What makes the cut?
While there is no clear cut rule about what makes a advanced players racket, we have included some of the criteria we used to narrow down our selection below and we will have in-depth reviews of the racquets in the future.
- 290G +
- Flagship models
- Pro/Tour models
- Tweener frames
- Heritage player sticks
- Endorsed by a player with a similar spec
Racket spec legend:
| Length | The total length of the racket, measured from end to end. A standard racket is 27 inches long. |
| Head size | The surface area of the string bed, measured in square inches. A larger head size offers more power and a larger sweet spot. |
| Weight Unstrung | The weight of the racket before strings are added. Lighter rackets are easier to maneuver, while heavier rackets provide more stability and power. |
| Weight Strung | The racket’s total weight after strings are installed, which slightly increases the overall weight(approx 12-20g depending on the string gague and materials and not including overgrips and dampners) |
| Unstrung Balance | The balance point of the racket before it is strung, measured in points head-light (HL) or head-heavy (HH). More HL means better maneuverability.] |
| Strung Balance | The balance after adding strings, which slightly shifts due to the added weight (approx 2-3pts difference compared to unstrung) |
| Swing weight Unstrung | A measure of how heavy the racket feels when swinging unstrung, factoring in its mass and balance. A higher swing weight typically offers more power and stability. |
| Swing weight | A measure of how heavy the racket feels when swinging strung, factoring in its mass and balance. A higher swing weight typically offers more power and stability. |
| Stiffness | Measured on a scale (RA rating), stiffness affects power and comfort. A lower number means a more flexible racket with better feel but less power. |
| Width | The thickness of the racket’s frame. A constant beam means the width remains the same throughout the frame. |
| Material | The primary material used in the racket’s construction, affecting feel, flexibility, and durability. |
| String Pattern | The number of main (vertical) and cross (horizontal) strings. A denser pattern (e.g., 18×20) provides more control, while an open pattern (e.g., 16×19) allows for more spin. |
| Mains Skip | The grommet holes that are skipped when stringing the main (vertical) strings of the racket. |
