Since you’re here, you must be in need of some advice on the best tennis strings, am I right? Just like choosing a tennis racquet, picking the right tennis strings for you is an important decision as well. Not only can the right strings help you to improve as well as advance to the next level, it should also fit with your playstyle and needs so that you can play as comfortably as you can out on the courts. There are tons of tennis strings and different brands out there however so you might have a hard time deciding. But with this guide, you’ll be a tennis string expert in no time. Here are tips on choosing the best tennis strings for you!

How to Choose the Best Tennis Strings

Factors to Consider

It’s important before you go buying tennis strings to consider what will work best for you. Your play style, your preferences regarding feel and elasticity, and your optimal tension are just a few factors that you should consider, among other things. Read through each section below to get a better feel of what strings will serve you best.

Comparing the Different Types of Tennis Strings

Best Tennis Strings Comparison Chart

***Most string recommendations will be in 16g by default, although other gauges might also be available***

Natural Gut

The only string made out of natural product from animal intestines, more specifically, a cow’s intestines. You probably could have guessed that since they are called natural gut. When twisted into tennis strings, they give a feel like no other and will protect your elbow from getting hurt. You can also string them with high tension for more control. Natural gut is the oldest type of string that remains in tennis today and is regarded by many as the best tennis strings. However, they are also the most expensive strings available, and will cost you a pretty penny every time you need to have your racquet re-strung. That’s probably why they aren’t recommended for players who snap their strings regularly.

String Name	Gauges Available	Set/Reel?	Price	Rating
Babolat VS Touch	15 / 16 / 17	Set	$$$$	4.8
Luxilon Natural Gut	16 / 17	Set	$$$$	4.7
Wilson Natural Gut	16 / 17	Set	$$$$	4.5

Multi-Filament

Made of multiple filaments wrapped around a single string, multi-filaments are the closest you’ll get to natural gut tennis strings at a fraction of the cost. They have very good performance, are soft on the arms, but aren’t as durable or control oriented as other strings on the market.

String Name	Gauges Available	Set/Reel?	Price	Rating
Technifibre NRG2	16 / 17 / 18	Set	$$	4.4
Wilson NXT Control	16 / 17	Set	$$	3.9
Gamma Live Wire	16 / 17 / 18	Set	$$	4.2

Synthetic Gut/Nylon

Refers to any type of string that isn’t natural gut. Often made of nylon in a single filament although other materials can also be added for durability and feel. Synthetic gut is the cheapest type of string to manufacture and is generally the least expensive to purchase, making it the best tennis strings for budget players. This type of string aims to imitate the feel of real natural gut without costing as much, although recently multi-filaments do a better job of this. But don’t be fooled, even though these strings are cheap they have great durability and playability.

String Name	Gauges Available	Set/Reel?	Price	Rating
Prince Synthetic Gut	15 / 16 / 17	Set/Reel	$	4.2
Gosen OG-Sheep Micro	16 / 17	Set	$	4.4
Gamma Synthetic Gut Wearguard	15 / 16 / 17 / 18	Set/Reel	$	4.3

Polyester

Very stiff with durable material. These strings are frequently used for people who snap their strings a lot. The string supports people with heavy topspin which made it the most popular type of string in the pro tour.

String Name	Gauges Available	Set/Reel?	Price	Rating
Babolat RPM Blast	15 / 16 / 17 / 18	Set/Reel	$$	4.7
Luxilon ALU Power Fluoro	17	Set/Reel	$$	4.5
Tecnifibre Pro Red Code	16 / 17 / 18	Set	$$	4.4

Hybrids

Not really a string but more of a combination of 2 different strings on one racquet. You have 2 different types of string: 1 of them is the strings going vertically, which is called the main. The other is the strings going horizontally, which is called the cross. The main is usually the most durable string like Polyester or Kevlar. The reason for this is because you pop the main strings faster if you hit topspin. The cross is the opposite, it’s mostly based on comfort. You can still pop the cross with topspin but it will take much longer than having them on the main. When stringing, 20ft of each string will be required.

String Name	String Types	Gauges Available	Set/Reel?	Price	Rating
Babolat RPM Blast + VS	Co-poly + Natural Gut	17 RPM Blast + 16 VS	Set	$$$	4.6
Wilson NXT Duo II	Multifilament + Co-Poly	16 (NXT + Luxilon Adrenaline)	Set	$$	4.5
Wilson Champion's Choice Duo	Natural Gut + Co-Poly	16 (Natural Gut + Luxilon ALU Power Rough)	Set	$$$$	4.7

Kevlar

Stiffest string and extremely hard to break. These strings are one of the best tennis strings that can hold its tension but it is also the most dangerous string as it can lead to the development of tennis elbow due to its stiffness. Kevlar is often strung with another type of string as it helps to combine the qualities of both strings (Hybrid), such as Kevlar with nylon to balance out the harsh feel. Another strategy to increase comfort and improve rebound efficiency is to string Kevlar at low tension.

String Name	Gauges Available	Set/Reel?	Price	Rating
Ashaway Crossfire II	16 Synthetic gut/Kevlar	Set	$	4.4
Ashaway Crossfire 17	17 Synthetic gut/Kevlar	Set	$	4.2

The post Best Tennis Strings of 2022: A Complete Guide appeared first on Pro Tennis Tips.

How to Choose the Best Tennis Ball Machine

Factors to Consider

Ball Capacity

How many balls would you like your machine to carry at once? Will this machine mostly be used by yourself or will a large group of players be using it simultaneously? Most ball machines carry anywhere from 50 to 300 balls, with the average being around 150 balls. A machine with a smaller ball capacity should be more than enough if you intend to use it by yourself or for a single student. However, the general mentality is that more balls is ultimately better. Of course, machines with larger capacities are often larger, harder to move, and more expensive. In the end, it’s up to you to decide what’s the right amount that will meet your needs.

Weight

This might not seem like something you’d care about that much but don’t be fooled! While lighter machines can be re-positioned like a breeze, heavier machines will be harder to move around. So if you’re constantly in need of using a tennis ball machine, you wouldn’t want to have to lug around a gargantuan thing all the time. But if you’re able to store the machine somewhere relatively close to the courts, you’ll be able to confidently use a larger machine without fear of moving it back and forth all the time.

Power Type

Most tennis ball machines come in two categories: AC power or battery operated. Battery operated machines are often smaller, easier to move around, but may lack advanced features such as a large ball capacity, oscillation, etc. These are best if you don’t have an outlet nearby. AC powered machines often come will a ton of features although you will need to have a power source to plug your machine into. They are often larger and and more robust.

Oscillation

Can you guess what oscillation is? It basically refers to a tennis ball machine’s ability to feed balls in more than one direction. Types of oscillation include random and programmable, where the former feeds balls in an unpredictable pattern while the latter allows you to choose how the balls will be fed and some allow you to choose the number of shots programmed. A machine that offers a variety of oscillation can help to make drills a lot more complex, which is a good thing for improving in tennis.

Elevation

Elevation refers to how low or high the machine can feed balls. This is important if you want a more dynamic feed. Being able to improve your shots on lobs, overheads, and low shots is vital for producing a well-rounded player.

Feed Rate

How fast can the machine feed balls? The faster the feed rate, the more you’ll improve at reacting to incoming balls as well as being able to hit more shots in a set amount of time. A faster feed rate can also allow you to serve more players at once, say, a group of players using the same machine.

Propulsion

Propulsion refers to how the ball is fed. There are two types of propulsion: spinning wheel propulsion where two spinning wheels feed the ball, or air pressure propulsion where the ball is fed through a tube using air pressure. The type of propulsion is important for two things, top speed and allowing for spins. These are very important factors to consider when choosing the best tennis ball machine.

Top Speed

How fast can the machine feed a ball? Usually you won’t need the top MPH to be the absolute highest, although you may never know when you might want to feed a baseball as well. Only joking, but many intermediate/advanced players will want to practice hitting balls with pace.

Topspin and Backspin

Tennis is anything but a static sport. The most common way of stepping the game up is by adding spin to your shots, as well as learning how to return them. Thus, there are tennis ball machines out there that can feed both topspin and backspin shots.

Dimensions

How large does your tennis ball machine have to be? Are you into more portable ones or large towers? Take into consideration where you are going to store your tennis ball machine as well.

Price

The price of a tennis ball machine can vary anywhere from $500 to more than $5000 (like this bad boy). More expensive machines will naturally have more features although budget machines are often more portable. If your intention is to have a tennis ball machine that can help you improve on an individual level, a cost-friendly machine will be your best bet. But of course, if you’re a tennis instructor, you will want a machine with more features that can allow you to feed balls to a lot more players at once.

Best Tennis Ball Machine – Battery Powered

Manufacturer	Lobster Sports	Lobster Sports	Lobster Sports	Playmate	Spinshot
Model	Elite Liberty	Elite 2	Elite Grand V	Volley Portable	Player
Dimensions	24" x 16" x 19"	24" x 16" x 19"	24" x 16" x 19"	25" x 19" x 21"	50CM(H) x 50CM(L) x 35CM(W)
Ball Capacity	150	150	150	200	120
Weight (lbs.)	35	42	44	62 (w/ battery)	21kg
Battery Life	2-4 hours	4-8 hours	4-8 hours	4-6 hours	2-3 hours
Oscillation	Random horiz.	Random horiz. Random vert.	Random horiz. Random vert. Fully random horizontal & vertical	Random 1 line 2 line	Random Random horiz. 2 line
Elevation	Yes, 0-50°	Yes, 0-60°	Yes, 0-50°	Yes	Yes
Topspin/Backspin?	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Feed Rate (seconds)	2-10	2-10	2-9, random	1-10	2-10
Range of Speed (MPH)	20-70	20-80	35-80	Up to 75	20-70
Key Features	- Extremely portable and lightweight - One of the more affordable tennis ball machines	- Triple oscillation to feed either short or deep shots	- Pre-loaded and customizable drills - Random oscillation for a simulation of match play	- Heavy duty aircraft aluminum - Removable battery for convenient charging	- Very portable and compact - Other models include remote / 2 line function
Warranty	2 Years	2 Years	2 Years	2 Years	2 Years
Price
Rating

Best Tennis Ball Machine – AC Powered

Manufacturer	Sports Tutor	Sports Tutor	Sports Tutor	Lobster Sports	Playmate
Model	Tennis Tutor Plus	Shotmaker	Tennis Tower	Phenom II Club Series	Smash
Dimensions	19.5" x 20" x 20"	31" x 21.5" x 38.5"	23" x 22" x 44"	32" x 25" x 50"	35" x 21" x 38"
Ball Capacity	150	300	225	250	300
Weight (lbs.)	46	90	60	99	115
Power Type	Battery or AC	120 Watt AC only	100 Watt AC only	AC only	AC only
Oscillation	Random horiz. Random vert. 2 line	Fully random Programmable oscillation	Random horiz. Random vert.	Random horiz. Random vert. 2 line Fully random	Random horiz. Random vert. Programmable
Elevation	Yes, 10 settings	Yes	Yes	Yes, 0-50°	Yes
Topspin/backspin?	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Feed Rate (seconds)	1.5-10	1-10	1.5-8	2-9	1-60
Range of Speed (MPH)	10-85	10-95	10-85	35-85	Up to 80
Key Features	- Player mode to simulate real play - Multiple models to meet your needs	- High impact plastic and aluminum - Multiple models to meet your needs	- Great for home court use - Multiple models to meet your needs	- Pre-loaded and customizable drills - 18 shot locations	- Electronic direction to 7 lines - Aircraft aluminum construction
Warranty	3 Years	3 Years	1 Year	2 Years	3 Years
Price
Rating

The post Best Tennis Ball Machine of 2022: A Complete Guide appeared first on Pro Tennis Tips.

>> More reviews of the Wilson K Factor KZero here <<

Wilson K Factor KZero Review

Features & Specifications

• Very large head for an extra large sweet spot (118 sq. inches)
  
• Lightest K Factor racquet (9.1 ounces strung)
  
• Pre-strung with Wilson Synthetic Gut Extreme 16g at 60 lbs.
• [K]ompact Center improves handling, maneuverability, and provides additional feel
• [K]ontour Yoke is a new frame technology that enhances swiftness at key stress points on the racquet which improves torsional stability
• [K]arophite Black is a new racquet structure that is created through a unique process at the nanoscopic level resulting in more feel and a stronger and more stable racquet

• Lightweight, Maneuverable, and Lots of Feel
  

The Wilson K Factor KZero is the lightest K Factor racquet in the Wilson line, weighing in at only 9.1 ounces strung. That’s extremely light on the weight spectrum, with anything below 10 ounces considered light. You won’t notice how much of a difference it makes until you get the court, however. Light racquets provide a number of advantages, including more maneuverability, faster swings, and less energy required. The only downsides to light racquets are less control and more shock, which is why we highly recommend using an excellent shock absorber when playing with light racquets to dampen excessive vibrations.

That being said, this racquet is 4 points head heavy, with more of the weight distributed in the head. The Wilson K Factor KZero, combined with its lightweight design, also features [K]ompact Center design which was inspired by Roger Federer. [K]ompact Center works by shortening the yoke, which is the triangular hole you can find at the throat of any racquet. The yoke on the Wilson K Factor KZero, when seen, is more equilateral than compared to most other racquets. This technology helps to improve maneuverability, stability, and feel.

• Less Energy for Maximum Power
  

Any racquet with a head size over 105 sq.in is considered an oversize racquet, and since the Wilson K Factor KZero comes equipped with a 118 sq.in head, it’s pretty apparent that this racquet stresses the importance of power very highly. With such a large head size, this means that the sweet spot is enlarged greatly, which allows for forceful shots even if the ball doesn’t land in the center of the racquet. While improving on feel, this also means it takes less energy to generate power, which can be a godsend for recreational players who don’t want to tire themselves out easily on the court. This racquet can also benefit beginning players who need a little extra ‘oomph’ to get balls over the net, and the extra large sweet spot means that players can feel more confident in their shots as they improve.

>> Is our Wilson K Factor KZero review not enough? Find more here! <<

• Extremely Durable While Improving Stability
  

To counterbalance the insane amounts of power of the Wilson K Factor KZero, there also needed to be some technology to help make it more durable. That’s why Wilson introduced [K]arophite Black and [K]ontour Yoke technology.

Firstly, the K Factor KZero is made with 100% [K]arophite Black, which is a remarkable material that improves the stability and the strength of the racquet. [K]arophite Black combines Carbon Black from the original nCode racquets with additional bonds of graphite and SiO2 molecules on the nanoscopic level that helps to create a dense and stronger racquet matrix. This material, while creating a stronger racquet, also helps to improve on feel and stability.

Coupled with a new frame design called [K]ontour Yoke, the Wilson K Factor KZero adds even more stability to the racquet. [K]ontour Yoke works by enhancing stiffness at key stress points in the frame, which improves torsional stability greatly.

Final Thoughts

The Wilson K Factor KZero is a considerable beast on the court with a design that focuses on power and maneuverability. Super lightweight at only 9.1 ounces strung, this can benefit players who don’t want to swing a heavy racquet constantly while providing lots of mobility in hitting shots quickly. With an impressive 118 sq.in head, the Wilson K Factor KZero generates insane amounts of power while a larger than life sweet spot allows for forgiving shots that don’t land in the center. So this racquet can definitely help to improve a player’s game to get balls over the net and provide energy in your shots, although you shouldn’t rely on this racquet forever to generate all the power for you. But for recreational players who aren’t trying to compete, this racquet is perfect as you won’t waste lots of energy playing, but quick tip, use a decent shock absorber to reduce shock to your wrists, arms, and shoulders. The only thing it’s missing is control since this racquet generates so much power on its own, so it’s recommended for players with short to medium swings who won’t hit balls to the moon. And since it comes pre-strung, it will be ready for you to pick up and play immediately.

>> Find the Wilson K Factor KZero on Amazon! <<

The post Wilson K Factor KZero Review appeared first on Pro Tennis Tips.

>> Learn more about the Babolat AeroPro Drive Plus here <<

Babolat AeroPro Drive Plus Review

Features & Specifications

• A length of 27.5″ for extra reach and maneuverability
• Aero Modular Technology for increased air penetration and faster swings
  
• Woofer technology on grommets for increased ball contact time
  
• Cortex Active technology reduces bad vibrations for more comfort
• GT technology for a more rigid construction resulting in improved stability
• Recommended string tension of 55-65 lbs. (55 is a good starting point)

• Extended Length

The Babolat AeroPro Drive Plus measures an extra half an inch in length, which is the only added feature of the plus compared to the original. But is half an inch really such a big deal? For some players, yes, it can actually make a whole world of difference. With this extended length comes extra reach and maneuverability, which can be valuable for players with a shorter reach (or shorter arms really, but we’re not trying to be rude). This helps greatly for groundstrokes and gives a little extra pop for serves, and it plays remarkably well while at net.

The main problem we see with plus length racquets is oftentimes they feel a little unbalanced because of the extra weight in the head. After all, plus length racquets are variations of how the racquet was originally designed. But the Babolat AeroPro Drive Plus does not suffer from this setback, and in some ways, it’s actually improved by the extra length. It might be a fluke of our imagination, but it really does feel like the added length allows for extra power and spin.

• Aero Modular Technology
  

What makes the Babolat AeroPro Drive so unique and possibly one of the fastest frames around is largely due to its advanced Aero Modular technology. This technology works similarly to how wings work, with an aerodynamic design of varying beam widths of 23mm, 24mm, and 26mm at the spots that have the most air resistance. By having differing beam widths in the throat, shaft, and head, the AeroPro Drive Plus is able to penetrate the air more quickly (by an estimated 15% increase), which results in faster swings. Also known as Aerobeam technology, this contributes not only to faster swings but also allows the player access to a wider range of angles and trajectories for their shots. And even though this racquet is extremely powerful and easy to swing, it doesn’t lack stability either, which is essential for comfort and feel.

With Aero Modular technology granting faster swings, this makes the Babolat AeroPro Drive Plus a great racquet for aggressive, baseline play, where most of your time spent on the court is behind the baseline. Recommended for players with full and fast swings who aren’t afraid to plow through their shots to win points.

• Woofer Technology
  

Woofer technology refers to the dynamic system situated in the grommets that helps players interact with their shots even further.

As you may know, a normal tennis racquet’s frame is static, with most grommets locked in a fixed position. This limits how much the strings can move, and only the strings that come into contact with the ball will actively interact with it. Most vanilla players won’t notice the difference, but for those who enjoy applying spin to their shots, Woofer technology is a godsend.

Woofer technology relies on a pulley and piston system located in the grommets that helps to extend the duration of the ball impact (roughly 25% longer ball contact). Instead of being stuck in place like in a normal racquet frame, the strings are free to move around and the whole surface area reacts on impact. This means that more strings work together when striking the ball which allows for added spin, a larger sweet spot size, an increase in trampoline effect (for more power), and absorption of more shock throughout the string bed.

>> Read more Babolat AeroPro Drive Plus reviews here <<

• Cortex System and GT Technology
  

Then there’s the Cortex System technology, which is a unique handle design that helps to filter out excessive vibrations generated on ball impact while allowing for maximum ball feel. While the Cortex system eliminates high frequency “bad vibrations” that can disrupt a player’s performance, it leaves back lower frequency “useful vibrations” to improve on feel, so you are better able to place your shots where you want. Coupled with GT technology–a more rigid frame construction–this helps to provide improved stability, control, and comfort.

Final Thoughts

The Babolat AeroPro Drive Plus can definitely help players with a shorter reach get to balls that would normally be out of their range. It also feels like there is more power and spin potential with the Plus compared to the original, which might or might not be true; we’ll have to call in our team of scientists to figure that out. But for taller players who already have good reach, the extra length of the Plus might not be enough to warrant a purchase of a racquet whose only added feature is additional length. But either way, the AeroPro Drive Plus plays very much the same as the regular AeroPro Drive, and this line of racquets has already been proven on the court by some of the best players in the world. The AeroPro Drive Plus has a good balance of power, spin, control, comfort, and mobility that makes it a very balanced racquet, and all the latest improvements in tennis technology is just icing on the cake.

>> Liked our Babolat AeroPro Drive Plus review? Read more here! <<

The post Babolat AeroPro Drive Plus Review appeared first on Pro Tennis Tips.

>> Find out more about the Babolat Pure Drive here <<

Babolat Pure Drive Review

Features & Specifications

• FSI Technology for a higher sweet spot and more responsive contact zone
  
• Woofer technology on grommets for increased contact time and control
• Cortex Dampening System eliminates harsh vibrations for better feel
  
• Elliptic Design for greater resistance to torque and flex with no added weight
• EVO Beam with varying beam thickness for less torque and more responsiveness
• GT Technology for improved stability at ball impact
• Recommended string tension of 50-60 lbs.

• FSI and GT Technology

What differs from this version of the Pure Drive with previous versions is the inclusion of FSI technology. Collecting data from the 2012-2013 Babolat Pure Drive Play, Babolat found that the impact zone where most players hit was higher than the traditional center of the racquet. In response, FSI places the sweet spot higher in the frame for more power and comfort in the contact zone. A tighter string pattern also helps you to place shots more precisely. Coupled with GT technology–creates a more rigid construction–the Pure Drive allows for more power and control while retaining its stability.

• Elliptic Design and EVO Beam

A noticeable difference between the Babolat Pure Drive and the AeroPro Drive is their unique designs. While the AeroPro relies on Aero Modular technology for a faster swing, the Pure Drive’s Elliptic Geometry and EVO Beam allows for a lower swing weight and less torque and flex on ball impact.

The Elliptic Design does not twist, bend, or add any extra weight to the racquet, which in turn provides greater resistance to torque and flex (a +20% improvement compared to traditional frames). This helps to create a stiffer frame that can provide both power and maneuverability, although keep in mind that a stiffer frame means that it isn’t as arm-friendly. Since more of the weight is distributed in the handle, this means that it may feel heavier which can take some time getting used to.

The EVO beam refers to the differing beam witdths of the Pure Drive. The beam width ranges from 23.5mm to 26mm to 23mm in the neck, head, and throat. This design helps to lower torque at ball impact for a better feel so you can place your shots more strategically.

These two features are, in my opinion, largely what contributes to the Pure Drive’s power output, which I would rate as exceptionally high. If comparing the Pure Drive with Babolat’s other racquets, you’ll probably notice that the Pure Drive provides much more power, which is excellent for players with fuller swings and robust serves. And don’t worry about groundstrokes, returns, or volleys either, the Pure Drive plays exceptionally well with any shot.

>> Find more Babolat Pure Drive reviews here <<

• Woofer Technology
  

The Woofer system was first launched in 1999 and introduced the first dynamic system able to make the frame and strings interactive when hitting. How it works is through a pulley and piston system where the strings are not fixed in a locked-up position like typical racquet frames. When strings are fixed in place, this allows for very limited movement since only the strings in the vicinity of where the ball strikes are able to respond.

On the other hand, with the Woofer technology present in the Babolat Pure Drive, everything changes. The pulley system makes it so that strings are free to move when coming into contact with the ball, resulting in the entire surface reacting. This allows for a larger sweet spot and a more even distribution of shock throughout the entire frame, reducing the harshness of vibrations. Babolat claims that the Woofer system increases the contact time between the ball and strings by 25%, which also allows for added spin (although not as noticeable as with the AeroPro Drive). Then you have the piston function, which gives the strings a springlike behavior where the entire surface is able to deform more on impact. This increases the trampoline effect that’s needed for extra power and maximum energy return.

• Cortex Dampening System
  

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Babolat Pure Drive was designed for power and control, and Babolat hasn’t changed much in this racquet’s design since its inception. If you have no problem getting used to a stiffer racquet, you’ll be rewarded with exceptional precision and powerful strokes. If you aren’t used to playing with a stiffer racquet that’s oriented around control and plow through, you might want to try a ‘Tweener racquet first before you take the plunge on the Babolat Pure Drive, which can seem like a completely different beast to what you’re normally accustomed to. But again, there’s really no introduction needed for the Pure Drive. It was introduced as Babolat’s first line of tennis racquets back in 1994 and it’s still one the most popular racquets in the world to this day. But it’s a racquet designed for very serious players who want superior control over all aspects of their game, and the added FSI technology in their 2015 model helps remarkably on a player’s power potential.

>> Liked our Babolat Pure Drive review? Read more here <<

The post Babolat Pure Drive Review appeared first on Pro Tennis Tips.

>> Learn more about the Babolat AeroPro Drive here <<

Babolat AeroPro Drive Review

Features & Specifications

• Aero Modular Technology for increased air penetration and faster swings
  
• Woofer technology on grommets for increased contact time and control
• Cortex Active technology reduces vibrations for more comfort
• Recommended string tension of 55-65 lbs. (55 is a good starting point)

• Aero Modular Technology
  

The Aero Modular technology is largely what makes the Babolat AeroPro Drive one of the fastest frames around. This is due to a design that’s more aerodynamic by nature (think of how wings work), with varying beam widths of 23mm, 24mm, and 26mm at the throat, the shaft, and the head of the racquet. This design–aptly named the Aerobeam–helps to cut back on air resistance in just the right places, which means faster swings for the player due to the 15% increase in maximum air penetration while also maintaining excellent ball control. As you may know, larger headsizes (>105 sq.in) equate to more power, but even though the Babolat AeroPro Drive has an even 100 sq.in. head which is considered balanced, the Aero Modular technology allows for increased force without giving up on features in the stability department. Not only that, but the increased air penetration also helps to expand the range of angles and trajectories you are capable of delivering the ball.

With a faster swing available, this makes the Babolat AeroPro Drive an excellent choice for aggressive baseliners who enjoy plowing through their shots while in the backcourt, with an added bonus of directional influence. In fact, Nadal generally adopts an aggressive baseline approach, relying on heavy topspin groundstrokes, consistency, and agility to win most of his points. That’s probably why the AeroPro Drive was designed with him in mind.

• Woofer Technology
  

Woofer technology refers to the dynamic system situated in the grommets that helps players interact with their shots even further. 

A typical tennis racquet’s frame is static, with most grommets locked in a fixed position and ergo, the strings stay in a fixed position as well. This means that when the strings come into contact with the ball, only some of the strings are actively moving when struck.

The Babolat AeroPro Drive, however, relies on a pulley and piston system located in the grommets that helps to extend the duration of the ball impact (roughly 25% longer ball contact). Instead of being stuck in place like in a normal racquet frame, the strings are free to move around and the whole surface area reacts on impact. This means that more strings work together when striking the ball which allows for added spin, a larger sweet spot size, an increase in trampoline effect (for more power), and absorption of more shock throughout the string bed. That’s why the AeroPro Drive is also famous for the amount of spin it can generate, which is a key aspect of Nadal’s playstyle.

>> Read more Babolat AeroPro Drive reviews here <<

• Cortex System Technology
  

Finally we come to the Cortex System technology, which is a unique handle design that helps to filter out excessive vibrations generated on ball impact while allowing for maximum ball feel. As you may know, each time you swing your racquet to hit a ball, thousands of vibrations are generated on ball impact that reduces stability and can cause lots of discomfort over time. The Cortex System effectively eliminates those higher frequency “bad vibrations” in order to improve comfort levels even while you’re generating lots of force behind your shots. This gives you added control over your game for a perfect and accurate hit every time.

Final Thoughts

While the Babolat AeroPro Drive sports lots of innovative technology, the specifications of a racquet can often tell you a lot about what a racquet is like on the court. With a 16×19 string pattern, a 100 sq.in head size, a 11.3 ounce strung weight, a 4 point head light frame, a 327 swing weight, and a 70 flex rating, it’s pretty clear that the Babolat AeroPro Drive was designed to be a balanced racquet, exhibiting elements of power, control, spin, and maneuverability in an all-in-one package. The biggest differences in the AeroPro Drive versus other racquets, however, are the added technology that help to emphasize on its already inherent strengths. The Aero Modular technology helps to add more power to your shots, the Woofer technology helps to increase spin and feel, and the Cortex System helps to filter out any unwanted vibrations for improved control and more accurate shots. So, if you’re a player who prefers maximum ball speed, spin, and stability for all-court coverage, look no further than the well-balanced Babolat AeroPro Drive.

>> Didn’t like our Babolat AeroPro Drive review? Read more here! <<

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>> More specs on the Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 here <<

Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 Review

Features & Specifications

• Increased head size (110 sq. in) for more power
  
• 27.5 inch length for more power, longer reach, and better angles for serving
  
• Uses Hyper Carbon, which is 4x stronger, 4x stiffer, and 65% lighter than titanium
• Pre-strung with Wilson Ultra Synthetic Gut Natural at 58 lbs
  
• Hammer Technology makes the racquet lighter with a higher and larger sweet spot

• Pre-Strung and Ready to Play
  

Since the Hyper Hammer 5.3 comes already strung, you are able to get on the court and play with the racquet right away. Pre-strung racquets are great for beginning and recreational players alike since you won’t have to worry about getting it strung at a shop and string tension and all that. But just in case the strings snap, it’ll be useful to know that it’s strung with Wilson Ultra Synthetic Gut Natural tensioned at 58 lbs.

• Can You Feel the Power?
  

The Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 is one of the most powerful racquets on the market, thanks largely to its unique design and remarkable technology. For one thing, the oversize head (measuring 110 square inches), 16×20 open string pattern, 10 point head heavy frame, and 28 mm dual taper beam width grants a very large sweet spot that helps to generate lots of power while being forgiving for shots that are not hit in the very center. And being that the racquet’s length is 27.5 inches, this helps increase the player’s reach for farther balls, serves, and volleys. (If you don’t know what these specifications mean, read our in-depth guide on what factors make up a tennis racquet.) 

Besides things such as head size, string pattern, balanced point, and beam width, the Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 also utilizes sophisticated modern technology to improve its power output even further. Hyper Carbon is a unique space age material used in the aerospace industry to build satellites and state of the art airplanes, but now it’s even used on tennis racquets! To quote Wilson, Hyper Carbon is “the first Ultra High Modulus graphite ever used in tennis racquets”. When combined with graphite, this creates an extremely versatile material that is four times stronger, four times stiffer, and 65% lighter than titanium. This means that not only can this racquet produce explosive shots, but its sturdy, resilient frame also grants the player a level of control to place balls wherever they may please.

That being said, the Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 was designed for intermediate and recreational players with moderate to fast swings, which is why it belongs in the ‘Tweener category. This racquet is especially beneficial for older, recreational players who don’t want to expend lots of energy for powerful shots. However, beginning players can also benefit from this racquet with its larger sweet spot and increased power output.

>> Read other reviews of the Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 <<

• Light as a Feather
  

Even though this racquet puts emphasis on power and control, that’s not to say that it isn’t lightweight either. Using Hammer Technology, this gives the racquet a 10 point head heavy frame for insane amounts of power while staying light as a feather at only 9 ounces strung. And as we explained earlier, this racquet uses Hyper Carbon to reduce the strung weight of the entire racquet. This material weighs 65% less than titanium, and although titanium is often used for other racquets, Hyper Carbon makes it so that the racquet can be maneuvered with ease with maximum feel for your shots.

However, being that it’s so light, vibrations can be felt more often than with a heavier control-oriented racquet. This can be a problem if you favor stability or if you want to reduce the amount of shock that your wrists, arms, and shoulders take. That’s why we highly recommend using a high quality shock absorber to help dampen the amount of vibrations if you do decide to go with this racquet.

Final Thoughts

All-court players can benefit substantially by using this racquet, as it can help with everything from developing solid groundstrokes to quick volleys to powerful serves. With the focus on power, the light weight that makes it maneuverable, and the ability to provide control as well, the Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 is highly recommended for intermediate and recreational players who have good amounts of experience playing tennis, although beginners will also be able to learn very quickly with this racquet. Whether you need a little extra power in your shots or you’re in the process of developing full, solid swings, the Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 is a truly versatile racquet that can help you improve on all aspects of your game.

>> Find the Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 on Amazon! <<

The post Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 Review appeared first on Pro Tennis Tips.

>> Learn more about the Wilson Pro Staff 90 here <<

Wilson Pro Staff 90 Review

Features & Specifications

• Smaller head for improved control
• Weights at 3 and 9 o’ clock for stability (what Pro Staff racquets are known for)
• Amplifeel Technology in the handle to filter out harsh vibrations
• The ultimate racquet for feel and control
  
• Use of Basalt fiber (BLX) technology for improved feel and frame feedback

• Precision and Control
  

With the smaller head size (90 sq.in), a strung weight of over 12 ounces, and the head light frame (8 points head light), this racquet provides more control and precision than most other racquets. Stressing “old school” design with added technology for modern all-court game, you’ll be better able to place your shots exactly where you’d like, which can give you the upper hand in a point. What else can you expect from a successor of the Pro Staff 6.0?

• Feel Central
  

All aboard the feels train! This racquet provides an unprecedented feel, possibly one of the best you will ever experience. This is largely due to the three technologies the racquet uses: Pro Staff technology, BLX technology, and Amplifeel technology.

Pro Staff technology is the signature addition of weights in the 3 and 9 o’ clock positions of the frame which creates a head light balance, ultimately increasing the torsional stability of the racquet.

The second is BLX technology, which is a special material that is added to the racquet. The BL stands for Basalt which is a natural volcanic rock that is used to produce fibers with lots of vibration resistance. BLX tech helps to improve the feel of the racquet as well as enforcing frame feedback.

Last but not least is the Amplifeel technology, which is added to the handle of the racquet for a cleaner and enhanced feel, while also providing a customized handle system that maximizes comfort. Amplifeel helps to eliminate vibrations from the handle that can mess with your game.

Combined with the graphite and Kevlar composition and a thin beam width (17.5 mm), this creates a stiff and heavy racquet that feels amazing for well-struck shots. This includes the majority of shots such as volleys, slices, groundstrokes, and serves. It’s pretty apparent that the Wilson Pro Staff 90 was designed for performance players who want to control all aspects of their shots without sacrificing on feel.

>> Read more reviews of the Wilson Pro Staff 90 <<

• Reduced Power

Since all the factors of this racquet was designed for maximum control, precision, stability, and feel, the only department it lacks in is power. When players think of racquets with power, they are probably not imagining a 90 sq.in racquet head that weighs more than 12 ounces. And although it’s not the worse racquet when it comes to power, it does mean it might take some getting used to. Playing with this racquet, most of the power will be generated by you, which ultimately makes you a better player in the long run. There is also a smaller sweet spot because of the reduced head size, but that won’t be a huge concern if your hits land in center field every time. So case in point, you won’t be able to rely on your racquet to generate power for you. You’ll be able to hit balls as hard as you want and you are in control of where the ball flies.

With the loss of power and smaller sweet spot, we recommend the Wilson Pro Staff 90 for advanced players with big and fast swings. If you are able to generate lots of power in your shots, you’ll be rewarded with great control, amazing feel, and lots of versatility with this racquet.

Final Thoughts

The Wilson Pro Staff 90 might take some time to get used to, but the more you play with it, the better you’ll become at tennis. With the weight and improved technology, this racquet focuses on control, precision, stability, and especially feel for an all-around superb control-oriented racquet. However, the Wilson Pro Staff 90 requires an experienced player with fast and powerful swings in order to truly take advantage of all of its assets, so if you’re relatively new to the game of tennis, this racquet might be out of your league at the moment. But if you’ve been in the game for a while and are confident in your skills, you’ll quickly notice the remarkable control and unparalleled feel this racquet allows within your first few strokes.

>> Find the Wilson Pro Staff 90 on Amazon! <<

The post Wilson Pro Staff 90 Review appeared first on Pro Tennis Tips.

>> More specs on the Head MicroGEL Radical Midplus here <<

Head MicroGEL Radical Midplus Review

Features & Specifications

• MicroGEL material evenly distributes shock on ball impact
• Increased racquet head width for more spin
  
• HydroSorb grip for airflow and comfort
• Designed for increased control, stability, comfort, power, and mobility
• Pre-strung with Head Sonic Pro white at 57 lbs.

• MicroGEL Technology
  

The Head MicroGEL Radical Midplus is an improvement from the previous versions of the Radical series (most notably the Flexpoint Radical and Liquidmetal Radical), with the only exception being the addition of MicroGEL technology, the midplus design, and of course the new look as far as we could tell.

Regarding MicroGEL, this technology is a special silicone-based material with an extremely low density. It’s used throughout the racquet’s construction and combined with stiff carbon fibers in order to create a strong, durable racquet with an added feature. This unique construction allows the racquet to deform and compress when coming into contact with the ball, allowing all of the shock to disperse evenly throughout the frame. This helps to improve the feel for the racquet, increase the player’s control of the ball, and reduce shock levels for peak comfort. And with the increased head width of the Radical Midplus, this allows the ball to generate more spin since it slides further across the strings when the racquet flexes. This allows the ball to travel farther and bounce higher when topspin is applied.

With MicroGEL in mind, this racquet is an excellent option for tennis players who have long and fast strokes, which advanced players often do. The MicroGEL technology helps to reduce shock which results in less strain on your arms, elbows, and shoulders. But it also allows for improved control and stability, which is a must for some. So, for more aggressive, competitive players who like to control the direction of the ball, this racquet is sure to suit you well.

>> More reviews of the Head MicroGEL Radical Midplus here <<

• Midplus Design
  

The Head MicroGEL Radical comes in 3 different designs, but the Midplus happens to appeal to us (and many others) much more than the rest. The MicroGEL Radical Oversize comes with a 107 sq.in head while the MicroGEL Radical Pro comes with a 100 sq.in frame, a 16×19 open string pattern, and a heavier handle (12 oz strung weight / 4 points head light). And although the MicroGEL Radical Pro is very similar to the Midplus, the Midplus just has a better feel to it that has everything a player could want. Comfort, stability, maneuverability, power, and of course control all-in-one racquet.

The fact that it has a 98 sq.in head size, 11 ounce strung weight, almost even balance point, and 21mm straight beam width means it’s safe to say that the Head MicroGEL Radical Midplus was designed as a balanced racquet, with lots of control but also good amounts of power without sacrificing on comfort or feel. (If you don’t what these specs mean, read up on our guide on how to choose a racquet).

With that said, again, we highly recommend this racquet for more advanced players with long and fast strokes who prefer control above all else. The fact that the Head MicroGEL Radical Midplus has a head with a larger width and MicroGEL technology provides exceptional feel means you can apply more spin to your shots (whether topspin, sidespin, or backspin) while controlling where the ball lands and how deep into the court it goes. Which ultimately means that plain, vanilla strokes won’t be the only weapon in your arsenal.

Final Thoughts

If control, comfort, and feel is what you are looking for, the Head MicroGEL Radical Midplus would be a perfect fit for you. If you happen to have a long and fast swing style, the MicroGEL technology can help to reduce vibration and shock to your arms, elbows, and shoulders, while also improving on feel. As for the midplus design, it’s a great racquet if you apply lots of spin to your shots and prefer a racquet that is balanced in all departments. Just as long as you hit balls at the center of the racquet, however, will you notice the advantages of the MicroGEL technology and midplus design. That’s why we’ve stressed that this racquet is best for advanced and experienced players with lots of control. If you’re a player who still has a hard time finding that precious sweet spot, you’ll notice a significant drop off when it comes to generating power, and this racquet is likely not for you. If you consistently hit balls at the center though, producing powerful shots won’t be an issue for you and you’ll notice that you can control the depth, range, and spin of balls to a greater extent than other racquets.

>> Find the Head MicroGEL Radical Midplus on Amazon! <<

The post Head MicroGEL Radical Midplus Review appeared first on Pro Tennis Tips.

>> More info on the Head Liquidmetal 8 here <<

Head Liquidmetal 8 Review

Features & Specifications

• Total Sweetspot Construction for max power wherever the ball may land
  
• Liquidmetal technology has 29% more power on ball impact
• NoShox dampening system reduces racquet vibration by more than 27%
• Integrated String Dampener on grommets to reduce string vibration
• Head HydroSorb grip for airflow and comfort
  
• Pre-strung with Head Synthetic Gut at 60 lbs

• Liquidmetal Technology
  

Head deliberately named this racquet Liquidmetal for a reason. Is it a liquid? No. Is it metal? Not quite. Liquidmetal is a unique material with a liquid atomic structure that you can see applied to the 2, 4, 6 and 8 ‘o clock positions of the racquet face. What exactly does it do? It utilizes all of the energy your swing generates so that no energy is lost on ball impact. This special material does not deform on contact (compared to standard titanium), resulting in maximum energy return and 29% more power for every shot. That means it takes less energy on your part to produce more power. Tough as metal but allows for natural flow like a liquid, at least that’s our take on it. Combined with other factors such as a 16×19 open string pattern, a head heavy frame, and a 28/26mm tapered beam, this racquet stresses the importance of power.

And with this technology comes another benefit: Total Sweetspot Construction. With the special compound applied to the four areas, this creates a unique design that increases the torsional stability of the racquet head. So while the Liquidmetal titanium enhances surface rigidity for optimum strength and stiffness, the fact that it does not deform on ball impact means you get an extended sweet spot that covers the entire racquet face. And with an oversize head of 112 sq.in, this means that wherever you hit, it will feel like you’ve hit the sweet spot every time.

With that being said, the Head Liquidmetal 8 is geared more toward beginning and intermediate players with short to moderate swings (casual and recreational players alike), known in the trade as a “game-improvement racquet”. With the forgiving sweet spot that offers maximum power even for shots that don’t land in the very center, this could be a huge benefit for players just starting off who need that extra boost in power to get balls over the net. But intermediate players can enjoy its benefits as well, since you won’t have to use so much energy on the court. Ultimately, the Head Liquidmetal 8 helps you to develop stronger, cleaner strokes with less effort.

>> Find more reviews of the Head Liquidmetal 8 here <<

• Control with Comfort
  

Besides the Liquidmetal technology and Total Sweetspot Construction comes the features in comfort and control. Head added the NoShox dampening system, the Integrated String Dampener (ISD) on the grommets, and HydroSorb grip to improve on feel and control by reducing vibrations and maximizing comfort.

NoShox is built right into the handle, which consists of a memory foam that helps to reduce vibrations by more than 27% compared to other racquets on the market. The Integrated String Dampener is located on the racquet’s grommets, which reduces string vibration, further increasing the ease of use and reducing backlash on the arms. HydroSorb grip features a twin-channel system with perforated holes that provides ventilation, comfort, and a firm grip all-in-one. The Head Liquidmetal 8 also falls into the light side of the weight spectrum, with a strung weight of only 10 ounces. And even though this racquet belongs in the power category–racquets that produce lots of power are known to lack control and produce more strain–all of the elements we talked about work together to provide you superior comfort for the arm and a perfect sound and feel every time.

With that being said, these features can be a huge benefit for older players or players who are concerned with body problems. As you may know, tennis elbow and wrist issues are major ramifications of playing tennis a lot, since lots of vibration causes stress to the arms, elbow, and shoulders. This can really take a toll on your body once you realize how many times you actually hit the ball within a game. And Head knew that when they added all of this technology, creating the ultimate racquet with a balance of power, control, and comfort. Hats of to you Head, you’ve made me a firm believer.

Final Thoughts

The Head Liquidmetal 8 was designed with two things in mind: power and control. We’ve already explained all of this in our Head Liquidmetal 8 review, going over that it delivers on both of these qualities by offering advanced technology that allows maximum energy return on your shots, a larger sweet spot that helps you improve your game, and a reduction in vibration for more control on the court and comfort on your wrists, arms, and shoulders. Do we think it’s for everyone? Probably not, but if you’re either: a beginning player, a casual enthusiast, or a recreational athlete, this tennis racquet can serve you well (especially for players who want to reduce the risk of tennis elbow and wrist pain). Our only advice: try not to rely on the racquet too much for its power output and extended sweet spot, you’ll develop those skills in due time.

>> Find the Head Liquidmetal 8 on Amazon! <<

The post Head Liquidmetal 8 Review appeared first on Pro Tennis Tips.