As a beginner picking up tennis for the first time in my late 30s, I wanted a racket that wouldn’t overwhelm me but could still help me improve. After researching entry-level beginner tennis rackets and landing on this 115-square-inch, extra-long model, I’ve been hitting the courts with friends and my teenage son for a few weeks now.
From the first swing, I could feel the difference compared to the cheap, heavy racket I started with. In my opinion, this racket is a game-changer for beginners, though it has a couple of quirks. Here’s my firsthand take after putting it through its paces.
Key Features of the Racket:
- Head Size: 115 square inches, providing a large sweet spot.
- Beam Width: 28.5mm, offering stability and power.
- String Pattern: 16×19, ideal for spin and control.
- Length: 27 3/4 inches, extra-long for added reach and power.
- Weight: 8 oz, super lightweight for easy swings.
- Balance: 1″ head-heavy, enhancing power on shots.
- Head Cover: Not included, so you’ll need to source one separately.
My Pros and Cons of the Model
Pros (What I Liked)
Light as a Feather: At just 8 ounces, this racket feels like an extension of my arm. As someone with average strength, I found it incredibly easy to swing, and it didn’t leave my forearm aching like my old, clunky racket did.
Huge Sweet Spot: The 115-square-inch head size is a beginner’s dream. I’m still working on my aim, but this racket’s forgiving sweet spot helped me get more balls over the net with less effort. It boosted my confidence big time.
Power for Days: In my experience, the head-heavy balance and extra length gave my shots some serious pop. My forehands and slices felt sharper, and I could feel my game improving after just a few sessions.
Durable Build: Despite its light weight, this racket feels sturdy. I’ve scraped the court a few times chasing low balls, and it’s held up without a scratch. The titanium construction adds to its toughness.
Great Value: For around $80, this racket outperforms the $30 retail store options by a mile. It’s a sweet spot for beginners who want quality without breaking the bank.
Cons (What I Didn’t Liked)
Head-Heavy Trade-Off: The head-heavy design adds power but can slow down your swing. I noticed my strokes felt a bit sluggish during fast volleys, and it twisted slightly when I hit off-center, which was frustrating.
Noisy Strings: Even with a dampener, the racket makes a noticeable “ping” sound, especially on harder hits. It didn’t affect performance, but it felt less satisfying than I expected for a racket this good.
No Head Cover: I was bummed it didn’t come with a cover. After spending extra on quick shipping (which, annoyingly, arrived late), I had to hunt for a separate cover to protect it.
Not for Advanced Players: While it’s great for beginners like me, I can see why my son’s coach called it a “power racket” suited for early learners. If you’ve got a full swing, you might outgrow it quickly.
After weeks of testing, I’m thrilled with this racket as a beginner. Its lightweight design, massive sweet spot, and surprising power made every session fun and helped me improve fast.
The head-heavy balance and lack of a cover are minor gripes, but for the price, it’s hard to beat. If you’re new to tennis or easing back into it, I’d say this racket is a solid pick to kickstart your journey.