Pure Aero 98 vs Shift 300

[Vladivital17]

Hey,

I wanted to start a thread and discuss Pure Aero 98 vs Wilson Shift 300 with you guys that have played with both. Lets compare them and see which one gets more votes to be the winner.

Before laying out your thoughts and experience with these sticks, please share if you tried to customize them and how. Did you keep your mods to the racket or reverted to stock specs.

You can share you experince with each of them and pick an overall favorite.
I think it will be even more useful if we breakdown our reviews into playing characteristics and compare based on them:

Control,
Spin,
Power,
Feel,
Touch shots,
Net play,
Serving,
Comfort,
Maneuverability,
Stability
Anything else you think is worth mentioning.

Please also share the approximate time you have with each racket so we know on how many hours is your experience based.

I will start by saying that I own the Shift 300 and I have ~20-25hrs with it. I preciously owned a PA VS and I like this Shift more.
On the Shift I have an overgrip on and added 1g of lead to both 10 and 2. This leads to a final ~327-328 static weight. I will be testing the racket at about 330 - 331 static weight now as I added another half overgrip on it (for one handed backhands).
I think 10 and 2 are the best places to add weight to this rackets as it adds just a bit more plow and just a bit more stability without beefing up the swingweight too much and making it sluggish.

My review:
Control - pretty good control, i am able to hit my targets. Nothing scalpel like crazy but also i have never felt like its lacking control

Spin - pretty good spin, throw a shaped string in the mix and you are easily getting a spin machine

Power - good power, again nothing crazy, just the right amount to get good depth. I would classify it as medium to high powered.

Feel - I think this racket has an amazing feel. I also have a pro staff 97 v13 which is a very connected racket with very good direct feel. I think the shift might have even better feel. There is an amazing pocketing and the ball launches very pleasantly off the strings.

Touch shots - I think the ability of the player comes in play alot here, however the rackets does its part. My backhand slices with this racket go deep, are precise and stay very low. Out of the 9-10 rackets I owned in the past teo years, this is by far the best one for this shot, even better than the pro staff.

Net play - the racket is manuverable and that helps. It feels great on volleys, you can punch them or just absord the pace of the ball for a short / drop volley. It feels crisp

Serving - the spin and power on the racket make it a great weapon on the serve. The flat serves are powerful and the kicks serves get enough bite to produce a good kick off the ground.

Comfort - the racket is pretty comfortable even with stiffer strings. Haven't given me any soreness or pain anywhere.

Maneuverability - really good, the racket is fast through the air.

Stability - not the best, not the worst. Gets better with slight customization.

 

[ulunxtns]

These are the two racquets currently in my bag, I believe they belong to the same category of racquets, and I liked them both for different reasons. I will just give my comparison review based on my experience so far, it might change later on, I will keep updating it.

Control: Shift > PA98
Spin: PA98 > Shift
Power: PA98 > Shift
Feel: Shift > PA98
Touch shots: Shift >= PA98
Net play: Shift > PA98
Serving: PA98 >= Shift
Comfort: Shift > PA98
Maneuverability: Shift = PA98
Stability: Shift >= PA98

I agree that 10 & 2 are the best lead placements for the Shift, I haven't modified my PA98 yet, but it plays great in stock so far. Also, I'm looking forward to trying the new 2024 Pure Strike 100 (16x20) version. In my mind, it could be the hybrid of these two racquets.

 

[Vladivital17]

These are the two racquets currently in my bag, I believe they belong to the same category of racquets, and I liked them both for different reasons. I will just give my comparison review based on my experience so far, it might change later on, I will keep updating it.

Control: Shift > PA98
Spin: PA98 > Shift
Power: PA98 > Shift
Feel: Shift > PA98
Touch shots: Shift >= PA98
Net play: Shift > PA98
Serving: PA98 >= Shift
Comfort: Shift > PA98
Maneuverability: Shift = PA98
Stability: Shift >= PA98

I agree that 10 & 2 are the best lead placements for the Shift, I haven't modified my PA98 yet, but it plays great in stock so far. Also, I'm looking forward to trying the new 2024 Pure Strike 100 (16x20) version. In my mind, it could be the hybrid of these two racquets.

Wow, Thanks!
This is exactly the feedback I was looking for from people that used both rackets. From what you mentioned, seems like the Shift outperforms the PA in all the key areas for me.
I have the shift as I mentioned and I was wondering if its worth getting a PA98 and compating them trying to find the better one.
Your review helps for sure and I remain hesitant of getting a PA.

As of the pure strike - I have some bad memoriea of using 98sq inch 16x19 3rd gen strike in my early days as tennis player. Each time i didn't find the sweetspot (which was relatively half the times in match play, not gonna lie) the ball would just totally die and drop in my feet
100 sq inch + 16x20 sounds interesting though!
Cheers!

 

[ulunxtns]

Wow, Thanks!
This is exactly the feedback I was looking for from people that used both rackets. From what you mentioned, seems like the Shift outperforms the PA in all the key areas for me.
I have the shift as I mentioned and I was wondering if its worth getting a PA98 and compating them trying to find the better one.
Your review helps for sure and I remain hesitant of getting a PA.

As of the pure strike - I have some bad memoriea of using 98sq inch 16x19 3rd gen strike in my early days as tennis player. Each time i didn't find the sweetspot (which was relatively half the times in match play, not gonna lie) the ball would just totally die and drop in my feet
100 sq inch + 16x20 sounds interesting though!
Cheers!

I wouldn't say the Shift outperforms the PA98. Actually, I've been playing with PA98 more these days. the reason is power and ball speed. I got better results with PA98 in match plays. It depends on your level and playing style.
To me, the power advantage of PA98 gives me consistent easy depth, so I have more time to adjust my footwork for the next shot and keep my opponent at the baseline. And PA98 is easier for me to hit flatter shots. The most important part is when I want to attack, I feel like it's more efficient to transfer the weight to the shots with PA98 than the Shift.

On the other hand, you can hit hard with the Shift and the balls rarely go out, they always drop in. PA98 is a more attacking stick, Shift is a more controlled and grinding style stick.

 

[Vladivital17]

I wouldn't say the Shift outperforms the PA98. Actually, I've been playing with PA98 more these days. the reason is power and ball speed. I got better results with PA98 in match plays. It depends on your level and playing style.
To me, the power advantage of PA98 gives me consistent easy depth, so I have more time to adjust my footwork for the next shot and keep my opponent at the baseline. And PA98 is easier for me to hit flatter shots. The most important part is when I want to attack, I feel like it's more efficient to transfer the weight to the shots with PA98 than the Shift.

On the other hand, you can hit hard with the Shift and the balls rarely go out, they always drop in. PA98 is a more attacking stick, Shift is a more controlled and grinding style stick.

I agree that each of these rackets will fit different playing styles better.
I like the shift because it fits mine - i can define myself as allcourt player.
I would imagine that the PA will fit an aggressive baseliner more.

I am 194 cm tall weighing 97-98 kg. I can easily generate my own power and I can bomb the serve without too much help from the racket. As you mentioned, i can rip into the ball with my shots and it rarely sails on me, it rather dips deep near the baseline. I rarely / never try to flatten the shot, I like to have a decent trajectory on my ball so it can dip at the right moment.
My physique isn't meant for grinding so what I like to do is hit hard and look for angles keeping my opponent on the run, then going to the net as soon as I can and finishing there, thats why volleying and touch are quite important for my style.
I like to throw in a slice or a drop shot to break the tempo of the point sometimes or if I am not in total control of the rally.

Btw, what string are you using?
I am using hybrid of Poly tour pro (blue) on the crosses and Head Lynx Tour (grey) on the mains. Both are 1.25 gauge strung at 23/22 kg. This combo provides me great pocketing, feel and ball bite.
However I will.be trying luxilon adrenaline 1.25 and then WC Silverstring at 1.25 and 1.20. (Will be trying the WC one mainly to see if I can find a good budget option, i have red great things about it).
I feel like these rackets have enough topspin so they would be just fine without a shaped string in them.

 

[ulunxtns]

I agree that each of these rackets will fit different playing styles better.
I like the shift because it fits mine - i can define myself as allcourt player.
I would imagine that the PA will fit an aggressive baseliner more.

I am 194 cm tall weighing 97-98 kg. I can easily generate my own power and I can bomb the serve without too much help from the racket. As you mentioned, i can rip into the ball with my shots and it rarely sails on me, it rather dips deep near the baseline. I rarely / never try to flatten the shot, I like to have a decent trajectory on my ball so it can dip at the right moment.
My physique isn't meant for grinding so what I like to do is hit hard and look for angles keeping my opponent on the run, then going to the net as soon as I can and finishing there, thats why volleying and touch are quite important for my style.
What atrings are you using?
I am using hybrid of Poly tour pro (blue) on the crosses and Head Lynx Tour (grey) on the mains. Both are 1.25 gauge strung at 23/22 kg. This combo provides me great pocketing, feel and ball bite.
However I will.be trying luxilon adrenaline 1.25 and then WC Silverstring at 1.25 and 1.20. (Will be trying the WC one mainly to see if I can find a good budget option, i have red great things about it).

Shift: Toroline Wasabi Carbon/SuperToro 50/48 lbs
PA98: Toroline Wasabi Carbon/Wasabi X 48/45 lbs

For volleying, Shift is better I agree. It has a better feel at the net. And for short angles, Shift is better too. That's why I feel the Shift gives a lot of spin for control purposes you can do whatever you want, not necessarily an offensive spin. But I find it's more efficient to hit left and right to make your opponent run with PA98 since the balls are faster with the same effort.

 

[Vladivital17]

Shift: Toroline Wasabi Carbon/SuperToro 50/48 lbs
PA98: Toroline Wasabi Carbon/Wasabi X 48/45 lbs

For volleying, Shift is better I agree. It has a better feel at the net. And for short angles, Shift is better too. That's why I feel the Shift gives a lot of spin for control purposes you can do whatever you want, not necessarily an offensive spin. But I find it's more efficient to hit left and right to make your opponent run with PA98 since the balls are faster with the same effort.

Thats and interesting perspective. Thanks!

I gotta try them Toroline strings

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

Hey,

I wanted to start a thread and discuss Pure Aero 98 vs Wilson Shift 300 with you guys that have played with both. Lets compare them and see which one gets more votes to be the winner.

Before laying out your thoughts and experience with these sticks, please share if you tried to customize them and how. Did you keep your mods to the racket or reverted to stock specs.

You can share you experince with each of them and pick an overall favorite.
I think it will be even more useful if we breakdown our reviews into playing characteristics and compare based on them:

Control,
Spin,
Power,
Feel,
Touch shots,
Net play,
Serving,
Comfort,
Maneuverability,
Stability
Anything else you think is worth mentioning.

Please also share the approximate time you have with each racket so we know on how many hours is your experience based.

I will start by saying that I own the Shift 300 and I have ~20-25hrs with it. I preciously owned a PA VS and I like this Shift more.
On the Shift I have an overgrip on and added 1g of lead to both 10 and 2. This leads to a final ~327-328 static weight. I will be testing the racket at about 330 - 331 static weight now as I added another half overgrip on it (for one handed backhands).
I think 10 and 2 are the best places to add weight to this rackets as it adds just a bit more plow and just a bit more stability without beefing up the swingweight too much and making it sluggish.

My review:
Control - pretty good control, i am able to hit my targets. Nothing scalpel like crazy but also i have never felt like its lacking control

Spin - pretty good spin, throw a shaped string in the mix and you are easily getting a spin machine

Power - good power, again nothing crazy, just the right amount to get good depth. I would classify it as medium to high powered.

Feel - I think this racket has an amazing feel. I also have a pro staff 97 v13 which is a very connected racket with very good direct feel. I think the shift might have even better feel. There is an amazing pocketing and the ball launches very pleasantly off the strings.

Touch shots - I think the ability of the player comes in play alot here, however the rackets does its part. My backhand slices with this racket go deep, are precise and stay very low. Out of the 9-10 rackets I owned in the past teo years, this is by far the best one for this shot, even better than the pro staff.

Net play - the racket is manuverable and that helps. It feels great on volleys, you can punch them or just absord the pace of the ball for a short / drop volley. It feels crisp

Serving - the spin and power on the racket make it a great weapon on the serve. The flat serves are powerful and the kicks serves get enough bite to produce a good kick off the ground.

Comfort - the racket is pretty comfortable even with stiffer strings. Haven't given me any soreness or pain anywhere.

Maneuverability - really good, the racket is fast through the air.

Stability - not the best, not the worst. Gets better with slight customization.

Hi, all the things that you listed and talked about with @ulunxtns depend on several things. The tension you use, the strings you use, and the modifications (if any) you have on the racquet.

I agree with much of what is written (and what @ulunxtns has said)... except for the power component. The reason for that is that my racquets are modified with weight. The PA98 is 366g strung and the balance is more HL than stock (but there is weight added at the tip of the racquet as well)... and the Shift 99/300 has been modified to 349/350g strung. Both racquets have silicone in the handle, the PA98 has about 5.5g distributed around the head (but mostly towards the tip - 2, 10, and 12 o'clock regions, and very small amounts at 3 and 9), while the Shift has about 4g distributed more evenly around the head (2,3,4,9,10, and 12 o'clock).

I find that I can get plenty of power from the Shift (in fact possibly more than the PA98), and I find that the serves are bigger (and my opponents seem to have more trouble returning them). Both racquets can achieve excellent depth, and both hit with lots of spin, the PA98 may have a bit more control (but it's close)... but the Shift is noticeably more comfortable. Both of my racquets are strung at the same tension... however, they have different strings in them (which may contribute to a difference in my results, as well as a possible difference in feel - something that I will check when I re-string the PA98 with identical strings to the Shift 300 and at the same tension). I strung both @ 48M/45C, the Shift 300 is strung with Wasabi Pink in the Mains and Caviar in the Crosses, while the PA98 is strung with MSV Focus Hex 1.18mm in the Mains, and Tru Pro (Tier 1) Ghostwire 1.22mm in the Crosses.

They are both great racquets, but I think I am getting better results (or at least achieving what I want to achieve with the racquets) with the Shift 99/300 (at this time).

Initially, I demoed the Shift 99/315... and I found that racquet to be excellent (in fact I bought it). I would recommend demoing the 315g version (if anything), as it had great spin (not as much launch angle and probably a tighter kind of spin - if your technique is good), lots of power, was better at directional control, had better control overall, and I was able to serve bombs with it as well. The only thing was that there were times when it felt more stiff and jarring (off-center) than ideal (but this was something I was going to attempt to solve with slight mods - which I have done, but not had a chance to hit with it yet). That is the reason I bought the Shift 99/300... and then modified it to 315g unstrung with silicone (the same as the Shift 99/315). I have now added approximately the same amount of weight to the head of the Shift 99/315, so they should be identical (except the 315 will not have silicone in the handle - which will be an interesting difference, and will allow me to see if the silicone has made the 300 much more plush than in stock form).

The last thing is the use of strings. As @ulunxtns has stated, he used the same string in the Mains of both racquets but used Super Toro in the Crosses of one and Wasabi X in the other. I believe (I haven't tried them yet, but have both Cross strings) that Super Toro is supposed to be a more controlled string to Wasabi X, and on top of that, the tensions of the racquets are quite different (I understand this was probably done to compensate for the head size difference - which to me is not that huge... but the difference in tension is also larger between the two racquets). What this would lead to, is a further disparity in power and spin production between the racquets. Just something to keep in mind.

Sorry for the long post... but hopefully it was helpful.

 

[Vladivital17]

Hi, all the things that you listed and talked about with @ulunxtns depend on several things. The tension you use, the strings you use, and the modifications (if any) you have on the racquet.

I agree with much of what is written (and what @ulunxtns) has said... except for the power component. The reason for that is that my racquets are modified with weight. The PA98 is 366g strung and the balance is more HL than stock (but there is weight added at the tip of the racquet as well)... and the Shift 99/300 has been modified to 349/350g strung. Both racquets have silicone in the handle, the PA98 has about 5.5g distributed around the head (but mostly towards the tip - 2, 10, and 12 o'clock regions, and very small amounts at 3 and 9), while the Shift has about 4g distributed more evenly around the head (2,3,4,9,10, and 12 o'clock).

I find that I can get plenty of power from the Shift (in fact possibly more than the PA98), and I find that the serves are bigger (and my opponents seem to have more trouble returning them). Both racquets can achieve excellent depth, and both hit with lots of spin, the PA98 may have a bit more control (but it's close)... but the Shift is noticeably more comfortable. Both of my racquets are strung at the same tension... however, they have different strings in them (which may contribute to a difference in my results, as well as a possible difference in feel - something that I will check when I re-string the PA98 with identical strings to the Shift 300 and at the same tension). I strung both @ 48M/45C, the Shift 300 is strung with Wasabi Pink in the Mains and Caviar in the Crosses, while the PA98 is strung with MSV Focus Hex 1.18mm in the Mains, and Tru Pro (Tier 1) Ghostwire 1.22mm in the Crosses.

They are both great racquets, but I think I am getting better results (or at least achieving what I want to achieve with the racquets) with the Shift 99/300 (at this time).

Initially, I demoed the Shift 99/315... and I found that racquet to be excellent (in fact I bought it). I would recommend demoing the 315g version (if anything), as it had great spin (not as much launch angle and probably a tighter kind of spin - if your technique is good), lots of power, was better at directional control, had better control overall, and I was able to serve bombs with it as well. The only thing was that there were times when it felt more stiff and jarring (off-center) than ideal (but this was something I was going to attempt to solve with slight mods - which I have done, but not had a chance to hit with it yet). That is the reason I bought the Shift 99/300... and then modified it to 315g unstrung with silicone (the same as the Shift 99/315). I have now added approximately the same amount of weight to the head of the Shift 99/315, so they should be identical (except the 315 will not have silicone in the handle - which will be an interesting difference, and will allow me to see if the silicone has made the 300 much more plush than in stock form).

The last thing is the use of strings. As @ulunxtns has stated, he used the same string in the Mains of both racquets but used Super Toro in the Crosses of one and Wasabi X in the other. I believe (I haven't tried them yet, but have both Cross strings) that Super Toro is supposed to be a more controlled string to Wasabi X, and on top of that, the tensions of the racquets are quite different (I understand this was probably done to compensate for the head size difference - which to me is not that huge... but the difference in tension is also larger between the two racquets). What this would lead to, is a further disparity in power and spin production between the racquets. Just something to keep in mind.

Sorry for the long post... but hopefully it was helpful.

Hey, thanks for the input!

Its very interesting with how much weight you play on these rackets. I assumr you play for a long time and are used to heavier frames.

My shift weight around 328g strung + overgrip. This feel just right for me, i like to swing out and generate as much racket head speed as I can and produce spinny shot, not with a big arch, but a more direct type of spin. The spec and the type of racket the shift is complements that pefectly.
I have added just 2g of lead to the hoop, 1g at each 10 and 2. This doesn't slow down the racket but gives a bit better stability and plow.
I feel that even at the 328g the shift is stable enough, i don't have stability issues even when i play big hitters. Thats something i really like about this frame.

Another thing i love about it is how it plays at the net, great feel, crisp at contact, can punch volleya or absord and play them with touch, maneuverable, big sweet spot, no complainta overall.

Interestingly i cant dial in my server fully yet, i have a very strong server and somehow it goea wild on me. I get much better resulta with a 97 pro staff just because it is even more stable, low powered and precise. I think i just need to figure out the best strings and swing path for the serve on the shift and it will become a weapon too.

As of strings, i currently use head lynx tour (grey) 1.25 in the mains and poly tour pro (blue) 1.25 in the crosses. I really like the setup, has very good pocketing and bite,great feel om contact.
I actually feel like this frame has enough spin so it doesn't necessarily need shaped string in the mains.
I am about to try WC Silverstring 1.25 now and Luxilon Adrenaline 1.25 one after the other.
I am pretty excited about trying bith as I think a round string, strung a bit tighet could produce even more control with enough power and spin.

Cheers!

 

[ulunxtns]

Hey, thanks for the input!

Its very interesting with how much weight you play on these rackets. I assumr you play for a long time and are used to heavier frames.

My shift weight around 328g strung + overgrip. This feel just right for me, i like to swing out and generate as much racket head speed as I can and produce spinny shot, not with a big arch, but a more direct type of spin. The spec and the type of racket the shift is complements that pefectly.
I have added just 2g of lead to the hoop, 1g at each 10 and 2. This doesn't slow down the racket but gives a bit better stability and plow.
I feel that even at the 328g the shift is stable enough, i don't have stability issues even when i play big hitters. Thats something i really like about this frame.

Another thing i love about it is how it plays at the net, great feel, crisp at contact, can punch volleya or absord and play them with touch, maneuverable, big sweet spot, no complainta overall.

Interestingly i cant dial in my server fully yet, i have a very strong server and somehow it goea wild on me. I get much better resulta with a 97 pro staff just because it is even more stable, low powered and precise. I think i just need to figure out the best strings and swing path for the serve on the shift and it will become a weapon too.

As of strings, i currently use head lynx tour (grey) 1.25 in the mains and poly tour pro (blue) 1.25 in the crosses. I really like the setup, has very good pocketing and bite,great feel om contact.
I actually feel like this frame has enough spin so it doesn't necessarily need shaped string in the mains.
I am about to try WC Silverstring 1.25 now and Luxilon Adrenaline 1.25 one after the other.
I am pretty excited about trying bith as I think a round string, strung a bit tighet could produce even more control with enough power and spin.

Cheers!

My specs are identical, with overgrip and everything, 332g, 32.2 bal, 325 sw. Same hitting with more direct type of spin.

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

Hey, thanks for the input!

Its very interesting with how much weight you play on these rackets. I assumr you play for a long time and are used to heavier frames.

My shift weight around 328g strung + overgrip. This feel just right for me, i like to swing out and generate as much racket head speed as I can and produce spinny shot, not with a big arch, but a more direct type of spin. The spec and the type of racket the shift is complements that pefectly.
I have added just 2g of lead to the hoop, 1g at each 10 and 2. This doesn't slow down the racket but gives a bit better stability and plow.
I feel that even at the 328g the shift is stable enough, i don't have stability issues even when i play big hitters. Thats something i really like about this frame.

Another thing i love about it is how it plays at the net, great feel, crisp at contact, can punch volleya or absord and play them with touch, maneuverable, big sweet spot, no complainta overall.

Interestingly i cant dial in my server fully yet, i have a very strong server and somehow it goea wild on me. I get much better resulta with a 97 pro staff just because it is even more stable, low powered and precise. I think i just need to figure out the best strings and swing path for the serve on the shift and it will become a weapon too.

As of strings, i currently use head lynx tour (grey) 1.25 in the mains and poly tour pro (blue) 1.25 in the crosses. I really like the setup, has very good pocketing and bite,great feel om contact.
I actually feel like this frame has enough spin so it doesn't necessarily need shaped string in the mains.
I am about to try WC Silverstring 1.25 now and Luxilon Adrenaline 1.25 one after the other.
I am pretty excited about trying bith as I think a round string, strung a bit tighet could produce even more control with enough power and spin.

Cheers!

Thanks for your reply. Yeah, most of my racquets are around the 350-365g mark... and I can play 3+ hours with them.

I think you are right about the racquet not needing shaped strings as it produces enough spin. I'm looking forward to hearing how you go with the strings you are looking to try.

My demo Shift 99/315 came with Lux Alu Power 1.25mm and was strung @ 53 pounds (not sure how long ago or what tension it was at when I got it), but it still played with loads of spin, the control was off-the-charts, and there was still plenty of power on demand (my serves were pretty hard to return - judging from the lack of them coming back... and the comments from my opponents regarding my serving). The racquet did feel a little brassier than ideal for my preferences (hence why I will be trying it at lower tension), but it still was very good in most areas.

 

[Vladivital17]

My specs are identical, with overgrip and everything, 332g, 32.2 bal, 325 sw. Same hitting with more direct type of spin.

Nice! Really close to my apecs and to my preferred SW.

Thanks for your reply. Yeah, most of my racquets are around the 350-365g mark... and I can play 3+ hours with them.

I think you are right about the racquet not needing shaped strings as it produces enough spin. I'm looking forward to hearing how you go with the strings you are looking to try.

My demo Shift 99/315 came with Lux Alu Power 1.25mm and was strung @ 53 pounds (not sure how long ago or what tension it was at when I got it), but it still played with loads of spin, the control was off-the-charts, and there was still plenty of power on demand (my serves were pretty hard to return - judging from the lack of them coming back... and the comments from my opponents regarding my serving). The racquet did feel a little brassier than ideal for my preferences (hence why I will be trying it at lower tension), but it still was very good in most areas.

Interestimg, thats exactly what I felt when I tried the Shift 300 with the Weiss Cannon silverstring, its round 1.25 gauge. I got it strung at 53/51.
I picked it fresh from the stringer and went straight to the court.

I just came home and measured the racket, seems like it lost a gram or two as the previous strings I used (especially the head lynx tour) are heavy. The racket is currently at 326 static weight and I can't measure SW at home but I would asume its somewhere around 320-322 SW. I would be surprised if it is at 325 considering its current static weight, even though i have added lead in the hoop (10 and 2 o'clock).


How it played - if I had measured my racket before going to the court and play, I would have most probably tried to add 2-3 more grams to the frame so it wouldn't stay at 326, however as I said i went to the court straight after picking the racket from the stringer.
It actually played perfectly for what I am looking for and for my game style. It was super fast and maneuverable which helped me keep fast racket head speed on all shots, which translated to lots of direct spin and control. Didn't feel any stability issues either even though my opponent hits quite a heavy serve (he is ex volleyball player).

The string performed really well! Here is a breakdown:

Spin - Since it is round, there wasn't that much of a margin over the net comaped to the shaped lynx tour, however it was just enough and my shots felt even more penetrating and direct. There certainly wasn't a lack of spin as the racket is spin firendly itslef so I feel like the string and the racket balance each other very well.

Control - What stood out to me the most was the control, i felt LOT more control than with my previous setup. Yes I strung 3 pounds higher this time in attempts to get more control but I feel like the string also had its contribution. I was able to aim for the corners or for short angles and hit my targets super precisely. The one thing I wanted to improve in the shift was the control and I feel I achieved it. I feel like shaped strings xould be more inconsistent and tend to make the ball go wild on impact, would could affect control. Round strings on the ither side are ver consistent in their response and thus allow for more predictability and confidence when going for my shots.

Touch - the backhand slices like with other strings on this racket were fantastic, they go few inches over the net and then dropd in the feet of my opponent. What stood out to me more were the short balls / drop shots. With my previous setup (shaped strings) i wasn't able to do a really good short ball, they were bouncing high and were generally acting wild, even on slight touches to the ball. This was not the case with this one, i was able to do great drop shots that my opponent didn't have the chance to get to, and he is quite fast.

Power - i would say average, nothing special, not too underpowered either. The racket is quite powerful itself and I didn't feel any added power from the string.

Comfort / Feel - the shift has a great feel overall, the feel wasn't changed for good or bad with this string. As for comfort, i had no discomfort or anything near that during play. I don't feel any tiredness or soreness after playing too, so I would say it is relatively comfortable.

All in all I looks like I got very similar feelings to @Classic-TXP-IG MID when he tried the shift pro with alu power.

Cheers!

 

[soulfree914]

I agree adding weight at 10&2 works great on the Shift 300, especially if you need good stability from the frame on volleys and on defense. I actually have weight at 3&9 too. Still feels pretty maneuverable and head light without balancing with handle weight.

My specs are 323g strung with Hyper-G Soft 17, 320 swingweight.

Compared to a PS97 v13 with identical SW and balance, less control & stability, more power & spin & forgiveness. I like the feel on both.

Compared to a Boom Pro with identical SW and balance, similar spin and sweetspot, less plow and stability but better control. Feel is good on both but I personally prefer the slightly plusher/muted feel of the Boom Pro. There is more of a crisp feel on the Shift and stringing a softer string in lower tension seems to help get a plusher feel.

I can’t comment on PA98 but I had played some with PA VS. As mentioned above, I think PA VS is for the attacking player, Shift may work better for the grinder/counterpuncher who operates more on feel or the serve & volleyer with some weight at 10&2.

 

[Fintft]

These are the two racquets currently in my bag, I believe they belong to the same category of racquets, and I liked them both for different reasons. I will just give my comparison review based on my experience so far, it might change later on, I will keep updating it.

Control: Shift > PA98
Spin: PA98 > Shift
Power: PA98 > Shift
Feel: Shift > PA98
Touch shots: Shift >= PA98
Net play: Shift > PA98
Serving: PA98 >= Shift
Comfort: Shift > PA98
Maneuverability: Shift = PA98
Stability: Shift >= PA98

I agree that 10 & 2 are the best lead placements for the Shift, I haven't modified my PA98 yet, but it plays great in stock so far. Also, I'm looking forward to trying the new 2024 Pure Strike 100 (16x20) version. In my mind, it could be the hybrid of these two racquets.

For me, I've only owned PA 2019 (actually the indetical spec wise apparently PAR 2021).
The Shift is better in everything except power and I've added 6g at 12, plus a big dampener and overgrip.

 

[smalahove]

Having played with both now, I find them both quite unique, both from each other, as well as other rackets.

The Shift 99 is the real oddball, as it plays both like a super stiff pure drive on flatter shots, and has a spin friendly, clash-like quality on the TS strokes. The PA 98 is a controllable spin monster, and is by far my fav 98 spin racket, esp compared to the two Yonex'es. The downside to that racket is that tingy/brassy babolat feel that sometimes shows up and I can feel it creeping into my elbow. Epic from from the baseline, ok on volleys (haven't served enough yet). The Shift 99 otoh performs way under par for me; I just can't get a proper feel for it on volley. My go-to stick for volleys is now the Gravity Tour, and as soon as I pick that up, I have my mojo back. The big joy of the S99 is flattening out shots and letting that 70+ RA help with the job ... and that is also a weakness with the PA98 btw (flattening out).

I'm keeping the S99 and trying it out with other strings, as there is something intriguing about it, but if it was match time I'd pick the PA98 or GT, for sure.

 

[Classic-TXP-IG MID]

Having played with both now, I find them both quite unique, both from each other, as well as other rackets.

The Shift 99 is the real oddball, as it plays both like a super stiff pure drive on flatter shots, and has a spin friendly, clash-like quality on the TS strokes. The PA 98 is a controllable spin monster, and is by far my fav 98 spin racket, esp compared to the two Yonex'es. The downside to that racket is that tingy/brassy babolat feel that sometimes shows up and I can feel it creeping into my elbow. Epic from from the baseline, ok on volleys (haven't served enough yet). The Shift 99 otoh performs way under par for me; I just can't get a proper feel for it on volley. My go-to stick for volleys is now the Gravity Tour, and as soon as I pick that up, I have my mojo back. The big joy of the S99 is flattening out shots and letting that 70+ RA help with the job ... and that is also a weakness with the PA98 btw (flattening out).

I'm keeping the S99 and trying it out with other strings, as there is something intriguing about it, but if it was match time I'd pick the PA98 or GT, for sure.

Adding weight at the 2, 10, and 12 positions has helped with flattening out for me (with the PA98). Maybe try that and see.

 

[andytennis123]

Anyone think the pure aero 98 or shift has more spin? I’m currently a shift user but considering switching, I just want to maximize spin for net clearance. I’m wondering if a PA98 would give me more spin than my shift for a whippy western forehand

 

[ulunxtns]

Anyone think the pure aero 98 or shift has more spin? I’m currently a shift user but considering switching, I just want to maximize spin for net clearance. I’m wondering if a PA98 would give me more spin than my shift for a whippy western forehand

If you want max spin, go for PA 100 2019. Or try Extreme MP.

 

[TheBoom]

Anyone think the pure aero 98 or shift has more spin? I’m currently a shift user but considering switching, I just want to maximize spin for net clearance. I’m wondering if a PA98 would give me more spin than my shift for a whippy western forehand

I don‘t know that there’s a huge difference tbh and you’ll see different results depending on your swing style/speed. I know I found the Shift 99 (300) much easier to get spin from than the PA, but the difference is marginal at best. In other words, you’re not going to miss into the net because either’s ability to amplify spin over the other



Here’s where I put things. I know I use the Shift Pro, but I’m referring to the 300 in the comparison:

Control - PA 98
Spin - Shift 99
Power - Shift 99
Feel - Draw - I don’t think either are any good
Touch shots - PA 98
Net play - PA 98
Serving - Shift 99
Comfort - Shift 99 (Marginal)
Maneuverability - PA 98
Stability - PA 98

It’s kinda tempting to compare the two, but really I think the Shift 300 is a better comp to the PA 100 than the 98. I think they fit similar players (lots of spin, fast swings), but within that player type the Shift 99’s probably better suited for someone who needs more help from the frame and the PA 98 is better for someone who’s looking for a more predictable/controlled response

 

[andytennis123]

I don‘t know that there’s a huge difference tbh and you’ll see different results depending on your swing style/speed. I know I found the Shift 99 (300) much easier to get spin from than the PA, but the difference is marginal at best. In other words, you’re not going to miss into the net because either’s ability to amplify spin over the other



Here’s where I put things. I know I use the Shift Pro, but I’m referring to the 300 in the comparison:

Control - PA 98
Spin - Shift 99
Power - Shift 99
Feel - Draw - I don’t think either are any good
Touch shots - PA 98
Net play - PA 98
Serving - Shift 99
Comfort - Shift 99 (Marginal)
Maneuverability - PA 98
Stability - PA 98

It’s kinda tempting to compare the two, but really I think the Shift 300 is a better comp to the PA 100 than the 98. I think they fit similar players (lots of spin, fast swings), but within that player type the Shift 99’s probably better suited for someone who needs more help from the frame and the PA 98 is better for someone who’s looking for a more predictable/controlled response

Thanks, this is a helpful comparison. How would you compare shift 300 to PA 100?

 

[TheBoom]

Thanks, this is a helpful comparison. How would you compare shift 300 to PA 100?

Overall I’d say the categories remain about the same but the difference in performance is less stark across the categories. The biggest differences between the Shift 99 and PA 100 is that I’d say the Shift more maneuverable (low swing weight, better balance point) but I’d say both are equally comfortable.

I still think the PA is better in terms of control though at the expense of as extreme of spin as the shift. I really like how Babolat made the string pattern more dense compared to the 2019 version, it really makes the racket feel more controlled and doesn’t really sacrifice your ability to generate spin imo.

For that reason, I actually think the PA 100 is a better racket since it’s better in categories I believe are most important (control/stability) that most players will find helpful, and close enough in the other categories like power/spin

 

[landcookie]

Aero 98 wins in every department for me.

 

[andytennis123]

So I'm getting a PA98 so that try it out for a bit. I hit with a friend's PA98 briefly and felt right at home, felt like I didn't need time to adjust.

Regarding strings, I've noticed that the mains in my shift 300 start to move around after my second/third day of hitting, with tru pro pure rush 1.23. It's made me consider switching to strings with better snapback like restring zero, so that I don't have to fix my mains between points. Does the PA98 has similar amounts of string movement? Wondering if I should anticipate the same issue on my PA98