NEW Prestige MP 360

Kal-El 34

Kal-El 34

Hall of Fame
The new prestige line looks better in person than in the catalogue. With some black caps it might not be horrible to look at
 
FourOutOfFive

FourOutOfFive

Rookie
dr325i said:
Looking at the pictures and specs, I am aftrais nothings gonna save this line
Click to expand...

IMO this is going to be the last Prestige line. They’ve really squeezed all the soul they possibly could out of it and I just can’t see the appeal of these racquets for anyone. Blades, Angell, Yonex, Tecnifibre, there’s just so many better “Prestige-like” options out there.
 
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2nd Serve Ace

2nd Serve Ace

Hall of Fame
FourOutOfFive said:
IMO this is going to be the last Prestige line. They’ve really squeezed all the soul they possibly could out of it and I just can’t see the appeal of these racquets for anyone. Blades, Angell, Yonex, Tecnifibre, there’s just so many better “Presitge-like” options out there.
Click to expand...
At this point, feel like the prestige line could be farmed out to gravity/radical and no one would bat an eye.
 
SumYungGai

SumYungGai

Semi-Pro
Lefty78 said:
Matte paint aside... I kinda like the new cosmetic.

Cautiously pessimistic on the playabilty tho.
Click to expand...
I'm bummed about the look but I really want to see how it feels. The 18x20 v7 was the best feeling racquet I've hit with in a long time. So if the Prestige MP doesn't beat it, I'll be picking up the Blade. And I think a lot of people are waiting to make this same decision.
 
D

Deleted member 756272

Guest
Tennisflood said:
You guys really like the feel of the prestige in the 90s?
Click to expand...

I'm very concerned the Head Prestige line product managers have got the strategy wrong. Starting with user segmentation, my assumption of Prestige users are the players who prefer control over power and a soft flexy feel (let's call this the "Classic" group). They are experienced tennis players generating their own power.

Making up a smaller percentage of the Prestige user base are the segment of "Aspirational" users who are trying grow into the line. Unfortunately, this group has defected to Babolat and Wilson. And this group has every logical reason to defect because it is a struggle to use a heavy, control frame. It makes sense for a 3.0-4.0 player to bang away with a lighter, stiffer 18x20.

However, when this group out grows their bangers and are ready for a heavy, control stick, where do they turn? They stay with Wilson and Babolat who have distinct control lines ready and waiting.

Next, let's think about the consumption pattern of the two user segments. The Classics group probably returns to the line generation after generation (i.e. from the 1980s to early 2000s). When their rackets fatigue or crack, they start their new replacement search with the Prestige line b/c it is what they trust and have built their games around it for years. On the other hand, the Aspirational users probably have purchased one or two generations of the Prestige line and left. Some may return, but not every racket is the RF97 and not every player sponsor has the Federer effect.

So, instead of attempting to retain their user base of "Classic" players, they sought to expand their user base and bring back their defectors while alienating their core. Without a big player sponsor for the Prestige line, unfortunately the "Aspirational" group will not return. B/c they messed with the mold, layup, stiffness, and feel, they are losing the Classics segment as well. I'm a classic player and have been duped a couple of times now by the Graphene Prestiges. No more.

They could have used the Speed or the Radical line to catch the defectors and leave the Prestige line as is. Instead of having a differentiated line, they dragged the Prestige line down to the average player level and the line doesn't seem to have a positive brand image to grab Aspirational players nor is differentiated enough to carve out a segment of Classic tennis players.

FWIW, I work in a data sciences capacity advising product management teams on product strategy and performance. The core of my job is to define the product user base and usage patterns.


So yes, I love the feel of all of the Prestiges before Graphene. As a Prestige user for years, I expected to update my aging Prestiges to have a similar feel. Instead, the brand broke its promise of a flexible, control frame and I will not fall for it a fourth time.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
vsbabolat

vsbabolat

G.O.A.T.
sshin12 said:
I'm very concerned the Head Prestige line product managers have got the strategy wrong. Starting with user segmentation, my assumption of Prestige users are the players who prefer control over power and a soft flexy feel (let's call this the "Classic" group). They are experienced tennis players generating their own power.

Making up a smaller percentage of the Prestige user base are the segment of "Aspirational" users who are trying grow into the line. Unfortunately, this group has defected to Babolat and Wilson. And this group has every logical reason to defect because it is a struggle to use a heavy, control frame. It makes sense for a 3.0-4.0 player to bang away with a lighter, stiffer 18x20.

However, when this group out grows their bangers and are ready for a heavy, control stick, where do they turn? They stay with Wilson and Babolat who have distinct control lines ready and waiting.

Next, let's think about the consumption pattern of the two user segments. The Classics group probably returns to the line generation after generation (i.e. from the 1980s to early 2000s). When their rackets fatigue or crack, they start their new replacement search with the Prestige line b/c it is what they trust and have built their games around it for years. On the other hand, the Aspirational users probably have purchased one or two generations of the Prestige line and left. Some may return, but not every racket is the RF97 and not every player sponsor has the Federer effect.

So, instead of attempting to retain their user base of "Classic" players, they sought to expand their user base and bring back their defectors while alienating their core. Without a big player sponsor for the Prestige line, unfortunately the "Aspirational" group will not return. B/c they messed with the mold, layup, stiffness, and feel, they are losing the Classics segment as well. I'm a classic player and have been duped a couple of times now by the Graphene Prestiges. No more.

They could have used the Speed or the Radical line to catch the defectors and leave the Prestige line as is. Instead of having a differentiated line, they dragged the Prestige line down to the average player level and the line doesn't seem to have a positive brand image to grab Aspirational players nor is differentiated enough to carve out a segment of Classic tennis players.

FWIW, I work in a data sciences capacity advising product management teams on product strategy and performance. The core of my job is to define the product user base and usage patterns.


So yes, I love the feel of all of the Prestiges before Graphene. As a Prestige user for years, I expected to update my aging Prestiges to have a similar feel. Instead, the brand broke its promise of a flexible, control frame and I will not fall for it a fourth time.
Click to expand...
I can get over the paint job. I Don’t think I can get over the change in the mold of the MP and Mid.

:edit I did get over the change in mold for the MP
 
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D

Deleted member 756272

Guest
If I wanted a 22mm, stiff banger, I'd go for the Pure Strike. And I did get the 3rd gen Pure Strike when it came out. Not a huge fan, but if I'm hitting with someone lower rated than me, its my easy mode racket.

If I'm playing a tourney or scheduled a hitting session with an ex-college player, I bring out the PT630 or i.Prestige. My other option is the H19.

The stiff Prestiges have no place in my line up. Its not easy mode and it doesn't have enough control/feel to hit with against higher rated players.
 
T

Tennisflood

New User
sshin12 said:
I'm very concerned the Head Prestige line product managers have got the strategy wrong. Starting with user segmentation, my assumption of Prestige users are the players who prefer control over power and a soft flexy feel (let's call this the "Classic" group). They are experienced tennis players generating their own power.

Making up a smaller percentage of the Prestige user base are the segment of "Aspirational" users who are trying grow into the line. Unfortunately, this group has defected to Babolat and Wilson. And this group has every logical reason to defect because it is a struggle to use a heavy, control frame. It makes sense for a 3.0-4.0 player to bang away with a lighter, stiffer 18x20.

However, when this group out grows their bangers and are ready for a heavy, control stick, where do they turn? They stay with Wilson and Babolat who have distinct control lines ready and waiting.

Next, let's think about the consumption pattern of the two user segments. The Classics group probably returns to the line generation after generation (i.e. from the 1980s to early 2000s). When their rackets fatigue or crack, they start their new replacement search with the Prestige line b/c it is what they trust and have built their games around it for years. On the other hand, the Aspirational users probably have purchased one or two generations of the Prestige line and left. Some may return, but not every racket is the RF97 and not every player sponsor has the Federer effect.

So, instead of attempting to retain their user base of "Classic" players, they sought to expand their user base and bring back their defectors while alienating their core. Without a big player sponsor for the Prestige line, unfortunately the "Aspirational" group will not return. B/c they messed with the mold, layup, stiffness, and feel, they are losing the Classics segment as well. I'm a classic player and have been duped a couple of times now by the Graphene Prestiges. No more.

They could have used the Speed or the Radical line to catch the defectors and leave the Prestige line as is. Instead of having a differentiated line, they dragged the Prestige line down to the average player level and the line doesn't seem to have a positive brand image to grab Aspirational players nor is differentiated enough to carve out a segment of Classic tennis players.

FWIW, I work in a data sciences capacity advising product management teams on product strategy and performance. The core of my job is to define the product user base and usage patterns.


So yes, I love the feel of all of the Prestiges before Graphene. As a Prestige user for years, I expected to update my aging Prestiges to have a similar feel. Instead, the brand broke its promise of a flexible, control frame and I will not fall for it a fourth time.
Click to expand...
Unfortunately they dont look at the old timers when they make there products they think about JR's and college players the adults get the PWR line's sorry!
 
D

Deleted member 756272

Guest
Tennisflood said:
Unfortunately they dont look at the old timers when they make there products they think about JR's and college players the adults get the PWR line's sorry!
Click to expand...

HAHA the PWR line. Hilarious.

But this is exactly what I mean when there is no product line differentiation at Head for players who want a classic, flexy frame. Its WIlson Blades or Head Prostocks. Heck, even Prince has carved that niche with its Phantom line. Technifibre and Dunlop have flexy, classic player frames.

You do bring up a good point on current Juniors and College players. I'm curious if there will be Graphene Prestige prostocks in the future, if that's what the kids these days are growing up with.

If the PT57A still exists in 5 years or 10 years, I think we have our answer as to what kind of performance racket is king.
 
T

Tennisflood

New User
sshin12 said:
HAHA the PWR line. Hilarious.

But this is exactly what I mean when there is no product line differentiation at Head for players who want a classic, flexy frame. Its WIlson Blades or Head Prostocks. Heck, even Prince has carved that niche with its Phantom line. Technifibre and Dunlop have flexy, classic player frames.

You do bring up a good point on current Juniors and College players. I'm curious if there will be Graphene Prestige prostocks in the future, if that's what the kids these days are growing up with.

If the PT57A still exists in 5 years or 10 years, I think we have our answer as to what kind of performance racket is king.
Click to expand...
I test all the rackets for Head if you have noticed they are coming down on the stiffness of the frames like the Gravity line but i agree with you the Prestige line should be in the 50s its still on the stiff side! The new Prestige feels better than the touch models but not quite the feel of the classic prestige! I played with the prestige master in college and the TXP i still have them and they feel great with a modern string!
 
vsbabolat

vsbabolat

G.O.A.T.
sshin12 said:
HAHA the PWR line. Hilarious.

But this is exactly what I mean when there is no product line differentiation at Head for players who want a classic, flexy frame. Its WIlson Blades or Head Prostocks. Heck, even Prince has carved that niche with its Phantom line. Technifibre and Dunlop have flexy, classic player frames.

You do bring up a good point on current Juniors and College players. I'm curious if there will be Graphene Prestige prostocks in the future, if that's what the kids these days are growing up with.

If the PT57A still exists in 5 years or 10 years, I think we have our answer as to what kind of performance racket is king.
Click to expand...
The PT57A has been around since 1993 and will still be around for at least another 5 years
 
vsbabolat

vsbabolat

G.O.A.T.
Tennisflood said:
I test all the rackets for Head if you have noticed they are coming down on the stiffness of the frames like the Gravity line but i agree with you the Prestige line should be in the 50s its still on the stiff side! The new Prestige feels better than the touch models but not quite the feel of the classic prestige! I played with the prestige master in college and the TXP i still have them and they feel great with a modern string!
Click to expand...
The Prestige Pro/TXP/Classic is 61
 
TennisHound

TennisHound

Legend
That mold resembles the IG Prestige S mood around the throat, but the whole frame is that triangled shape. Crazy. Is this the official death of the retail Prestige MP?
 
FearlessAnimal

FearlessAnimal

Rookie
SpinToWin said:
I don't get the guys saying it doesn't look bad. Red on red? One fluorescent and the other burgundy? This is the death of good taste, some graphic designer deserves to lose their job. The bright cap grommets are the worst insult to injury, too.
Click to expand...

Exactly. There was one episode of Myth Busters when they're trying to polish ball of s..t (I can't remember had they succeed or not). Anyway, glossy or matte s..t is s..t.
 
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vsbabolat

vsbabolat

G.O.A.T.
TennisHound said:
That mold resembles the IG Prestige S mood around the throat, but the whole frame is that triangled shape. Crazy. Is this the official death of the retail Prestige MP?
Click to expand...
Looks like the Graphene Radical to me at the grooves in throat. But you’re right the bridge is very thin now and not the same thickness as the rest of the beam.
I just don’t get the point of the Tour version now being 99 headsize with 21.5mm beam width, and 18x19 string pattern. With the new MP being a true 98, 22mm beam width, and 18x20 the differences is so small.

Edit: MP is really 20mm. MP and Tour are different molds
 
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DavaiMarat

DavaiMarat

Professional
ToastyTilapia said:
Hit with the new MP today. It's really nice. WAAAY better than all other graphene prestiges. It's soft and has a good feel to it. I feel like it's really similar to the v7 18x20 blade. (But better, I'm really not a blade person) Definitely not a true prestige mp but it's a solid racquet for sure.
Click to expand...

Its kinda like the vcore 95 and the textreme tour 100 tour had a baby.
 
DavaiMarat

DavaiMarat

Professional
vsbabolat said:
Looks like the Graphene Radical to me at the grooves in throat. But you’re right the bridge is very thin now and not the same thickness as the rest of the beam.
I just don’t get the point of the Tour version now being 99 headsize with 21.5mm beam width, and 18x19 string pattern. With the new MP being a true 98, 22mm beam width, and 18x20 the differences is so small. There is so much overlap with these two models it’s stupid. HEAD has finally succeeded in completely killing the Prestige.
Click to expand...
 
DavaiMarat

DavaiMarat

Professional

Easy VS. This day was coming. Prestiges had to change to stay relevant. That's the long and short of it. It's a nice hit. You need to hit with it before u dismiss it.
 
vsbabolat

vsbabolat

G.O.A.T.
DavaiMarat said:
Easy VS. This day was coming. Prestiges had to change to stay relevant. That's the long and short of it. It's a nice hit. You need to hit with it before u dismiss it.
Click to expand...
There was no reason to change the mold sorry. No reason at all while the Pro stay 95. I disagree with your assessment.
 
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vsbabolat

vsbabolat

G.O.A.T.
blablavla said:
what about hitting first and agree-ing / disagree-ing afterwards?
Click to expand...
I disagree that the Prestige needed to move on to be relevant when it was HEAD and the layups they chose for the Prestige MP for the last 6 years has hurt sales. I almost never see anyone using a current Prestige of any kind. It’s because they have come out with badly executed products. The poor execution of the cosmetics and the change of mold Was for no reason. I have no expectations and have given up on HEAD being able to bring to market a decent racquet. They are still very capable to produce racquets for their Pro Players but can’t at the retail level. Maybe this new Prestige MP can be an anomaly of what they have been doing for the last 6 years

Edit: turns out I like the 360 Prestige MP and have bought 2
 
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D

Deleted member 756272

Guest
vsbabolat said:
I disagree that the Prestige needed to move on to be relevant when it was HEAD and the layups they chose for the Prestige MP for the last 6 years has hurt sales. I almost never see anyone using a current Prestige of any kind. It’s because they have come out with badly executed products. The poor execution of the cosmetics and the change of mold Was for no reason. I have no expectations and have given up on HEAD being able to bring to market a decent racquet. They are still very capable to produce racquets for their Pro Players but can’t at the retail level. Maybe this new Prestige MP can be an anomaly of what they have been doing for the last 6 years
Click to expand...

If the new Prestige was an update of the PT 630, I buy 5 matched.

If we continue down this stiffer, mold swapping, string pattern changing, I buy one to test and resell it. Although, I’m too exhausted to put the effort to try even one now.
 
vsbabolat

vsbabolat

G.O.A.T.
sshin12 said:
If the new Prestige was an update of the PT 630, I buy 5 matched.

If we continue down this stiffer, mold swapping, string pattern changing, I buy one to test and resell it. Although, I’m too exhausted to put the effort to try even one now.
Click to expand...
HEAD has no interest in selling an update to the Pro Tour 630. Think about it. HEAD discontinued the Pro Tour 630 and replaced it with the Premier Tour 600. That was a WTF moment. While the Pro Tour 630 is still being used on the ATP tour to this day the Premier Tour died after 1999 never to be produced again.

Edit: looks like I was wrong. HEAD did give us an update to the Pro Tour 630 with Pro Tour 2.0. Great up date. A little stiffer with more power.
 
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DavaiMarat

DavaiMarat

Professional
sshin12 said:
If the new Prestige was an update of the PT 630, I buy 5 matched.

If we continue down this stiffer, mold swapping, string pattern changing, I buy one to test and resell it. Although, I’m too exhausted to put the effort to try even one now.
Click to expand...

I can tell you it's has a soft feel. You also get more pop from the upper part of the hoop. I'm dying to post my video but.....NDA.

Its alot like the gravity. Has the same fibers. More precision oriented.
 
D

Deleted member 756272

Guest
DavaiMarat said:
I can tell you it's has a soft feel. You also get more pop from the upper part of the hoop. I'm dying to post my video but.....NDA.

Its alot like the gravity. Has the same fibers. More precision oriented.
Click to expand...
Dude tugging at my heart strings here...

OK! FINE! One more rodeo and then I'm out.
 
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