I thought I finally found the one….but now need help

[TripleFault88]

I’ve been on a racket journey the past 4 years or so and would love to settle on one and just enjoy tennis. Maybe what I’m looking for doesn’t exist but hopeful y’all can help me get close. Most of my switches have come from looking for a bit more power or inner elbow/ forearm pain. I restring often.

I’m a 35 year old 4.5 all court player in singles / S&V in doubles. Semi western FH relying on spin over flat power and a two handed backhand. No big weapons really ( including serve ). I come from a basketball background and like to rely on athleticism and court positioning/ coverage but would like more free points off serve and better put away power. I guess I could practice more but let’s try a racket fix first


Started playing tennis more regularly 4 years ago and was using the blade v7 16x19. I enjoyed it but was wanting more power. I switched to the Babolat pure strike tour gen 3. I found a good mix of power and control but would get pain on my inner elbow/ forearm. I then switched to the previous vcore 98+. Not as bad of pain but it was still there. Next was a run with a couple diadem frames. Elevate tour V2 - no arm pain but felt like a needed more pop. Played the Nova but felt the beam was too thick. These were played with various soft polys strung at 50 and a few gut/ poly hybrids.

I then hit a friends ezone 98 with PTP at 50 and thought I found exactly what I have been looking for. More power than other 98s But I still found plenty of control and forgiveness. The best part was, i had all this and no arm pain….. until i played a match about a month later and hit a couple sets worth of serves for the first time. The same pain is back and am afraid I need to move on from the ezone. I’m not confident that dropping 5lbs would feel any better and I’m not confident the control would be there if I dropped 10lbs.

What is similar to the ezone 98 but might gel with my arm better?

I’m looking for a more controlled racket that still offers power and forgiveness. All while still being comfortable. I know I know… asking for a lot.

What makes it even more challenging is I would rather not ditch full bed of poly and would rather not have to customize a racket.

Maybe a difficult request but I would appreciate any suggestions.

 

[tele]

prince ats tour 98？

 

[socallefty]

I suggest you have a coach look at your serve. Players who take their racquet straight up over their head generally get golfers elbow pain - textbook servers have their arm come up at an angle tilted towards their head before they do ISR/pronation outwards.

 

[emhtennis]

I suggest you have a coach look at your serve. Players who take their racquet straight up over their head generally get golfers elbow pain - textbook servers have their arm come up at an angle tilted towards their head before they do ISR/pronation outwards.

I second this. The OP likely has a biomechanical issue that is agitating the tendon, or worse the ligament. (Ask me, I've been dealing with this same issue for a year).

Sounds like the ezone is the one, but make sure your serve motion is safe or you will likely have the same issue with any racket.

If you want a few more racket suggestions, recommend Pro Kennex Ki5 or Ki10

 

[CVT]

I think the Speed MP has been pretty good for me on that front. I had elbow problems with the Blade V7 and V8. None since. That said, I also changed from a very flat forehand to a reasonable upward spin, which seemed to reduce the racket shock quite a bit - even with poly strings.

 

[Rally]

Just chiming in to say if you're happy with your racquet but you want more power, give it more power. Try putting 2 grams of lead at 12 o clock. It'll pack the punch you're missing without making the racquet unwieldy. The impact on balance point is quite small, but if you really wanted to, you could add some weight to the handle to offset. The mod is peanuts compared to buying a brand new $250 racquet or even a used $150 racquet. If you still have your old Blades, try it out on them.

 

[jimmy8]

Extreme Tour with some lead at 12 o clock to increase the swing weight - comfortable, a little bit more power over a pure control racket like the Prestige, provides great spin.

Blade v9 16x19 - comfortable, has new technology that gives more power and stability, great all around racket.

 

[Steve Huff]

I don't think you should ever rule out the Pro Kennex line. The ki 5 would probably be a good choice, but the ki 10 offers more power, but is stiffer. Another option, if you're not opposed to going a little larger would be the Black Ace 105. It may sound huge, but it's really not. I've used a Fischer MSpeed 105, and it doesn't feel any bigger than my ki 5. The Black Ace is more flexible, and inherently lower powered, but the little extra size should get you some free power. The Black Ace series is meant for skilled players, so just because you're used to 98's, I'd at least give it a try.

 

[AmericanTwist]

Hi OP. Every frame is a compromise of sorts. No free power without some loss of control or spin. If you are generally ok with your pure strike you should tweak your string selection and tension first. 62-66ra frames shouldn't cause pain unless the string bed is too stiff and/or your technique is sub optimal. Consider hybriding with syn gut or multi if you want to stick with some poly set-up.

 

[tennisjunkie]

I’ve been on a racket journey the past 4 years or so and would love to settle on one and just enjoy tennis. Maybe what I’m looking for doesn’t exist but hopeful y’all can help me get close. Most of my switches have come from looking for a bit more power or inner elbow/ forearm pain. I restring often.

I’m a 35 year old 4.5 all court player in singles / S&V in doubles. Semi western FH relying on spin over flat power and a two handed backhand. No big weapons really ( including serve ). I come from a basketball background and like to rely on athleticism and court positioning/ coverage but would like more free points off serve and better put away power. I guess I could practice more but let’s try a racket fix first


Started playing tennis more regularly 4 years ago and was using the blade v7 16x19. I enjoyed it but was wanting more power. I switched to the Babolat pure strike tour gen 3. I found a good mix of power and control but would get pain on my inner elbow/ forearm. I then switched to the previous vcore 98+. Not as bad of pain but it was still there. Next was a run with a couple diadem frames. Elevate tour V2 - no arm pain but felt like a needed more pop. Played the Nova but felt the beam was too thick. These were played with various soft polys strung at 50 and a few gut/ poly hybrids.

I then hit a friends ezone 98 with PTP at 50 and thought I found exactly what I have been looking for. More power than other 98s But I still found plenty of control and forgiveness. The best part was, i had all this and no arm pain….. until i played a match about a month later and hit a couple sets worth of serves for the first time. The same pain is back and am afraid I need to move on from the ezone. I’m not confident that dropping 5lbs would feel any better and I’m not confident the control would be there if I dropped 10lbs.

What is similar to the ezone 98 but might gel with my arm better?

I’m looking for a more controlled racket that still offers power and forgiveness. All while still being comfortable. I know I know… asking for a lot.

What makes it even more challenging is I would rather not ditch full bed of poly and would rather not have to customize a racket.

Maybe a difficult request but I would appreciate any suggestions.

Finding the perfect balance between power, control, and comfort can be tricky. Based on your preferences and experiences, here are a couple of racket suggestions that might suit you:

Wilson Clash 98: The Wilson Clash series is known for its blend of power and control, with a unique flexible frame design that enhances comfort. The Clash 98 offers a good mix of power and precision, similar to what you enjoyed with the Ezone 98. Plus, its flexible construction could help alleviate some of the arm pain you've experienced.

Head Speed MP: The Head Speed MP is another option worth considering. It offers excellent maneuverability and control, which could complement your playing style well. The Auxetic 2 technology provides stability and power without sacrificing comfort, making it a solid choice for players looking for a balanced racket.

Remember, it's essential to demo rackets whenever possible to find the one that feels right for you. And don't hesitate to consult with a knowledgeable racket specialist or coach who can offer personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and playing style. Good luck on your quest for the perfect racket!

 

[Fintft]

293.1 27.25" for a controlled, yet powerful, easy to swing stick.

 

[TennisViking]

1. Hybrid string set up will definitely make it more comfortable. There are plenty of recommendations in this forum about hybrid options.

2. Technique , as others have recommended.

The strings have a really big impact on comfort. Sounds like the Ezone 98 suites you well. You will not loose control if you hybrid it right.

 

[Rosstour]

I’ve been on a racket journey the past 4 years or so and would love to settle on one and just enjoy tennis. Maybe what I’m looking for doesn’t exist but hopeful y’all can help me get close. Most of my switches have come from looking for a bit more power or inner elbow/ forearm pain. I restring often.

I’m a 35 year old 4.5 all court player in singles / S&V in doubles. Semi western FH relying on spin over flat power and a two handed backhand. No big weapons really ( including serve ). I come from a basketball background and like to rely on athleticism and court positioning/ coverage but would like more free points off serve and better put away power. I guess I could practice more but let’s try a racket fix first


Started playing tennis more regularly 4 years ago and was using the blade v7 16x19. I enjoyed it but was wanting more power. I switched to the Babolat pure strike tour gen 3. I found a good mix of power and control but would get pain on my inner elbow/ forearm. I then switched to the previous vcore 98+. Not as bad of pain but it was still there. Next was a run with a couple diadem frames. Elevate tour V2 - no arm pain but felt like a needed more pop. Played the Nova but felt the beam was too thick. These were played with various soft polys strung at 50 and a few gut/ poly hybrids.

I then hit a friends ezone 98 with PTP at 50 and thought I found exactly what I have been looking for. More power than other 98s But I still found plenty of control and forgiveness. The best part was, i had all this and no arm pain….. until i played a match about a month later and hit a couple sets worth of serves for the first time. The same pain is back and am afraid I need to move on from the ezone. I’m not confident that dropping 5lbs would feel any better and I’m not confident the control would be there if I dropped 10lbs.

What is similar to the ezone 98 but might gel with my arm better?

I’m looking for a more controlled racket that still offers power and forgiveness. All while still being comfortable. I know I know… asking for a lot.

What makes it even more challenging is I would rather not ditch full bed of poly and would rather not have to customize a racket.

Maybe a difficult request but I would appreciate any suggestions.

I had upper arm/shoulder problems and ended up with a bunch of Clash 98 v1. Best decision I ever made

I string them at 40lb with a grabby, shaped poly in 17g thickness (Volkl Cyclone Tour)

Thinner strings and open patterns will be more arm friendly. And lower tension obviously. I also use a shock absorber in the stringbed.

If you want more free power and no arm pain the Prince Warrior 100 is a good choice. But it's not a control racquet per se

 

[CosmosMpower]

Just chiming in to say if you're happy with your racquet but you want more power, give it more power. Try putting 2 grams of lead at 12 o clock. It'll pack the punch you're missing without making the racquet unwieldy. The impact on balance point is quite small, but if you really wanted to, you could add some weight to the handle to offset. The mod is peanuts compared to buying a brand new $250 racquet or even a used $150 racquet. If you still have your old Blades, try it out on them.

2 grams at 12 will definitely change the maneuverability

 

[Tranqville]

My suggestion is always to first narrow down your preferred racquet category, and then choose a model within that category. Definitely feels like you want a control-power racquet that is soft on the arm. Some racquets in that category:

Prince ATS Textreme Tour 98
Head Speed MP/Pro
Technifibre T-Fight ISO 305/315
Pure Strike 98 16x19 4th gen
Solinco Whiteout 18x20


I used to play with Pure Strike Tour 3G, so I know exactly what you're looking for in a racquet: something like PST, but with more feel and comfort. Without your elbow concern, my strong recomendation would be ISO 305. It balances control, power, forgiveness and comfort in a package that is hardly matched by any racquet in the market. But I'm a bit concerned about it's 3HL balance with regards to your elbow. Maybe something heavier and more headlight will work better. ISO 315 could work, but it's slightly stiffer than ideal for you. Since you're comfortable with heavy racquets, Percept D and even Percept H are intersting - extremely comfortable, but both have less power than you desire. Babolat has reportedly increased comfort with the 4th gen Pure Strike, but they do not offer the Tour version anymore.

 

[maxplough]

I suggest you have a coach look at your serve. Players who take their racquet straight up over their head generally get golfers elbow pain - textbook servers have their arm come up at an angle tilted towards their head before they do ISR/pronation outwards.

You gave me this piece of advice about a year or so ago and I'm very grateful for it.

No more pain, and after a year of practise my serve—both flat and kick—has never been more of a weapon.

 

[socallefty]

You gave me this piece of advice about a year or so ago and I'm very grateful for it.

No more pain, and after a year of practise my serve—both flat and kick—has never been more of a weapon.

Glad it helped. I am happy that at least some people read my posts and think my advice is worth trying out.

 

[socallefty]

You gave me this piece of advice about a year or so ago and I'm very grateful for it.

No more pain, and after a year of practise my serve—both flat and kick—has never been more of a weapon.

You're clearly right that some kind of change is needed, and the GE I'm nursing is the proof. That SW 374 stick is something of an outlier (the bugger comes stock at 8pts HH [!!] and with a swingweight already in the 350s before necessary modifications) that I play around with when the mood takes me, and most of my racquets hover around 350, which surely suits me more, but I'll be sure to drop right down during recovery and creep back up slowly (after all, I do know that they work for me in general since I came from lighter racquets earlier in my tennis life and have adapted to them and witnessed the resulting change in my game). All work well for my groundstrokes, but the serve deserves prioritising at this point since I've never felt the slightest bit of discomfort from my groundstrokes, RF97 with poly at 60lbs or otherwise (not disagreeing that this is a potentially harsh combination though!---I've since gone gut/poly in that frame).

I actually remember feeling twinges (that never developed into anything lasting) when serving with my 250g Hyper Hammer 4.0 as a late-teen with its measly 310 SW, so I do believe it is a technique issue (albeit compounded by high SWs). I'm recklessly gung-ho and never fixed it. I do typically use more leg action in my serve, depending on how much I focus on doing so, but I could certainly improve shoulder and even hip rotation, and simply slow down my action overall to let the racquet do more of the work.



You could well be right. I took some freeze frames of a bunch of serves at moment of contact to see the arm position. I do think the straighter-arm position (whenever I feel like I'm "reaching") is when I feel a twinge at the medial epicondyle---does that fit with what you are describing? Is the fact that the racquet is close to being in line with my forearm indicative of a lack of pronation?

This side view may or may not help:

You had some freeze frame pics of your serve with the wrong technique, maybe it will help this OP identify what to correct - SoCal

 

[FuzzyYellowBalls]

I'd fix the technique first too, if it is fixable, but also, I've seem some athletic guys make magic with the vcore 100 and ezone 100, might want to try them out if you never considered a 100.

 

[BHold81]

I agree with a few of the others. Prince ATS Tour 98.

 

[TripleFault88]

prince ats tour 98？

I’ve play Prince in the past… tour 100 16 x 18 and the recent phantom 107 and enjoyed them both, I have hard time believing Prince will be around so hesitant to dive back in. Thank you for the suggestion, it looks like it could work.

 

[TripleFault88]

I suggest you have a coach look at your serve. Players who take their racquet straight up over their head generally get golfers elbow pain - textbook servers have their arm come up at an angle tilted towards their head before they do ISR/pronation outwards.

Thank you. I’m sure there is something that could be fixed but it only seems to hurt with mid to high ra rackets. I’ll discuss with a coach.

 

[TripleFault88]

I second this. The OP likely has a biomechanical issue that is agitating the tendon, or worse the ligament. (Ask me, I've been dealing with this same issue for a year).

Sounds like the ezone is the one, but make sure your serve motion is safe or you will likely have the same issue with any racket.

If you want a few more racket suggestions, recommend Pro Kennex Ki5 or Ki10

It only hurts with the mid to high ra rackets. I’ll look into this pro kennex suggestions. Thank you

 

[TripleFault88]

I think the Speed MP has been pretty good for me on that front. I had elbow problems with the Blade V7 and V8. None since. That said, I also changed from a very flat forehand to a reasonable upward spin, which seemed to reduce the racket shock quite a bit - even with poly strings.

I prefer thinner throats. The 23 mm would be pushing it. If I could get over that, the MP seems to have that balance I’m looking for. Thank you

 

[TripleFault88]

Just chiming in to say if you're happy with your racquet but you want more power, give it more power. Try putting 2 grams of lead at 12 o clock. It'll pack the punch you're missing without making the racquet unwieldy. The impact on balance point is quite small, but if you really wanted to, you could add some weight to the handle to offset. The mod is peanuts compared to buying a brand new $250 racquet or even a used $150 racquet. If you still have your old Blades, try it out on them.

Thank you. I unfortunately don’t have my blades anymore

 

[TripleFault88]

I don't think you should ever rule out the Pro Kennex line. The ki 5 would probably be a good choice, but the ki 10 offers more power, but is stiffer. Another option, if you're not opposed to going a little larger would be the Black Ace 105. It may sound huge, but it's really not. I've used a Fischer MSpeed 105, and it doesn't feel any bigger than my ki 5. The Black Ace is more flexible, and inherently lower powered, but the little extra size should get you some free power. The Black Ace series is meant for skilled players, so just because you're used to 98's, I'd at least give it a try.

I’ve heard Pro Kennex has some comfy rackets. I’ll look into those listed more. Thank you

 

[TripleFault88]

Hi OP. Every frame is a compromise of sorts. No free power without some loss of control or spin. If you are generally ok with your pure strike you should tweak your string selection and tension first. 62-66ra frames shouldn't cause pain unless the string bed is too stiff and/or your technique is sub optimal. Consider hybriding with syn gut or multi if you want to stick with some poly set-up.

I totally agree on the compromise.
I originally had full poly then switched to gut/ poly once my arm started to hurt. It didn’t get much better with gut/ poly but possibly because I didn’t give it enough time to heal. I unfortunately no longer have the strikes

 

[TripleFault88]

Finding the perfect balance between power, control, and comfort can be tricky. Based on your preferences and experiences, here are a couple of racket suggestions that might suit you:

Wilson Clash 98: The Wilson Clash series is known for its blend of power and control, with a unique flexible frame design that enhances comfort. The Clash 98 offers a good mix of power and precision, similar to what you enjoyed with the Ezone 98. Plus, its flexible construction could help alleviate some of the arm pain you've experienced.

Head Speed MP: The Head Speed MP is another option worth considering. It offers excellent maneuverability and control, which could complement your playing style well. The Auxetic 2 technology provides stability and power without sacrificing comfort, making it a solid choice for players looking for a balanced racket.

Remember, it's essential to demo rackets whenever possible to find the one that feels right for you. And don't hesitate to consult with a knowledgeable racket specialist or coach who can offer personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and playing style. Good luck on your quest for the perfect racket!

I prefer thinner throats on rackets. Speed would be close but the clash would be too much. I’ll add speed to list. Thank you for suggestions

 

[TripleFault88]

293.1 27.25" for a controlled, yet powerful, easy to swing stick.

Thanks. The only 27.25 I know of is the Prince Diablo re make.

 

[TripleFault88]

1. Hybrid string set up will definitely make it more comfortable. There are plenty of recommendations in this forum about hybrid options.

2. Technique , as others have recommended.

The strings have a really big impact on comfort. Sounds like the Ezone 98 suites you well. You will not loose control if you hybrid it right.

Thank you. Maybe I don’t need to move on from it just yet

 

[TripleFault88]

I had upper arm/shoulder problems and ended up with a bunch of Clash 98 v1. Best decision I ever made

I string them at 40lb with a grabby, shaped poly in 17g thickness (Volkl Cyclone Tour)

Thinner strings and open patterns will be more arm friendly. And lower tension obviously. I also use a shock absorber in the stringbed.

If you want more free power and no arm pain the Prince Warrior 100 is a good choice. But it's not a control racquet per se

Thank you. I prefer thinner throats and don’t think I could make the clash work

 

[rustyheadcsse]

I don’t understand why the strings aren’t more of an option here. What’s with the attachment to Poly Tour Pro? It’s a good string, but I am certain that dropping the tension 5-10 lbs or trying a softer poly like Isospeed Cream would make a Pure Strike usable for you. And I am certain that I could put strings into the Elevate Tour or a Pro Kennex that would wreck your arm.

I think opening up the strings as a variable here would probably help you a ton.

 

[TripleFault88]

My suggestion is always to first narrow down your preferred racquet category, and then choose a model within that category. Definitely feels like you want a control-power racquet that is soft on the arm. Some racquets in that category:

Prince ATS Textreme Tour 98
Head Speed MP/Pro
Technifibre T-Fight ISO 305/315
Pure Strike 98 16x19 4th gen
Solinco Whiteout 18x20


I used to play with Pure Strike Tour 3G, so I know exactly what you're looking for in a racquet: something like PST, but with more feel and comfort. Without your elbow concern, my strong recomendation would be ISO 305. It balances control, power, forgiveness and comfort in a package that is hardly matched by any racquet in the market. But I'm a bit concerned about it's 3HL balance with regards to your elbow. Maybe something heavier and more headlight will work better. ISO 315 could work, but it's slightly stiffer than ideal for you. Since you're comfortable with heavy racquets, Percept D and even Percept H are intersting - extremely comfortable, but both have less power than you desire. Babolat has reportedly increased comfort with the 4th gen Pure Strike, but they do not offer the Tour version anymore.

I agree with the preferred category. I think I’ve found it in the “pleener” category. More power than a players racket but more control than a tweener.

It would be hard for me to go back to Prince as I’m not confident they will be around for a while. Not that I think they are making bad rackets, but their history of going out of business/ being sold just makes me unsure. I’d prefer to make a switch to a racket that will continue being made with only slight tweaks between generations.

I prefer thinner throats and every time I’ve held a speed, it felt just a little too thick. Maybe it’s something I can get over.

I’ve never hit Technifibre, but those look interesting.

The new strike 98 ra still seems like it would be too high? The new 100 16 x 20 looks very intriguing. Any thoughts on that stick?

I know 18 x 20s are made different, but that sounds like it would cut down on spin. Curious your thoughts on why you suggested 18x20 over the 16 x 19

Thank you for your suggestions!

 

[TripleFault88]

I'd fix the technique first too, if it is fixable, but also, I've seem some athletic guys make magic with the vcore 100 and ezone 100, might want to try them out if you never considered a 100.

I’d considered 100’s but only with thinner beams.
Maybe head gravity MP or pure strike 100 16 x 20

 

[KungfuTennis]

PTP mains and Sensation crosses also works really well if you want to try a hybrid.

 

[Rosstour]

Thank you. I prefer thinner throats and don’t think I could make the clash work

A Blade then? I love hitting with them but ended up with the Clash because of arm pain and they got cheap at the right time

 

[gebruikershaes]

Arm pain is always 100% user error. Ask me how I know. There is no racket or strings in the world that will fix bad mechanics.

 

[GimmeBackMyDog]

Of course I'm going to recommend my racket, the Head Extreme Tour.

I find it easy on the arm. I love the spin.

The new Head Speed line looks very arm friendly but I've never hit with a Speed racket.

So I can't really say first hand how it compares to the Extreme Tour.

 

[Tranqville]

I prefer thinner throats and every time I’ve held a speed, it felt just a little too thick. Maybe it’s something I can get over.

I’ve never hit Technifibre, but those look interesting.

The new strike 98 ra still seems like it would be too high? The new 100 16 x 20 looks very intriguing. Any thoughts on that stick?

I know 18 x 20s are made different, but that sounds like it would cut down on spin. Curious your thoughts on why you suggested 18x20 over the 16 x 19

Thank you for your suggestions!

On beam width - great pleeners often have 22mm, sometimes a bit more. Technifibre's 22.5 is perfect. Also, variable beam designs, like Pure Strike and Radical MP, may also work really well.

Pure Strike decreased the stiffness vs gen 3. How the stiffness is experienced is more complicated than the number, it's better to demo. I've never hit with Pure Strike 100, but it gets good reviews.

Generally, 16x19 works better for most rec players. Most WTA players use 16x19, and they hit crazy heavy by rec standards, with control. Some 16x19 stringbeds are just as tight as 18x20 (Prestige Tour), and vice versa. Generally, I'd go for 16x19, but in some pleeners tigher patterns work perfectly: for example, Solinco Whiteout 18x20, which generates great spin. Racquets with isometric or drop shape, like Head Gravity, generate tons of spin despite 18x20 string pattern.

 

[TripleFault88]

Arm pain is always 100% user error. Ask me how I know. There is no racket or strings in the world that will fix bad mechanics.

Well mine only hurts when I hit with mid to high RA rackets and hold my one year old son. I’m only allowed to get rid of one of them.

 

[ey039524]

If you liked the ezone, I would suggest trying the vcore and then the percept, which is notably softer.

 

[TripleFault88]

I don’t understand why the strings aren’t more of an option here. What’s with the attachment to Poly Tour Pro? It’s a good string, but I am certain that dropping the tension 5-10 lbs or trying a softer poly like Isospeed Cream would make a Pure Strike usable for you. And I am certain that I could put strings into the Elevate Tour or a Pro Kennex that would wreck your arm.

I think opening up the strings as a variable here would probably help you a ton.

The attachment to PTP is that I’m a former teaching pro and get my rackets and from reps usually at cost or sometimes for free. So when using a Yonex racket, I have access to their string at better pricing. I haven’t tried lowering down to 40, but it is next on my list when I get a chance to hit again

 

[gebruikershaes]

Well mine only hurts when I hit with mid to high RA rackets and hold my one year old son. I’m only allowed to get rid of one of them.

How much RA is your son? Based on that you can decide which one to get rid off.

 

[TripleFault88]

They are about the same so it’s still a toss up

 

[TripleFault88]

How much RA is your son? Based on that you can decide which one to get rid off.

They are about the same so it’s still a toss up

 

[TripleFault88]

If you liked the ezone, I would suggest trying the vcore and then the percept, which is notably softer.

Thanks. Those are both on my list.

 

[ZeroandOne]

Finding the perfect balance between power, control, and comfort can be tricky. Based on your preferences and experiences, here are a couple of racket suggestions that might suit you:

Wilson Clash 98: The Wilson Clash series is known for its blend of power and control, with a unique flexible frame design that enhances comfort. The Clash 98 offers a good mix of power and precision, similar to what you enjoyed with the Ezone 98. Plus, its flexible construction could help alleviate some of the arm pain you've experienced.

Head Speed MP: The Head Speed MP is another option worth considering. It offers excellent maneuverability and control, which could complement your playing style well. The Auxetic 2 technology provides stability and power without sacrificing comfort, making it a solid choice for players looking for a balanced racket.

Remember, it's essential to demo rackets whenever possible to find the one that feels right for you. And don't hesitate to consult with a knowledgeable racket specialist or coach who can offer personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and playing style. Good luck on your quest for the perfect racket!

You sound like chatgpt.

 

[tennisjunkie]

You sound like chatgpt.

ChatGPT is old news. Gemini is wayyy more creative.

"draw a picture of a donkey playing tennis, high details, anime theme"

 

[beepee1972]

I have the same issue as OP, a little pain always comes after serving. I can hit balls for hours without issues. But when I need to serve, I do feel it 9 (a bit) afterwards. Not a big server at all. I used to think it was coming from my single handed backhand, but after not serving for months but plaing s.h. backhands, no issues!

Any videos on how I can improve my serve? I wouldn't mind seeing some videos on how this is caused or how it can be prevented? Thanks!

 

[Mvboiler]

I’ve been on a racket journey the past 4 years or so and would love to settle on one and just enjoy tennis. Maybe what I’m looking for doesn’t exist but hopeful y’all can help me get close. Most of my switches have come from looking for a bit more power or inner elbow/ forearm pain. I restring often.

I’m a 35 year old 4.5 all court player in singles / S&V in doubles. Semi western FH relying on spin over flat power and a two handed backhand. No big weapons really ( including serve ). I come from a basketball background and like to rely on athleticism and court positioning/ coverage but would like more free points off serve and better put away power. I guess I could practice more but let’s try a racket fix first


Started playing tennis more regularly 4 years ago and was using the blade v7 16x19. I enjoyed it but was wanting more power. I switched to the Babolat pure strike tour gen 3. I found a good mix of power and control but would get pain on my inner elbow/ forearm. I then switched to the previous vcore 98+. Not as bad of pain but it was still there. Next was a run with a couple diadem frames. Elevate tour V2 - no arm pain but felt like a needed more pop. Played the Nova but felt the beam was too thick. These were played with various soft polys strung at 50 and a few gut/ poly hybrids.

I then hit a friends ezone 98 with PTP at 50 and thought I found exactly what I have been looking for. More power than other 98s But I still found plenty of control and forgiveness. The best part was, i had all this and no arm pain….. until i played a match about a month later and hit a couple sets worth of serves for the first time. The same pain is back and am afraid I need to move on from the ezone. I’m not confident that dropping 5lbs would feel any better and I’m not confident the control would be there if I dropped 10lbs.

What is similar to the ezone 98 but might gel with my arm better?

I’m looking for a more controlled racket that still offers power and forgiveness. All while still being comfortable. I know I know… asking for a lot.

What makes it even more challenging is I would rather not ditch full bed of poly and would rather not have to customize a racket.

Maybe a difficult request but I would appreciate any suggestions.

I was in a very similar position as you. On a years long racquet journey as well. Played and loved the blade, but needed more power. Thought I had the answer with the Ezone 98, but got golfers elbow pain.

I’ve tried just about everything searching for a stable racquet with controllable power. I don’t like too thick of a beam and need some SW for my two handed backhand, but still want maneuverability. I like some feel and don’t want too muted of a stick. Serve is a big part of my game and I rely on free points there and on the +1.

My answer was the 2022 Head Speed MP. It’s a little of everything. 23mm beam is stable, but not too thick. Power is good - not too much, but enough. Enough SW to help the 2HB. I can play full poly with no problem. I had previously tried the 360 (not stable enough) and the 360+ (too much SW), but the Auxetic is the sweet spot. I appreciate the 100 sq in head too.

Hope that helps. My advice is to get off the racquet merry go round as fast as you can. No stick is perfect including the Speed, but your game will respond to a racquet you are familiar with.

Plus you can switch your holicing from racquets to strings then.