Racquet Recommendation - 29-year-old former advanced player getting back into tennis

[iykyk]

I'm a 29 year old male (6'1", 190 lbs) who used to be an advanced player in high school. Not sure what my rating is these days (probably 4.0-4.5), but I'm just now getting back into tennis after a long hiatus. I've been playing 3-5 times per week for the past few months.

In high school I played a Pure Drive Roddick+ with lead tape at 9&3, leather grip, and some extra weight in the butt cap. I think it weighed 350g and had a SW north of 350 as well. I also strung it at 62 with a full bed poly because the racquet had too much power for me. In hindsight, I have no idea why I used such an insanely stiff setup or how I didn't have crippling arm pain. That setup worked for me at age 17, but I want something much softer and a bit lighter in a new racquet. I've already bought a few racquets to tinker with, but I want to find a gamer racquet that works for me. Here's what I've already bought and how I like it (also note that I added lead tape at 9&3 where applicable to bring weights up to ~335g range):

• VCore 98 (PTP Yellow at 50lbs) - Had a very inconsistent launch and eventually got frustrated with it.
• Percept 97 (PT Rev at 50lbs) - I really liked the feel, but I found myself slicing everything. Great control/feel but I didn't feel like I could get aggressive.
• Wilson Shift 99 Pro (Solinco Confidential at 50lbs) - Got one that was way overspec (no lead tape but still 346g strung almost head balanced). Might just be bad QC from Wilson but the racquet sucked. Felt strange too.
• Ezone 98 (Solinco Confidential at 50 lbs) - Overall the racquet was okay at everything but not special. I still felt like I was overhitting shots too often and had trouble controlling it on tough shots and anything taken on the rise.
• DEMO Head Gravity Pro (Tennis Only P6) - I think it was strung pretty tight, so it felt a bit underpowered. Loved how I take full swings and not have to worry as much about blasting it long. Wish it had a more traditional head shape (but maybe I'd get used to it).
• DEMO Head Gravity MP (multifilament) - TW didn't have a poly string available for demo, and the grip was 2 sizes smaller than I'm used to. Honestly couldn't even tell whether I liked it because it just felt so different than everything else.
• DEMO Wilson Blade 18x20 V8 (Tennis Only P6) - Preferred the Gravity Pro more, but overall good stick. Still difficult to compare to others given high tension and crappy strings.

I'm really bummed about how hard it was to compare demos vs. racquets I already own. People on this forum seem to love the Gravity molds (341.1 and 344.4), so I'm debating just buying one with a string setup I like to test it out.

As for my style of play... I’m usually a baseliner, but I switch up pace/spin/depth often enough to where I can’t play with a one-dimensional racquet. I also like to hit balls on the rise, so I want something stable enough to absorb pace but also maneuverable enough to react quickly (contradictory I know). The ideal frame would be a soft/stable 98-100in frame with relatively open string pattern, 330-340g strung, 5-7pts HL strung, low-ish power level, thin-ish beam, decently large sweet spot, and plenty of spin potential.

I’ve also read a bit on this forum about pro stock racquets, specifically from Head. I don’t mind paying extra for pro stock, as it would allow me to customize everything to the exact specs I want. I’m thinking about getting a TGT345.2 or TGT334.1 16x19 strung at a low tension with a livelier string like Hyper-G. Would the low tension and open string pattern be a good balance to the under-powered Prestige frame? Or does this setup sound insane?

I’m also considering a similar setup in a 341.1 or a 344.4. I just don’t know whether I should go with the 18x20 344.4 (seems to be a somewhat open pattern already) or whether I’d regret not having the extra spin/launch from the 16x20 341.1.

I'm admittedly uninformed on pro stocks, so please let me know if I'm being an idiot for even considering that route. I’d also appreciate any other recommendations/advice that you might have regarding my journey to finding a racquet.

P.S. In the off chance you live near Dallas and want to hit (or would be kind enough to let me hit any of the racquets I've mentioned above), I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks in advance (and apologies for the essay).

 

[Fighting phoenix]

Hey - I'm in Dallas and would be happy to help - feel free to DM me! A couple of suggestions based on what you said (I'm older now but about the same level as you, and also played juniors/college back in the day):

PA98 - if you used Babolat, and based on what you're looking for, I definitely think this is a must demo. Softer than the Pure Drives and thinner beam, decent feel for a Babolat, great maneuverability and power/control ratio. Launch angle is high however and rewards those who hit with a lot of topspin. As you continue to shake off the rust and get better, this racquet will grow with you as it's better for advanced players than intermediates
Pure Drive - why not try this, given that's the racquet you used in the past! People who use this love it. It is a stiffer thick beamed racquet, which you indicated you're not looking for though.
Pure Strike 98 16x19 or 100 16x20 - love these racquets, great update (Gen 4 just was released)
Blade 16x19 v9
Boom Pro (people are really liking the Auxetic 2.0 release)

Regarding your issues with demos - I resolve this myself by restringing demos that come with crap strings, but of course you may not have a stringing machine like I do. That's really the only way around it, unless you go to a local place and poke around to see which ones have newer looking strings.

 

[Yamin]

Some guy joined my club with a similar story recently... except it was a 30 sum year old guy. He used the roddick at 62 lbs as well... Somehow ended up with the Volkl Vostra v8..

New Speed MP is underrated.

 

[FuzzyYellowBalls]

Learn to control the EZ98 , it can do it all and is stable, check out Tim Barnard's drill monday night at Fretz tennis center, you can hit with some 4.5-5.0 guys/gals ( not all of them will be that level, but some will) who use stock Ezone 98s and a few PA98, Strikes, Blades, they may even let you borrow theirs?!?! Best drill in Dallas, usually 4+ courts of high level players, you can find some hitting partners too .

That will also let you see how much maneuverability is a premium when under real fire from some great players, while timing and thicker beams provide the stability to hang.

 

[iykyk]

Thanks for the insights. Pure Strike is on the list as well. Not sure about Pure Aero though... My experience with spin-oriented racquets is that they make me one-dimensional and I can't hit anything besides heavy topspin. But the 98 might be worth trying.

As for the Ezone 98, it's definitely my favorite out of all the racquets I bought. I just want to see if there's anything out there that's a better fit for me.

I usually play at Seay tennis center because it's 5 min from my house, but will have to check out Fretz soon.

Does anyone have an opinion on the pro stocks that I mentioned? Might be out of my league even talking about it but very interested in that option...

 

[gino]

I'm a 29 year old male (6'1", 190 lbs) who used to be an advanced player in high school. Not sure what my rating is these days (probably 4.0-4.5), but I'm just now getting back into tennis after a long hiatus. I've been playing 3-5 times per week for the past few months.

In high school I played a Pure Drive Roddick+ with lead tape at 9&3, leather grip, and some extra weight in the butt cap. I think it weighed 350g and had a SW north of 350 as well. I also strung it at 62 with a full bed poly because the racquet had too much power for me. In hindsight, I have no idea why I used such an insanely stiff setup or how I didn't have crippling arm pain. That setup worked for me at age 17, but I want something much softer and a bit lighter in a new racquet. I've already bought a few racquets to tinker with, but I want to find a gamer racquet that works for me. Here's what I've already bought and how I like it (also note that I added lead tape at 9&3 where applicable to bring weights up to ~335g range):

• VCore 98 (PTP Yellow at 50lbs) - Had a very inconsistent launch and eventually got frustrated with it.
• Percept 97 (PT Rev at 50lbs) - I really liked the feel, but I found myself slicing everything. Great control/feel but I didn't feel like I could get aggressive.
• Wilson Shift 99 Pro (Solinco Confidential at 50lbs) - Got one that was way overspec (no lead tape but still 346g strung almost head balanced). Might just be bad QC from Wilson but the racquet sucked. Felt strange too.
• Ezone 98 (Solinco Confidential at 50 lbs) - Overall the racquet was okay at everything but not special. I still felt like I was overhitting shots too often and had trouble controlling it on tough shots and anything taken on the rise.
• DEMO Head Gravity Pro (Tennis Only P6) - I think it was strung pretty tight, so it felt a bit underpowered. Loved how I take full swings and not have to worry as much about blasting it long. Wish it had a more traditional head shape (but maybe I'd get used to it).
• DEMO Head Gravity MP (multifilament) - TW didn't have a poly string available for demo, and the grip was 2 sizes smaller than I'm used to. Honestly couldn't even tell whether I liked it because it just felt so different than everything else.
• DEMO Wilson Blade 18x20 V8 (Tennis Only P6) - Preferred the Gravity Pro more, but overall good stick. Still difficult to compare to others given high tension and crappy strings.

I'm really bummed about how hard it was to compare demos vs. racquets I already own. People on this forum seem to love the Gravity molds (341.1 and 344.4), so I'm debating just buying one with a string setup I like to test it out.

As for my style of play... I’m usually a baseliner, but I switch up pace/spin/depth often enough to where I can’t play with a one-dimensional racquet. I also like to hit balls on the rise, so I want something stable enough to absorb pace but also maneuverable enough to react quickly (contradictory I know). The ideal frame would be a soft/stable 98-100in frame with relatively open string pattern, 330-340g strung, 5-7pts HL strung, low-ish power level, thin-ish beam, decently large sweet spot, and plenty of spin potential.

I’ve also read a bit on this forum about pro stock racquets, specifically from Head. I don’t mind paying extra for pro stock, as it would allow me to customize everything to the exact specs I want. I’m thinking about getting a TGT345.2 or TGT334.1 16x19 strung at a low tension with a livelier string like Hyper-G. Would the low tension and open string pattern be a good balance to the under-powered Prestige frame? Or does this setup sound insane?

I’m also considering a similar setup in a 341.1 or a 344.4. I just don’t know whether I should go with the 18x20 344.4 (seems to be a somewhat open pattern already) or whether I’d regret not having the extra spin/launch from the 16x20 341.1.

I'm admittedly uninformed on pro stocks, so please let me know if I'm being an idiot for even considering that route. I’d also appreciate any other recommendations/advice that you might have regarding my journey to finding a racquet.

P.S. In the off chance you live near Dallas and want to hit (or would be kind enough to let me hit any of the racquets I've mentioned above), I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks in advance (and apologies for the essay).

if you think the gravity pro was underpowered, i would not recommend going for a pro stock prestige

you come from a thick beamed babolat, so maybe try something more of that elk, like a babolat pure strike or blade 100

 

[iykyk]

if you think the gravity pro was underpowered, i would not recommend going for a pro stock prestige

To clarify - I thought the gravity pro demo was a bit underpowered. But it was strung with a 16 gauge poly at pretty high tension. Hence why I said it was hard to compare the demos to the racquets I already have.

Everything I've read about gravity pro (and prestige) would indicate that it's best to string at a lower tension anyway. And my hypothesis is that a control racquet with a livelier string at lower tension (~48) would eliminate any concerns about it being underpowered. Maybe I'm missing something though... if you disagree with that, I'd like to understand why.

 

[gino]

To clarify - I thought the gravity pro demo was a bit underpowered. But it was strung with a 16 gauge poly at pretty high tension. Hence why I said it was hard to compare the demos to the racquets I already have.

Everything I've read about gravity pro (and prestige) would indicate that it's best to string at a lower tension anyway. And my hypothesis is that a control racquet with a livelier string at lower tension (~48) would eliminate any concerns about it being underpowered. Maybe I'm missing something though... if you disagree with that, I'd like to understand why.

so I come from classic player frames (see my history here). I do string all my 95-98" frames sub 50lbs, somewhere in the 45-48 range, but that doesnt mean that the tension will make it magically work for you from a power perspective. So many variables there (beam width, RA stiffness, static/SW, etc)

I would recommend trying as many frames as possible, abuse the TW demo program and try everything

if you are interested in going prestige/thin beam player's frame I have a few ideas (older classic rackets). feel free to message me direct

 

[iykyk]

I’m thinking about getting a TGT345.2 or TGT334.1 16x19 strung at a low tension with a livelier string like Hyper-G. Would the low tension and open string pattern be a good balance to the under-powered Prestige frame? Or does this setup sound insane?

I’m also considering a similar setup in a 341.1 or a 344.4. I just don’t know whether I should go with the 18x20 344.4 (seems to be a somewhat open pattern already) or whether I’d regret not having the extra spin/launch from the 16x20 341.1.

I'm admittedly uninformed on pro stocks, so please let me know if I'm being an idiot for even considering that route.

@dr325i @vsbabolat I've heard you two are the experts when it comes to Head pro stock racquets. I spent the entire weekend using the search function on this forum trying to get up to speed on various head stock codes, but I still feel wildly uninformed. If I'm worthy of your time, I would greatly appreciate any feedback you have on my previous post from earlier today.

 

[Ryebread]

Without knowing much about your game…..

Ezone 98 tour 2022-now version - if you hit somewhat flat.

Vcore 98 tour - if you hit with a modern stroke.

Radical pro auxetic - works for both styles.

330-332 ish SW options

The VC has a higher launch angle than the other two. CRAZY good on serve. Good at net. Tons of spin.

The EZ has a lower launch angle. Very good on serve. Great at net. Lots of spin.

 

[dr325i]

I'm a 29 year old male (6'1", 190 lbs) who used to be an advanced player in high school. Not sure what my rating is these days (probably 4.0-4.5), but I'm just now getting back into tennis after a long hiatus. I've been playing 3-5 times per week for the past few months.

In high school I played a Pure Drive Roddick+ with lead tape at 9&3, leather grip, and some extra weight in the butt cap. I think it weighed 350g and had a SW north of 350 as well. I also strung it at 62 with a full bed poly because the racquet had too much power for me. In hindsight, I have no idea why I used such an insanely stiff setup or how I didn't have crippling arm pain. That setup worked for me at age 17, but I want something much softer and a bit lighter in a new racquet. I've already bought a few racquets to tinker with, but I want to find a gamer racquet that works for me. Here's what I've already bought and how I like it (also note that I added lead tape at 9&3 where applicable to bring weights up to ~335g range):

• VCore 98 (PTP Yellow at 50lbs) - Had a very inconsistent launch and eventually got frustrated with it.
• Percept 97 (PT Rev at 50lbs) - I really liked the feel, but I found myself slicing everything. Great control/feel but I didn't feel like I could get aggressive.
• Wilson Shift 99 Pro (Solinco Confidential at 50lbs) - Got one that was way overspec (no lead tape but still 346g strung almost head balanced). Might just be bad QC from Wilson but the racquet sucked. Felt strange too.
• Ezone 98 (Solinco Confidential at 50 lbs) - Overall the racquet was okay at everything but not special. I still felt like I was overhitting shots too often and had trouble controlling it on tough shots and anything taken on the rise.
• DEMO Head Gravity Pro (Tennis Only P6) - I think it was strung pretty tight, so it felt a bit underpowered. Loved how I take full swings and not have to worry as much about blasting it long. Wish it had a more traditional head shape (but maybe I'd get used to it).
• DEMO Head Gravity MP (multifilament) - TW didn't have a poly string available for demo, and the grip was 2 sizes smaller than I'm used to. Honestly couldn't even tell whether I liked it because it just felt so different than everything else.
• DEMO Wilson Blade 18x20 V8 (Tennis Only P6) - Preferred the Gravity Pro more, but overall good stick. Still difficult to compare to others given high tension and crappy strings.

I'm really bummed about how hard it was to compare demos vs. racquets I already own. People on this forum seem to love the Gravity molds (341.1 and 344.4), so I'm debating just buying one with a string setup I like to test it out.

As for my style of play... I’m usually a baseliner, but I switch up pace/spin/depth often enough to where I can’t play with a one-dimensional racquet. I also like to hit balls on the rise, so I want something stable enough to absorb pace but also maneuverable enough to react quickly (contradictory I know). The ideal frame would be a soft/stable 98-100in frame with relatively open string pattern, 330-340g strung, 5-7pts HL strung, low-ish power level, thin-ish beam, decently large sweet spot, and plenty of spin potential.

I’ve also read a bit on this forum about pro stock racquets, specifically from Head. I don’t mind paying extra for pro stock, as it would allow me to customize everything to the exact specs I want. I’m thinking about getting a TGT345.2 or TGT334.1 16x19 strung at a low tension with a livelier string like Hyper-G. Would the low tension and open string pattern be a good balance to the under-powered Prestige frame? Or does this setup sound insane?

I’m also considering a similar setup in a 341.1 or a 344.4. I just don’t know whether I should go with the 18x20 344.4 (seems to be a somewhat open pattern already) or whether I’d regret not having the extra spin/launch from the 16x20 341.1.

I'm admittedly uninformed on pro stocks, so please let me know if I'm being an idiot for even considering that route. I’d also appreciate any other recommendations/advice that you might have regarding my journey to finding a racquet.

P.S. In the off chance you live near Dallas and want to hit (or would be kind enough to let me hit any of the racquets I've mentioned above), I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks in advance (and apologies for the essay).

Hey there,

First, I live in Plano
Second, if you are used to such heavy and high SW frames, why would you waste extra $$ for pro stock??
Third, you won’t be able to find any TGT344.1, they are super rare and I have not seen many of them available in the market.
And lastly, when you demo a racket from TW or any other retailer, you can restring them to your choice of strings. Testing them with a wrong setup is worthless pretty much.

 

[iykyk]

Hey there,

First, I live in Plano
Second, if you are used to such heavy and high SW frames, why would you waste extra $$ for pro stock??
Third, you won’t be able to find any TGT344.1, they are super rare and I have not seen many of them available in the market.
And lastly, when you demo a racket from TW or any other retailer, you can restring them to your choice of strings. Testing them with a wrong setup is worthless pretty much.

First, nice to see so many DFW folks in this forum.

Second, you make a fair point about me not needing a pro stock. But I guess I’m curious to see how the silicone in the handle feels vs. commercial weights.

Third, I think I mistyped my message if I mentioned 344.1 in my last post. I was considering a 341.1 or potentially a 334.1.

Also I had no idea you could restring a demo, but I guess that makes sense. Appreciate the tip.

 

[dr325i]

First, nice to see so many DFW folks in this forum.

Second, you make a fair point about me not needing a pro stock. But I guess I’m curious to see how the silicone in the handle feels vs. commercial weights.

Third, I think I mistyped my message if I mentioned 344.1 in my last post. I was considering a 341.1 or potentially a 334.1.

Also I had no idea you could restring a demo, but I guess that makes sense. Appreciate the tip.

The TGT334.1 = Prestige MP pro stock (in either 18x20 or 16x19)
The TGT344.1 = Gravity Pro pro stock in 16x19

 

[jbdbackfan]

I'm a 29 year old male (6'1", 190 lbs) who used to be an advanced player in high school. Not sure what my rating is these days (probably 4.0-4.5), but I'm just now getting back into tennis after a long hiatus. I've been playing 3-5 times per week for the past few months.

In high school I played a Pure Drive Roddick+ with lead tape at 9&3, leather grip, and some extra weight in the butt cap. I think it weighed 350g and had a SW north of 350 as well. I also strung it at 62 with a full bed poly because the racquet had too much power for me. In hindsight, I have no idea why I used such an insanely stiff setup or how I didn't have crippling arm pain. That setup worked for me at age 17, but I want something much softer and a bit lighter in a new racquet. I've already bought a few racquets to tinker with, but I want to find a gamer racquet that works for me. Here's what I've already bought and how I like it (also note that I added lead tape at 9&3 where applicable to bring weights up to ~335g range):

• VCore 98 (PTP Yellow at 50lbs) - Had a very inconsistent launch and eventually got frustrated with it.
• Percept 97 (PT Rev at 50lbs) - I really liked the feel, but I found myself slicing everything. Great control/feel but I didn't feel like I could get aggressive.
• Wilson Shift 99 Pro (Solinco Confidential at 50lbs) - Got one that was way overspec (no lead tape but still 346g strung almost head balanced). Might just be bad QC from Wilson but the racquet sucked. Felt strange too.
• Ezone 98 (Solinco Confidential at 50 lbs) - Overall the racquet was okay at everything but not special. I still felt like I was overhitting shots too often and had trouble controlling it on tough shots and anything taken on the rise.
• DEMO Head Gravity Pro (Tennis Only P6) - I think it was strung pretty tight, so it felt a bit underpowered. Loved how I take full swings and not have to worry as much about blasting it long. Wish it had a more traditional head shape (but maybe I'd get used to it).
• DEMO Head Gravity MP (multifilament) - TW didn't have a poly string available for demo, and the grip was 2 sizes smaller than I'm used to. Honestly couldn't even tell whether I liked it because it just felt so different than everything else.
• DEMO Wilson Blade 18x20 V8 (Tennis Only P6) - Preferred the Gravity Pro more, but overall good stick. Still difficult to compare to others given high tension and crappy strings.

I'm really bummed about how hard it was to compare demos vs. racquets I already own. People on this forum seem to love the Gravity molds (341.1 and 344.4), so I'm debating just buying one with a string setup I like to test it out.

As for my style of play... I’m usually a baseliner, but I switch up pace/spin/depth often enough to where I can’t play with a one-dimensional racquet. I also like to hit balls on the rise, so I want something stable enough to absorb pace but also maneuverable enough to react quickly (contradictory I know). The ideal frame would be a soft/stable 98-100in frame with relatively open string pattern, 330-340g strung, 5-7pts HL strung, low-ish power level, thin-ish beam, decently large sweet spot, and plenty of spin potential.

I’ve also read a bit on this forum about pro stock racquets, specifically from Head. I don’t mind paying extra for pro stock, as it would allow me to customize everything to the exact specs I want. I’m thinking about getting a TGT345.2 or TGT334.1 16x19 strung at a low tension with a livelier string like Hyper-G. Would the low tension and open string pattern be a good balance to the under-powered Prestige frame? Or does this setup sound insane?

I’m also considering a similar setup in a 341.1 or a 344.4. I just don’t know whether I should go with the 18x20 344.4 (seems to be a somewhat open pattern already) or whether I’d regret not having the extra spin/launch from the 16x20 341.1.

I'm admittedly uninformed on pro stocks, so please let me know if I'm being an idiot for even considering that route. I’d also appreciate any other recommendations/advice that you might have regarding my journey to finding a racquet.

P.S. In the off chance you live near Dallas and want to hit (or would be kind enough to let me hit any of the racquets I've mentioned above), I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks in advance (and apologies for the essay).

Do yourself a favor and look at the Prince Phantom line. If you’re advanced and don’t mind putting some lead at 10 and 2 or 3 and 9 with a leather grip I find the 100G or even the 97P are awesome with a hybrid set up. The headlight balance and with good mechanics you’ll find the control impressive. Don’t be afraid to try the brand because they aren’t endorsed by pros or have the marketing budget. The Prince thread on talk tennis has some great suggestions. Even the tour 98 was one of the highest reviewed racquets ever at TW.

 

[GimmeBackMyDog]

I always pimp the Extreme Tour. I love it.

I originally had it strung with Confidential @ 50lbs and it was the worst string ever.

Felt completely dead like hitting with a board.

I'm going to chalk it up to a bad string job since I like Hyper G soft and usually put that in my Pure Aero rackets.

I tried Solinco Outlast in the Pure Aero VS and even liked it as well.

I do RPM Blast in the mains and Luxilon 4G Desert Bronze in the crosses both @ 51lbs and liked that combo so I've stuck with it.

The RPM Blast in the mains is to keep that heavy spin and the 4G Desert Bronze in the crosses provide that little extra feel and arm comfort.

For if had to chose, it would be Hyper G Soft over Confidential any day of the week.

For rackets...every player is different.

Demo them.

Personally, I tend to favor rackets that are about 6 or 7 points headlight.

I like a smaller head size. I almost always prefer a 98 over 100.

I know players much better than me that are all over the spectrum on what they like in a racket.

So it's really hard to say until you get them in your hand and play with them what's going to work for you.

 

[Tranqville]

"That setup worked for me at age 17, but I want something much softer and a bit lighter in a new racquet." I feel that departure from your home base of a racquet is too radical, particularly going for much softer, low-powered frame. "A bit lighter" - makes perfect sense. What you're describing is a Head Gravity Pro, but I do not think it's an ideal racquet for you with your Pure Drive player DNA.

If I were you, I'd explore the power-control racquet category, maybe a few sticks just outside that category on the power and control side. So in the heart of power-control category, Babolat Pure Strike Tour Gen. 3 almost has your name written on it, grab it while you can, it's a special frame and unfortunately not continued into Gen 4. Fantastic plough, power and pin-point control, but muted feel. Not particularly maneuvrable. Technifibre T-Fight ISO 305 ticks many boxes for you, except for, perhaps, the balance. Head Speed Pro is another obvious candidate.

In power category, please do consider Diadem Nova V3 Tour. It's tagline is literally "Maximized maneuverability and power." In control category, Blade V9, Radical Pro and Technifibre TF40 are all worth exploring, as they provide lots of control with some power and stability. Radical is a line that is advertised as "Radical versatility", which is what you're looking for, but honestly I feel they are not as versatile as advertised. Technifibre frames, in general, will be easier for you to gel with, coming from Babolat background. Heavy, high-stability 16x19 attacking frames like Yonex Percept H and Wilson RF 97A can also be considered, but in my opinion they can be repraced by Tfight ISO 305 in a ligther static weight package.

To summarize my recomendation: Diadem Nova V3 Tour looks like a perfect match for you, considering your extreme power racquet background, while meeting your aspirations for a more modern, comfortable, controllable and maneuvrable frame.

A general recomendation on choosing a racquet. There are so many options, it can get everyone's head spinning. Start by narrowing down the category - spin, power, control, or power-control category. Do not make decisions based on one demo if you can't control the string setup!

 

[hereforthepopcorn]

Try the Head Extreme Tour, you will need to add some lead but very good racket at ur level and game

 

[Trip]

@iykyk - Welcome to TT. Let's start by looking at your gear DNA, which can be just as important as your physical and skill stats:

​

Spec'd up to 350-ish grams, 350-ish swing weight, probably 14-15-ish twist weight (with lead at 9 and 3), and full bed poly at 62 lbs, needless to say, you've grounded yourself on a classic tweener, with high levels of bludgeoning force and unwavering power. As @Tranqville so aptly noted, while you could play with anything, I think paying at least some homage to what you're used to will help ferry your game along with as much continuity as possible.

That said, I can absolutely see the value in lightening up the spec, including a potential return to standard length, but I would recommend you look at more of a 22-24mm beamed "pleener" (player/tweener hybrid) of medium stiffness and similar-enough behavioral qualities, to better split the difference between the power/stability that you're used to, with the variety and control you desire. Also, I would restrict the choices to frames with more traditional oval hoop shapes and more classic drill patterns, as opposed to those that are more progressive, but ultimately feel more foreign and less predictable. As such, I would shortlist the following (alphabetical by brand/model). Varying amounts of customization will be needed:

Standard-Length:

- Babolat Pure Strike 98 16x19 2024
- Babolat Pure Strike 100 16x19 2024
- Dunlop CX 400 Tour 2024
- Head Instinct MP
- Prince ATS Tour 100 310
- Prince ATS Tour 98
- ProKennex Ki 5
- Solinco WhiteOut 16x19 or 18x20
- Tecnifibre TF40 16x19, either 305 or 315
- Tecnifibre TFight 300/315
- Tecnifibre TFight 305
- Volkl V-Cell 8 315g
- Wilson Blade 100L
- Wilson Pro Staff Six.One 100 v14

Extended (27.5"):

- Solinco WhiteOut XTD 16x19 or 18x20

Of all of those mentioned, I would recommend an initial demo package of one of the Strikes, the CX 400 Tour and perhaps a Prince or Wilson, and go from there.

Hope that helps. Any questions, feel free.

 

[Tranqville]

@Trip excellent and highly comprehensive list, with perhaps lower swingweights than I originally envisioned for @iykyk. Solinco extended models make perfect sense: they are praised highly in the community, come at familiar lenght and, overall, match the OP's objectives.

 

[Trip]

@Trip excellent and highly comprehensive list, with perhaps lower swingweights than I originally envisioned for @iykyk. Solinco extended models make perfect sense: they are praised highly in the community, come at familiar lenght and, overall, match the OP's objectives.

Yes, I purposely included a lighter-spec customization platform or two, but whose base-qualities were still within the confines of what I think would work well for the OP. Main example: the Blade 100L, whose layup is much more firm and crisp than the regular 100, which for this use-case I think would be a much better base platform, as it would elicit much more of that Pure Drive style rebound response, while offering almost the same level of string bed composure and control. A potential win-win.

 

[iykyk]

A general recomendation on choosing a racquet. There are so many options, it can get everyone's head spinning. Start by narrowing down the category - spin, power, control, or power-control category. Do not make decisions based on one demo if you can't control the string setup!

Fair point, but I always find narrowing the category to be the hardest part. I was in the power / power-control category back in high school, but that was so long ago and I haven't hit with that racquet in years. And yes, I may be a bit too eager to switch to the control category altogether.

I think for starters I can eliminate the pure-play power category, as I struggle to control a racquet that is too powerful (and managing that via absurdly high tension like I did in high school is a recipe for my arm to fall off by the time I turn 40).

I can also eliminate the pure-play spin category, as my game tends to become very one-dimensional with these racquets (heavy topspin from baseline feels great, anything else is a slo-mo trainwreck).

And it sounds like everyone thinks the control category is too much of a transition for me, so that leaves power-control as the focus. In other words, I should be looking for a racquet that can do everything, but probably doesn't have too much of an affinity toward any one particular category. Is that the right way to think about it?

Also... @Trip thank you for the detailed list. It feels like everyone is steering me toward the Pure Strike line, so that's definitely at the top of my list.

 

[Trip]

And it sounds like everyone thinks the control category is too much of a transition for me, so that leaves power-control as the focus. In other words, I should be looking for a racquet that can do everything, but probably doesn't have too much of an affinity toward any one particular category. Is that the right way to think about it?

That's a good way to look at it, and I think you'll be more satisfied over the long haul going that direction. I mean, you could certainly spec up a lower-powered, softer-flexing pure control frame, but with such frames, you have to derive power either via mass or string bed power, or both, and I'm not sure too much of either is what you really want. Thus, the "pleener" suggestion from several of us here.

Also... @Trip thank you for the detailed list. It feels like everyone is steering me toward the Pure Strike line, so that's definitely at the top of my list.

Very welcome. I think a look at the new 2024 Gen 4's would warrant a look over the outgoing 2019 Gen 3's, as the feel is noticeably better / more crisp. For you, I would recommend a demo of the 98 16x19 and 100 16x19, in keeping with that more firm flex you're used to.

 

[iykyk]

Do yourself a favor and look at the Prince Phantom line. If you’re advanced and don’t mind putting some lead at 10 and 2 or 3 and 9 with a leather grip I find the 100G or even the 97P are awesome with a hybrid set up. The headlight balance and with good mechanics you’ll find the control impressive. Don’t be afraid to try the brand because they aren’t endorsed by pros or have the marketing budget. The Prince thread on talk tennis has some great suggestions. Even the tour 98 was one of the highest reviewed racquets ever at TW.

Can someone explain what's going on with Prince? I can almost guarantee Authentic Brands Group isn't letting Prince spend a dime on capex/R&D, so are they just doing mini updates of their best racquets w/ new paintjobs?

It's such a shame what happened to Prince. Peak-cycle LBO brought to you by the genius healthcare investors at Nautic Partners that ended with Ch11 process in 2012 and a sale to a holding company whose sole purpose is to harvest FCF from dying brands. Looks like Nautic's LPs still managed a 2.5x net MOIC from Fund VI despite the Prince dumpster fire. Nautic should set up a side vehicle to buy back Prince from Authentic Brands. I'd even co-invest (no fee, no carry ofc). Destroying an iconic brand and bringing it back to prominence would make a pretty good HBS case study!

Anyway... sounds like the racquets are still pretty good?

 

[iykyk]

Hey - I'm in Dallas and would be happy to help - feel free to DM me! A couple of suggestions based on what you said (I'm older now but about the same level as you, and also played juniors/college back in the day):

PA98 - if you used Babolat, and based on what you're looking for, I definitely think this is a must demo. Softer than the Pure Drives and thinner beam, decent feel for a Babolat, great maneuverability and power/control ratio. Launch angle is high however and rewards those who hit with a lot of topspin. As you continue to shake off the rust and get better, this racquet will grow with you as it's better for advanced players than intermediates
Pure Drive - why not try this, given that's the racquet you used in the past! People who use this love it. It is a stiffer thick beamed racquet, which you indicated you're not looking for though.
Pure Strike 98 16x19 or 100 16x20 - love these racquets, great update (Gen 4 just was released)
Blade 16x19 v9
Boom Pro (people are really liking the Auxetic 2.0 release)

Regarding your issues with demos - I resolve this myself by restringing demos that come with crap strings, but of course you may not have a stringing machine like I do. That's really the only way around it, unless you go to a local place and poke around to see which ones have newer looking strings.

Is the Boom Pro a power racquet? Control? Balance of everything? I may order a demo, but I'm just not sure how to categorize that line of racquets. Sometimes Head gets a bit confusing with how many racquet lines they offer.

 

[Fighting phoenix]

Is the Boom Pro a power racquet? Control? Balance of everything? I may order a demo, but I'm just not sure how to categorize that line of racquets. Sometimes Head gets a bit confusing with how many racquet lines they offer.

Haha yes this is a problem with Head. I would say it's a player's frame - thinner beam than most, you need to bring your own power and swing fully through the ball - but it will reward you with power and spin as a modern frame should. The Boom MP would be more of a power/spin racquet, easier to use, but the Pro is for more advanced players not necessarily looking for extra help.

 

[jbdbackfan]

Can someone explain what's going on with Prince? I can almost guarantee Authentic Brands Group isn't letting Prince spend a dime on capex/R&D, so are they just doing mini updates of their best racquets w/ new paintjobs?

It's such a shame what happened to Prince. Peak-cycle LBO brought to you by the genius healthcare investors at Nautic Partners that ended with Ch11 process in 2012 and a sale to a holding company whose sole purpose is to harvest FCF from dying brands. Looks like Nautic's LPs still managed a 2.5x net MOIC from Fund VI despite the Prince dumpster fire. Nautic should set up a side vehicle to buy back Prince from Authentic Brands. I'd even co-invest (no fee, no carry ofc). Destroying an iconic brand and bringing it back to prominence would make a pretty good HBS case study!

Anyway... sounds like the racquets are still pretty good?

Prince is great still. Each generation of racquets over last 5-7 years have had added dampening tech or other features that have noticeably improved feel. I just don’t subscribe to endorsements and paying $279 for racquets anymore when the pros many mimic trying to play aren’t even using the racquets they endorse. Prince and some of the other smaller manufacturers make great stuff.

 

[AmericanTwist]

Spend 6 months and demo lotsa frames keeping in mind different strings and tension. Buy some used frames and do long term demos. Zero in on head size, stiffness, and string pattern. Grip shape will differ among brands. Your optimal choice may fluctuate as you improve or regress.

 

[dgoran]

Welcome (back) you can check out anytime you like but you can never leave…
I predict you will be here 10 years later looking for the one and I say that with the best intentions… it’s just too much fun.

 

[slchsu]

First, nice to see so many DFW folks in this forum.

Second, you make a fair point about me not needing a pro stock. But I guess I’m curious to see how the silicone in the handle feels vs. commercial weights.

Third, I think I mistyped my message if I mentioned 344.1 in my last post. I was considering a 341.1 or potentially a 334.1.

Also I had no idea you could restring a demo, but I guess that makes sense. Appreciate the tip.

Since nobody has addressed your second point, just jumping in to say that I have pro stocks with silicone in the handle and yes, the dampening feels different. For me, in a positive way. Still, I personally wouldn’t go the pro stock route for my daily drivers. Expensive, hard to source, and most have been customized already. So you’d have to uncustomize them and then re-customize them. Like dr325i wrote, there are plenty of retail sticks that can replicate the feel of a pro stock.

 

[nyta2]

That will also let you see how much maneuverability is a premium when under real fire from some great players, while timing and thicker beams provide the stability to hang.

+1 definitely make sure you demo a racquet when playing bettre players...
for example i love the rf97 when i am the attacker, but hate it when i'm defending