Tennis Warehouse playtest: Hyper-G Round 1.25

colan5934

Professional
@colan5934 what level are you that you’re snapping Alu Power in 2 hours?
I'm not what I used to be anymore lol. Plus, ALU is really not that durable...the only Lux string I've found that is would be Original. I played in college and was a full time teaching pro for a few years. Now I'm in the permanent loop of bump to 5.0, appeal down, attempt to sandbag (because beer league doubles is more fun and I can't play at 9:30-10pm start for 5.0 in my area, and it's the same 25 guys every season), strike out, not play for awhile, repeat. Lynx tour 17 I get 3.5ish hours and 16 gets me close to 5, for reference. Also plays more linearly over time which I like when I'm coaching but not playing much. Usually playing an 18x20 blade also. 16x19 snaps faster. So this Hyper G Round would be closer to 3 hours, maybe a bit more, in the 18x20.
 

colan5934

Professional
He’s a very good player. Even for me, Alu Power is about 40% notched after 2-3 hours. If it hasn’t broken yet, I just cut it out and restring before the next time I play since it’s likely to break at any point anyways.
You flatter me. I’m more than a bit washed up now. But yeah, ALU just isn’t that durable if you hit the same spot on the strings over and over against anybody providing decent pace.
 

FoldingChair

Semi-Pro
i haven’t read anything about this new hyper g round nor am I well versed in hyper g in general. Would it be counter productive to hybrid HG (regular or soft)/HGR? Seeing as poly poly hybrids are pretty popular nowadays, I was curious.
 

Chairman3

Hall of Fame
Any more comparisons between HGR and YPTP? I’m curious how they compare in both a full bed and in hybrids.
Wait for my review, next day or two
I don't do an in-depth comparison but can post additional thoughts after my review is posted. Don't want to spoil the review by posting a bunch right now

<!SPOILER ALERT!> they are comparable
 

Chairman3

Hall of Fame
i haven’t read anything about this new hyper g round nor am I well versed in hyper g in general. Would it be counter productive to hybrid HG (regular or soft)/HGR? Seeing as poly poly hybrids are pretty popular nowadays, I was curious.
That was my initial plan, HyperG mains and HyperG round crosses, but changed last minute.
I still have a half-set of HGround so will do that hybrid in the near future.
I have several strings to test right now, so it may be another month. (Sorry)
 

Chairman3

Hall of Fame
HGR is firmer and stiffer than YPTP
HGR holds tension better than YPTP
YPTP feels more dampened than HGR
HGR has more spin capability than YPTP
I disagree with some and agree with some.
Also think some can be influenced by what racquet/string pattern they were used.
 

CVT

Rookie
^ solid review. interesting how similar our impressions are. (y)
+1. Many of the comments are similar to what I am finding too. I will do a writeup soon, as the deadline is approaching. Unfortunately, a ton of rain on the weekends has made it harder to play and log the number of hours I would like to with the strings. I started with the full bed, and am now hitting with a hybrid. Will be back a review soon!
 

jimmy8

G.O.A.T.
So YPTP is a better string overall?
YPTP is stiffer and has more control and less power. YPTP has better tension maintenance, but HGR is still good in that aspect. YPTP is less dampened so has less feel. I think the spin is probably the same. I prefer YPTP because I like more control. Other people will like HGR because it has more power and is softer with more touch/feel. I will be writing a review soon, I need to play one more time with it before I finish my review write up.
 

mad dog1

G.O.A.T.
Solinco Hyper G Round 1.25 hybrid review

Which string for mains/crosses: Solinco Tour Bite 1.20/Solinco Hyper G Round 1.25

Tension(s) used for playtest: 45/43# strung on an Alpha Ghost 2; decided to try my regular tension because it had started to get warmer during the Hyper G Round playtest, but then the rains came and the temperature dipped into the low 40s. As a result, the string bed response was tighter than I prefer and it took awhile for the tension to drop down.

Regular string setup & tension: TruPro Black Knight 1.23/Ghost Wire 1.22 or Solinco Tour Bite 1.25/Outlast 1.25 or Tour Bite 1.25/Prince Tour XP 1.30 all at 45/43#

Racquet used for test: 2012 Pure Drive (Static weight: 11.8oz w/ OG, Balance: 32cm. Strung swingweight: 322)

Power/Control of test string: Power level was lower than the full bed of HGR. Control was excellent. I had no trouble with directional and depth control.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp? Comfortable?): Stiffer and more crisp than the full bed of HGR which wasn’t surprising since TB offers a tiffer response than HGR.

Spin: Spin was excellent but the trade off was less penetration. I felt the string bed grabbing the ball too much. The feedback from my hitting partners was the ball didn’t lack in spin, but it just didn’t have the same effect that the full bed of HGR had.

Playability Duration: Playability and tension maintenance has been very good so far. After 4 hours, the mains are exhibiting some notching, but the mains are still snapping back. Crosses are showing some signs of flattening out. Going with a higher tension with the hybrid setup in colder temps might be contributing to the longer playability.

Tension Recommendations (would you string it differently next time - why): If the temps continue to hover between 40-50 in the mornings, I would like to try this hybrid setup again at 43/42# so as to experience a more true comparison to the full bed of HGR.

Other comments (optional): This is an excellent string setup, but hasn’t elicited the same “wow” feedback from my partners like the full bed of HGR. They commented that the ball comes in closer to my regular string set ups. As of right now, I prefer Hyper G Round 1.25 in a full bed over the hybrid. I feel they are both excellent but the full bed puts some extra hot sauce on the ball. I have already purchased many sets of Hyper G Round 1.25 since it has been released to use going forward.


Solinco Prototype Overgrip review

Comments: I prefer this prototype OG over the Solinco Wonder OG. The prototype holds the wrap more securely than Wonder which has a tendency to unravel at the bottom when it encounters moisture and the OG isn’t installed with a larger overlap. Durability of the prototype OG is on par with the Wonder OG and Tecnifibre Contact Pro tacky white OG which I also use. If the pricing was similar to the Wonder grip, I would switch to the prototype without hesitation.

Thank you TW and Solinco for offering this playtest!
 
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Chairman3

Hall of Fame
The Chairman3's review of Hyper-G Round and an HGR hybrid

Tension(s) used for playtest: 47lbs

Regular string setup & tension: Various poly (big banger, PT Strike 1.20)

Racquet used for test: Pure Strike VS '22

Power/Control of test string: Hyper-G Round (HGR) has a nice controllable power level. It doesn't feel dead but also isn't so powerful. I would call it medium for a poly. I never felt myself thinking it needed more power but I also never thought it was too powerful or I couldn't control the ball (until tension loss started setting in). Given that it wasn't so stiff or dead it had surprisingly good control. I felt very confident with the string and going for small targets. I thought the level of control was excellent especially given that it had better feel than typical stiff control polys. It has a really good blend of power and control, they hit a good spot with this.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp? Comfortable?): The feel was a little crisp but not stiff. It was also a tad muted but I think this can be influenced by the racquet, at least in part. The feel in the sweetspot wasn't magnificent, like some strings, although this is also racquet dependent but it is why I think the string was a bit muted. Overall though, I enjoyed the feel. It wasn't the softest or most comfortable but it wasn't harsh either. I'd compare it to Poly Tour Pro in some ways but maybe a bit less muted than that string. Good response, mostly consistent throughout and crisp but not harsh.

Spin: I would say this had good spin for a round string, above average. Of course, it won't compare to Hyper-G, it's not shaped, but it really isn't supposed to compete with itself. For the added feel and [maybe] a little more power, they did a good job maintaining its trademark characteristic. Balls kept dipping in even if you didn't quite get a full swing. I do think spin declined a bit as tension dropped, but honestly I think it was more attributable to a loss of control. The ball was launching a little more so required more action to not miss long. Overall, I was very happy with the spin.

Playability Duration: Sadly, I was left a little disappointed. Notching was minimal, even up to the almost 8 hours I used it, but major tension loss was between 4-5hrs. I understand some polys lose tension even quicker but I was expecting more. From my personal use, 4-5hrs is at or just below average. The string does remain playable, I used it up to about 8hrs and it never got stiff or harsh, it just became a bit launchy and unpredictable. It wasn't really worth keeping in the racquet any longer for actual match play.

Tension Recommendations (would you string it differently next time - why): I went with 47lbs which seemed about right for this frame. It was pretty crisp off the stringer but settled in nicely and felt good until the tension drop. I do think the string is on the firmer side, so a high tension could cause issues in the wrong racquet.

Other comments (optional): Out of the gate, I was impressed. It had very good control and nice spin for a round string. The feel wasn't too muted and gave enough feedback. It seemed like it was really going strong and then suddenly I felt a little launchiness and it continued. Once I adjusted, to the now lower tension, it wasn't bad but the predictability and control were diminished. The playability duration really left me wanting more but I would definitely use it again. A pretty solid offering and nice compliment to regular Hyper-G.

Other Other Comments: For those asking about this compared to PTP, yes it is pretty similar. I got better tension maintenance from PTP but PTP is more muted. Spin levels are pretty similar but HGR may have a tad more power. The difference mostly comes down to feel. PTP also seemed to firm up when you swung harder/faster, theoretically for more control, where HGR had the same response regardless of swing speed. Basically if you like a more muted feel, go with PTP. If you like the slightly crisper feel, go with HGR. Neither will disappoint.


HYBRID section

Which string was in mains/crosses?:
HGR mains with Babolat Xalt crosses

Tension used for playtest: 47lbs, same as the full-bed HGR

Racquet used for playtest: same as above, Pure Strike VS '22

This was a disappointing hybrid. I intended to do a poly/poly hybrid but switched because I had just used Xalt as a cross and wanted to get a thorough feel for HGR, ergo use it as a main. The first issue was the crosses were moving like crazy. I've never had a hybrid where the crosses moved so much. My only conclusion is the HGR is stiffer and the Xalt has a good slick coating which caused it to move instead if the HGR. Either way, the net effect was not great spin potential. Additionally, power was there but not in a significantly more pronounced way. Likewise with feel, there was a bit more direct feel, but not significantly more. Was it more comfortable, uh a little. It just felt a little less crisp, but Xalt is on the firmer side of multis, so it wasn't like a more traditional multi where the stringbed really softened up. In short, I would not repeat this hybrid, it had no standouts. Thankfully I still have a halfset of HGR so will do the poly/poly hybrid. Unless you really love HGR, I can't see alot of reason to use it as a main. I guess with a really soft cross you'd get more power and comfort, but then I feel like there are other poly strings to use as a main that'd offer you more. HGR could make a good cross with a shaped poly main, but we'll see.

Thank you @TW Staff for continuing to allow me to participate and providing these opportunities. I always enjoy it.

A short review of the OG will follow, stay tuned...
 

colan5934

Professional
HGR is firmer and stiffer than YPTP
HGR holds tension better than YPTP
YPTP feels more dampened than HGR
HGR has more spin capability than YPTP
Agree with all here. Of course, those familiar with YPTP probably have more confidence and/or it fits their game better than HGR, so some things that are more on the user like spin generation could differ person to person.

In my experience, YPTP manages to be soft and dead at the same time, so I liken it to a wet noodle. Like, if you put it at a lower tension and/or want to generate everything yourself it’s great. But it’s too mushy and doesn’t add anything to my ball like hgr, ALU, and other polys on the firmer edge of things do. Nothing wrong with liking PTP though. People obviously do.
 

mad dog1

G.O.A.T.
Agree with all here. Of course, those familiar with YPTP probably have more confidence and/or it fits their game better than HGR, so some things that are more on the user like spin generation could differ person to person.

In my experience, YPTP manages to be soft and dead at the same time, so I liken it to a wet noodle. Like, if you put it at a lower tension and/or want to generate everything yourself it’s great. But it’s too mushy and doesn’t add anything to my ball like hgr, ALU, and other polys on the firmer edge of things do. Nothing wrong with liking PTP though. People obviously do.
very accurate description
 

aaron_h27

Hall of Fame
YPTP is stiffer and has more control and less power. YPTP has better tension maintenance, but HGR is still good in that aspect. YPTP is less dampened so has less feel. I think the spin is probably the same. I prefer YPTP because I like more control. Other people will like HGR because it has more power and is softer with more touch/feel. I will be writing a review soon, I need to play one more time with it before I finish my review write up.
I feel like YPTP has enough power but I love the control aspect so I probably won't be trying HGR. Thanks!
 

Dunlop300g

Rookie
i haven’t read anything about this new hyper g round nor am I well versed in hyper g in general. Would it be counter productive to hybrid HG (regular or soft)/HGR? Seeing as poly poly hybrids are pretty popular nowadays, I was curious.
I think this would be a logical move. Especially, like has been suggested above, use the round in the crosses and the HG regular (shaped) in the mains; idea being to get the snap back via the mains moving on the HG round.
 

flanker2000fr

Hall of Fame
I think this would be a logical move. Especially, like has been suggested above, use the round in the crosses and the HG regular (shaped) in the mains; idea being to get the snap back via the mains moving on the HG round.

I have played a lot with Hyper G, both regular and soft, in gauges 17 / 16L / 16 depending on the frame I was using. It is a string I generally like, with the caveat that the launch angle can at time be erratic in open string patterns. I think Hyper G Round is an attempt at providing a string with the same feel and overall characteristics of Hyper G, minus the extreme launch angle. Which would make it compete head to head with Yonex Polytour Pro, like others have mentioned. And, like YPTP, it should work really well in a hybrid as a cross given its slick nature. I would be quite keen of using Hyper G (regular or soft) as a main with Hyper G round as a cross, both in a 17 gauge in my Prestige Classic 2.0. I'd still get some of the launch angle from the main, but with more consistency and better snap back from the round crosses.
 

fox

Professional
YPTP is stiffer and has more control and less power. YPTP has better tension maintenance, but HGR is still good in that aspect. YPTP is less dampened so has less feel. I think the spin is probably the same. I prefer YPTP because I like more control. Other people will like HGR because it has more power and is softer with more touch/feel. I will be writing a review soon, I need to play one more time with it before I finish my review write up.
YPTP is stiffer and has better tension maintenance? You may think what you want but actually there is scientific data about it which claims otherwise.
 

jimmy8

G.O.A.T.
YPTP is stiffer and has better tension maintenance? You may think what you want but actually there is scientific data about it which claims otherwise.
some people in this thread agree with you. Some people in this thread agree with me. I haven't seen hyper g round in tw university or in stringpedia. Where did you see the scientific data? I would like to see it, I like looking those up. Another tool for me to use will be good.
 

flanker2000fr

Hall of Fame
YPTP is stiffer and has better tension maintenance? You may think what you want but actually there is scientific data about it which claims otherwise.
I haven't seen the data for Hyper G Round, but here is the existing stiffness data for 16L (1.25) strings:
- Hyper G: 218
- Hyper G Soft: 172
- YPTP Yellow: 181

This mirrors my experience with those strings, and I've played extensively with all 3. Hyper G is a middle of the road poly for stiffness, whereas the Soft version and YPTP are really soft. The flipside is that tension maintenance is noticeably reduced. In an 18x20 or tight 16x19 pattern, I easily get 7 hours of consistent play with regular Hyper G before it starts getting a bit erratic vs. 4-5 hours with either Hyper G Soft or YPTP. I liked YPTP, it is a comfortable, consistent string, but I steered away from it as I found tension maintenance average at best for such an expensive string.

If Hyper G Round has been designed to emulate the characteristics of regular Hyper G, it's safe to assume it will play stiffer than YPTP, and have better tension maintenance.
 

jimmy8

G.O.A.T.
I haven't seen the data for Hyper G Round, but here is the existing stiffness data for 16L (1.25) strings:
- Hyper G: 218
- Hyper G Soft: 172
- YPTP Yellow: 181

This mirrors my experience with those strings, and I've played extensively with all 3. Hyper G is a middle of the road poly for stiffness, whereas the Soft version and YPTP are really soft. The flipside is that tension maintenance is noticeably reduced. In an 18x20 or tight 16x19 pattern, I easily get 7 hours of consistent play with regular Hyper G before it starts getting a bit erratic vs. 4-5 hours with either Hyper G Soft or YPTP. I liked YPTP, it is a comfortable, consistent string, but I steered away from it as I found tension maintenance average at best for such an expensive string.

If Hyper G Round has been designed to emulate the characteristics of regular Hyper G, it's safe to assume it will play stiffer than YPTP, and have better tension maintenance.
I assume fox wasn't assuming because he said it was scientific data. But he hasnt responded.
 

jimmy8

G.O.A.T.
We'll see soon enough when the TW test results are published.
Many tennis youtubers say tour bite is stiff, hyper g is lively and confidential is in between. But stringpedia says tour bite is 1.12 kg/mm, hyper g is 1.1 and confidential is 1.0. I think confidential is the liveliest which matches the stiffness ratings, but most of the world that I've observed says something else.

I think yptp is stiff and hyper g is a little less stiff. My serve and ground strokes are noticeably faster with hyper g. I feel more pocketing with hyper g. I feel a lot of harshness from yptp, even with a Wilson Clash. I've used yptp for a long time, probably used at least 15 sets over 2 years. I've used hyper g for a long time, probably used 10 sets over 1.5 years. Yptp is my favorite string in my prestige pro 360+. Hyper g is my favorite string in my prestige s 360+. I tried hyper g soft, too mushy and too powerful for me, dont like it.

There are other people on talk tennis that agree with me about yptp and hyper g. If you think science is indisputable about strings, ok, that's fine.
 

movdqa

Talk Tennis Guru
Do shaped poly strings really produce more spin? Or, do round poly strings produce just as much? I don’t seem to see a big difference.

I feel that they do but you need the person on the other side of the court to tell you or you have to watch their reaction when the ball bounces because it doesn't feel like you're hitting with more spin when you actually are. The edges wear down too but you can use racquets where they wear down for practice so you get a good amount of playtime with the strings even though the spin potential declines.
 

movdqa

Talk Tennis Guru
One of my biggest grief with normal Hyper G is how the string bed locks out, so there's less string movement and thus making it play stiffer. I'm curious to see if the strings are going to play softer and livelier.

One of my hitting partners noticed this on my racquet yesterday. He looked at the strings and said that they are very tight. They were strung at 55 pounds and have 19 hours of play on them so the tension is probably more like 50 right now and they have loosened up quite a bit since fresh. But he's probably right that they don't move much. It's also 18x20 in a 95 sq inch frame.
 

movdqa

Talk Tennis Guru
My first OG was the Wilson Walmart special. It was....meh, at best. It basically added thickness to the grip. That is all.

I string for a neighbor and asked what OG he uses because his racquet always had a plush and super tacky OG on it. He gifted me a white Wilson Pro to try. Since then, it's all I've used. I will agree that it loses the tackiness quickly. The neighbor said he replaces his for every match. I might replace it every 3 matches or so.

I buy the hundred-packs of the Wilson Pro OG. I bought a used racquet a long time ago and it came with a fresh Wilson Pro OG and it felt so good compared to everything else I had every used.
 

SlowTiger

Professional
I'm going to give my impressions of the HGR in hybrid first as that's what I tested. I have yet to string it up in a full bed as we get random days where it's warm enough to play but not warm enough for full poly.

I did HGR M/ V C at 45/50 in my Dunlop CV 3.0.
My normal set up for this weather would be OEHMS Matador Strike at 45/ multis at 50 so not far off.

The strings were predictable and overall comfortable. I haven't used regular HG but it's softer then tour bite. Felt a bit dead which I guess added to the predictability. I can't think of a string it plays similar to but closest I can currently think of is Lux eco power at the 3-4 hr mark of lux eco power but deader. Eco power has better snap back when fresh in the first 2 hrs but loses it fast. This is where it kind of sits, it has snap back but not a lot. You have to impart your own spin. Eco power was softer and has more pop but the solinco HGR has played more consistently so far. Was able to hit nice penetrating balls with the string.

The string plays well but hasn't wowed me in any way. Wouldn't be my go to when I can get just as much playability for cheaper strings. I also wouldn't mind using this in the summer as I feel the higher temps would open up the string bed a bit more without flying but we'll see. I still got half sets so I guess I can wait till then. I'm going to try the full set in my Diadem Elevate Tour V1 soon as I think the round shape will help tame the launch in the open string pattern. Hoping the temps warm up for my elbows sake when playing full poly


Tension(s) used for playtest: 45
Regular string setup & tension: OEHMS Matador Strike but considering switching to lynx tour orange
Racquet used for test: Diadem Elevate Tour V1
Power/Control of test string: The string was lower powered with decent control. Didn't wow in any factor. The string was a bit more consistent, and lower launch angel which I like. I could really rip the ball with it if I wanted to.
Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp? Comfortable?): I didn't like the feel of this string. I know a lot of people like hyper G and say it's soft, with good feed back and etc etc but it wasn't for me. Felt kind of dead to me. Wasn't harsh but it's by no means an arm friendly string. Not arm friendly enough for a full bed in these temps.
Spin: Spin was there if you need it but then why choose this over the original? I've never strung hyper G on my racquets but I've played with it in other people's and it's never felt like it had great snapback. I felt like it relied on the shape to generate the spin which also cuts into multi crosses. I preferred playing with HGR over original and played a flatter style with this.
Playability Duration: I got about 8 hours before I called it quits. Played consistently through the playtest after break in but it's not for me. I don't know how long I would normally like to keep this in my racquet even though the playability didn't really decline but old polys affect my arm more then they did when I was younger. Playability is longer and more enjoyable for me in a hybrid. Easier on the arm and flat shot all day. I would choose this for a hybrid over a number of shaped strings. I feel like this would play well hybrided in control racquets like a blade.
Tension Recommendations (would you string it differently next time - why
): I'd keep the same tension. I string full py between 45-48 unless I have a massive rocket launcher
Other comments (optional): I don't think I see myself coming back to this FB. If round, I think my poly choices would swing to hawk power, cream or pro line evolution depending on what I'm looking for. Might be worth a revisit in hybrid though. Haven't tried it as a cross
 

Chairman3

Hall of Fame
Solinco Prototype OG review
By Chairman3

Do you typically use an overgrip? (if yes, which one do you use?) Lately Dunlop Viper Dry, also used a lot of Supergrap.

Was the test grip easy to install (any wrinkles during install, did the grip lay down nicely?) Grip was as easy as any other OG. I had an issue where I didn't overlap enough around the butt, initially, so it came out while playing. I re-wrapped and then had no issues. The finishing tape got a little mangled when I had to undo it. I was able to reuse it and It did hold, but usually you can unwrap an OG once and the finishing tape is ok.

Comment on the level of sweat absorption and hand slippage (if you currently use an overgrip, please let us know if the test overgrip performed better, worse or the same in these areas) Unfortunately there was a bout of cold weather in FL so didn't have alot of sweat. Based on the feel, similar to Wilson Pro OG, I would envision similar absorption. This is a tackier OG, so won't do what tourna will do.

Longevity of overgrip (did it hold up well over multiple sessions of play)? Surprisingly, it started shredding some at 4-5hrs which is worse than my normal OG. It was primarily around toward the buttcap area but once it started to go it accelerated. It is still usable now (about 6hrs) but more worn and there is a shredded spot about 3 inches up as well. I posted a pic when it initially started. For my dunlop OG, I usually get 8-10hrs before it starts shredding in multiple places. The longevity was a little disappointing.

List any additional thoughts (optional) Initially, I was impressed. The OG had a nice feel, felt a little thicker than my dunlop, but felt good. It immediately reminded me of Wilson Pro OG except maybe thicker and didn't lose the tackiness as quickly. It also resisted dirt and oil pretty good. My problem with Wilson is it absorbs dirt/oil from your hands quickly and kind of loses its original feel and you can visibly see the white getting dirty. I also expected the Solinco OG to be very durable. Unfortunately, for me, durability was the Achilles heel. It started shredding surprisingly quick and I'd say more quickly than most other OGs I've used. The caveat here is, I would be willing to test it again. Sometimes anomalous things happen and I am willing to test it again. The thickness, while not extra thick, felt like it would lend itself to being more durable. Otherwise it was a solid performer and had some nice attributes as previously mentioned. I don't think it would ellipse my Dunlop OG unless I used it again and the durability was far superior. Price also would be a trump card for the Solinco OG, although the prices don't seem to vary much with OG's these days.
 

movdqa

Talk Tennis Guru
Solinco Prototype OG review
By Chairman3

Do you typically use an overgrip? (if yes, which one do you use?) Lately Dunlop Viper Dry, also used a lot of Supergrap.

Was the test grip easy to install (any wrinkles during install, did the grip lay down nicely?) Grip was as easy as any other OG. I had an issue where I didn't overlap enough around the butt, initially, so it came out while playing. I re-wrapped and then had no issues. The finishing tape got a little mangled when I had to undo it. I was able to reuse it and It did hold, but usually you can unwrap an OG once and the finishing tape is ok.

Comment on the level of sweat absorption and hand slippage (if you currently use an overgrip, please let us know if the test overgrip performed better, worse or the same in these areas) Unfortunately there was a bout of cold weather in FL so didn't have alot of sweat. Based on the feel, similar to Wilson Pro OG, I would envision similar absorption. This is a tackier OG, so won't do what tourna will do.

Longevity of overgrip (did it hold up well over multiple sessions of play)? Surprisingly, it started shredding some at 4-5hrs which is worse than my normal OG. It was primarily around toward the buttcap area but once it started to go it accelerated. It is still usable now (about 6hrs) but more worn and there is a shredded spot about 3 inches up as well. I posted a pic when it initially started. For my dunlop OG, I usually get 8-10hrs before it starts shredding in multiple places. The longevity was a little disappointing.

List any additional thoughts (optional) Initially, I was impressed. The OG had a nice feel, felt a little thicker than my dunlop, but felt good. It immediately reminded me of Wilson Pro OG except maybe thicker and didn't lose the tackiness as quickly. It also resisted dirt and oil pretty good. My problem with Wilson is it absorbs dirt/oil from your hands quickly and kind of loses its original feel and you can visibly see the white getting dirty. I also expected the Solinco OG to be very durable. Unfortunately, for me, durability was the Achilles heel. It started shredding surprisingly quick and I'd say more quickly than most other OGs I've used. The caveat here is, I would be willing to test it again. Sometimes anomalous things happen and I am willing to test it again. The thickness, while not extra thick, felt like it would lend itself to being more durable. Otherwise it was a solid performer and had some nice attributes as previously mentioned. I don't think it would ellipse my Dunlop OG unless I used it again and the durability was far superior. Price also would be a trump card for the Solinco OG, although the prices don't seem to vary much with OG's these days.

Is this in the wrong thread?
 

naylor73

Rookie
First of all, shout out to Tennis Warehouse and Solinco for the opportunity to test and review Hyper G Round and prototype overgrip.

HYPER G ROUND FULL BED TEST
Tension(s) used for playtest: 47/45

Regular string setup & tension: I have been a Hyper G Soft user for several years but have recently begun to experiment with Tour Bite Soft and a smooth cross (Wasabi X) hybrid. Tension usually varies a bit depending on string pattern and racquet power level/stiffness but generally between 42-48 pounds.

Racquet used for test: 2022 Ezone 98 weighted and counterbalanced

Power/Control of test string: I enjoyed the predictability and control that Hyper G Round provides. I also found the launch to be a little lower than Hyper G or Tour Bite and court penetration is of course easier than with a shaped main. Power level seems a slightly higher to me than standard Hyper G but that's probably just the spin differential.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp? Comfortable?): Impact is comparable with original Hyper G, being stiffer for the first half hour, then the strings relax a bit and break in giving a more arm friendly response. I really liked these strings for volleys and serves. Feel was controlled yet dead enough to give me the confidence to hit agressive volleys without fear of hitting long or wide. On groundstrokes, I got a nice medium firm response. I could still feel the strings with a muted racquet setup but Hyper G Round did not cause any discomfort during or after play. Granted, I generally cut strings out at about 20% notching and I did the same with the Hyper G Round.

Spin: These strings will not give you massive amounts of unpredictable spin and launch. This is much more of a controlled offering from Solinco than their shaped offerings. I struggled a bit with heavy spin angled shots that I like to use when in a defensive position and my kick serves were driving through the court instead of bouncing up. Slice and flat serves come off the racquet with good pace and this is a great string for first serves.

Playability Duration: I played the strings for 6-7 hours before I felt they were notched enough to affect playability and possibly arm health. Having dealt with elbow tendonitis a few years ago, I like to be cautious. I used the test strings for (2) 30-45 minute hard hitting sessions with ball machine and 6 sets of 4.5 level doubles. The strings lost a bit of tension before my second doubles outing and depth was a little tougher to control but feel didn't change much.

Tension Recommendations (would you string it differently next time - why): I might add a pound or two but I prefer to play with fresh strings and this is the tension that works best for me.

Other comments (optional): I did not sign up for the hybrid review for Hyper G Round because I wanted to see how these would play by themselves without the help of a shaped poly main. In my opinion, these strings were designed to be used as a cross with a shaped main or in a very open string pattern racquet.

PROTOTYPE GRIP TEST
The first couple of hours using this grip, I really enjoyed the feel. A little tackier than my standard Wilson Pro OG but not as tacky as say Mega Tac. At about the 3-4 hour mark, I had worn a couple of spots through the outer layer and I started to lose some traction during rallies. Great grip if it's at a low price point or improvements are made to increase playing life longevity.
 

jimmy8

G.O.A.T.
Hyper G Round 1.25 Full Bed Test
Tension(s) used for playtest

40 lbs

Regular string setup & tension
Yonex Polytour Pro 1.25 Yellow in main at 40 lbs, Head Velocity 1.30 Natural in cross at 50 lbs

Racquet used for test
Head Prestige Pro 360+

Power/Control of test string
I felt this string was a medium stiffness poly string, but on the softer side of medium with a little bit more power/liveliness/pocketing than the average medium stiffness poly string. I think the power level is slightly higher than the square shaped Hyper G. The overall power level in full bed is still considered low powered when considering all types of strings. Like I mentioned already, the power level for a poly is medium level, but on the higher powered side of medium. There is very good control, but I prefer a string with slightly more control. I was still confident enough to go for lines, but I have slightly more precision and ability to hit my target with a slightly stiffer string.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp? Comfortable?)
I kind of covered this above. It is a medium stiff poly, not mushy. I felt the string has a little bit of liveliness and is slightly more comfortable than the average medium stiffness poly. I didn't think the feel was that great in full bed, probably because I'm used to hybrid strings with multi in the crosses and poly in the mains.

Spin
For a round poly, the best spin level I've tried, equal to Polytour Pro. I prefer round polys so I've tried a lot of round polys. Although the spin level is good and I prefer round polys, I would still choose square shaped Hyper G over the round version, maybe because the power level is slightly lower and offers a little more control and you can control the ball with the extra spin.

Playability Duration
Solinco makes quality strings that last long, play well, hold tension well, and Hyper G Round is no exception, it has the same great quality that their other strings have. Solinco is on par with other more expensive strings, Solinco is great because their prices are about medium level, but you get high quality. I usually play strings 8-10 hours or for 2 weeks whichever comes first, then cut it out because the tension is too low and there is notching and the quality of play is not to my liking. I used the strings for 2 weeks and the strings still felt very good at the end of 2 weeks.

Tension Recommendations (would you string it differently next time - why)
If I used this string again, I would probably string the full bed Hyper G Round at the same tension I used which was 40 lbs. I don't like to go lower than 40 lbs because I feel like that would be too low. The full bed is pretty stiff for me because I usually use a hybrid with polys in the mains and multi in the crosses.

Other comments (optional)
Like I mentioned above, I prefer the square version of Hyper G, it's a great string. Hyper G Round doesn't stand out in any way for me. I was very excited about this string when I first heard about it because I love Hyper G and I love round polys. But Hyper G Round didn't do it for me. I recommend trying it because it's a high quality string with great characteristics, you might love it.


HYBRID Section
Which string for mains/crosses

Hyper G Round 1.25 in mains, Head Velocity 1.30 Natural in crosses

Tension(s) used for playtest
40 lbs for mains, 50 lbs for crosses

Racquet used for playtest
Head Prestige Pro 360+

Provide a short summary
Power level was medium level in hybrid setup, but a little more power than the average medium stiffness poly in a hybrid. My serves and groundstrokes had a little more oomph than my regular string setup (see above). Control was very good, just slightly lower level control than my regular string setup, when I say slightly, it is very slight. Control level is very confidence inspiring, it's just slightly lower than my regular string setup. Spin level was equal to my regular string setup which is the highest level I've experienced with a round poly. Feel was excellent, better than my regular string setup, I think the feel was maybe the best I've experienced from a medium stiffness poly - I was executing drop shots at a very high level, and I could feel the ball very well, and I was volleying better than I usually do. I didn't need to straighten the strings, the slickness on Hyper G Round and Velocity is very good so the strings snap back into place. I prefer Hyper G Round in hybrid over full bed, probably because that is what I use most often. I like the power from the hybrid, I like the feel from the hybrid, I can execute drop shots well and feel the ball well, I like the comfort level of the hybrid, full bed poly is pretty harsh - too much vibration and pain in the shoulder.


Solinco Overgrip Prototype
Felt a little too tacky during first outing. Subsequent outings the tackiness felt pretty much perfect, the grip softened up a little and felt amazing. I loved it. It seems very durable and long lasting and very high quality, maybe the best quality I've ever tried. Maybe my favorite overgrip that I've ever tried. I will buy this overgrip if they bring it to market and tell us what this prototype's name is going to be.
 
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colan5934

Professional
The Chairman3's review of Hyper-G Round and an HGR hybrid

Tension(s) used for playtest: 47lbs

Regular string setup & tension: Various poly (big banger, PT Strike 1.20)

Racquet used for test: Pure Strike VS '22

Power/Control of test string: Hyper-G Round (HGR) has a nice controllable power level. It doesn't feel dead but also isn't so powerful. I would call it medium for a poly. I never felt myself thinking it needed more power but I also never thought it was too powerful or I couldn't control the ball (until tension loss started setting in). Given that it wasn't so stiff or dead it had surprisingly good control. I felt very confident with the string and going for small targets. I thought the level of control was excellent especially given that it had better feel than typical stiff control polys. It has a really good blend of power and control, they hit a good spot with this.

Feel (Stiff? Mushy? Muted? Crisp? Comfortable?): The feel was a little crisp but not stiff. It was also a tad muted but I think this can be influenced by the racquet, at least in part. The feel in the sweetspot wasn't magnificent, like some strings, although this is also racquet dependent but it is why I think the string was a bit muted. Overall though, I enjoyed the feel. It wasn't the softest or most comfortable but it wasn't harsh either. I'd compare it to Poly Tour Pro in some ways but maybe a bit less muted than that string. Good response, mostly consistent throughout and crisp but not harsh.

Spin: I would say this had good spin for a round string, above average. Of course, it won't compare to Hyper-G, it's not shaped, but it really isn't supposed to compete with itself. For the added feel and [maybe] a little more power, they did a good job maintaining its trademark characteristic. Balls kept dipping in even if you didn't quite get a full swing. I do think spin declined a bit as tension dropped, but honestly I think it was more attributable to a loss of control. The ball was launching a little more so required more action to not miss long. Overall, I was very happy with the spin.

Playability Duration: Sadly, I was left a little disappointed. Notching was minimal, even up to the almost 8 hours I used it, but major tension loss was between 4-5hrs. I understand some polys lose tension even quicker but I was expecting more. From my personal use, 4-5hrs is at or just below average. The string does remain playable, I used it up to about 8hrs and it never got stiff or harsh, it just became a bit launchy and unpredictable. It wasn't really worth keeping in the racquet any longer for actual match play.

Tension Recommendations (would you string it differently next time - why): I went with 47lbs which seemed about right for this frame. It was pretty crisp off the stringer but settled in nicely and felt good until the tension drop. I do think the string is on the firmer side, so a high tension could cause issues in the wrong racquet.

Other comments (optional): Out of the gate, I was impressed. It had very good control and nice spin for a round string. The feel wasn't too muted and gave enough feedback. It seemed like it was really going strong and then suddenly I felt a little launchiness and it continued. Once I adjusted, to the now lower tension, it wasn't bad but the predictability and control were diminished. The playability duration really left me wanting more but I would definitely use it again. A pretty solid offering and nice compliment to regular Hyper-G.

Other Other Comments: For those asking about this compared to PTP, yes it is pretty similar. I got better tension maintenance from PTP but PTP is more muted. Spin levels are pretty similar but HGR may have a tad more power. The difference mostly comes down to feel. PTP also seemed to firm up when you swung harder/faster, theoretically for more control, where HGR had the same response regardless of swing speed. Basically if you like a more muted feel, go with PTP. If you like the slightly crisper feel, go with HGR. Neither will disappoint.


HYBRID section

Which string was in mains/crosses?:
HGR mains with Babolat Xalt crosses

Tension used for playtest: 47lbs, same as the full-bed HGR

Racquet used for playtest: same as above, Pure Strike VS '22

This was a disappointing hybrid. I intended to do a poly/poly hybrid but switched because I had just used Xalt as a cross and wanted to get a thorough feel for HGR, ergo use it as a main. The first issue was the crosses were moving like crazy. I've never had a hybrid where the crosses moved so much. My only conclusion is the HGR is stiffer and the Xalt has a good slick coating which caused it to move instead if the HGR. Either way, the net effect was not great spin potential. Additionally, power was there but not in a significantly more pronounced way. Likewise with feel, there was a bit more direct feel, but not significantly more. Was it more comfortable, uh a little. It just felt a little less crisp, but Xalt is on the firmer side of multis, so it wasn't like a more traditional multi where the stringbed really softened up. In short, I would not repeat this hybrid, it had no standouts. Thankfully I still have a halfset of HGR so will do the poly/poly hybrid. Unless you really love HGR, I can't see alot of reason to use it as a main. I guess with a really soft cross you'd get more power and comfort, but then I feel like there are other poly strings to use as a main that'd offer you more. HGR could make a good cross with a shaped poly main, but we'll see.

Thank you @TW Staff for continuing to allow me to participate and providing these opportunities. I always enjoy it.

A short review of the OG will follow, stay tuned...
I see you’re selling this frame because you can’t get it to work for you. Could using this string in a racquet you don’t like have impacted your review?
 

mad dog1

G.O.A.T.
Since HGR has been released, I purchased a reel of 1.25 and restrung my PD12. With a fresh string bed, HGR just imparts extra filth on the ball. One of my hitting partners said, "Yeah, this string just works for you." I also strung up a Percept 100D with it and it made the ball go faster. I strung it up in a 2019 Pure Aero and while it does make the ball penetrate through the court more, I feel that the 16 gauge/1.30 variant would be better for this racquet with it's wide open string spacing. I found the ball to spray a little more because the string was a bit too lively in this frame. Normally in the PA19, I use TruPro Black Knight 16 (1.28) which is a super dead string and it works great. I also tried HGR 1.25 in the 2021 VCore 95 and while it's very good, I believe Head Lynx Tour 1.25 is a better match for this frame. Next up will be to try HGR in the new 2023 Vcore 98 as well as a v8 Blade 16/19. I can see HGR pairing incredibly well with the 2023 VCore 98.
 
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colan5934

Professional
Since HGR has been released, I purchased a reel of 1.25 and restrung my PD12. With a fresh string bed, HGR just imparts extra filth on the ball. One of my hitting partners said, "Yeah, this string just works for you." I also strung up a Percept 100D with it and it made the ball go faster. I strung it up in a 2019 Pure Aero and while it does make the ball penetrate through the court more, I feel that the 16 gauge/1.30 variant would be better for this racquet with it's wide open string spacing. I found the ball to spray a little more because the string was a bit too lively in this frame. Normally in the PA19, I use TruPro Black Knight 16 (1.28) which is a super dead string and it works great. I also tried HGR 1.25 in the 2021 VCore 95 and while it's very good, I believe Head Lynx Tour 1.25 is a better match for this frame. Next up will be to try HGR in the new Vcore 98 as well as a v8 Blade 16/19. I can see HGR pairing incredibly well with the VCore 98.
I will probably stock a reel as well. It won’t replace ALU for me, but the extra zip on the ball is lovely. I switched from a racquet with fresh ALU Rough to a matched stick with hgr and sailed the first handful of balls long. Lots of easy lift and zip off the strings without being wild. Plenty of spin also. Tough to say if I get more or not, but for sure higher launch and easier access to depth and speed. Great for the player who wants that (me on my bad/tired days too)
 

Chairman3

Hall of Fame
I see you’re selling this frame because you can’t get it to work for you. Could using this string in a racquet you don’t like have impacted your review?
Nope, I've used other strings in this frame so I have a reference point of how it plays, generally. Also never said I didn't like this racquet, actually the opposite.
Overall, my review was positive and selling the frame actually contraindicates your point.
But if you feel some elements of my review need clarification, please advise.
I do these because it's fun and to try to give honest feedback about how it would play for an average joe.
 
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