by Albert on May 19, 2010
When you’re buying a new racket, you may already have an idea of what you want; you may seek for more control or power. Or maybe you may have no idea whatsoever and are just tempted by the reviews that you’ve read.
For whatever reasons you’re looking for a new racket, you should know some basics on which to make your decision easier. There are three major types of tennis racquets in the current market.
Type 1: Rackets for Power or Game Improvement
These evenly balanced rackets are characterized by its oversized to super-oversized heads (107 to 135 square inches), lightness (8 to 9.5 ounces) and longer stiffer (27 to 29 inches). Their features help to retain enough weight in the hitting zone.
Manufactured to give more power to the player, they are designed for players with shorter, slower swings. Below are a couple of the top game improvement rackets:
Type 2: Control or Player’s Rackets
These rackets are used by professionals and high level clubs’ or colleges’ team players. Its balanced head light is to retain maneuverability. Other characteristics include their heftiness (11.5 to 13+ ounces), smaller heads (85 to 98 sq. inches) and thinner, more flexible beams.
They are design to provide low power as most players prefer to provide power on their own and prefer a racket that offers control instead. The length of these rackets can be standard or extended length. Here are some control oriented rackets preferred by professional players:
Yonex RDiS 100 Mid: Advanced players will be able from its firm and quick response. Its exceptional power and stability comes from the combination of 12.1 ounce of strung weight and 68RA stiffness.
Type 3: Tweener Rackets
Tweener rackets are a blend of the earlier two types of rackets. They are lighter (9.5 to 11 ounces), have midplus heads (95 to 102 sq. inches), are usually extended length (27.5 to 28 inches) and are balanced anywhere from slightly head light to slightly head heavy.
Often used by intermediate to advanced players who seeks enhanced maneuverability from their beginners’ rackets, tweeners offer low-medium to medium-high power. A couple of the best ‘tweener rackets are:
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by Albert on May 18, 2010
Like any sporting equipment, tennis rackets needs proper care and maintenance for it to perform well. Depending on how frequent you play, the strings need to be replaced once or twice a year. Don’t restring beyond the recommended extent as it could brittle the frame.
You will need: a) diagonal cutter b) stringer machine
Instructions:
Step 1
Determine the type of string you should get. The best way to go is to get strings that are a combination between durability and resiliency. If you are a first timer in buying new strings for your racket, you may not get it right the first time. In due time, you should experiment with other strings.
Step 2
Decide the best tension for you. The tighter the strings are, the more control you have. Looser strings however, offer more comfort and power because the project the ball farther. Experiment with the tension of the strings as there is no right or wrong way to do it. It boils down to personal preference.
Step 3
After getting your strings and deciding the right tension for you, mount your racket in a stringer as to secure the head and the neck. Make sure that it can’t be move by making sure to tightly clamp the racket.
Step 4
Adjust the tension on the stringer but don’t exceed the limit of the racket’s frame. You can make sure of this by the number indicated near the neck of the frame. Do not exceed the limit because this will crack your frame.
Step 5
Prepare 36 to 40 feet of string for your main strings. The mains are stringed vertically.
Insert the string at the center of the head, working your way up the mains and down to the neck. Apply tension and clamp the first string at the head and keep it clamped until all the mains are done. Do a figure eight knot with the leftover string. Unclamp and release tension and cut off excess string.
Step 6
After the mains are done, string the crosses. When stringing the crosses, always start on top of the mains. Insert string through one size and weave the string across to the other side. Apply tension to every cross and clamp.
Insert the string through one of the larger holes and tie a figure eight knot when you are done with the last cross. Make sure to clamp it. When you are done, unclamp and release the tension and cut off the excess string.
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by Albert on May 17, 2010
Choosing and using the right strings for your tennis racket does matter. This guide will show you the basics you should know when choosing quality strings for your racket.
The String Gauge
The string gauge ranges from 15 to 19. Higher gauges are thinner and offer greater feel and power, while lower gauges means that they are thicker for more durability. Thicker gauges are for beginner and intermediate rackets, while thinner strings are aimed more towards professionals.
String Types
The strings can be categorized based on the material and its construction.
a) Material
Nylon: This is affordable, fitting for casual and recreational players and also beginners.
Natural Gut: This is the most expensive and is made from animals’ intestines. They are for touring professional players. However, they do deteriorate when exposed to water and humidity.
Polyester: Although it offers less power and feel, they are more durable when compared to natural gut strings.
Kevlar: Strings made from Kevlar are the most durable, but they are stiff. To compensate for the stiffness, they are strung using 10% less tension; a factor to consider if it is suitable for your game.
b) Construction
Before considering the material of your strings, it is important to determine the right construction of your tennis racquet strings according to your playing style and the type of game you’re playing.
Mono: These strings are made out of single and solid fibers and have a surface coating to improve durability.
Ribbon: The fibers are similar to natural gut but ribbons are used instead.
Multifilament: It uses several materials and is impregnated with polyurethane for quality and durability.
CW: These are usually used in tournament play. There is a solid core made of thin filaments.
CWW: As with CW, it has a solid core but with two layers of filaments rather than one.
The Strings’ Durability and Playability
When choosing the material of your stings, make sure you are choosing a suitable balance between their durability and playability so that you can get the most out of it. Choosing the wrong balance will hamper your game and a waste of time and money.
The purpose of this guide is to show how to benefit from your purchase by determine the strings that you use with your tennis racket. There are different types of strings, gauges and tensions because this is not a one size fit all case. Don’t be afraid to try each and every one out until you are satisfied with your performance.
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by Albert on May 16, 2010
Oversize racket with 110 square inches head. 27.5 inches in length. Huge sweetspot. These are just some of the impressive features of the latest racket in Tecnifibre line.
Tecnifibre T-Flash 270 OS Tennis Racket
The Tecnifibre T-Flash 270 racket is infused with Texalium technology. This is a new composite re-enforcement where the woven twill fibres are actually coated aluminum sublimation. This integration and its specific weave patterns provide durability while still being lightweight. In other words, the technology makes the racket stronger than before but it can still make way for the ultra lightweight design. In fact, the racket only weighs about 285g (only 10 ounces!).
With an oversize head that accommodates bigger sweetspot, users can now play with more power. Among the T-Flash racquets, this one has also been said to be the most forgiving of all while still providing substantial power and maneuverability. The lightweight design also allows for better maneuverability. Users have also commented that the Tecnifibre ‘07 T-Flash 270 OS Tennis Racket has “solid feel and good control” and provides “responsive feel with excellent stability in the head”.
However, each person might have a different opinion to what suits him/her best. One reviewer, while agreeing that the Tecnifibre T-Flash 270 is indeed a solid racket, thinks that it is perhaps better suited for larger people due to the think grip.
That aside, this Tecnifibre ‘07 T-Flash 270 OS Tennis Racket is without question, one of the powerful rackets around and would serve well for most 2.5 to 4.0 level players.
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by Albert on May 15, 2010
The Head Metallix line is derived from a composition of carbon fibers and a new crystalline metal alloy which creates light but strong metal alloy. The Head Metallix 4 is considered a tweener option in the line; its oversize head of 107 square inches offers plenty of power and control not to mention an ample of sweet spot.
Head Metallix 4 Tennis Racket
Tennis rackets nowadays are often built with different technologies to further empower them and the Metallix 4 is no different. The Head Stabilizer is introduced in this racket, where it functions to eliminate unwanted racket vibrations so you can increase your comfort in every play. The Metallix 4 is also empowered by a new throat design called Head LMS (Longer Main String). The design serves the purpose to create a larger surface (bigger sweet spot for you!) without actually enlarging the racket itself.
Unlike its predecessors, the Head Metallix 4 is said to be lighter and more maneuverable. It’s recommended for 3.5 – 4.5 level players who would prefer some power in their rackets while still being able to maintain control on the game.
However, one man’s meat is another man’s poison. There have been contradicting feedbacks for the Head Metallix 4, ranging from the good to the bad:
“The Metallix 4 gave me a decent amount of power, depth and topspin on my groundstroke but fell short in most other areas.” – Tim, Berkley, MI, USA –
“It improved my game in every way. I have a lot more topspin, more power, more control, volleys improved, and I had more spin and power on my serves. I just had to get this racquet and it helped me win 2 matches so far into the season.” – Josh, Florence, NJ, USA –
“I bought this racquet last year, and it instantly gave me tennis elbow. I think this is because of the head heaviness and light weight. Volleys are horrible with this racquet and serves are great.” – Rasheeq, USA -
“With this racquet I don’t even feel it on my elbow, and I’ve sacrificed very little power and gained a lot more control. I’ve let most of the team try it out, with not one complaint. I’d recommend this racquet to anyone.” – Graham, Westerly, RI, USA –
Further information:
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by Albert on May 14, 2010
The first thing I saw when I look up for Head Flexpoint Prestige was this review:
“This racquet rules the HEAD world. It has the ‘whack’, the feel, the weight and the spin. It’s simply a complete racquet for the powerful player.” -H. B. Malallah (New York)-
Head Flexpoint Prestige Tennis Racket
Indeed, this Head Flexpoint Prestige Tennis Racket, powered by Flexpoint Technology, NoShox Dampening System, and Total Sweetspot Construction, has much to offer to its player. The Flexpoint Prestige has “precisely engineered hole” at the 3 & 9 o’clock positions on the racquet head. These “dimples” can apparently create flexibility by reducing a maximum of 25% of beam height and also up to 50% of sectional stiffness. Hence the racket is capable of ‘cupping’ the ball and then creating a narrower path for it. It provides a much more directional control in the game.
The racket has midsize head, which is about 98 square inches and weighs about 12.10 ounces when strung. Testers have vouched for its large sweetspot and great ability for flexibility. While it has retained its classic feel, it was also improved in terms of mobility, power and control.
The Head Flexpoint Prestige Tennis Racket is most suitable for advanced to pro players and has been used by several professional players themselves. It would also be best if the players prefer to bring in their own power into the game, as the racket does well in complementing that strength.
Testers reviewed that the Head Flexpoint Prestige Tennis Racket is a solid and powerful racket but might be a little too hefty for junior players. It is, after all, created for the pros.
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by Albert on May 13, 2010
The Dunlop Aerogel 900 tennis is a power oriented racket. It has a super-size head of 113 sq. inches that is also head heavy balanced, which allows for powerful hits and yet offer maneuverability for the player as well.
Dunlop Aerogel 900 (113) Tennis Racket
Like any other improvement rackets, the Dunlop Aerogel 900 offers plenty of strength and generosity in hit-spots due to its large head size. But unlike others, this particular racket was improved with the Aerogel, Multifinalment (M-Fil) and Vibrocore technology.
The Aerogel is the world’s lightest solid with 3 dimensional nanometer sized molecular network that provides unbeatable strength to weight ratio. The addition of Aerogel technology provides enhanced stiffness and power without the addition of unnecessary weights.
The M-Fil, on the other hand, is a unique patented 3D braiding process that combines 3 materials into the hitting zone to improve the touch and feel of the racket.
With Vibracore, you would have less to worry about injuries, especially the risk of tennis elbow. The technology helps to reduce frame vibration by absorbing the shock waves into the silicone rubber core within the racket’s shaft. This prevents the pressure from traveling down the handle and so allows the player to play with more ease.
To add to the benefits, the racket’s grip is also ingrained with Dunlop Hydramax Comfort to increase greater comfort on the handle while maintaining its firmness.
The Dunlop Aerogel 900 (113) Tennis Racket would be most suitable for game improvement players looking for more power in their rackets, all while enjoying the comforts and maneuverability.
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by Albert on May 12, 2010
For a tweener racket with good amount of power, give the Becker Pro a shot. Developed with high-tensile DNX, it enhances the strength while maintaining its lightweight and providing ample stability and control for the player. The combination of these will give you a surprising performance.
Becker Pro Tennis Racket
It is also able to absorb optimal shock with the two-part racquet shaft and TechnoGel. Its ability to provide players with optimal feel and accurate power is perhaps the reason it became the racket for tennis star Ricards Berankis. In fact, this is what he has to say about the
Becker Pro:
“Today’s tennis game is all about Power. It is so fast, so you need the right equipment to compete. Power is what I look for in a racquet. This new BECKER PRO definitely gives me what I need with-out loosing the control. I can feel how the racquet generates more speed. I like it!”
As far as disadvantages goes, there hasn’t been any. Reviews for this racket have mostly been raving and of praise.
“I am really enjoying playing with this racquet. It has tons of control, tons of available power, nice feel, and is super comfortable. The only adjustment I had to make was to the more rectangular grip shape, but now I find the shape really helps me to feel the angle of the racquet face.” –Max, Santa Monica, USA-
“My experience with this racket is that it has a significant “trampoline” effect with balls struck in the center, and slight miss hits were harshly punished by instability. I would recommend a demo before purchase.” – John, NY, USA -
Further information:
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by Albert on May 11, 2010
If you are an advanced player looking for a racket to enhance your game, you need not look further. Becker 11 Mid Size is one made for strong players; it is stable and provides plenty of power and control. You can certainly find extra strength in this racket, which is mainly due to the additional high-tensile DNX material located in the racquet bracelets and in the handle sleeve.
Becker 11 Mid Size Tennis Racket
The Becker 11 Mid size is also developed using DeltaCore, a technology that enables the perfect combination of stability and shock absorption.
It is, by far, considered the most control oriented racket in the Becker line of tournament rackets. It has also been commented as one of the best mid size rackets by the testers. Here’s what some of the other reviewers have to say about the Becker 11 Mid Size:
“I love it. Great control, big serves, solid volley. And my elbow never felt better.”
“Being primarily a baseliner, I’ve been looking for a serve and volley racquet. I was amazed by power and control. Volleys are solid and controlled. Able to hit power, kick, and slice serves with ease. Best serving racquet I’ve tried. Very maneuverable, and really improving power, spin and control on one-handed backhand.”
“The Becker 11 Mid manages to combine great flex, feel, stability, spin, control and power, with almost no trade-offs as far as I can tell.”
“Another great racquet by Boris Becker and Volkl. It is pinpoint precise and great for serving. Not as good as the Midplus in return of serves but just as comfortable”
“My only gripe has been the string that I’ve been forced to use in the demo. It’s a poly and quite rigid. But that’s hardly the racquet’s fault. This racquet won’t be for everyone but if you are a certain sort of player, aggressive and command the net, this is the best frame ever.”
Further information:
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by Albert on May 10, 2010
Like its predecessors in the Babolat line, the Babolat Pure Storm Tour racket is tailored for better control and performance on the game. Like many other Babolat rackets, this one is also lightweight but unlike the others, it provides surprising amount of maneuverability.
Babolat Pure Storm Tour Tennis Racket
What’s so special about it?
If you an experienced player, looking for more weight and heft in your racket, then you’ve come to the right product. The Babolat Pure Storm Tour is fitted with new technologies that maintains, if not increases, its solidity as well as maneuverability. Needless to say, you’d have greater control and better ease while passing away those powerful shots.
How do the technologies help?
Two technologies are responsible for the greatness of this racket: the Woofer and Carbon Xtrem. The Woofer technology offers a larger sweetspot to bring in more accuracy in the shots by providing a versatile stringbed that functions as a suspension system and can therefore absorb major part of the shocks. That means you’d be able to increase the accuracy of every shot, with less risk of injury to you arm.
To complete it, the Carbon Xtrem substituted Zylon Matrix technology that was used on some of the previous Pure Storm rackets. It comprises of specially braided graphite utilized around the racquet head. The result was steadier frames and hence greater stability and control. It is because of this that players will be able to generate some nice weight and pace of shot.
The Babolat Pure Storm Tour is an excellent addition to the Pure Storm Team. It certainly did not disappoint the majority of the users who have tested or used it.
Recommended for 4.5+ level players, or strong intermediate to advanced players.
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