Prince Tour 100p thread

vincebox

New User
It's a good racket.
I use the Prince Tour 100p 2015 version.
Things I notice:

- Very controlled racket
- Pin point precision
- Point and shoot (where I aim, is where the ball goes)
- Great spin ability (when I serve , I serve with spin, ball goes fast and with good spin)
- Great feel. For example. I can easily place balls just over the net (drop shots)


I was using a Vcore 97 HD.
It made me tired, because the racket was heavy. Also , I got wrist issues from that racket because the upswing (I am a spin player) was really heavy.
I was a fan of the 18x20 string pattern of the Vcore 97HD, so I was searching a lot for a racket that would offer me the same control from the string pattern.
This racket has that. It is lighter (305 grams), and still feels very solid. Especially at net, I feel like I can really place balls where I want and the racket itself feels very stable.
With doubles, I want nothing else then this racket.

I also have a Vcore 95 (2023) as a second racket (I used the Vcore 95 2021 before the 2023).
The Prince Tour 100p (2015) has a lot of similarities to the Vcore 95 2021 , other than that the launch angle is lower and the sweet spot is much bigger.
The Prince Tour 100p (2015) is a 100 inch frame , but it plays just like a 95 in terms of control and precision.

I used to buy rackets and then sell them again to try something new. But since I have this Prince racket, I don't need anything else.
The Vcore 95 (2023) is my second racket, because I just find it such a fun racket to play with and I have the strange need to want to switch a racket sometimes just to experience something different. Other then that, the Prince Tour 100p (2015) is my number one racket.

Just a word of caution for people who might automatically want the newest version instead of buying an older 'for sale' racket. Beware of the novelty bias.
The novelty bias is about the fact that a newer version should always be better then the older one. Deep down below we know this is not true.
We just want to be seduced that perfect exists and that new gets closer to perfection. This is just not true! I'm not saying it cannot be true, but whenever we're going to try something new because we have the expectation that 'new' implies that it will at least be slightly better then older versions of a racket, it's just our brain that ready tells us. It's just not true. Commercials have made us believe this by trying to convince our inner belief system.
 
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tele

Hall of Fame
happy to hear you have found a racquet suits you. If the 2015 models get hard to find down the line, the new ATS (not 2019) 100p is apparently quite similar to that model.
 

vincebox

New User
happy to hear you have found a racquet suits you. If the 2015 models get hard to find down the line, the new ATS (not 2019) 100p is apparently quite similar to that model.
Thank you for your reply. Yes they say so. I have more then one but thank you for mentioning, I have heard more people saying so.
 

Tennis1337

New User
It's a good racket.
I use the Prince Tour 100p 2015 version.
Things I notice:

- Very controlled racket
- Pin point precision
- Point and shoot (where I aim, is where the ball goes)
- Great spin ability (when I serve , I serve with spin, ball goes fast and with good spin)
- Great feel. For example. I can easily place balls just over the net (drop shots)


I was using a Vcore 97 HD.
It made me tired, because the racket was heavy. Also , I got wrist issues from that racket because the upswing (I am a spin player) was really heavy.
I was a fan of the 18x20 string pattern of the Vcore 97HD, so I was searching a lot for a racket that would offer me the same control from the string pattern.
This racket has that. It is lighter (305 grams), and still feels very solid. Especially at net, I feel like I can really place balls where I want and the racket itself feels very stable.
With doubles, I want nothing else then this racket.

I also have a Vcore 95 (2023) as a second racket (I used the Vcore 95 2021 before the 2023).
The Prince Tour 100p (2015) has a lot of similarities to the Vcore 95 2021 , other than that the launch angle is lower and the sweet spot is much bigger.
The Prince Tour 100p (2015) is a 100 inch frame , but it plays just like a 95 in terms of control and precision.

I used to buy rackets and then sell them again to try something new. But since I have this Prince racket, I don't need anything else.
The Vcore 95 (2023) is my second racket, because I just find it such a fun racket to play with and I have the strange need to want to switch a racket sometimes just to experience something different. Other then that, the Prince Tour 100p (2015) is my number one racket.

Just a word of caution for people who might automatically want the newest version instead of buying an older 'for sale' racket. Beware of the novelty bias.
The novelty bias is about the fact that a newer version should always be better then the older one. Deep down below we know this is not true.
We just want to be seduced that perfect exists and that new gets closer to perfection. This is just not true! I'm not saying it cannot be true, but whenever we're going to try something new because we have the expectation that 'new' implies that it will at least be slightly better then older versions of a racket, it's just our brain that ready tells us. It's just not true. Commercials have made us believe this by trying to convince our inner belief system.
I just hit the 2015 100P today. Feels like perfect singles racquet. I typically use the Textreme Tour 100 310 2019 version but for doubles, but I need more precision for singles. This 100P fits the bill. Good thing is I can accelerate on both one handed backhand and two handed backhand.

I have tried the Pure Aero VS, Pure Aero 98, Vcore 95 2023, Vcore 95 2021, Radical MP Auxetic, Radical Pro Auxetic, ATS Tour 98, ATS Tour 100P, Ezone 98, 100P 2019 version, Blade V8 (98 and 100), Prince Phantom 100X, Dunlop CX200 Tour, Solinco Whiteout 16x19, Extreme Tour Auxetic and probably some more that I forgot.

Of all these the 2015 100P is similar to Blade V8 and Radical Pro Auxetic. You get that nice cushioned feeling on off center hits like the Blade V8.

The 100P 2019 is stiffer and can launch the ball more. The ATS 100P has the ATS flex which I don't like at all. It's similar to the 2015, but I prefer the 2015.
 

Trip

Legend
All the Tours from all generations are great; it just comes down to personal preference more so than anything. IMHO, you want to play with the stiffest frame that you can still control and that doesn't give you arm pain. This will give you more for free with less physical input, and helps shoulder more of the load over the course of longer rallies and longer matches. In that vein, I favor the more firm 2019 T100P. I particularly notice it on my one-handed backhand, which doesn't require as much or as long a biomechanical investment to get the velocity/trajectory I'm looking for, as the 2015 or 2022 (and yes, I've tried both of them). Plus, on serve, the 2019 gives you more crushing power. It just does. Maybe not as good for cupping/holding the ball on slice/kick serves, but definitely better on flat first serves down the T, which are a big part of my service game.

So, as I said, in the end, it all comes down to what you prefer. For me, the more firm 2019 takes the cake, with overall more upsides than downsides from that more firm flex.

Hope that helps.
 
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WYK

Hall of Fame
The Wimbledon White out edition has a more head heavy balance and are very stable.
173089270.qkdr7kc9.jpg
 

vincebox

New User
That white version looks amazing. Too beautiful to play with for me. I would play too careful with it cause I wouldn’t want to scratch it. Does that white racket have the same specifications as the 2015 version? Or is it similar to the 2019? Or does it stand on it’s own:)
 

WYK

Hall of Fame
I'm pretty sure @WYK will confirm that the white limited was based on the softer 2015 layup, not the more firm 2019.
Yes, it's based on the 2015 mould. Although it is more controlled than the standard 16X18, I didn't find it controlled enough as an 18X20 to sacrifice the power the standard 16X18 had on serve and volleys. I mean, it's an 18X20 with 6 mains in the throat. I dunno how Prince even managed to do that. In practice, at least with my strokes, it became a slightly less powerful and slightly less spinny, albeit slightly more controlled Tour 100. It is definitely not the difference most other brands 16X19's and 18X20's have, like say a Blade. I was using an 18X20 Blade when I first picked up the 100P, which had much more control and less power than the 100P.

What put me off, though, was when you went to drive the ball hard, the launch angle began to change. As it would - but with the Tour 100 16X18, what happens is you get more spin and just ever so slightly more launch. With my 18X20 Blade, it just dipped the ball more. But the spin brought the ball down pretty fast with both. With the 100P, I was getting a wildly different launch angle when I went blasting if I strung it like my 18X20 Blade. This is OK in singles, but I mainly play doubles. So if I want to drive the ball hard DTL or XCourt, and keep it low and out of reach of the net guy, it made this more difficult to gauge for me. So I stuck with the standard Tour 100 16X18.

I have tried loads of racquets before I ended up sticking with the ATS Tour 100 16X18. Speed Pro and MP, Gravity Tour, MP, and pro, HEAD 99sq in 18X19 and 16X19 Prestiges, loads of Yonex(man, I can not for the life of me get used to the feel of them, and one of my favourite sticks is my RQIS 1 Tour, but these new ones feel weird to me), Six One 95's, Prince Phantoms etc etc etc. The ATS Tour 100 just has the right balance all around. But what really stood out was the slice. The Speed Pro/Gravity Pro/HEAD 18X19 all had good slice, but they do not give you the power and spin the Princes do. Such a string pattern, with such spin and power, and yet I can use slice as a weapon with it - off both sides, and even from above the shoulder. It just lasers your slice like few other sticks can muster, but then gives you great spin and control on the ground strokes and serves. Just wow.
 
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WYK

Hall of Fame
Listed SW on the std edition is 321 but the Wimbledon version feels 325-330. Way more stable and easier depth.

My one was definitely not too head light. What impressed me is when I went to re-pallet it to a head pallet. I removed the foam in the handle.
Usually you will find lead weights in the foam from 10g up to 20g. Rarely will you find a 5g one. And when I do find a 5g lead weight, it is almost always in a Prince.
In this 100P, it had a little chunk of lead added into it on top of the usual lead weights that measured 2g.
2 grams!
I would have missed it if I wasn't paying attention. Never seen this attention to detail in any racquet previously, and I have re-palleted dozens as a customizer for my club.

ETA, I found the photo I took of it!

173093970.TvGLL1GF.jpg
 

J-Wildcard

Semi-Pro
Yes, it's based on the 2015 mould. Although it is more controlled than the standard 16X18, I didn't find it controlled enough as an 18X20 to sacrifice the power the standard 16X18 had on serve and volleys. I mean, it's an 18X20 with 6 mains in the throat. I dunno how Prince even managed to do that. In practice, at least with my strokes, it became a slightly less powerful and slightly less spinny, albeit slightly more controlled Tour 100. It is definitely not the difference most other brands 16X19's and 18X20's have, like say a Blade. I was using an 18X20 Blade when I first picked up the 100P, which had much more control and less power than the 100P.

What put me off, though, was when you went to drive the ball hard, the launch angle began to change. As it would - but with the Tour 100 16X18, what happens is you get more spin and just ever so slightly more launch. With my 18X20 Blade, it just dipped the ball more. But the spin brought the ball down pretty fast with both. With the 100P, I was getting a wildly different launch angle when I went blasting if I strung it like my 18X20 Blade. This is OK in singles, but I mainly play doubles. So if I want to drive the ball hard DTL or XCourt, and keep it low and out of reach of the net guy, it made this more difficult to gauge for me. So I stuck with the standard Tour 100 16X18.

I have tried loads of racquets before I ended up sticking with the ATS Tour 100 16X18. Speed Pro and MP, Gravity Tour, MP, and pro, HEAD 99sq in 18X19 and 16X19 Prestiges, loads of Yonex(man, I can not for the life of me get used to the feel of them, and one of my favourite sticks is my RQIS 1 Tour, but these new ones feel weird to me), Six One 95's, Prince Phantoms etc etc etc. The ATS Tour 100 just has the right balance all around. But what really stood out was the slice. The Speed Pro/Gravity Pro/HEAD 18X19 all had good slice, but they do not give you the power and spin the Princes do. Such a string pattern, with such spin and power, and yet I can use slice as a weapon with it - off both sides, and even from above the shoulder. It just lasers your slice like few other sticks can muster, but then gives you great spin and control on the ground strokes and serves. Just wow.
How did you find the phantom, did you try a 100p version, it's 16x18 pattern also. I've recently got hold of some tour 310 textreme 16 x 18 and like you describe I cannot believe how the racket plays for saying it is a 16 x 18. I usually use prestige mp 18x20 now called the pro but this Prince looks more powerful and spin but still with decent control and feel. Not the same feel but still respectable.
 

WYK

Hall of Fame
How did you find the phantom, did you try a 100p version, it's 16x18 pattern also. I've recently got hold of some tour 310 textreme 16 x 18 and like you describe I cannot believe how the racket plays for saying it is a 16 x 18. I usually use prestige mp 18x20 now called the pro but this Prince looks more powerful and spin but still with decent control and feel. Not the same feel but still respectable.

Phantom has lovely feel and flex. Good spin and not to low on the power, either. I just like a more solid hoop. The RQIS 1 I keep mentioning had a 57-61 flex depending on who you asked, and yet had a 25mm hoop at it's widest, so I definitely prefer a firmer hoop and flexy throat I guess. Also, that Yonex has a 16X18 string pattern that behaves very much like this ATS 100 does.

I had a 360+ Prestige MP 18X20. My backhand just can not handle such a low launch angle for some odd reason. It must be my swing arc or sumfin. I just can not deal with very low launch angles. Of course, even back in college I was using a Prince 14X18, so I gues I just grew into racquets that weren't flat hitting. Still, I do like the 18X20 Blade, but nowadays I just need more free power, especially for punching volleys and one handed service returns.

171580578.kyfS2pLb.jpg


My jr high Woodie and my college Prince graphite there, as well as my boyhood Prince Pro.

Yonex RQIS vs PHantom vs Clash comparison:


171658923.0ndTkVjk.jpg
 
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J-Wildcard

Semi-Pro
Phantom has lovely feel and flex. Good spin and not to low on the power, either. I just like a more solid hoop. The RQIS 1 I keep mentioning had a 57-61 flex depending on who you asked, and yet had a 25mm hoop at it's widest, so I definitely prefer a firmer hoop and flexy throat I guess. Also, that Yonex has a 16X18 string pattern that behaves very much like this ATS 100 does.

I had a 360+ Prestige MP 18X20. My backhand just can not handle such a low launch angle for some odd reason. It must be my swing arc or sumfin. I just can not deal with very low launch angles. Of course, even back in college I was using a Prince 14X18, so I gues I just grew into racquets that weren't flat hitting. Still, I do like the 18X20 Blade, but nowadays I just need more free power, especially for punching volleys and one handed service returns.

171580578.kyfS2pLb.jpg


My jr high Woodie and my college Prince graphite there, as well as my boyhood Prince Pro.

Yonex RQIS vs PHantom vs Clash comparison:


171658923.0ndTkVjk.jpg
Some classic sticks there, very nice. I see you have some clash on the second pic. I did use a clash when they first came out and thought it was a solid and easy to use racket. I couldn't miss with it but felt it lacked raw power when hitting bigger, though I find a similar thing with the 360+ Prestige MP. I had one of this EX03 rackets about a decade back with the leather grip and torsion bar piece on the throat. Back when I bought that I was using the head iradical intelligence which was a great frame. Tempted to grab a phantom as I hear the line is finishing but I don't want a low power stick as got loads of them. Pretty much every prestige version since the 2000s and a few bits like Wilson ultra pro 18 x 20. I want a bit more of the open pattern action if they handle as well as they to seem to be doing with in Prince frames at least.
 

WYK

Hall of Fame
Some classic sticks there, very nice. I see you have some clash on the second pic. I did use a clash when they first came out and thought it was a solid and easy to use racket. I couldn't miss with it but felt it lacked raw power when hitting bigger, though I find a similar thing with the 360+ Prestige MP. I had one of this EX03 rackets about a decade back with the leather grip and torsion bar piece on the throat. Back when I bought that I was using the head iradical intelligence which was a great frame. Tempted to grab a phantom as I hear the line is finishing but I don't want a low power stick as got loads of them. Pretty much every prestige version since the 2000s and a few bits like Wilson ultra pro 18 x 20. I want a bit more of the open pattern action if they handle as well as they to seem to be doing with in Prince frames at least.

I have a Clash 98, which I feel is the only Clash worth having. It has 8 mains thru the throat, is very controlled, and extremely easy on the arm.
The only issue I have with it is the ATS 100 is just as easy on the arm and has more spin and power, but also, much MUCH better feel.
Clashes are sorta like Yonex - a very unique feel. Neither of which I care for. I keep my Clash98 in the bag for people with arm issues or when I invariable injure myself entering too many competitions. Even so, I am not sure it is more arm friendly than the ATS over all. When you shank on a Clash, you feel it. It does something odd and stiffens up.

I have hit with a few Ultra Pro pro stocks(H19's?) and a fair few Dunlops based on it, my favourite being my 300 BioM's. Love the control and feel the 18X20's have.
They just make me work too much nowadays. 15 years ago and I would likely still be using them - especially since I much preferred them weighted up to mad levels.

167115262.XosjZdCH.jpg


Can you spot the Clash 98 in this photo?

174132046.6bbe2079.JPEG


174131217.5d0120eb.JPEG
 
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Tennis1337

New User
I have a Clash 98, which I feel is the only Clash worth having. It has 8 mains thru the throat, is very controlled, and extremely easy on the arm.
The only issue I have with it is the ATS 100 is just as easy on the arm and has more spin and power, but also, much MUCH better feel.
Clashes are sorta like Yonex - a very unique feel. Neither of which I care for. I keep my Clash98 in the bag for people with arm issues or when I invariable injure myself entering too many competitions. Even so, I am not sure it is more arm friendly than the ATS over all. When you shank on a Clash, you feel it. It does something odd and stiffens up.

I have hit with a few Ultra Pro pro stocks(H19's?) and a fair few Dunlops based on it, my favourite being my 300 BioM's. Love the control and feel the 18X20's have.
They just make me work too much nowadays. 15 years ago and I would likely still be using them - especially since I much preferred them weighted up to mad levels.

167115262.XosjZdCH.jpg


Can you spot the Clash 98 in this photo?

174132046.6bbe2079.JPEG


174131217.5d0120eb.JPEG
How does the ATS Tour 100 310 compare to the 2019 version 310? I've been hesitant with ATS. I use the 2019 100 310 for doubles. Its simply the best.

However, after trying the ATS 98, I didnt like the flex in the throat. I felt the throat flex randomly launch the ball when I didnt accelerate. I like the 2019 Tour 100 310 and now the 2015 100P. I've been using the newest Head Radicals both MP and Pro, but have been wanting to go with Prince again since I lack so much on serves with the Radical.
 

Trip

Legend
@vincebox - Yonex doesn't really have a stick that perfectly matches the Tour 100P (nobody really does, for that matter). I would say the closest match would be the Percept 100D. But the T100P has characteristics of the EZ98, P97, P97D and 100D all kind of rolled into one. Genius frame, and in IMHO currently Prince's best by a good margin.
 

J-Wildcard

Semi-Pro
I have recently only just got hold of some Prince TT 310 rackets, I have mentioned this already but am amazed how well the open pattern plays so I need to play more yet before in better conditions, it's cold and damp right for decent testing. I am getting confused by the 100p ranges regards what string pattern Prince uses. Usually I can tell from the name in listing but with the prince range I keep seeing different string patterns, 16x18 18x20 posted on a 100p frame (I guess if it's phantom the 100p is 16x18 but in the tour frame a 100p is 18x20? I have liked the look of the newer ats white series frames 2022 I think but they are still very expensive in the UK, are they due to be replaced soon no doubt resulting in price reductions. I heard in the states there was a few super low price sales on some of the prince frames.
 

Trip

Legend
@J-Wildcard - I'll clear it up for you. The "100P" model has existed in both the Phantom and Tour silos, as the following models:
Fire-Shot-Capture-001-Racquet-Finder-www-racquetfinder-com.png
As you can see, the 16x18 pattern is from the Phantom Pro 100P (2017) / 100P (2020) -- same mold, same drill pattern in both. The 18x20 pattern is from the Tour 100P, originally released in 2015, then updated in 2019 with a more firm 66RA flex (my favorite, by far) and finally the current 2022 ATS Tour 100P, which has ATS at 10 & 2 and is back to a softer flex, more like the 2015.

As for a potential refresh of either 100P and the silos at large, Prince usually sticks to a 3-4 year refresh cycle, which means if the Phantoms are going to get a refresh, it would probably have to be in 2024, maybe 2025 at the latest; otherwise, I fear they'll be discontinued. As for the Tours, I would expect a refresh, but not until late-2024/early-2025 at the earliest. Before then, though, I'm sure there will be some discounting around certain parts of this year.

Hope that helps clear up any confusion about models, specs and timelines.
 
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J-Wildcard

Semi-Pro
@J-Wildcard - I'll clear it up for you. The "100P" model has existed in both the Phantom and Tour silos, as the following models:
Fire-Shot-Capture-001-Racquet-Finder-www-racquetfinder-com.png
As you can see, the 16x18 pattern is from the Phantom Pro 100P (2017) / 100P (2020) -- same mold, same drill pattern in both. The 18x20 pattern is from the Tour 100P, originally released in 2015, then updated in 2019 with a more firm 66RA flex (my favorite, by far) and finally the current 2022 ATS Tour 100P, which has ATS at 10 & 2 and is back to a softer flex, more like the 2015.

As for a potential refresh of either 100P and the silos at large, Prince usually sticks to a 3-4 year refresh cycle, which means if the Phantoms are going to get a refresh, it would probably have to be in 2024, maybe 2025 at the latest; otherwise, I fear they'll be discontinued. As for the Tours, I would expect a refresh, but not until late-2024/early-2025 at the earliest. Before then, though, I'm sure there will be some discounting around certain parts of this year.

Hope that helps clear up any confusion about models, specs and timelines.
Thanks for the explanation, I think the key thing you touch in is regarding the layup situation where it sounds like they were softer but then went mid 60s then back to early 60s. I would say the string pattern and the twaron they used in the 2019 would have a bearing on how things feel and play and that's what has shocked me. Any other frame I have hit with in the mid 60s has felt firmer, the prestige which I mainly used in various forms was usually a softer layup but with a mega tight and closed 18x20. Now in recent years head has moved away from that tight pattern and gone to a more open 18x20 but I don't think it's as predictable a frame now as it was with the old pattern. I am looking for a bit more free power and like this more open pattern so far. I was looking at trying a more open pattern and the prince tour 310 is a serious frame what I have seen so far. The build and way it's set up is top drawer and it looks a level above the other manufacturers to me in frame materials and QC. I think Head are a long way off the old days in regards to paint finish and just the look and quality. They are still decent frames but not what they were. I guess at some point I would like to try the tour in the 18x20 pattern but as it is I will give these a go and see how they fare. I will keep an eye out for the newer versions also a few of those frames look worth a try, I was going to get one of the new ATS range anyway but stumbled across a used set of tour 100 310 which is where I landed.
 
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Trip

Legend
The build and way it's set up is top drawer and it looks a level above the other manufacturers to me in frame materials and QC.
You're right about that. The OEM that Prince uses is the same OEM that makes Diadem and Solinco's frames as well (you can tell from the similarity of the authenticity stickers on the neck of all the frames) -- I'm pretty sure it's YMA Univers (link). All three brands have a level of QC/QA that is definitely a notch above a good portion of the stuff that the Bab/Head/Tec/Wilson are churning out. Still a tad below Yonex, but not by much.

As for the Tour 100 and Tour 100P, both are excellent frames, with the 100 having noticeably more trampoline, ball bite and launch angle, while the 100P has more control on flatter strikes (which agrees much more with my game, personally), is perhaps 10-20% lower-powered, but is maybe 10-20% more consistent over a larger percentage of the face area. Both have their strengths, though. The 100 tends to work best for those who have more windshield wiper swipe to their stroke, whereas the 100P works best for those who hit more through the ball (like myself).
 
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J-Wildcard

Semi-Pro
You're right about that. The OEM that Prince uses is the same OEM that makes Diadem and Solinco's frames as well (you can tell from the similarity of the authenticity stickers on the neck of all the frames) -- I'm pretty sure it's YMA Univers (link). All three brands have a level of QC/QA that is definitely a notch above a good portion of the stuff that the Bab/Head/Tec/Wilson are churning out. Still a tad below Yonex, but not by much.

As for the Tour 100 and Tour 100P, both are excellent frames, with the 100 having noticeably more trampoline, ball bite and launch angle, while the 100P has more control on flatter strikes (which agrees much more with my game, personally), is perhaps 10-20% lower-powered, but is maybe 10-20% more consistent over a larger percentage of the face area. Both have their strengths, though. The 100 tends to work best for those who have more windshield wiper swipe to their stroke, whereas the 100P works best for those who hit more through the ball (like myself).
Yes the 18x20 sounds like my cup of tea if u can get properly fit again and get my arm hitting like it was a couple of years back. The prestige was like that in terms of ultra dependancy and consistency when really putting the hammer down. I am always a grip size 3 with an overgrip but the prince's I have are in a L4, I can tell also the grip shape pretty different but still not bad. Head had changed theirs anyway from the rectangular to more squared but this even more squared still. It's hard in that regard to gauge my perfect size and unfortunately can't change these so have to work with what I have. I will possibly go for a L3 in the next one. Would you say the 2019 100p is still pretty comfy, I think I like the idea of more power to be honest over the softer layup of these twaron segments make it softer anyway. I read a lot of stuff about the tour 310 and everyone was saying it felt pretty comfy for mid 60s and handled well too. It's so damp, wet and soon to be colder here though in UK so not really the time for fine tuning and testing frames infact, however if I get some easier power in cold conditions that's definitely a bonus. The prestige in very cool conditions and if the bass aren't pretty new, fresh is very hard work to get any pace and power out of them even at lower tensions due to closed patterns and thin soft frame.
 

Trip

Legend
Yeah from the sounds of what you like, I think you may be a bit more at home with the 100P as a good middle ground, but nothing like having both to compare/contrast (I have four of each 2019 100 310 and 100P). Overall, I think the firmer 2019 100P is quite possibly the most well-balanced frame ever made. It just literally splits the difference on almost every spec you can think of. Will be interested to hear what you think of it once you get ahold of one or more.
 

vincebox

New User
@vincebox - Yonex doesn't really have a stick that perfectly matches the Tour 100P (nobody really does, for that matter). I would say the closest match would be the Percept 100D. But the T100P has characteristics of the EZ98, P97, P97D and 100D all kind of rolled into one. Genius frame, and in IMHO currently Prince's best by a good margin.
Thank you for comparing the frame.
 

J-Wildcard

Semi-Pro
Yeah from the sounds of what you like, I think you may be a bit more at home with the 100P as a good middle ground, but nothing like having both to compare/contrast (I have four of each 2019 100 310 and 100P). Overall, I think the firmer 2019 100P is quite possibly the most well-balanced frame ever made. It just literally splits the difference on almost every spec you can think of. Will be interested to hear what you think of it once you get ahold of one or more.
Yes I nearly bought a 100p tour on **** but spotted that it was the 2015 version as they look pretty similar don't they but the Prince logo is in gold isn't it and it says 305 as opposed to midplus at the top of the frame.
I think new versions are long gone mostly now as it's been released a while though I am still swing a few of the 290 tour frames around which are a similar age right? How did you find the latest white version ATS tour 100p? I see it's softer as you had mentioned so I'm guessing less put away power, I guess it's got a different feel and going more down the prestige path of softer frame and lower power. I've got loads of those already and am looking for a bit more pop.
 

mhkeuns

Hall of Fame
Loved the original. Hoping the new ATS TT 100P is an upgrade. Debated between the 98 and 100P. Hoping that it was the right choice,
 

mhkeuns

Hall of Fame
Noticed that there were only 6 mains in the 18x20 pattern. I thought most, if not all, 18x20’s had 8 mains. Some control 16x19 sticks also had 8 mains. When fully strung, it looked like the frame could have been made without the last two mains making it a 16x20. Maybe that’s the reason the Tour 100P is known for being a spin-friendly 18x20.
 

Trip

Legend
Noticed that there were only 6 mains in the 18x20 pattern. I thought most, if not all, 18x20’s had 8 mains. Some control 16x19 sticks also had 8 mains. When fully strung, it looked like the frame could have been made without the last two mains making it a 16x20. Maybe that’s the reason the Tour 100P is known for being a spin-friendly 18x20.
Exactly right. An 18 main drill pattern whose outermost mains are very proximal, with balanced spacing that basically pulls those two would-be extra mains in the throat back out, thus six total. Spins like a semi-dense 16 main (Radical, etc.) but has higher consistency across the face and less trampoline, per most 18 main sticks. Couple that with 305g, an oval hoop that handles more like a 98 and a 7pt HL strung balance, and you have an under-the-radar GOAT-level frame. Especially the more firm 2019.
 

tata

Hall of Fame
I've actually been semi looking around to see if any places still sell the 2019 100p. I think the stiffer layup can improve off center responses but so far it looks like I'm too late!
 

mhkeuns

Hall of Fame
My first hitting experience: Strung my 100P at 51lbs with Volkl Cyclone (16g mains, 17g crosses). Just as I remember the 2015 version, the new ATS Tour 100P is a great, well-rounded frame that can do it all. It swings effortlessly and provides ample power and spin. The feels is more crisp than the 2015 version, which felt muted. This version feels more connected, ime.

This racket became super popular with everyone who’s tested it. One guy who uses the modded up Blade Team couldn’t believe how much control it provided, especially on some of his aggressive attacking shots.. Being an 100” frame, most guessed the Tour 100P to be just another powerful frame. Everyone loved the comfortable feel and its predictable responses, It is quite an easy frame to play well from the beginning without spending too much time getting familiarized.
 
I just hit the 2015 100P today. Feels like perfect singles racquet. I typically use the Textreme Tour 100 310 2019 version but for doubles, but I need more precision for singles. This 100P fits the bill. Good thing is I can accelerate on both one handed backhand and two handed backhand.

I have tried the Pure Aero VS, Pure Aero 98, Vcore 95 2023, Vcore 95 2021, Radical MP Auxetic, Radical Pro Auxetic, ATS Tour 98, ATS Tour 100P, Ezone 98, 100P 2019 version, Blade V8 (98 and 100), Prince Phantom 100X, Dunlop CX200 Tour, Solinco Whiteout 16x19, Extreme Tour Auxetic and probably some more that I forgot.

Of all these the 2015 100P is similar to Blade V8 and Radical Pro Auxetic. You get that nice cushioned feeling on off center hits like the Blade V8.

The 100P 2019 is stiffer and can launch the ball more. The ATS 100P has the ATS flex which I don't like at all. It's similar to the 2015, but I prefer the 2015.

Could comment if 100P 2019 vs the Blade v8 100. How much do they compare in power, spin, serve and volley?
 

vincebox

New User
After having played a while, I am so positive about the 100p 2015 (first) version.
However, I am getting wrist / shoulder issues.
I have changed from poly to multifilament. Also using a dampener etc.

So playing with the Yonex Vcore Pro 100 2021 again.
That racket is so arm friendly. All problems are gone again.

However, I am wondering.
Is the Prince ATS Tour 2023 like the Vcore Pro 100 in terms of dampening and arm friendlyness?
Or is changing from the 2015 to 2023 not much of a difference in that area?
I am so fond of the Prince racket, but the shock / vibration dampening is the issue that's why I ask.
 

Trip

Legend
@vincebox - A few questions:
- What's your height
- What's your NTRP or UTR (a guestimate is good enough)
- Beyond the dampener and I'd presume an over grip, do you have your 100P modified in any further way(s) -- lead, silicone, etc? (trying to deduce your strung spec)

Short of knowing any of that, I'd venture you're not playing with enough recoil weight for your biomechanics and/or aggression level, which can often manifest as discomfort, especially in more direct/raw frames, which the Tours tend to be, even the softer 2015's/2022's. As such, if you haven't tried it already, some light customization to boost recoil may help with comfort, long before we even need to consider the type of string setup.
 
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forthegame

Hall of Fame
Hi peeps.

I've been playing with a 2015 Textreme Tour 100P ("midplus" at the top of the frame, 305gm unstrung weight written in the throat).

My TT100P is stock except for overgrip and rubber band (total weight 330g).

I'm after a bit more free power really. Otherwise it plays well and has kept me from rachetaholicking for a while.... until now.

Tried an Angell K7 Lime but it feels heavier in hand and heavier to swing, my serve went AWOL as well, not sure why; weighed 330g - 2 overgrips and damp, but felt heavier in a funny way...

Is there a higher power version of the comfy TT 100P 2015?

Ta muchly.
 
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Trip

Legend
Hi peeps.

I've been playing with a 2015 Textreme Tour 100P ("midplus" at the top of the frame, 305gm unstrung weight written in the throat).

My TT100P is stock except for overgrip and rubber band (total weight 330g).

I'm after a bit more free power really. Otherwise it plays well and has kept me from rachetaholicking for a while.... until now.

Tried an Angell K7 Lime but it feels heavier in hand and heavier to swing, my serve went AWOL as well, not sure why; weighed 320g - 2 overgrips and damp, but felt heavier in a funny way...

Is there a higher power version of the comfy TT 100P 2015?

Ta muchly.
Presuming racquet head speed stays constant, the main ways to increase power are by increasing (in rough order of greatest impact to least):
1) Swing weight
2) Stiffness (flex)
3) String bed size
4) String bed open-ness
5) Beam width
6) Elliptical beam shape
7) Higher-powered string material

Without changing racquets, you can manipulate #1 (Swing Weight), #4 (String Bed Open-ness, to a very small degree, via narrower string gauge) and #7 (String Material). Since nothing adds power like #1 (Swing Weight), I would start there by adding 1g increments of lead tape @ 12 o'clock on the hoop, until the point where you feel the extra swing weight starting to slow your racquet head speed noticeably enough (which you often feel more so through gradual fatigue rather than immediately), and then back off the added weight by 1g or so. From there, move to #7, a try stringing with higher power strings, such as with more explosive poly, or a hybrid, or full-bed non-poly (gut, multi, etc.).
 

vincebox

New User
@vincebox - A few questions:
- What's your height
- What's your NTRP or UTR (a guestimate is good enough)
- Beyond the dampener and I'd presume an over grip, do you have your 100P modified in any further way(s) -- lead, silicone, etc? (trying to deduce your strung spec)

Short of knowing any of that, I'd venture you're not playing with enough recoil weight for your biomechanics and/or aggression level, which can often manifest as discomfort, especially in more direct/raw frames, which the Tours tend to be, even the softer 2015's/2022's. As such, if you haven't tried it already, some light customization to boost recoil may help with comfort, long before we even need to consider the type of string setup.
Hi,

NTR is 3
I'm 6 feet long
I don't use anything on the racket.
Just a dampener and an overgrip.


I've tried adding weight to 3 and 9
and also not at 3 and 9 but at twelve.

I went to a professional (does stringing at tournaments like Wimbledon) racket tuner.
He made the 2 rackets I've got equal in specs.

I just like to know if the 2021 version would be much of an upgrade to the 2015 in comfort
and if it will be really as good in comfort as my Vcore Pro 100 2021 (or if there is anything I need to do which I haven't tried yet what could make a huge difference, but honestly I believe all is tried )
 

forthegame

Hall of Fame
Presuming racquet head speed stays constant, the main ways to increase power are by increasing (in rough order of greatest impact to least):
1) Swing weight
2) Stiffness (flex)
3) String bed size
4) String bed open-ness
5) Beam width
6) Elliptical beam shape
7) Higher-powered string material

Without changing racquets, you can manipulate #1 (Swing Weight), #4 (String Bed Open-ness, to a very small degree, via narrower string gauge) and #7 (String Material). Since nothing adds power like #1 (Swing Weight), I would start there by adding 1g increments of lead tape @ 12 o'clock on the hoop, until the point where you feel the extra swing weight starting to slow your racquet head speed noticeably enough (which you often feel more so through gradual fatigue rather than immediately), and then back off the added weight by 1g or so. From there, move to #7, a try stringing with higher power strings, such as with more explosive poly, or a hybrid, or full-bed non-poly (gut, multi, etc.).
Thanks mate. Great advice.
I've tried to avoid tinkering with racquets as I've never had much success but will give things a go.

Anything to avoid relapsing into 'holicism....
 
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tele

Hall of Fame
Thanks mate. Great advice.
I've tied to avoid tinkering with racquets as I've never had much success but will give things a go.

Anything to avoid relapsing into 'holicism....
if you do not want to use lead, the head bumper guard tape is easy to use. It has been a while since I used it to add weight, but I think enough tape to cover the bumper will add around 3 grams. I used two half-bumper lengths and made two layers at the top of the racquet to boost swingweight.
 

Trip

Legend
NTR[P] is 3 [...] I'm 6 feet long [...] Just a dampener and an overgrip. [...] I've tried adding weight to 3 and 9 and also not at 3 and 9 but at twelve.[...]
I just like to know if the 2021 version would be much of an upgrade to the 2015 in comfort
and if it will be really as good in comfort as my Vcore Pro 100 2021 (or if there is anything I need to do which I haven't tried yet what could make a huge difference, but honestly I believe all is tried )
Understood. Sounds like you've tried as much customization of the 100P as is reasonable to expect of anyone. I probably wouldn't send you down any further rabbit holes on that front then.
As for the '22 being any more comfortable than the '15, it might be possible, as the '22's handle Hz vibration was measured lower by TWU (as 130Hz, versus the '15 at 139Hz), but that doesn't always tell the full story. The only way to really know is to try the frame and see.
As for if the '22 T100P would be more comfortable than the '21 VCP 100, I'm not sure there, either. I've played both the VCP 97 310 and 97D, and they are supremely comfortable sticks, like probably some of the highest comfort of any stick on the market made in the last few years, mainly due to the level of flex and VDM in the handle. I'm not sure any Prince is going to feel that comfortable, save for the Phantom models.

Thanks mate. Great advice.
I've tried to avoid tinkering with racquets as I've never had much success but will give things a go.

Anything to avoid relapsing into 'holicism....
Understood. I think it may well be worth experimenting, even if for no other reason than to experience firsthand what it feels like to step on the court with the same frame, but with 5-10 more points of swing weight, hitting those first few balls noticeably bigger, and thinking that first thought of "Wow!..." It really drives the point home, that almost any racquet can be made to be powerful enough, provided you can handle the added inertia.

if you do not want to use lead, the head bumper guard tape is easy to use. It has been a while since I used it to add weight, but I think enough tape to cover the bumper will add around 3 grams. I used two half-bumper lengths and made two layers at the top of the racquet to boost swingweight.
That's a great tip. Head guard tape also works. Just make sure to measure it before application (on a kitchen scale, or similar), and you should be good to go.
 

tele

Hall of Fame
That's a great tip. Head guard tape also works. Just make sure to measure it before application (on a kitchen scale, or similar), and you should be good to go.
indeed, and if you weigh it with the backing on, be sure to weigh the backing and subtract it after applying. I tend to remove the backing before weighing, but it can be a little tricky to keep the tape from sticking to itself.
 

forthegame

Hall of Fame
Understood. Sounds like you've tried as much customization of the 100P as is reasonable to expect of anyone. I probably wouldn't send you down any further rabbit holes on that front then.
As for the '22 being any more comfortable than the '15, it might be possible, as the '22's handle Hz vibration was measured lower by TWU (as 130Hz, versus the '15 at 139Hz), but that doesn't always tell the full story. The only way to really know is to try the frame and see.
As for if the '22 T100P would be more comfortable than the '21 VCP 100, I'm not sure there, either. I've played both the VCP 97 310 and 97D, and they are supremely comfortable sticks, like probably some of the highest comfort of any stick on the market made in the last few years, mainly due to the level of flex and VDM in the handle. I'm not sure any Prince is going to feel that comfortable, save for the Phantom models.
Out of sheer curiosity, do either of those Yonex racquets (VCP 97 310 and 97D) have more power compared to the TT100P? Control? Are they comparable on serve?
Looks like you rate them highly for comfort
 

fox

Professional
Out of sheer curiosity, do either of those Yonex racquets (VCP 97 310 and 97D) have more power compared to the TT100P? Control? Are they comparable on serve?
Looks like you rate them highly for comfort
Prince is more powerful and better serving, Yonex is more controlled.
 

Trip

Legend
Out of sheer curiosity, do either of those Yonex racquets (VCP 97 310 and 97D) have more power compared to the TT100P? Control? Are they comparable on serve?
Looks like you rate them highly for comfort
To be clear, my reference points are the 2021 VCP 97 and 97D, and 2019 (more firm) T100P.
  • Power-to-Spec Ratio: T100P > 97D >= 97 - T100P probably about 15-20% higher than both VCP's on groundies, 10-15% higher on serve.
  • Control:
    • Depth Control: 97D 5%> 97 3%> T100P - VCPs out front due to softer flex, longer/deeper dwell and more rebound control granularity, vs. the more firm/crisp response and hybrid-elliptical beam of the T100P.
    • Locational Precision: 97D 20%> 97 2-3%> T100P - The VCP 97" hoop allows for an extra level of shot steering, and the D's tighter pattern combined with that is noticeably the most precise.
  • Comfort: 97 1-2%> 97D 10-15%> T100P - The '21 VCPs are some of, if not the most, comfortable Yonex releases ever; the Tours, even in 2015 or 2022 form, are more crisp and direct, with a hint of muting.
That said, when compared the more firmed-up Percept iterations to the softened 2022 ATS Tours, I would be that the gaps on power-to-spec, control and comfort have all gotten a bit smaller.

Hope that helps!
 
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