Hi all, need some advice on what to get between the Ezone 100 vs 100L.
Question: Would changing to a slightly lighter racket be the right choice for a new player?
Quick background:
- I recently started playing and taking lessons since August. I used to play lots of badminton and table tennis.
- I'm using a friend's racket (Barbolat Aeropro drive). Specs are 300gm unstrung but weighed it on a digital scale and got 330gm. Strings are Barbolat Xcel natural 1.25, strung to 55 lbs.
- It looks exactly like the racket in this thread (
https://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/index.php?threads/babolat-aeropro-drive-original-new.465912/) although I'm not 100% sure if it's that one.
After playing for 4 months, I have decided to continue playing, wasn't sure if I would like it initially. I need to return the Barbolat so need to get my own racket now. I have pretty much narrowed it to the new 2020 Ezone.
- There are no racket rentals where I live (Singapore).
- Weight wise, I'm pretty ok with the Barbolat but I struggle with my serve (could be weight related or more likely I'm still learning the correct form).
- My group lessons (1 coach and 2 students) last 2 hours. I struggled initially with conditioning but these days I feel pretty good after lessons. FYI I'm 40, 5'7 120 lbs. Yes, I'm quite thin but healthy otherwise.
- I find the Aeropro harsh - Not sure if this is the right term.
- My training group all use Wilson Pro staff (315gm) and I found it a little too heavy for me.
- On average, I would say 30-40% of my forehand shots tend to be into the net. My coach says I have a terrible habit of closing my racket head too quickly.
I was set on the Ezone 100 (300gm) then found out Yonex made a slightly lighter version 100L (285gm). The issue is I cannot rent to try, so unfortunately I need to buy based on reviews and best guess if it fits me. I'm not aiming to join any leagues/tournaments but just want to get fit while having a good time.