95). I thought going with a 97 or 98 risked leaving me in the same place, so wanted to focus on looking at 100" rackets.

I like the VC95 a lot, but heard the VC100 is quite launchy, and I found the 95 had a good launch angle so I didn't want it to be any more than that, so I didn't consider the VC100. I can generate a lot of my own power and never found this an issue, so I thought, let's not go with Ezone 100 as that's Yonex's power line.

From there it was simple, I decided to look at the new Percepts. As I wanted the bigger head size, it was between the 100 and 100D, and the 100D sounded more interesting because of the string pattern. Watched a couple of reviews from people like Jonas/Tennis Nerd and @Tan Tennis and everything sounded like a decent fit for what I was looking for, so I went ahead and bought it.

In a perfect world I would have demoed a few different options, but it would have ended up costing me quite a lot of money with fees and postage.

I don't feel any regrets so far with my choice and I think it has a lot of potential to be a long term racket for me based on my experience so far. I've only played twice with it, but the good thing is that I'm looking forward to playing with it more as I think there's a lot of upside in this racket for me. The main "downside" would be a slightly less plush feeling than I got with the VC95 and the balls I've hit have felt less heavy. But, that'll come with technique and adjustment to the new racket. I'll also add some extra weight but haven't experimented beyond adding 1g at 12oclock yet (which felt good).

Gotcha, thanks for that. Makes sense.

I'm lucky (and unlucky) to have the demo option. I had similarly been keen on Yonex for the last few years, which kept things simple. Karue Sell on Youtube - definitely was a supportive of the vcore 95 and has switched to the 100D too!

 

[Codealias]

I have an absurd collection of older frames at home, so I'm not going to get on anybody's case for keeping more than just one primary model on hand. If you're not competing to earn your lunch money like the killers on TV and you have fun using more than one racquet, that's great. Fun is what keeps us coming back and no matter what racquet we might be using, we still need decent fundamentals to produce decent shots with it, right?

I strongly encourage you to get a few packs of lead tape and try a little of your own tailoring. If the stuff doesn't help with one racquet or another, just peel it off and go back to your stock layout. I use 1/4" lead tape on the hoop of a frame if I feel like it needs stability or maybe a little free power, but I use 1/2" tape on my handle if my racquet needs extra head-light balance (I like to place it on my handle and cover it with my overgrip).

There could easily be six or eight different models out there that could be great for you with a little dialing in. This can be a little bit of a process, so take your time and enjoy it (and keep notes as you go - very handy). I'm convinced that there's no single perfect frame for any of us, pretty much because we're more sharp on some days and not-so-much on others. One day a racquet may seem to unlock every ounce of our potential, but then we get out there on another day with a little sleep deprivation or who knows what and the racquet seems to have lost all its mojo.

Even though it's reasonable to say that "it's the player and not the racquet", I also think that it's a real issue when our racquets become distractions - we have the impression that they're working against us. That's a gremlin that can probably only be chased away with a racquet switch. Yaddah-yaddah...

If you want to get into something that's a little on the softer side, maybe look over what's available from Prince and Dunlop. My Yonex experiences have been mixed, but that 98 that you loved might be the best reference to work from for you. If the demands of the VCore 95 are too much too often, I'd bet that a 98 with a similar combo of weight, balance, and flex could put you in a better situation without much fuss.

I've found that the square-ish head shape of Yonex frames can make them play a little "bigger" than more traditional oval-shaped racquets. So it could be that if you previously loved a VCore 98, you might be more at home with some oval-shaped heads/racquets that are 100". Just a thought since you're looking at brands other than Yonex.

Updates:
- Vcore 95: added tape - amazing what a few grams can do! Started at 10 and 12 (2g each) but moved it to 4g at 12. Great for added power and plow through. Could quite possibly close the power gap though not the forgiveness gap. Decision: sell 1, keep 1 of these around....maybe one day my fitness/footwork/technique will get there!
- Ezone 98: arguably the heaviest balls and most powerful shots I've ever hit. Guys in the clinic today said my backhand drive was best they've ever seen. But I just don't like the feel. Decision: eliminated.
- Head Boom Pro: problem is the demo strings suck but I've given it a good go. There's a lot to like but so far nothing to love. Like they say, if it's not a "Hell yes!" then the answer is "No". Decision: eliminated

Thinking still about the amazing Blade feel. May wait to see what the v9 offers in a few weeks, or maybe the 100 instead of 98 in 16x19. More to come.

 

[Codealias]

Long time Blade 98 and TF RS 305 user but this is the first Yonex I felt really comfortable using. It swings through the air quickly and is very comfortable to use.

The Vcore 95 has great precision and it has one of the biggest sweet spot for a 95 sq inch racquet. Serves is where this racquet excels and groundstrokes are solid.

I think this racquet is definitely more for first strike tennis racquet and serve and volley. The longer the rally, the more likely you will lose the point. It doesn't have the defense ability of the Blade 98 or the Percept 100D.

The only downside is hitting backhand slices with depth and keeping it low but otherwise the racquet is a gem.

If you can handle the weight, I would also toss in the Shift Pro if you looking for a racquet that turns defense into offense.

This is SPOT ON! 100% go for it or nothing. I don't think I can manage above 325g swing weight

 

[Codealias]

i feel it is a rite of passage to go down this black hole of finding the right racquet...
as a recovering racketaholic, it's been 29d and a handful of hours since i bought a new racquet...
i could have gotten alot more lessons if i had listened to ttw advice and:
a) not used the rf97, because i am a mortal rec player
b) used any of the of top popular (lighter) players racquets
but i needed to touch the flame to learn it was hot...

And...what did you end up with?

 

[jmacdaununder2]

Pro Staff 97 or Ezone 98 is the answer.

I wouldn't go straight from 95 > 100. Clearly you like smaller head sizes

Can’t believe that the 2023 VCore 98 isn’t worth a shot when you’re using a 2023 VCore 95 but need more forgiveness and you play well with an EZone 98 but don’t like the feel.
I had to give up on my Prince Equipe 95 28” longbodies after using them since around the millennium (I’ve got 12 of them) due to their stiffness & my ageing arm. I was making do with a Prince TT95 and a Prince ATS95 extended to 28” - simply outstanding feel on both - but I’m now using a 2023 VCore 98+ extended to 28” for matches and it does everything the Princes do but with slightly more spin, comfort, power & forgiveness up higher on the head albeit with a bit less feel.
Additionally the 2023 VCore 98 is one of those exceedingly rare times that a racquet update is a significant improvement over the previous model. It’s more comfortable, more stable and powerful especially up high on the head & has more spin potential than the previous edition, which I demoed extensively. If the Prince ATS95 was made in a 98 while retaining a flat beam that would be something, but the Yonex still might beat it everywhere other than sublime Prince feel.

 

[nyta2]

And...what did you end up with?

Percept 100d
* not "awesome" offensively (like racquets that have higher swing weights like the rf97, various 27.5-28in racquets)
* but i was starting to play better players (ntrp5.0+) who were not often giving time to setup early and get my weight moving forward on every shot, so was more often hitting neutral/defensive shots, and needed a lighter/more maneuverable racquet (i probably shortened by backswing a bit too)
* changed my game to be more of a counter puncher (ala mannarino), needing to hit more shots to outmaneuver my opponents before coming to net (vs. expecting a short ball from weaker players, and attacking immediately)... precision has become more of a priority than power (probbly should have been my top prio from the start ), so feel/control/precision is a prio... my style before was to generate as-much-spin-as-i-can to keep the ball in the court... but if it lands short, i'm being attacked anyway... so now i'm more focused on depth, with as-much-topspin-as-needed (which usually isn't a tremendous amount, that i would get from a spin racquet like an aero+)
* being a little guy, return of serve is a critical part of my game, so opted for a slightly larger head 100 (but to me the percept 100d doesn't feel like a big racquet (compared to the aero+, sw104 for example)... tried longer racquets to "improve" my serve... but the tiny increase in (perceived?) power was not worht it, especially against good players (for example 90 to 95 is not that big a diff against high4.5+... better to go with a racquet i can hit with more precision)
my $0.02

 

[rizoto]

Pro Staff 97 or Ezone 98 is the answer.

I wouldn't go straight from 95 > 100. Clearly you like smaller head sizes

Yes i agree with that,

i had the vcore 95 2021 and going to a100in frame is big step specially if you add up more head heavy balance of most of the 100in frames. (except speed pro)
i would say go a standard frame (blade 98, extreme tour) and focus on your game.

 

[Hulger]

My wife would be unimpressed with too many sticks lying around. The neon blue Gamma stringing machine was a big compromise.

Trust me, once you have about 70 frames and a stringing machine scattered around the house as I have, she has to have realized that the quest for racquets is a sign of devotion – a novelty seeking mind is pursuing frames, not real trouble or other women.

For real… go with the Gravity pro.

 

[CosmosMpower]

Try a Lower string tension vc95 needs mid 40 or less with a poly.

Then go to blade v8 next

 

[KC!]

VCORE 98 tour or Solinco White Out 18x20

 

[BHold81]

Prince ATS Tour 98. I highly recommend it!

 

[puppybutts]

Hi all,
Long-time lurker...

I'm giving up on the vcore 95 and need some help! I'm a 3.5 level, 4.0 on good days.

Racquet Journey
1. Pure Drive 2019 - too stiff for arm
2. Pure Aero 2020 - good but didn't love the feel
3. Vcore 98 2019 - coach convinced me on Yonex. Loved my Galaxy black.
4. Vcore 95 2021 - convinced by you all that 95 was the way to go!
5. Vcore 95 2023 - upgraded and liked the additional pop but ultimately realized that if I'm not giving 100% and dialed in for the day, I often end up defeating myself - hitting short on defensive shots, weak volleys, etc. Love how the racquet plays otherwise.

Wish list
- More forgiveness (moving up to 98)
- A little bit more free power
- Emphasis on control, feel and maneuverability

Demos so far
1. Blade v8 16x19: butter! Amazingly soft feel, responsive, controlled. Whippy through the air. No free power but didn't feel underpowered either (as some reviews state). Wouldn't mind a little more pop? Solvable through lead? Wait for v9? The plush feel is really nice.
2. Ezone 98 2022: power! Free power, deeper balls but somehow didn't love the feel. Mildly concerned about stiffness in long term but didn't have any issues with gameplay demo. Felt much head heavy compared to vcore 95.
3. Head Boom Pro 2022: seemed like a sleeper option with controllable power, good feel and maneuverability. Felt quite good, though perhaps not standout. Decent pop, two-handed backhands were much more forgiving that vcore 95. Need to put a few more hours in.

What have I missed? The blend of these three would be perfect....overall playability of Head Boom Pro, feel and control of the blade, and the extra pop (though perhaps dialed down a bit) of the ezone 98. Thought a little about the vcore 98 2023 but wanted to see what else is out there since I've been Yonex committed for a few years now.

My suggestions:

• Latest Pure Aero. they tightened up the string bed and adjusted the feel, so it may be what you're looking for
• Radical MP. It might not be as HL as you'd like, but a bit of weight in the handle might fix that. It's stiff/thick enough to give some power, lightweight enough to be maneuverable, and it has a tighter pattern in the center for more control
• CX200. softer feel similar to Blade v8, but maybe a little more power

What did you not like about the VCore 98? honestly, sounds like going back to that might be a simple solution.

 

[Brouss]

Head Auxetic Extreme Tour : maneuverability, spin. My raquet today. Good for spin, shorts angles, and slice or one backand. Good for serves.

Yonex Vcore 98 (2023) : easy transition for you to change 95 for 98 with more power and forgiviness.

Head Gravity Tour : good forgivines, good control, good feeling. I had play 3 years with it. Good for returns, two hands backand, flat shots.

Technifibre RS300. I never play but beautiful design and specs seem great

Aero 98 : pop and spin but maybe stiff ? I never play it

 

[PMChambers]

I'm not really a gear junky but many who found the CV95 found the Percept good switch. This from Youtubers so take with pinch if lead.

 

[Jingo]

My boring recommendation for people who like a racket but who have some issue like the ball falling a bit short: switch up your strings and add a little lead to the top of the hoop. These are easy fixes and they don't involve you having to adjust more than a little bit. Always stick with what you like as long as you can.

 

[porkfriedrice]

I got a ps97 v14 and shortly afterward bought a vcore 95 to do kind of a long term demo on. I found that in stock form the vcore lacks some stability and swingweight so I added 4 grams of tape at 3 and 9 and it did make a nice improvement but I have to say I still prefer the ps97. It just feels and plays better for me so I'd recommended giving that one a try

 

[Codealias]

Conclusions after 3 weeks of testing:
- Racquet makes no difference at all! I could hit just fine with everything I tried and just had to adapt and move my stupid feet.
- Racquet makes all the difference! You can definitely feel the nuances between sticks. Very hard to describe.

For fear of never leaving Alice in Demoland, I tried to narrow down to final few.
1. Head Speed MP 100, 16x19
- Delivers on all round promise. Feels supremely playable. Walk on and hit, no adjustments needed.
- Connected but crisp feel, you *know* when you've hit it well.
- Spinny if you try with noticeably higher launch angle than the blade
- Can definitely feel the forgiveness improvement (over VC95) and the free power
- But the crispness = more feedback and a little harsher, more metallic (?) feel on mis-hits that have given me a bit of soreness
- Not fugly but don't love the design.
- Mitigant: may play with a softer poly or multi. This was a fresh hybrid.

2. Wilson Blade 98 v8 16x19
- Addictively amazing feel. Connected but soft / plush, you know *where* the ball is going when it well
- Much lower launch angle than the Speed MP. Was hitting into the net after switching from MP and would need to dial this in.
- Great for flat shots. Volleys felt amazing and super stable.
- Reasonably maneuverable (but neither stick is better than vc95)
- Not underpowered but no free power for sure
- Felt more head heavy than I'm used to
- v8 is sexy paint job in my view. v8 Noir also available on sale which is a win and super sleek.
- Mitigants: thinner, more powerful strings + leather grip

2b. Wait for Blade v9 16x19? Supposed to be a touch firmer and therefore more powerful?
2c. Blade 100 (v8/v9) Keep the feel and gain some more power? The Speed MP is 100 but didn't feel noticeably bigger than the Blade 98 (though I think that's credit to the Speed MP)

3. Vcore 98 2023.
- Moving up head size is definitely the right decision. Maybe will come full circle back to demo this but may not bother just to try something different. I still have 1 vc95 to keep in the bag for now.

Overall, I'm probably getting better all-round performance out of the Head Speed MP but with some worry about arm impact as I normally try to play 3-4 times a week - and I'll admit the design matters some. I ruled out a lot of other suggestions like the Radical as I can't deal with the orange.

The Blade gives the feel, forgiveness, comfort and control and I prefer all these traits over the Speed. But definitely not an upgrade in power.

Both sticks easily win so what to prioritize - feel and control or playability and power??

The Blade

 

[tennisjunkie]

How about a tennis racket with a sleek, aerodynamic design for powerful swings and deep drives on the court? Have you considered switching to a Yonex Vcore 98 2023? The shaft is ergonomically shaped for a comfortable grip, allowing you to dominate your opponents. The passionate intervals are engineered for maximum responsiveness, ensuring that each slap resonates with power. It's the perfect choice for players looking to take their game to a whole new level of intensity and satisfaction.

 

[Jung]

Much lower launch angle than the Speed MP. Was hitting into the net after switching from MP and would need to dial this in.

Try adding some weight to the butt cap of the Blade, since I hit into the net a lot with a stock Blade. It'll also make it more maneuverable. The new Wilson Butt caps are nice since you can fit Nickels (5g) inside the trap.

 

[JFrijhoff]

I also decided on the Vcore 95 2023 as a controlled, softer frame (I like the 16x20 patterns), but then still the elbow pain came back. I probably don’t hit the sweet spot often enough. I was able to try lots of rackets from a friend, as well as demo rackets . I definitely liked the Vcore 98 (2021 vs I tried), more free power and depth with the bigger head size. The blade 98 v8 with the right string felt smooth as well, nicely controlled. I ended up with the ProKennex Black ace Pro. It’s a 97 head size, and 16x19, but very soft and feels great for me. Because of the higher swing weight (330+) and hence plowthrough, depth also came easier than the Vcore 95.