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Head Radical MP 2023  

On market since 2023
Test published on 03/02/2023
Head Radical MP 2023 is a tennis racket with head size 98in² and a string pattern 16x19.
  Control

General info

Head size 98 in²
String pattern 16x19
Materials Graphene 360+ / Graphite
Grip Hydrosorb Pro

Declared data

Profile 20-23-21 mm
Length 68.60 cm
Weight (unstrung) 300 g
Balance (unstrung) 320 mm

Unstrung measured data

Weight 297 g
Balance 320 mm
Stiffness 67 RA
Polar index 0.99 - 5.10/10
Dynamic stiffnes 157 Hz 68.9 DRA
Swingweight 287 kgcmq
Spinweight 299 kgcmq
Twistweight 12 kgcmq
Recoilweight 141 kgcmq
TorsionBeam 2 kg/mm - 119 RA

Characteristics

Power
80 / 100
Spin
80 / 100
Control
90 / 100
Maneuverability
85 / 100
Stability
65 / 100
Comfort
75 / 100
Power

Power potential of a tennis racquet refers to its ability to generate strong shots with less effort from the player. It is a key feature for those looking to achieve depth and speed in their shots, even without perfect technique or great physical strength.

⚡ What affects power?

Several structural factors influence a racquet’s power:

  • Large head size (100+ sq inches): provides a bigger sweet spot and more trampoline effect.
  • Head-heavy balance: adds mass near the impact area, increasing energy transferred to the ball.
  • Stiff frame: flexes less, transferring more energy to the shot.
  • Thick beam: increases torsional stiffness and shot efficiency.
  • Lower string tension: creates a slingshot effect that returns more power to the ball.

📊 Power-oriented racquets

FeatureEffect on Power
Large head size (oversize)Deeper shots even with slower swings
Head-heavy balanceMore push and inertia on impact
Stiff frameLess energy absorption, higher ball speed
Lower string tensionIncreased rebound and ball velocity

🎾 Who is it for?

Power-oriented racquets are ideal for:

  • Beginner or intermediate players who need help with deep shots.
  • Players with a short or slow swing who still want to hit deep shots.
  • Those who prefer aggressive baseline play.

🧠 In practice

If you want more push in your shots without changing your technique too much, a power-oriented racquet can help improve performance quickly. However, it's important to find the right balance between power and control to avoid mistakes on more precise shots.

Spin

Spin in a tennis racquet refers to the racquet’s ability to help generate ball rotation during a shot. A racquet designed for spin enhances control, allows for higher, arcing trajectories, and makes shots more challenging for opponents to return.

🎾 What affects spin potential?

Several structural and technical features influence how much spin a racquet can produce:

  • String pattern – An open pattern (e.g., 16x19) allows greater string movement and more spin compared to a denser one (e.g., 18x20).
  • Frame stiffness – Stiffer frames transfer energy better and support more effective spin.
  • Beam profile – Thicker beams offer extra ball propulsion, helping increase spin potential.
  • Head shape – Rounder or wider heads typically provide better access to the ball, improving spin generation.

📈 Game impact

FeatureEffect on spin
Open string pattern (e.g., 16x19)More string movement, increased spin
Dense string pattern (e.g., 18x20)Less spin, more control
Stiff and thick-beamed frameHigher reactivity, better spin output
Round or wide head shapeEnhances sweet spot and spin access

🧠 Summary

If you're a player who relies on heavy topspin or slice shots, choosing a racquet with an open string pattern, a wide head, and the right combination of stiffness and maneuverability can make a noticeable difference. A spin-friendly racquet enables you to hit higher, safer shots with added control—perfect for today's modern baseline game.

Control

Control in a tennis racket refers to the player's ability to direct the ball accurately, maintaining stability and predictability in their shots. A control-oriented racket allows for greater precision, making it ideal for players with a full and powerful swing.

🎾 What affects control?

Control depends on a combination of structural and design factors:

  • Smaller head size – A 95-98 in² head offers more precision than larger heads.
  • Dense string pattern – Patterns like 18x20 limit string movement, improving shot predictability.
  • Thin and flexible frame – A thinner beam absorbs energy, providing more feel and control.
  • Heavier weight – A heavier racket ensures more stability at impact.

📈 Impact on gameplay

FeatureEffect on control
95-98 in² head sizeGreater shot precision, less margin for error
18x20 string patternImproved predictability and ball control
Thin, flexible beamMore feel, less free power
Heavier weight (300g+)Better stability and control at impact

🧠 Summary

If your playing style relies on precision and placement, a control racket is the right choice. It requires good technique and a full swing, but it offers great rewards for skilled players. Control rackets are often preferred by advanced and professional players.

Maneuverability

Maneuverability refers to how easily a tennis racket can be moved and adjusted during play, especially in fast exchanges or quick net play. A maneuverable racket allows for faster reaction times and better handling, particularly in tight situations.

🎾 What influences maneuverability?

Several characteristics affect how maneuverable a racket feels in your hand:

  • Weight – Lighter rackets (under 300g) are generally easier to maneuver.
  • Balance – Head-light rackets concentrate mass near the handle, improving swing speed and control.
  • Length – Standard-length rackets (68.5 cm / 27 in) are more manageable than extended ones.
  • Swingweight – Lower swingweight translates to easier handling during rapid movements.

📈 Effects on court

FeatureImpact on maneuverability
Light overall weightQuicker responses and reduced fatigue
Head-light balanceFaster net play and better control during volleys
Lower swingweightEasier to change direction mid-swing
Standard lengthImproved reach control and wrist flexibility

🧠 Summary

Maneuverability is essential for players who rely on speed, quick reactions, and aggressive net play. If you frequently play doubles, approach the net, or prefer lighter gear, a highly maneuverable racket will enhance your performance and help you stay one step ahead.

Stability

Racket stability refers to the racquet’s ability to resist twisting or vibration when hitting the ball, especially on off-center impacts. A stable racquet feels solid, secure, and provides better control while reducing shock to the arm.

🔧 What affects stability?

  • Weight – Heavier racquets tend to be more stable on impact.
  • Weight distribution (Swingweight) – Higher swingweight improves stability, especially during powerful shots.
  • Frame stiffness – A stiffer frame reduces flex and enhances response.
  • Beam thickness – Thicker frames absorb more vibration and remain firm.

📈 On-court effects

FeatureImpact on stability
High overall weight (310g+)More solid feel and reduced vibrations
High swingweightBetter stability on heavy or off-center shots
High stiffness (RA > 67)Faster response, less comfort
Thick beamMore shock absorption and reduced frame flex

🧠 Summary

A stable racquet enhances control and confidence, especially under pressure or against powerful opponents. It’s ideal for players who want a solid response even on imperfect contact.

Comfort

Racquet comfort refers to the overall feel during play, particularly in terms of vibration transmitted to the arm and muscle fatigue. A comfortable racquet reduces joint stress and is ideal for players with arm issues or those seeking a softer feel at impact.

🛠️ What affects comfort?

  • Frame stiffness (RA) – More flexible frames (RA < 65) absorb vibrations better.
  • Weight – Heavier racquets absorb shock more effectively but may tire the arm faster.
  • String setup – Lower tension and open string patterns enhance comfort.
  • Materials – Vibration-dampening technologies and modern composites (e.g., graphene, basalt) improve comfort.

📉 Effects of a low-comfort racquet

IssueImpact on play
High stiffnessMore vibration and risk of injury (e.g., tennis elbow)
Too lightLess shock absorption, more stress on the arm
Stiff, basic materialsHarsh impact and uncomfortable feedback

🧠 Summary

If you want to protect your arm and enjoy a softer feel, look for racquets with flexible frames, medium to high weight, and advanced vibration-dampening technologies. Comfort is essential for long sessions without fatigue or pain.

Sweetspot distribution

Head sweetspot 75%
Center sweetspot 100%
Side sweetspot 96%
Bottom sweetspot 86%
La distribuzione dello sweet spot

The distribution of the sweet spot refers to the area on the string bed surface that is ideal for impact to achieve maximum power and control. Not all parts of the string bed are equally effective, and the position of the sweet spot can vary depending on the racquet type and its design.

🎯 Where is the sweet spot located?

Generally, the sweet spot is located slightly above the geometric center of the string bed. This position allows the best energy transfer and reduces vibrations upon impact. However, its size and position can vary depending on:

  • String bed size – Racquets with larger heads (e.g., 100+ sq inches) tend to have a bigger and more forgiving sweet spot.
  • String pattern – A more open string pattern or lower tension can widen the sweet spot.
  • Frame structure – Stiffer frames concentrate the sweet spot, while more flexible frames distribute it more broadly.

📈 Distribution on the string bed

AreaImpact performance
Center (slightly above)Optimal sweet spot: maximum power, control, and comfort
Top edgeLess stable shots, risk of vibrations and power loss
Sides and bottom edgeLower accuracy, harsher impacts on the arm

🧠 In summary

Understanding the sweet spot distribution can help you choose the right racquet or improve your playing style. Aim to hit the ball consistently in the upper center area of the string bed to get the best performance and reduce physical strain.

Flexpoint analysis

Flex Point

The racquet's Flex Point refers to the area of the frame that bends the most during ball impact. It directly affects the racquet’s feel, control, and power output.

🔍 What is the Flex Point?

When you strike the ball, the frame flexes slightly. The Flex Point is where the most significant bending occurs. Depending on its position (near the handle, mid-frame, or toward the head), it influences how the racquet responds during play.

📌 Types of Flex Point

Flex Point PositionImpact on Performance
Low (near the handle)More control and feel, ideal for technical players
Mid-frameBalanced performance between power and control
High (toward the head)Increased power and ball depth, less control

🧠 Summary

The Flex Point's location plays a key role in performance. Choose a low Flex Point for better feel and precision, or a high Flex Point for extra power and depth. Your ideal setup depends on your playing style.

Stringing data

Mains startH
Mains skip8T - 8H
Head size

Head size (also known as the “string bed” or “oval”) is one of the most important characteristics of a tennis racket, as it directly affects power, control, forgiveness, and comfort.

🎾 What is head size?

It’s the area of the frame where the strings are interlaced, measured in square inches (in²) or square centimeters (cm²). The most common sizes range from around 85 in² (550 cm²) to 135 in² (870 cm²).

📏 Main categories

CategorySizeKey Characteristics
Mid< 95 in²Highly precise, low forgiveness, requires more physical effort
Midplus95–105 in²Great balance between control and power
Oversize106–115 in²More power and comfort, greater forgiveness on off-center hits
Super Oversize> 115 in²Maximum surface area, ideal for beginners or those seeking ease of use

⚙️ Impact on gameplay

  • Small head sizes: offer more control, but less forgiveness. Ideal for advanced and technical players.
  • Midplus head sizes: balanced mix of control and power, suitable for a wide range of players.
  • Large head sizes (Oversize): generate more power and a bigger sweetspot. Easier to play with, especially for shorter swings or less frequent players.

🎯 In practical terms

A larger head size means a larger sweetspot, making the racket more forgiving on off-center shots.

A smaller head size offers greater precision and responsiveness, but demands better technique and clean contact.

🔺 Isometric head shapes

Some manufacturers use a head shape called isometric, which differs from the traditional oval design. The isometric head has a more squared profile, with the upper and lateral parts slightly expanded, which helps increase the sweetspot.

At the same total surface area, an isometric racket offers more effective hitting area compared to a standard oval shape, improving forgiveness and consistency on off-center hits. This design is especially appreciated by players seeking a blend of precision, power, and comfort without increasing overall head size.

String pattern

String pattern is a key technical parameter that affects control, spin, string durability, and impact feel.

🎾 What Is String Pattern?

It’s the arrangement of vertical (main) and horizontal (cross) strings in the racquet’s head.

📏 Common String Patterns

PatternMain Features
16x1916 main strings, 19 cross strings.
More spin, lively feel, less control
18x2018 main strings, 20 cross strings.
More control, solid and stable impact
16x18 / 16x20Intermediate variants.
Balanced spin and control
Open pattern (e.g., 14x18)Wider spacing between strings.
Maximum spin and comfort, but faster string wear

⚙️ Effects on Play

  • Open patterns (e.g., 16x19, 14x18): more string movement → more spin and power → shorter string life.
  • Dense patterns (e.g., 18x20): more stability and control → less string deformation → greater durability and precision.

🎯 In Practice

If you're a spin player or want more power and effect, go with an open pattern. If you prefer precision and consistency from the baseline, a denser pattern is often better suited.

Profile

The racquet beam profile is one of the key factors affecting how a racquet performs on court. In addition to thickness, the shape of the frame — boxed, tapered (aerodynamic), or hybrid — plays a fundamental role in control, power, and feel at impact.

🎾 What is the beam profile?

The profile refers to the side thickness of the frame, measured in millimeters. The thicker it is, the stiffer and more powerful the racquet tends to be.

📏 Beam thickness types

ThicknessMain characteristics
Thin beam
17–21 mm
More flexible, better control and feel
Mid beam
22–25 mm
Balance between power and control
Thick beam
26–30+ mm
Stiffer frame, maximum power and responsiveness

🔷 Frame section types

ShapeBest suited for
Boxed
Square and thin beam. Offers more flex and control.
Classic, technical players
Tapered (profiled)
Wider, stiffer, aerodynamic frame. Delivers more power and speed.
Modern, aggressive players
Hybrid
A mix of box and profiled beam. Balanced performance.
Players seeking all-around playability

⚙️ On-court effects

  • Thin + boxed beam: maximum feel, control, and flex. Requires more skill.
  • Thick + profiled beam: high power and easy play. Less sensitivity on contact.
  • Hybrid beam: ideal balance for versatile performance.

🎯 In practice

Beam profile affects frame stiffness, energy return, and the feel on ball impact. Considering both thickness and shape is essential to find a racquet that fits your playing style.

Weight

The weight of the racquet is one of the most important aspects that affects on-court performance. The ideal weight choice depends on personal preference and playing style, as it influences power, control, maneuverability, and comfort.

🎾 What is the weight of the racquet?

The weight of the racquet is its overall mass, typically measured in grams (g) or ounces (oz). Lighter racquets are more maneuverable, while heavier ones offer greater stability and power.

⚖️ Types of racquet weights

WeightMain Characteristics
Light (250–300 g)More maneuverable, ideal for beginners, less power but more speed
Medium (300–330 g)Good balance between power and control, suitable for intermediate and advanced players
Heavy (330+ g)Greater stability, power, and control, require more physical strength and technique

⚙️ Effects on play

  • Light racquets: easier to maneuver, ideal for quick responses and speed, but less power and control.
  • Medium racquets: excellent balance between power and control, versatile for players of various levels.
  • Heavy racquets: more stability and power, ideal for solid shots and precision, but require more strength and can be tiring to maneuver.

🎯 In practice

If you're looking for maneuverability and speed, a lighter racquet is ideal. If you prefer a balance between control and power, opt for a medium-weight racquet. For advanced players seeking maximum power and stability, a heavier racquet is the best choice.

Balance

The balance of the racquet is a key parameter that directly influences the feel of the racquet in your hand, as well as its performance on the court. It refers to the distribution of weight along the frame and determines how the racquet reacts during play. A correct balance is essential for getting the most out of every shot.

🎾 What is racquet balance?

The balance of the racquet is the position where the weight of the racquet is distributed. It is usually measured in centimeters (cm) from the base of the handle, along the frame. The balance point is where the racquet is "neutral," meaning if you rest it on a finger, it will not tilt toward the head or the handle.

📏 Types of balance

Main CharacteristicsIdeal for
Head-heavy balance.
Greater power and stability on groundstrokes.
Players seeking more power and stability but can handle a less maneuverable racquet.
Head-light balance.
More maneuverability and faster swing speed.
Players who prefer a racquet that’s easier to move, useful for net play or fast shots.
Even balance.
Uniform weight distribution, with a good compromise between power and control.
Players seeking a balance between power and control in all playing situations.

⚙️ Effects on the game

  • Head-heavy balance: Greater power on groundstrokes, particularly useful for players who hit powerful, heavy shots. Less maneuverable, so it can become tiring after long matches.
  • Head-light balance: Greater maneuverability and speed for quick shots, ideal for net play or fast shots. Less power compared to a head-heavy racquet, so it may require more strength on groundstrokes.
  • Even balance: Provides a good combination of power and control without overly favoring one aspect. Suitable for intermediate players looking for a versatile racquet.

🎯 In practice

The choice of balance depends a lot on your playing style and personal preferences. If you’re looking for a racquet that helps generate power, a head-heavy balance might be the right choice. If you prefer control and speed in your shots, a head-light racquet will give you an advantage. If you’re unsure, an even balance provides a good middle ground for all levels of play.

Rigidezza

The stiffness of the racquet is a crucial parameter that affects the playing feel, power, and comfort. It refers to the resistance of the racquet frame to deformation upon impact with the ball. The stiffer the frame, the less deformation there will be, and the more energy will be transferred to the ball, generating more power. However, greater stiffness can reduce the comfort feel, especially if the ball doesn't hit perfectly in the sweet spot. Conversely, a more flexible frame offers more control and a softer feel at impact but may sacrifice some power.

🎾 What is racquet stiffness?

Stiffness is the ability of the frame to resist bending when the ball strikes the strings. It is measured in a value called RA (Racquet Stiffness Rating), with higher values indicating greater stiffness.

📏 Types of stiffness:

StiffnessMain Characteristics
High stiffness
(RA > 70)
Powerful and responsive feel, but less control and comfort. Greater stress on the arm and elbow.
Medium stiffness
(RA 60–70)
Balance between power and comfort, suitable for most players.
Low stiffness
(RA < 60)
More control and comfort, but less power. Ideal for players who prefer a soft feel and control.

⚙️ Effects on gameplay

  • High stiffness: more power, less control, greater stress on the arm and elbow. Ideal for players with good technique who seek immediate power.
  • Medium stiffness: good balance between power and control, suitable for most players.
  • Low stiffness: more control and comfort, but requires more effort to generate power. Ideal for players who seek a soft feel and prefer control over spin.

🎯 In practice

The choice of stiffness depends on your personal needs and playing style. If you seek power and a quicker response, a stiffer racquet might be the right choice. If, on the other hand, you prioritize control, comfort, and a softer feel at impact, a racquet with lower stiffness might suit you better.

Polar Index

The "polar index" of a tennis racket is not a universally recognized term among all manufacturers, but it is used by some brands or specialized apps to describe a specific aspect of the racket’s weight distribution.

🎾 What is the Polar Index of a racket?

The Polar Index is an indicator of how polarized the racket's weight is—in other words, how much the weight is concentrated toward the head and handle rather than the center of the frame.

📐 How it works:

  • The higher the Polar Index, the more the weight is distributed toward the racket’s extremes (typically the head and handle).
  • The lower the Polar Index, the more mass is concentrated in the center of the frame.
This parameter is particularly useful for:
  • Players who customize rackets by adding lead tape, silicone, etc.
  • Advanced players looking to fine-tune swingweight, maneuverability, and power.

📊 Practical effects:

Polar IndexOn-court effect
HighGreater stability on impact, but reduced maneuverability.
LowIncreased agility and control, but less stability.

🎯 In practice

The Polar Index is useful for:
  • Players who customize their rackets.
  • Coaches and technicians optimizing maneuverability, spin, and control.
  • Anyone who wants to understand why a racket swings or hits in a certain way.
Dynamic stiffness

Dynamic stiffness of a tennis racket is an advanced parameter that describes how much the racket resists deformation during real impact with the ball.

🎾 What is dynamic stiffness?

Unlike static stiffness (RA index), which is measured on a static frame, dynamic stiffness takes into account the real-world behavior of the racket during use, including:

  • The interaction between strings, frame, and ball
  • The speed of the impact
  • The contact point on the stringbed

🔍 Key differences

Stiffness TypeHow it's measuredWhat it represents
Static (RA)Using machines like Babolat RDCHow much the frame flexes under pressure
DynamicUnder real playing conditions (actual shots)The effective response of the racket

📐 Practical example

A racket with a RA of 60 may appear flexible, but if it has tight strings and a small head size, it may actually have a high dynamic stiffness. On the other hand, a racket with an RA of 70 may feel softer when strung at low tension with elastic strings.

📊 Why is it important?

  • Arm comfort: less vibration → more comfort
  • Ball control: more deformation = longer dwell time
  • Power and speed: less deformation = more energy transfer

🎯 In Practice

  • RA (static): useful for comparing frames
  • Dynamic stiffness: more useful for understanding how a racket actually plays
  • Depends on: strings, tension, contact point, materials, frame design
Swingweight (inertia)

Swingweight is a fundamental parameter that measures how "heavy" a racket feels during a swing, i.e., during the motion of a stroke. It differs from static weight: two rackets can weigh the same in hand but feel very different during play.

🎾 What is Swingweight in a tennis racket?

Swingweight represents the resistance to rotation of the racket around the hand’s pivot point (typically 10 cm from the butt of the handle). It is expressed in kg·cm² and measured using tools like the Babolat RDC or Wilson Diagnostic Machine.

📊 Typical values

SwingweightOn-court feel
< 280Highly maneuverable
280 – 300Balanced feel
300 – 320More power and stability
> 320High inertia, less maneuverability

🧠 What affects Swingweight?

  • Balance point: the more weight in the head, the higher the swingweight
  • Total mass: more weight generally increases swingweight (but not always linearly)
  • Weight distribution: more polarized rackets have higher swingweight

🪄 On-court effects

Low swingweightHigh swingweight
+ Better maneuverability+ More stability on impact
+ Faster at the net+ More power on full swings
- Less power overall- More arm fatigue
+ Suitable for beginners+ Suitable for advanced players

🔧 Can I modify it?

  • Adding lead at 12 o’clock → significantly increases swingweight
  • Lead at 3 and 9 o’clock → moderate increase, improves lateral stability
  • Silicone in the handle → little effect on swingweight, alters balance point
Spinweight

Spinweight is a parameter that measures how easy it is to generate spin on the ball during play. It differs from swingweight, as it focuses on the racquet's ability to produce spin rather than its resistance to rotation.

🎾 What is Spinweight?

Spinweight represents the ease with which the racquet generates rotation on the ball, and is influenced by the weight distribution of the frame and the strings. It is measured in kg·cm² and reflects how quickly the racquet head moves during impact with the ball.

🧠 What Affects Spinweight

  • Balance: A head-heavy racquet increases spinweight, favoring faster movement of the racquet head
  • Total weight: A heavier racquet tends to generate more spin but reduces maneuverability
  • String pattern: An open string pattern (e.g., 16x19) increases spin potential, while a closed pattern (e.g., 18x20) provides more control

🪄 Effects on Court

Low SpinweightHigh Spinweight
+ Greater maneuverability+ More spin and power on topspin shots
+ Easier to maneuver at the net+ Harder to handle, but great for topspin shots
- Less overall spin- Requires more strength for shots
+ Suitable for beginners+ Suitable for advanced players and power hitters

🔧 Can I Modify It?

  • Adding lead tape at 12 o'clock → increases spinweight, favoring faster movement of the racquet head
  • Lead tape at 3 and 9 o'clock → smaller increase, enhances lateral stability and spin on lateral shots
Twistweight

Twistweight is a parameter that measures the racquet's resistance to twisting during impact with the ball, especially when hitting off-center. It’s an important measure for players who want to understand how stable the racquet will be on off-center hits or when striking with a lot of spin.

🎾 What is Twistweight?

Twistweight represents the resistance to torsion of the racquet around the axis of the handle when the ball strikes the racquet off-center. It is measured in kg·cm², and a higher twistweight indicates a racquet that resists twisting during impact with the ball.

🧠 What Affects Twistweight

  • Racquet Design: A stiffer and wider frame tends to have a higher twistweight
  • Balance: A head-heavy racquet will have a higher twistweight
  • String Pattern: An open string pattern reduces twistweight, while a denser pattern increases it

🪄 Effects on Court

Low TwistweightHigh Twistweight
+ Greater maneuverability+ More stability on off-center hits
+ Easier for quick shots+ More control for spin-heavy shots
- Less stability on off-center hits- Harder to maneuver quickly
+ Suitable for beginners and quick players+ Suitable for advanced players seeking stability

🔧 Can I Modify It?

  • Adding lead tape at 3 and 9 o'clock → increases twistweight, improving lateral stability
  • Adding lead tape at 12 o'clock → increases resistance to torsion by adding weight to the racquet head
  • Higher string tension → can increase twistweight by making the frame stiffer
Recoilweight

Recoilweight is a parameter that measures the racquet's resistance to returning to its original position after impact with the ball. A higher recoilweight means the racquet is slower to return to position, while a lower recoilweight indicates the racquet recovers more quickly after the shot.

🎾 What is Recoilweight?

Recoilweight represents the resistance to the racquet's return after impact with the ball. It measures how quickly the racquet returns to its original position after each shot, and it is influenced by factors like weight, balance, and frame stiffness. It is measured in kg·cm².

🧠 What Affects Recoilweight

  • Weight: A heavier racquet generally has a higher recoilweight, as it takes longer to return after impact
  • Balance: A head-heavy racquet will have a higher recoilweight
  • Frame Stiffness: A stiffer frame will return more quickly, resulting in a lower recoilweight

🪄 Effects on Court

Low RecoilweightHigh Recoilweight
+ Faster recovery+ Greater stability
+ More maneuverable and responsive+ More control on shots
- Less stability on hard shots- Harder to maneuver quickly
+ Suitable for fast, responsive players+ Suitable for players seeking control and stability

🔧 Can I Modify It?

  • Adding lead tape at 12 o'clock → increases recoilweight, improving stability
  • Lead tape at 3 and 9 o'clock → reduces recoilweight, increasing recovery speed
  • Stiffer strings → decrease recoilweight and accelerate racquet return
Length

The length of a tennis racket is a key factor that directly influences maneuverability, leverage, and overall control during play. Different racket lengths suit different ages, skill levels, and playing styles.

📏 How long is a tennis racket?

Standard adult tennis rackets are typically 27 inches (68.6 cm) long, though they can vary slightly. Longer rackets provide more reach and power, while shorter ones are easier to maneuver and control. Junior racket lengths vary depending on the child’s age and height.

🎯 Racket length by age and skill level

Player TypeLength
Adult (standard)27 in (68.6 cm)
Adult (oversize/power-focused)27.25 – 29 in (69 – 73.7 cm)
Junior (12+ years)26 in (66 cm)
Junior (9–12 years)25 in (63.5 cm)
Junior (5–8 years)21 – 23 in (53 – 58 cm)
Children under 517 – 19 in (43 – 48 cm)

⚙️ How length affects gameplay

  • Longer rackets: provide more power and reach thanks to greater leverage, but can be harder to maneuver, especially for beginners.
  • Shorter rackets: offer better control and quicker reactions, ideal for kids or players who prefer agility.
  • Standard length (27”): offers a good balance of control and power, suitable for most adult players.

🧠 Practical tip

If you're a beginner or buying for a young player, choose a racket length based on the player’s height and strength. Intermediate or advanced adult players typically do well with the standard length, though the ideal size depends on your playing style.

Frame torsion

Frame torsion refers to the racquet's resistance to twisting during off-center impacts. When the ball is not struck directly on the sweet spot, torsional stiffness helps maintain shot stability and reduces vibration.

🔄 What is torsion?

During an off-center hit, the racquet tends to rotate or twist sideways. This movement is called torsion. A racquet with high torsional resistance stays more stable, helping to control the shot and reduce unwanted feedback.

📊 Impact of Torsion on Performance

Frame CharacteristicImpact on Play
High torsional resistanceMore stability and control on off-center hits
Low torsional resistanceMore twisting, reduced control and accuracy

🧠 Summary

A racquet with high torsional stiffness is ideal for powerful players who need stability on imperfect shots. Players who prefer a softer feel might choose a more flexible frame, accepting some compromise in shot stability.

Vertical flex

Vertical flex refers to how much the racquet frame bends backward (toward the player) during ball impact and is often represented by a measurement called RA (Stiffness Rating). This value indicates how resistant the frame is to bending under force: the higher the RA, the stiffer the racquet. This flex influences the feel, dwell time, and energy transfer during the shot.

🔧 What does vertical flex mean?

When striking the ball, the frame deforms slightly in the vertical direction. A racquet with higher vertical flex absorbs impact better, offering greater comfort and control, but with less explosive power. A stiffer frame, instead, transfers energy more quickly to the ball.

📊 Effects of Vertical Flex on Performance

Flex LevelImpact on Play
High vertical flex (softer racquet, low RA)More control, softer feel, less raw power
Low vertical flex (stiffer racquet, high RA)More power, quicker response, less comfort

🧠 Summary

Vertical flex is a key characteristic to match with your playing style. Players who value control and feel may prefer more flex, while those who rely on powerful strokes may choose stiffer frames.


Measurement system