Wilson Pro Labs: Ultra Pro (16x19) Official Thread

fellow UP users, I have an issue that becomes more apparent these days. As much as I love how the UP performs, this racket is easy to get pushed around by heavy hitters and it does hurt my wrist to return heavy balls. What do you do to the racket to gain more... I don't know what you call it: power to block/return heavy balls?

If not this racket, what other rackets do you end up using that has similar to this UP feel and behaviour?
 
fellow UP users, I have an issue that becomes more apparent these days. As much as I love how the UP performs, this racket is easy to get pushed around by heavy hitters and it does hurt my wrist to return heavy balls. What do you do to the racket to gain more... I don't know what you call it: power to block/return heavy balls?

If not this racket, what other rackets do you end up using that has similar to this UP feel and behaviour?
increasing the string tension helped me a lot personally
 
fellow UP users, I have an issue that becomes more apparent these days. As much as I love how the UP performs, this racket is easy to get pushed around by heavy hitters and it does hurt my wrist to return heavy balls. What do you do to the racket to gain more... I don't know what you call it: power to block/return heavy balls?

If not this racket, what other rackets do you end up using that has similar to this UP feel and behaviour?
Have you added weight to your UP? In stock form it can be unplayable, it does require lead tape on the hoop to increase the swing weight and the twist weight to give it more stability at point of contact. It also depends on your level and the level of your opponents, if they are a higher level player, the racquet isn't going to save you from being late to the ball and getting pushed around.
 
Reducing the trampoline effect? What's your string setup?
yeah i suppose that's probably it; it particularly started feeling more stable on returns and volleys. i was originally using luxilon 4g 16g at 55lbs and had a tough time but then eventually went up to tru pro black knight 16g at 60 lbs. the last string i used was restring zero 16g at 60 lbs and enjoyed that.

i favor the 18 20 now though.
 
fellow UP users, I have an issue that becomes more apparent these days. As much as I love how the UP performs, this racket is easy to get pushed around by heavy hitters and it does hurt my wrist to return heavy balls. What do you do to the racket to gain more... I don't know what you call it: power to block/return heavy balls?

If not this racket, what other rackets do you end up using that has similar to this UP feel and behaviour?

This is the Achilles heel of the UP + Player Combo. Unless you can play with a (1) lot of weight/swing-weight AND (2) contact everything in front (and have (3) have excess reserves in technical power) it will eventually have this exact issue. I maxxed out at 332SW (best combo for me) which reduced (but retained) this issue of nothing balls on the 1HBH and weak balls on the FH when pushed by "the heavy hitter". I could go upto 340SW but that improved my defense but hurt my offense. Basically you have be to SO GOOD yourself to overcome this. I did use the 18x20 though - never felt comfortable with the 16x19 as it was almost always too vague and unpredictable. The string bed stiffness and honestly of the 18x20 kept it working for me. I finally moved to the EZ98 but that was a natural switch from the 18x20 as it retained similar launch and control. No the feel is not similar at all BUT retaining silver strings helps.

For whats it worth I used Tour Bite 17 full bed and hybrid @ 44x42 lbs. Going to more tension dropped power and reduced the sweetspot size. Cant even imagine this racket with 16g stiff poly @ 60lbs!

file-0000000033f062308bc54625d80c518f-1.png

@grungebob - is that you?
 
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fellow UP users, I have an issue that becomes more apparent these days. As much as I love how the UP performs, this racket is easy to get pushed around by heavy hitters and it does hurt my wrist to return heavy balls. What do you do to the racket to gain more... I don't know what you call it: power to block/return heavy balls?

If not this racket, what other rackets do you end up using that has similar to this UP feel and behaviour?
I was going to say the opposite, reduce tension so you can have a short backswing and this racquet responds well to a more trampoline stringbed. Plus lower tension is better for your wrist/arm.
I used 48lbs in the UP16M and 45lbs in the UP18M, 335ish SW.

Could throw 3g at 3/9 as that is where you put weight for stability.
 
I was going to say the opposite, reduce tension so you can have a short backswing and this racquet responds well to a more trampoline stringbed. Plus lower tension is better for your wrist/arm.
I used 48lbs in the UP16M and 45lbs in the UP18M, 335ish SW.

Could throw 3g at 3/9 as that is where you put weight for stability.
Right now, it's similar setup as mine. I have about 6gr total on 10 & 2. I use 48lbs poly on main and 52lbs multi on cross. It's perform really nice when it's fresh but it's so easy to get pushed around when it's already loosing tension and felt very trampoline-y.

Did try Ezone98, it's so powerful and the ball comes out really good but I don't feel anything like it's so numb.
 
Right now, it's similar setup as mine. I have about 6gr total on 10 & 2. I use 48lbs poly on main and 52lbs multi on cross. It's perform really nice when it's fresh but it's so easy to get pushed around when it's already loosing tension and felt very trampoline-y.

Did try Ezone98, it's so powerful and the ball comes out really good but I don't feel anything like it's so numb.
I'd adjust the weight to have 2g at 12 o clock and 4g split at 3/9.
This should keep the power but add some stability too.
 
So here's what I've found with the UP after playing with it for a few sessions. For me, it's quite good in stock form. The three I have weigh 11.5, 11.5, and 11.51 with over grips and strung with Yonex Poly Tour Drive. Here's the interesting part: all three are at different tensions. I requested 55lbs and one is probably at that while the other two are around 48 and 50ish. The funny thing is that I much prefer how this racket plays at lower tension. It's opened up the power and spin without having to add weight to the hoop. I don't think I'll have to do any customizing to any of these frames, and playing at a lower tension makes it come alive.

I'm a huge fan of this frame and I'm extremely pleased with how it plays. I was searching for something with control, some power and spin, and something that feels good. This has ticked all the boxes for me. My hitting partner noticed the ball coming off quite heavy and it was nice to hear when we took a break. I didn't have to ask but I thanked him for the info because with my other frames, I wasn't getting that at all even with added weight to the hoop.
 
I'm currently playing with a vcore 95 2018 in L3 with a yonex leather grip. Have read that the pallet size for wilson is smaller than that of the yonex. Should I go for an L4 for the UP if I'm planning to slap a leather grip on it as well? Also, has anyone played with the vcore 95 2018 and both the UP 16m and 18m? How do they compare in terms of launch angle
 
I'm currently playing with a vcore 95 2018 in L3 with a yonex leather grip. Have read that the pallet size for wilson is smaller than that of the yonex. Should I go for an L4 for the UP if I'm planning to slap a leather grip on it as well? Also, has anyone played with the vcore 95 2018 and both the UP 16m and 18m? How do they compare in terms of launch angle

I played L4 in the VC95 18 and L4 in the UP. The UP handle shaft did feel like 1/2 a size smaller with same grip. BUT that said the UP grip has a "bigger butt" than the Yonex grip of same size. I also had atleast one unit of the L3 VC95 and L3 UP. I would still stick with SAME SIZE of VC and UP personally. Worst case use a slightly thicker replacement grip on the UP. Leather grips end up thinner than synthetics careful there... ONLY If you are going with an extra thin Leather then maybe L4 UP to replace L3 VC using synthetic... Maybe.

The UP 18m has a lower launch angle than the VC95. I just couldn't get along with the UP 16m and sold it before I tinkered with it so I cant give you any good feedback or comparisons on it.
 
Does anyone has rough idea when will Wilson drop the latest V5 paintjob on their Ultra Pro Labs ?

Finally i got to see the V5 Ultra in person, so with the exception of glossy Ultra 99, everything else are in matte.
 
I have to think it isn’t selling well anymore. Head doesn’t make flat beam control sticks, no pure control anymore, etc. Wilson still has the blade though.
I tried my friend's Head Prestige Classic 2.0 and it feels awesome just like our UP but way heavier. Maybe... Maybe... Head Prestige MP-L with added weight on the handle
 
I think likelihood is the ultra pro 97 v4 will still be available a good while as likely a lot of stock for Wilson to shift - will be interesting to see. Decision to stop producing it really does seem to signal he death of the classic control racket, will be interesting to see what happens to the Head prestige.
 
I think likelihood is the ultra pro 97 v4 will still be available a good while as likely a lot of stock for Wilson to shift - will be interesting to see. Decision to stop producing it really does seem to signal he death of the classic control racket, will be interesting to see what happens to the Head prestige.
Well, if you check their website, I think grip 2 and 3 are sold out. And I doubt they come back in stock. Still available from TW though.
 
Well, if you check their website, I think grip 2 and 3 are sold out. And I doubt they come back in stock. Still available from TW though.

Ah ok. That’s quite quick as last week there were still plenty for sale. Real shame as I’d say this is one of the best classic control rackets of all time, up there with the pt57a
 
Does the Ultra Pro V4 allow for pallet change?
I am thinking of getting one from Tennis Only, deep discount !
Tennis Only Australia? It has L4 grip and I've missed their discount for my L2 grip.

I'm thinking to get a Head Prestige MP-L and modify it to my UP Spec. The thing that I like with the Prestige MP-L is that the swing weight starts quite low and may add a bit more on the handle to make it even more head light. Anyone here plays with the Prestige especially the MP-L and can compare with our UP 16m?
 
Hello everyone,

I'm a 50-year-old player looking for a racket that provides that extra bit of control. Currently, I’m playing with a Wilson Blade 100, strung with Velocity MLT in the crosses and Head Lynx Tour in the mains, both 1.30 mm at 23.5 kg (51.8 lbs). This setup gives me decent control overall on groundstrokes, and I especially enjoy it when playing against opponents who create peace on the court.

I use a mix of flat and spin shots on my forehand, primarily hitting flat when aiming for winners. However, I still struggle with angles, as I tend to overhit, causing the ball to fly out. I tested a Blade 98 18x20 V8 and felt more dialed in with it, but I’m unsure if I could play a full three-set match with an 18x20 without risking arm pain or arm fatigue —something I experienced a year ago after hitting with an Ultra 100 with RMP Blast.

Recently, I’ve been considering the Ultra Pro 16x19 V4. In my league, I mostly face ball pushers, which i like to play with, but it's hard to create pace and avoid overhitting. I don’t entirely blame the racket, as sometimes poor footwork or bad timing also contribute. Honestly, I really enjoy playing with the Blade 100.

I’d appreciate your advice on the Ultra Pro V4 16x19: Is it comfortable to play with during long matches? What’s your opinion on its launch angle and overall control?

Thank you all for your valued advice!
 
Does the Ultra Pro V4 allow for pallet change?
I am thinking of getting one from Tennis Only, deep discount !
The Ultra Pro has the standard Wilson hard foam grip in a single solid block. So, no easy change of pallets.
Of course, you can chisel away the solid foam, leaving the bare frame and add some Head pallets. Be aware that dimensions of hairpin a little bit smaller than Head ones and the final part of the hairpin is a rhomboidal shape and not rectangular. And usually Wilson puts some weight plates inside the foam.
It can be done, using silicone to fill the gaps and carefully adding the pallets + desired weight.
 
Hello everyone,

I'm a 50-year-old player looking for a racket that provides that extra bit of control. Currently, I’m playing with a Wilson Blade 100, strung with Velocity MLT in the crosses and Head Lynx Tour in the mains, both 1.30 mm at 23.5 kg (51.8 lbs). This setup gives me decent control overall on groundstrokes, and I especially enjoy it when playing against opponents who create peace on the court.

I use a mix of flat and spin shots on my forehand, primarily hitting flat when aiming for winners. However, I still struggle with angles, as I tend to overhit, causing the ball to fly out. I tested a Blade 98 18x20 V8 and felt more dialed in with it, but I’m unsure if I could play a full three-set match with an 18x20 without risking arm pain or arm fatigue —something I experienced a year ago after hitting with an Ultra 100 with RMP Blast.

Recently, I’ve been considering the Ultra Pro 16x19 V4. In my league, I mostly face ball pushers, which i like to play with, but it's hard to create pace and avoid overhitting. I don’t entirely blame the racket, as sometimes poor footwork or bad timing also contribute. Honestly, I really enjoy playing with the Blade 100.

I’d appreciate your advice on the Ultra Pro V4 16x19: Is it comfortable to play with during long matches? What’s your opinion on its launch angle and overall control?

Thank you all for your valued advice!
As a fellow senior (50+ years of age), I wouldn’t recommend the UP16 as your main stick. It is a genuine players frame, and in the latter stages of a long hitting session or a 3 set match you will struggle to maintain a sufficient level of power to keep you in the rally. Yes you can weight it up etc., but it still doesn’t give you anything for free.

My racquet journey has taught me that feel isn’t my highest priority anymore.
 
Hello everyone,

I'm a 50-year-old player looking for a racket that provides that extra bit of control. Currently, I’m playing with a Wilson Blade 100, strung with Velocity MLT in the crosses and Head Lynx Tour in the mains, both 1.30 mm at 23.5 kg (51.8 lbs). This setup gives me decent control overall on groundstrokes, and I especially enjoy it when playing against opponents who create peace on the court.

I use a mix of flat and spin shots on my forehand, primarily hitting flat when aiming for winners. However, I still struggle with angles, as I tend to overhit, causing the ball to fly out. I tested a Blade 98 18x20 V8 and felt more dialed in with it, but I’m unsure if I could play a full three-set match with an 18x20 without risking arm pain or arm fatigue —something I experienced a year ago after hitting with an Ultra 100 with RMP Blast.

Recently, I’ve been considering the Ultra Pro 16x19 V4. In my league, I mostly face ball pushers, which i like to play with, but it's hard to create pace and avoid overhitting. I don’t entirely blame the racket, as sometimes poor footwork or bad timing also contribute. Honestly, I really enjoy playing with the Blade 100.

I’d appreciate your advice on the Ultra Pro V4 16x19: Is it comfortable to play with during long matches? What’s your opinion on its launch angle and overall control?

Thank you all for your valued advice!
If you're playing with the Blade 100, seems like the natural move would be to the Blade 98 16x19 for more control.
Still decent power but just a little extra control.
 
@Tao69, thank you so much for your advice. I think you're right—the UP 16x19 seems to be demanding. After reading some of the comments in this chat and watching a few reviews, I realize I may need to beef it up a bit to improve its playability. The very low power level can definitely lead to arm fatigue.

@Chairman3, thank you for the suggestion; I think that's a fantastic idea. Actually, a few of my tennis peers also recommended it, as I really love Blade racquets and am very happy with my Blade 100. I believe a Blade 98 16x19 could be the perfect choice for those challenging matches when I need that extra bit of control.
 
Hi, I'm a big fan of the feel with the Ultra Pro. I see the TF40 305 (16x19) are currently on sale at TW, which seems to have similar specs. Does anyone here have experience with hitting both frames?
 
Hi, I'm a big fan of the feel with the Ultra Pro. I see the TF40 305 (16x19) are currently on sale at TW, which seems to have similar specs. Does anyone here have experience with hitting both frames?
I had a TF40 for a few weeks, from memory it's more muted than the UP16 but has a little more pop.
 
Hi, I'm a big fan of the feel with the Ultra Pro. I see the TF40 305 (16x19) are currently on sale at TW, which seems to have similar specs. Does anyone here have experience with hitting both frames?
It's a good substitute but not a total replacement.
TF40 is a firmer plush feel a little dampened.
TF40 swings a little slower but that can also depend on how you mod the Ultra Pro or what spec you get on the TF40.
TF40 has a little tighter pattern so a little lower launch angle but not necessarily more control.

Depends how sensitive you are to the feel of the racquet because otherwise it could perform similarly. The Ultra Pro is a little more old school but the TF40 is nice.
 
Just recently got hold of a used H19 UP v3 16x19 strung with ALU. Not had a chance to hit with yet but look forward to testing this compared to my old blade 98 v6.5 CV

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Just recently got hold of a used H19 UP v3 16x19 strung with ALU. Not had a chance to hit with yet but look forward to testing this compared to my old blade 98 v6.5 CV

0XKrvU7.jpeg
Just a quick update got the stock H19 UP v3 strung @46/44 with Toroline absolute 17/1.20 . Felt quite stiffer than I was expecting. Many balls flying when comparing to my blade v6.5 CV which felt more controlled and comforting. Probably need more time to test

 
ultra pros need added weight at both ends - leather plus over grip and maybe some more weight in the butt cap plus lead at 3, 9, and maybe at 12. Find the optimal tension and string and it becomes a magic stick. I am playing with the UT 18x20 version btw but I have a lot of new spares in V4 18x20 too. (maybe 1RA stiffer at 64?)
 
Hi UP users, bringing back our thread up because I need advice from you who have used the Head Prestige MPL Aux 2.0 along with your UP16 v4 (or UP18).

I just got my MPL since I'm looking a racket that gives me more power and forgiveness hence I chose the Prestige MPL (99" instead of 97" of our UP). Strung it up the same way of my UP with Alu Power @ 46 lbs on main and Head Velocity MLT @ 50 lbs on cross. This setup works great on my UP as I can rip the ball at low or high with heavy spin and still going fast (but very tiring).

This Prestige somehow gives me more accurate and forgiving slice and my one handed backhand BUT I lost my forehand and flat serve. With the same forehand that I usually go for the kill with the UP, the ball sails long, very long as if that the ball doesn't have any top spin to bring it down. Drive me nuts.

Is it because the racket is very flexible? The UP is also having a low RA but it feels firm upon contact, but not this Prestige. Any insight what I'm doing it wrong? Should I pull higher tension? Should I choose other string combos? Or even, Did i choose the wrong stick coming from UP16?
 
Just a quick update got the stock H19 UP v3 strung @46/44 with Toroline absolute 17/1.20 . Felt quite stiffer than I was expecting. Many balls flying when comparing to my blade v6.5 CV which felt more controlled and comforting. Probably need more time to test

“Stick H19”. Those two do not go together.
 
String lower ivanjo...but you have found a good difference between the H19 platform and the Head frame.

I am stringing my UP 18x20 (shaped poly 1.23/syn gut 1.30) at 24 lbs, but I will go thinner on the shaped poly to 1.18 or 1.20 for more pocketing in future. Player frames need added weight. Work on technique and foot work. These frames offer great control. Btw, the weight I like is around 360g and 10 points HL. I don't even weigh 140 lbs so if I can wield these frames, more of you guys can too.
 
String lower ivanjo...but you have found a good difference between the H19 platform and the Head frame.

I am stringing my UP 18x20 (shaped poly 1.23/syn gut 1.30) at 24 lbs, but I will go thinner on the shaped poly to 1.18 or 1.20 for more pocketing in future. Player frames need added weight. Work on technique and foot work. These frames offer great control. Btw, the weight I like is around 360g and 10 points HL. I don't even weigh 140 lbs so if I can wield these frames, more of you guys can too.

Hats off to anyone who can handle a UP 18x20 @ 24 lbs. I can go down to 38-40 lbs with Tour Bite 17 (I started at 44 and went down slowly) @ 335g / 7HL / 330sw from memory. I even went down to 30 lbs once with 1.30 poly but it only lasted one good session before I could no longer wield it with authority due to lack of confidence. I'm sure with a week of suffering I could have figured it out.
 
I went away from the UP and can’t think of why. I wanted to tinker around with other frames but back to the UP I go.

Its so so nice feeling and gives me almost good enough of everything but once in the while those NOTHING BALLS on defense and when not hitting it clean just kill me. So after 18 months I finally had to move away to the Ezone98 (and Ive been there for a year now). Constantly revisit the UP 18m for fun BUT it quickly teaches me who is the boss.
 
Its so so nice feeling and gives me almost good enough of everything but once in the while those NOTHING BALLS on defense and when not hitting it clean just kill me. So after 18 months I finally had to move away to the Ezone98 (and Ive been there for a year now). Constantly revisit the UP 18m for fun BUT it quickly teaches me who is the boss.
String lower ivanjo...but you have found a good difference between the H19 platform and the Head frame.

I am stringing my UP 18x20 (shaped poly 1.23/syn gut 1.30) at 24 lbs, but I will go thinner on the shaped poly to 1.18 or 1.20 for more pocketing in future. Player frames need added weight. Work on technique and foot work. These frames offer great control. Btw, the weight I like is around 360g and 10 points HL. I don't even weigh 140 lbs so if I can wield these frames, more of you guys can too.
@AmericanTwist so you're string the UP lower than other frames, right? That's what I'm think maybe I should string my Prestige MPL higher or find a little bit stiffer string. But 24bs? That's crazy low bro... Never try that low but I notice my UP is way better when the string is already loosen up a little bit.
Its so so nice feeling and gives me almost good enough of everything but once in the while those NOTHING BALLS on defense and when not hitting it clean just kill me. So after 18 months I finally had to move away to the Ezone98 (and Ive been there for a year now). Constantly revisit the UP 18m for fun BUT it quickly teaches me who is the boss.
I don't know how to remove your quote up there. I tried Ezone98 and it does produce a much better offensive balls for me but I can't help the numb feeling. Also many has complained to have tennis elbow with ezone too. How's yours?
 
... I tried Ezone98 and it does produce a much better offensive balls for me but I can't help the numb feeling. Also many has complained to have tennis elbow with ezone too. How's yours?

I went from Tour Bite 17 @ 44# UP18M to Tour Bite 17 @ 48# on 22-EZ98 and didn't skip a beat... It let me keep the launch angle of the UP yet add offensive and defensive capability along with more forgiveness. I know the 22-EZ98 doesn't feel great with every string (like the UP does) but it sure feels great for me with TB17. I use a thin rubber band dampener as well (on both sticks). Eventually I moved onto Confidential 16L 43-45# (as it felt slightly better from a result standpoint) and also moonlight with S7T 1.25 46#

I just cant imagine the 22 Ezone98 hurting anyone's elbow - but I guess anything is possible. The reduced string bed stiffness from the 16x19 makes it feel even softer than the UP 18m (but not softer than the UP 16m) - and the Yonex has a fairly unique throat flex that can really unload into the ball without losing control. Was not too impressed with the 2025 Ezone 98 but it was not my racket and not my string.....
 
Thanks guys...yes the UP/UT 18x20 needs much lower string tension to expand the sweet spot and add power and spin. I have only realized this recently. I had been stringing my frames in the high 40s low 50s lbs. Much too high (for me and probably most every one else not a pro). Natural guy/poly in the low 30s with max power 1.20 and Klip 15L. MSV focus hex 1.23 hybrid with syn gut 16 is a little too thick (but offers really good spin) for me. I will try 1.18 focus hex next. This might be optimal for me.

Yesterday I played 4 sets and one 10 point tie break. My dubs partner and I lost 2-6, 2-6. Then we played singles. 3-6, 6-3. I lost 10-12 in the tie break. My 22 year old partner was not really warmed up for the dubs match but really found his stride in our singles match afterwards. Got to almost every shot of mine (I am probably just as fast but not 22 anymore lol). Shorts and T shirt in 45 degree temps. Good times!

I need to be stringing even slightly lower due to falling temperatures now. My friend was playing with a 2021 pure drive so lots of power and spin btw.

Also, I suggest not eating a burrito before any match play lol...
 
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A 4.5 friend is buying some ultra pro 16x19 coming from an old pure strike 16x19. Mainly he is upgrading because it’s a Black Friday deal. Should he lead it up from the beginning?
 
A 4.5 friend is buying some ultra pro 16x19 coming from an old pure strike 16x19. Mainly he is upgrading because it’s a Black Friday deal. Should he lead it up from the beginning?

Only because most are coming low spec from Wilson.... Atleast check the specs of what comes in - 295-300sw unstrung works great for me but I am not a 4.5 and probably will never get there.
 
Hit with it 1-2x stock, but definitely look to add weight to the handle and to the frame 3, 9, 12 o'clock locations. Keep preferred balance as one adds weight. Some have also added weight to the top of the handle area too. Lower tensions.
 
A 4.5 friend is buying some ultra pro 16x19 coming from an old pure strike 16x19. Mainly he is upgrading because it’s a Black Friday deal. Should he lead it up from the beginning?
I suggest to try it first because changing a racket will adjust the string choices & tension too. Get the string setup done, then try to mod where it's needed.
 
About ready to pull the trigger on a couple ultro pro v4 16x19 frames. Been rocking the TC95 16x19 for 6 years and I'm thinking of trying out something still comfy with some more control and a little more space in the upper hoop. A lot of the other options I've considered are hard-to-find/discontinued, e.g. Angell K7, Phantom 97P, Prestige pro 16x19, etc. I can play well with blades, but they feel a little clunky in my off-hand.

Looks like I missed out on the Black Friday sales, but I'm wondering if they're likely to go half-off again for the holiday season. Any guesses?
 
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