Specialized racquets almost swing themselves
It’s getting easier to hit a good backhand. New carbon-fiber tennis racquets not only sport unique looks -- one is shaped like an airplane wing -- but also provide enhanced levels of power, control and shock absorption. The four racquets below use different technologies to help you to play the game better with less effort.
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Control freak
Prince 03 Red: Super-control racquet with 18 holes drilled into the sides and top of the frame.
Likes: Extremely light (10.5 ounces) racquet with excellent control, power and shock dampening. Prince claims the holes, called O-Ports, which replace most of the traditional string holes, increase the size of the racquet’s “sweet spot” -- and it seems to work.
Dislikes: None.
Price: $250. (800) 283-6647; www.princetennis.com.
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Little goes a long way
Babolat AeroPro Drive: Powerful racquet, used by both men’s finalists in the French Open.
Likes: Aerodynamic frame produces terrific velocity (best of the four rackets tested) with excellent control. Very low vibration, thanks to so-called “woofer” shock-absorption in the string grommets. Very light (11.5 ounces). Babolat says that the airplane wing profile of the head delivers faster swing speed.
Dislikes: None.
Price: $179. (877) 316-9435; www.babolat.com.
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Power player
Head Flexpoint Radical: Used by Andre Agassi, this racquet delivers great power.
Likes: Racquet had two holes drilled into its head that, the company says, help to provide more control. Power equal to the Babolat. Head says that the racquet effectively “cups” the ball and helps to produce spin. Very light (11.5 ounces).
Dislikes: None.
Price: $200. (800) 289-7366; www.head.com/tennis.
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For those heavy hitters
Wilson nPro Surge: Heavy artillery for big, power hitters.
Likes: Stable feel. Minimized shock absorption due to so-called “N-code” nanotechnology, which injects vibration-stopping silicone dioxide into the gaps in the carbon fiber weave.
Dislikes: Just 11 ounces, but feels heavier than the others, like you are swinging a baseball bat. Weight distribution seems biased more to the head, making the swing a bit slower. MicroDry handle grip can feel a bit sticky.
Price: $179. (773) 714-6400; www.wilsontennis.com.
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-- Roy M. Wallack
