Looking for a new racquet? Now could be the time to buy!
November 2, 2009
With racquet manufacturers announcing new models for 2010, now could be the best time to score a terrific deal on a current model racquet. Technology that just a few short months ago was being touted as the most advanced in the world is either currently on sale or will be soon. If you are in the market for a new stick, this may be the ideal time to find yourself a steal of a deal!
Now is also the time if you have a current model racquet that you enjoy hitting with to purchase a backup or two. Due to being discontinued, they will become very difficult to find in the near future so grab one or two and stick them in your closet until needed. By doing this now you will get them for a good price and there is a good chance you will be able to locate them with your preferred grip size.
Also, now is the time to purchase replacement grommet sets for your current racquet. Hold onto them, because they may soon too be discontinued. If you intend to stay with your current racquet for a few more years, make preparations to do so now.
As always we strongly encourage you to purchase racquets with healthy racquet specifications. Unfortunately racquet manufacturers produce many models that are not arm-friendly and it is essential for your uniterrupted play and enjoyment that these be avoided. As a service to our customers we are including the following information to aid you as you select a racquet that is arm-friendly. Note, the following suggestions are based on our observations and experience.
Stiffness: An RDC flex rating in the mid 60’s or lower. Try to avoid any flex rating above 68. This is the only aspect of the frame that can not be modified. We believe lower is better. 60 and lower is our ideal range.
Weight: Racquets weighing in at 11 oz or greater tend to be healthiest. Try to avoid racquets falling in the sub 10 oz range. Weight can be modified.
Balance: Racquets with a headlight balance are preferred. Even balance is acceptable. The racquet’s balance can be modified.
Length: 27″ – 27 1/4″ is ideal. Longer can create issues. Length can be modified.
Wondering if your frame is healthy? Curious about the specs of a new frame you are considering purchasing? Ask us in the comments section of this blog and we will attempt to respond with our perception of the racquet you are considering.
Entry Filed under: Racquets. Tags: Buy your new racque today..
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1.
jonathan | November 2, 2009 at 10:24 am
It would be awesome if as you or blog readers see good deals on arm-friendly racquets on the internet, they post them here so people can be aware of them.
2.
josh | November 2, 2009 at 11:14 am
I use the Dunlop Aerogel 500 Tour. What do you think about it?
3.
ggtennis | November 2, 2009 at 11:33 am
@Josh – I consider the Aerogel 500 Tour a borderline racquet. The weight and balance of the Tour are acceptable, but stiffness measures 70 – 72 depending upon the source and that is just too stiff, IMO. Over time with significant play and multiple stringings the stiffness will soften, but that process takes time.
The good news is that the Tour only scores weak in one area which is much better than scoring low in multiple areas. The bad news is the stiffness of the frame is the one area that can not be modified.
I would suggest using softer strings in this this racquet and if you use any poly-based string I would look for the newer technology softer polys and would consider using them in a hybrid with a soft synthetic gut.
Also I would encourage you to use a cushioned grip and make sure sure you replace the grip at regular intervals to help absorb shock.
It is possible to play happily with the stick with no problems whatsoever and we hope this is the case with you. However, stay attuned to the feedback your body is giving you and pay particular attention to aches and pains in the elbow and shoulder.
4.
John | November 3, 2009 at 3:36 am
I too play with a Dunlop Aerogel 500 Tour. You say to use a newer softer poly. Would this include MSV, Topspin Cyber Blue, and Weiss Cannon turbotwist strings?
5.
Johan | November 14, 2009 at 6:48 pm
I use an old Wilson Power Tour (2001) and I’m suffering through the dreadful reality of tennis elbow. I must switch to a new stick, and here are my choices. Witch one is best for my arm?
K) Factor K Six.One 16*18 (95)
Head Youtek Radical MP (Söderling)
Babolat AeroPro Drive
Head Youtek Speed MP 16*19
6.
ggtennis | November 14, 2009 at 9:54 pm
Of the racquets listed I believe the Head Radical offers the most arm friendly specifications. The Head Speed would be the second most friendly. Good luck!
7.
MayDay | November 25, 2009 at 12:33 am
I have two Babolat Pure Control Team (2003) which is quite stiff. How do I make it arm friendly besides buying a new racket? I do use multi for string and will be trying low tension (48-50). It’s currently got leather grip with 1 overgrip on it. No weight modifications. Is the lower tension good enough for most, or should I also change out the leather grip to synthetic and go for natural gut?
Thanks a bunch in advance!
8.
ggtennis | November 25, 2009 at 8:16 am
@MayDay Make sure you are using a good quality, high-thread count, premium multi. The lower tension may help. Gut is the best for tennis elbow. You might consider a gut main/multi cross hybrid. I would start there. If you still need more dampening you could move to a cushioned grip. This is not a significant improvement, but rather incremental. Finally, if you do not want to modify weight (the pure control has a lot of mass already) I would suggest using a proportional stringing method. This does help absorb shock.
The Pure Control Team does not measure as high as many of the Babs in terms of stiffness. The USRSA has it listed in the lower 60’s. With years of use it has probably also softened some.
Good luck to you!