Head makes an extensive line of tennis rackets to suit the playing styles and abilities of many different players. From the recreational enthusiast to professionals on the American Tennis Professionals tour, Head offers a racket for everyone. The best for you may not be the best for your doubles partner.
Recreation Performance Rackets
The goal of recreation performance rackets is to help a player with slight imperfections in form or who is physically weaker than advanced players and athletes. When looking for a Head racket for recreational needs, seek one that provides power even with lightweight materials. The Head MicroGEL 5 or the Head MicroGEL Radical Oversize are excellent options. A larger racket head gives a larger sweet spot; the sweet spot is the surface area on the strings providing the idea hitting spot.
Intermediate Level Rackets
Intermediate players generally have better form and play more tennis, thus have more physical development for the game. As a result, players generate more power and need a racket to help control the power. The Head YOUTEK Radical Oversize gives a larger sweet spot for control but is heavier than beginner rackets. For intermediate players with very good eye/hand coordination, the Head YOUTEK Radical Midplus has a smaller head, allowing more racket head speed generation. The more racket head speed, the more pace and spin a player can impart on the ball.
Advanced Rackets
Advanced rackets mimic what players on the pro tour use. Keep in mind that professionals often customize rackets with lead tape to increase racket head weight and balance points specific to their swing style. The advanced player rackets are heavier and have smaller head frames to help players generate pace and spin. The YOUTEK Prestige Midplus and the YOUTEK Speed Pro are options endorsed by professional players. Without alteration, these rackets have good balance points. The Prestige model is more flexible, while the Speed Pro is stiffer for aggressive players. The stiffness reduces the trampoline effect, giving players more control.
Considerations
Test a few rackets before you decide on a model. Most pro shops allow you to demo rackets for a few dollars a week. Make sure the grip fits properly by holding the racket in your hand as you would for a forehand. If there is one bevel space between the end of your longest finger and the thick base of your thumb, the racket fits. If you have trouble keeping your wrist firm, go up a grip size for more stability. Those suffering from tennis elbow might want a heavier racket that can absorb the shock of hitting the ball.
Member Comments