NEW RACQUETS FOR THE NEW YEAR {2005}

By Vince Chiarelli, PTR, MRT and Owner of String Along With Vince in Largo

New frames are as inevitable as death and taxes. Most manufacturers debut their latest “innovations” several times each year, and since Wilson is the most prolific of these racquet companies, I will spend most of this column on their offerings.

Last year, Wilson introduced their n-code frames, starting out with 5 models, which sold very well. Wilson has increased the number of frames in their line by 10 (if you count those made in more than one head size), some of which follow the n-code construction.

The newer n-code frames showing the most merit include the n6 midplus and the n3. When testing the n6’s, I expected the oversize to be the one to buy. Although it plays reasonably well, I found nothing to make it stand out in the crowd. The midplus is worth a try if you are 4.5 or above, however it lacks the stability of the n5 midplus. The n3 was a pleasant surprise. Priced lower than the n1 introduced last year, it has the advantage of the shock absorbing material found in the Triad series, with the controlled playability of some smaller head Wilson frames, without sacrificing power. In fact, I felt it could match the n1 in power by lowering the string tension a few pounds, and still maintain its excellent feel. The n1 has a new sweetspot-expanding technology that is similar to the old power holes of a few years back. It is a good frame, but for my money, the n3 is the Wilson recreational frame to try.

Prince has introduced a new “O3 technology” using humongous holes in the frame where the strings go through. I call it “Swiss Cheese Technology”. The manufacturer claims it will enable more control on off-center shots, and various other claims I’ve heard many times before. I am leery about removing so much of the frame material. Prince has had a number of debacles with unusual construction. Those who have tried the new midplus (O3 Red) have found it to be a reasonably good playing racquet but have expressed concerns stemming from recent problems with the “More” series, now on the way out. There is also a question as to whether the frames will have problems when strung with natural gut, because of no protective grommets. Those who have tried the more powerful “O3 Silver” model, have been somewhat unimpressed. Since this line has only been in hand for 2 weeks, more testing is needed. For Prince, the “new” Shark racquets are back to basics and are better bets.

Babolat recently introduced a new frame for the more accomplished player called the NCT Tour. When customers tried it in a side to side comparison with the very popular Pure Drive, every one purchased the NCT Tour. That speaks volumes to me. Volkl is introducing 4 new frames for advanced players. Head continues with their Liquid Metal family of racquets, converting some old frames to this technology.

COPYRIGHT 2005