Prostaff v14 X vs. 97 | All Time Greats or Just Hype?

[@MJRazza]

Really appreciate the production quality and insight you have, kudos man.

[@TennCom]

Thanks man

[@raphaelkarpeles7447]

Great production quality and I like that you combine your racket reviews with the topic of general racket specs. 👌 It's really sad that it's so hard to messure those specs like twist-, recoilweight and polarization at home. 😔 If you like the Pro Staff's you should try the Pro Kennex Black Ace rackets. You will never ever worry about comfort again and their flex is really awesome.

[@288kun172]

I´m pretty sure that no other tennis related KZbin channel has such a scientific approach and deep insight into racket´s specs as you 🙂👏awesome job & content! Learn something new every day thanks to you.

[@PF9O]

The intro was excellent. Great concept, love the old TV, retro clips and PS history. Bravo!

[@s41magazine37]

This is the most comprehensive review yet. I may have to change sticks again 😭

[@K4R3N]

Briffidi SW1 is so good. Glad I got mine. Was able to match static and swingweight of both my Speed Pros to within 1gram

[@diopappa]

Amazing production! I enjoyed every single moment of it. Honestly I recently tried the 97 and it feels like home out of the box. It doesn't give you any forgiveness at all but damn when you find the sweet spot you'll end up with just the shot you wanted.

[@TennCom]

thanks so much for watching im glad you enjoyed!

[@mccclafnyc]

Another elite video you just don't miss. Going to buy a dozen of each model now thanks for the recommendation

[@TennCom]

Tbh, excellent choice

[@berdymanimal3430]

Just demoed the ‘X’ and love it but I need to make sure I’m not missing out by not trying anything else. Was going to try the new Vcore 100 as I’m a topspin heavy forehand guy with a flattish two hand backhand. If you have any advice or suggestions I’m all ears! I’m really digging the videos and think we kind of have similar tastes in gear.

[@TennCom]

I haven't tried the latest VCP100. All I can say is that everyone who's tried my PSX absolutely loves it.

[@jomoanderson5596]

Hey, I'm still using the first midsized sticks I've ever hit with, the nCode 6.1 95's. I bought four of them when they were on the market back in '06, '07 and I've read their still a standard b/c of the double braiding tech that's no longer used in current models. Have U considered doing a video on those frames? Federer won the majority of his majors w/ the 90" version of that racket.

[@TennCom]

I actually have an nCode 95 in minty fresh condition. Still has the original strings and replacement grip on (and the first stringing sticker) that I got from a family friend.

[@zurbrure]

Danke! You are doing a great job.

[@TennCom]

Thanks so much!

[@chakwowu6825]

I have 5 V.13 Pro Staff 315g, one is bought slightly used from Japan and 4 are brand new from USA. The swingweight of all of them feel substantially lighter than what it should be despite the fact that they're all very close to the spec static weight. The used one I received actually came with 4 straps of 5" long (0.25" wide) lead starting from the PWS to 2 and 10 o'clock positions and all of these make that particular racquet swing just feel "right".

[@terryraygould9346]

Excellent review and comments, both technically and subjectively. Thank you. I started sooo many years ago (1991 ) with the ProStaff 6.0 I think. Wilson changed it so much that it felt like I club to me, so I switched to the Volkl V1 to get back to that same old feel. And as always, more changes and they messed up the V1.. forcing me to switch again, this time to Babolat Soft Woofer. Eventually it was switched out for the Pure Aero. I just picked up the new Pure Aero 2023. I don’t love it. I have always used Babolat natural gut (currently VS Touch #17 at 55 lbs) on every racquet. Following the stringing recommendations, I had this one tensioned at 52lbs. I really do not like the extreme loss of control with anything hit off-center, especially spin serves and fast volleys. I am an aggressive all-court 3.5/4.0 player. I tend to hit hard and flat, although I mix in top spin and slice, and I like to finish points at the net. I plan on raising the tension to 56lbs, but am not expecting much of a change. Now to my point… it looks like Wilson has come full circle with the ProStaff X 100. I am thinking it might be a better match for my style, and in particular, a smoother transition of control from center to off-center hits. What do you think? On a side note, I did try a friend’s Head Extreme Tour MP recently and thought it felt solid, without the jarring loss of control on off-center shots. It felt lighter then I prefer, but fixable.

[@TennCom]

Thanks Terry! I appreciate the distinction between technical and subjective, as I try to ride the line between education and entertainment. One of my older hitting partners used the 1992 V3 with the red/yellow fade paintjob over black and only switched last year due to grommet availability. He really enjoyed the 360+ Prestige Pro (now its called the Tour) which is also a 95. Perhaps something like the 99 Prestige MP would help bridge the feel gap in a lighter package. Definitely worth a try alongside the PSX is you have access to demos.

[@terryraygould9346]

@@TennCom Great suggestion. I did try the Prestige MP. Excellent control and perfect touch for doubles but I felt I was getting a little battered around in hard toe to toe ground stroke exchanges. I'll see if I can get my hands on the Wilson X or upcoming Shift.

[@K4R3N]

🔥 INTRO 🎉

[@marcovela4074]

been using it since it came out and i can say that its way better than people expect. the control is just unlike anything else. it has surprisingly great spin potential too and is highly underrated in that category

[@TennCom]

I agree.

[@wilsoch]

I hit the X and the 97v.14 at a Wilson demo event yesterday, and I have to say, I liked the X a LOT more. The 97 felt almost brittle by comparison to the X, which just felt solid. The 97 didn't feel any easier to swing to me. Maybe it was a bit more maneuverable at the net? I don't know -- I struggled to find anything about the 97 that I liked significantly more than the X. The X's spin production wasn't the best, but neither is the 97, and that's not really my game anyway. I really thought the X was awesome. Nothing else is quite like it on the market, except maybe the Dunlop CX400T (if you add weight to it).

[@TennCom]

I agree the X was very well done and I think they deserve to sell a lot of them

[@cybernetennis]

This is what I've signed up for!

[@yiweiwang5574]

great, but I still love my rf97

[@Hurry19671]

I got it now. same weight and balance, but still different swingweight. perfect lecture! 😊

[@kevinnguyen5362]

Nice haircut tenncom ! Great Video review of Wilson ps 97 v14

[@airmikey001]

Really enjoy your reviews, especially how the technical aspects relate to the playability of the frames. I just demo’d both the the 97 and X and really geled withe 97. For me the X offered a vastly more muted and disconnected feel by comparison, and I was very frequently hitting balls long as well as a significantly inconsistent string bed response to the 97. It was so noticeable 9n the X that I found myself pulling back on my strokes and almost having to ‘baby’ the ball a bit to compensate for this muted and less reliable response. I can’t really figure out why I didn’t like the X compared to what others have to say…

[@TennCom]

Thanks Mike! I think it really depends on what racquet you are coming from. If you have a very dialed in setup, the X can feel... generic. But if you are coming from something pedestrian, like a Pure Strike or v8 Blade, the X is fantastic. I also don't think it would play that well with more muted/dead strings like RPM Blast incase that was your experience.

[@airmikey001]

@@TennCom You're right, a lot does depend on what racquet I'm coming from. Interestingly though I play with a Blade 98 V7 18x20. I believe the string in the X was ALU Power at 50lbs. I don't recall if the X has the same tighter string pattern in the sweet spot 'string mapping' as the 97, but I could absolutely feel the lack of control and string bed inconsistency with the X by comparison. That's really the only thing I can think of that would significantly contribute to the issues I was experiencing. And perhaps the 100 SQ inch head size. I can only recommend the X to intermediate players, but not advanced players with good technique who bring their own power. Feels a lot like a Clash come to think of it. I guess it brings the Pro Staff down a notch or 2 to be more forgiving and accessible to developing players into the PS line which equates to more revenue from this line for Wilson.

[@nelsonemiliolozano6621]

@@airmikey001 The stringbed man!

[@samuelealessandri7254]

⁠@@TennCom what strings do you recommend on a pro staff X? I’m using rpm blast but i would like to try something different. Really interesting videos!

[@TennCom]

@@samuelealessandri7254 tbh I only ever tried Grapplesnake Tour Sniper in the frame and I couldn't ask for much more. Tour Bite Soft would be a similar option that might be easier to get for you.

[@lcervantes8505]

proper technique and form. Super video and great points. My ProStaffs demand correct technique and form in order to get the best from them, which can be extraodinary. Weighted up and strung tight, hit out on every shot for an aggressive game. Similar to my Head Prestige Pros, but with more pop and a bit less control.

[@ZishiL]

The 315g weight and the head light balance of pro staff X is what an ideal Gravity MP should be like.

[@nelsonemiliolozano6621]

No one word about the composition y materials. The X doesnt have Kevlar on it. Maybe you will find some answers there. Greetings from Argentina, and Pro Staff forever!

[@jorgetirado3201]

Yeah that's super interesting and I just realized that! Didn't realize that the X didn't have kevlar but the 97 did. I wonder what real difference that actually makes, and why they didn't include that in the X

[@Javi_C]

Well done on the video Beckett & Simon!

[@ER_aka_RAM]

Incredible overview of the Pro Staff’s! I just spoke with TW this afternoon as I’ll be demoing the X, Blade 100, and probably the Percept 97 per their recommendation on replacing my vintage nTour 95. Looking forward to swinging with em, but specifically the X

[@houhouhou99]

Hi, how would you advise me to choose between pro staff x and blade 100. Would like to hear a brief comparison of these two racquets. Thank you very much!

[@ER_aka_RAM]

@@houhouhou99 Pretty easy comparison and it’s all weight! The new Blade v9 is a 300g frame vs the 315g Pro Staff X, but if you have experience and would prefer not to customize… ProStaff X. I prefer the Blade as it’s a more forgiving frame, but the ProStaff X has a nice balance. I would highly recommend demoing both frames with polyester strings to get a better idea. The poly’s on a demo will usually be strung around 52-53lbs… Multifilament demos around 57lbs, but depending on your experience, you may feel it to be underpowered compared to a polyester. Hope that helps 🤙🏽

[@houhouhou99]

@@ER_aka_RAM Regarding sweet spot size and fault tolerance, which do you think is better, psx or blade 100?

[@ER_aka_RAM]

@@houhouhou99 Blade 100… going to be more forgiving and you won’t feel like you’re swinging Thor’s hammer after hours of match play! I personally played better with the PSX because of the weight, but it was still too stiff of a frame. If v15 comes with an RA of 62 > it would be one of the best 100s made, but like all racquets… highly subjective. Check out the TW University racquet tools to compare them H2H, including sweet spot graphs... I would still recommend the Blade for Intermediate to Advanced players (3.0-4.0ish), as your game will improve while you customize it to where you want/need it to be. 🤙🏽

[@joaosandesneto]

Hey there, how did you feel about the percept 97? There is a lot of hype still about it. I’m a one handed backhand player… Pro staff, blade, percept 97 or another one? Thanks 🙏🏽

[@freelance88]

Please review Tecnifibre Iga 298 - that racket will surprise you, use a softer string setup :) I use x one biphase main and alu power rough on cross. Feels like butter.

[@TennCom]

I hit a friend's briefly (strung with a very stiff string) and I agree its a great stick. Just very annoying to get Tecnifibre in Canada because they changed their distribution to US only, so Canadian stores have to import the stock.

[@highgate14]

I bought the X and strung it with a multi. I find its quite an unpredictable frame and the feel on the string bed is muted.It does have good power but I really dont have any accuracy and have difficulty when flattening the ball out. On the plus side its great on the serves but this isnt a keeper for me as the control isn't there. Ive come from the Blade family and now toying with the idea of picking up Gravity Pro but concerned about the weight.

[@TennCom]

If you can find an underspec Gravity it should be ok. Mine has a 325 strung swingweight, which was the same as the PSX is got, but I still felt the PSX was easier to swing. That said, if you found the PSX to be too muted, the Gravity will be even worse, but the directional control will be way better on flat shots.

[@bobjulianAT]

The song change when giving the PSX verdict at the end of the video reassured my purchase of it! 👊 Great description, baseline basher for the brash, crush any ball from anywhere type of stick.

[@JaydeepDave12]

I was stuck with Gravity Pro, I was not getting impressed by any other rackets. I purchased pro staff 97 v14 Noir limited edition, I just love it.

[@Abhishek08_]

How do you find the feel and precision? Is the PS v14 a good racket for flat strokes?

[@JaydeepDave12]

@@Abhishek08_ Absolutely, great for flat volley too. If you like flat shots, I recommend Speed Pro or Gravity Pro.

[@matthewchristian8274]

Thank you for excellent production value in this video. I was wondering if you would recommend the PS X for me. I've just gotten back into tennis after last playing 30 years ago when I was 13. Now in my 40s, probably having a midlife crisis, I've joined an intermediate level mens doubles team. Apparently using an Eastern grip (had to google it). I am 6'2" - 215 lbs. Not a small dude with a killer dad bod. I've demo'd 10+ rackets. I have tried the PS X. I thought the heavy weight wasn't going to be good for a "beginner" but I've found it to be very nice. I can tell where the ball is going to go, most shots are landing 6 inches inside the base line, and I'm not really miss hitting volleys as much as before. Obviously technique is to blame for most bad shots, but there does seem to be less w the PS X. Basically I like it. But I'm concerned that after a lot of play, the weight will be too much, or I'll get injured. Would you recommend it and what strings would you recommend. I had no idea there were so many options with rackets and strings and it is overwhelming. Thanks

[@TennCom]

Sounds like things are going well with the PSX. I recommend sticking with it. You can avoid not getting injured by paying attention to your body. It will tell you when its getting tired and if things start to hurt on court, just stop. Being a hero and toughing things out usually just makes things worse. See Rafa after playing Fritz at Wimbledon. For me, the heavy racquets tend to stress the shoulder, specifically the rotator cuff on serves, so pay attention to that area for over use.

[@samspears]

Still learning how to play tennis (4 months of playing). Just ordered the 97 because of a huge sale. Worried I made the wrong call.

[@TennCom]

Life would be easier with a 100 in the short term but long term I think you are better off learning with a frame that's more demanding of good technique. Racquet choice becomes more important once you've developed a game style and have nailed fundamentals. As a beginner, the best racquet is whatever racquet you have or whatever racquet excites you to go out and play!

[@lazinelad]

Enjoyed your video. Thank you

[@TheJakenesbit]

Liked and subscribed!

[@TennCom]

The Ghost of Federer compels you to join membership page

[@myronparinas]

best video review for this line, so far...❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉

[@sichinawa]

I think if you do split step before you hitting, your results will be better with any racket. ))

[@foodbeforepills8749]

Definitely major quality control issues. My demo X has a swing weight of 311 and 335g static weight. Crazy!

[@likhithm3097]

What should i do i have been playing with wilson prostaff six one 95 2012 edition now i want to make a switch to newer prostaff ,v13 is 50 bucks cheaper than v14 315g one so is it worth the extra price or just stick to v13

[@TennCom]

it depends... you'd have to try them to know which works better for your game and whether or not its worth it for you. From an objective perspective, the price difference is not worth it, but tennis is a subjective experience so its hard to say

[@mustafamohamadhaidar966]

What racquet would say is best for touch shots, like drop volley, drop shots and slice

[@NewWaveAfros]

Earlier in the video at the 4 minute mark you put on the screen that the PS97 had a 14.1 twistweight measured by the briffidi then later in the video you said it measured at 13. Was just wanting to know which one was the correct measurement?

[@ALEMEZA456]

Just ordered the 97 v14 glad to hear I made a good choice! Not sure though if I should string with 26kg (current) or 25kg for more power since it’s a control racquet. Great vid bro

[@TennCom]

I'd be stringing this at 22kg prob. Just hit it today at 53lbs (23kg) and I would have liked the extra power for sure.

[@ALEMEZA456]

@@TennCom thx 🙏🏼

[@jorgetirado3201]

High quality video again! Curious - why do you think there are so few (if any) pro players using the pro staff? Pretty much all of them use the blade - you think that might change over time?

[@TennCom]

Prostaff didn’t do anything the Blade couldnt until this year. Now that the Prostaffs are stiffer than the Blades, you get more power, spin and stability. Plus reps were pushing the Blade a lot and kind of protecting the Prostaff for Roger. We will see who takes up the mantle.

[@overdrive_tennis]

Great video and review

[@TennCom]

thanks Felipe!

[@C0keAguila]

Excelent video man!! nice job

[@TennCom]

thanks!

[@EddieHutch]

@@TennCom The racket I currently use is a babolat pure aero. I have a two handed backhand and just started playing a little over a year ago. Which racket would you recommend?

[@TennCom]

@@EddieHutch what’s wrong with the PA?

[@EddieHutch]

@@TennCom I just want to try something new

[@TennCom]

@@EddieHutch the Extreme Tour would be fun, offering something different from what you currently use, but still giving you good spin

[@matisms]

i was using since kid (im 35 now) the wilson sixone 95 kfactor 332g.. 70cm version.. but is an old racquet so i bought the prostaff 97 v13 315g... looks fantastic but the racquet has ABSOLUTE 0 power.. and you cannot feel the ball.. also it hurt my shoulder... try to AVOID that racquet..

[@adriellepretre9047]

Hi Have you tried the Shift? I’m trying one later on this week. I’m also trying the Dunlop Cx 409 tour. It’s light but great control. Plays good with Volkl Cyclone.

[@TennCom]

not yet, I'm working on the VC98/100 and Aux Gravity MP/Radical MP

[@sundaramirtanandha7058]

Great review. How well does the X play for single-handed backhand? Usually anything bigger than 98sq has real drag. How are touch shots, slice and how string sensitive?

[@TennCom]

Its not the fastest swinging thing for sure, but its hard to say because I have a 2 hander

[@wilsoch]

I thought the X felt good on a one-hander; the thin beam helps here. It is a hefty racquet to swing for sure, but I thought it came through on the one-hander pretty easily. The slices were awesome took, probably in part because of the heft.

[@checkmatekid242]

Hey currently I am using a pro staff v12 I currently like the feel of the racket and how much control I have with ball I really like to move my opponent around the court but sometimes I just wish I had a little bit more power. Do you think the x or the 97 would be better for me

[@TennCom]

The X for sure.

[@mark.9307]

Witch racket would you chose. Wilson Blade V9 100 - V9 98 16-19 or the Wilson Pro Staff X.

[@outlawd3]

Hi Beckett, thanks for the video. I started playing tennis again 2 years ago and am obsessed. Being Swedish and growing up with Stefan Edberg as world no. 1 I immediately got a pro staff v13 which I like, had with Alu power but felt it lacked power and pop. Have used tecnifibre ice code for 6months now with more pop and still somewhat ok control. Seeing as im really an intermediate player, I have been considering a larger sweet spot racket and was considering either the pro staff X or the Head Gravity Tour (Im in europe and I like the idea of slightly lighter). Any thoughts on what you’d recommend? (Im also a stubborn one-handed backhander) thanks in advance and keep up the great videos! (And greetings from Sweden)

[@TennCom]

The Gravity Tour has a pretty high swingweight, so it plays a lot heavier than it actually is. I just posted a video on the new Radical MP which you might really like. Both the v14 PS97 and the Aux Radical MP were helping me commit to playing aggressive tennis, but the Radical MP required significantly less effort and was much more forgiving in defensive positions. I worry that the PSX will be a bill slow for the 1HBH and I think my favourite shot with it was the 2 hander.

[@Winners-Only]

This deserves a damn oscar

[@yuhs77]

Looking for a racket...asking for advice. Long time wilson..starting with k factor and BLX six one 95...and I've used the 2014 pro staff until now. It's really all I know, but I have a pretty loopy forehand, flatter backhand...big lefty serve. Looking for something a bit more forgiving. LOVE the control/feel of the 95 head size but it took my entire adulthood to realize I need something a bit more forgiving. Sounds like the X is the way to go...over the 97? I see Head Speed Pro on sale on TW...Not sure how similar these are compared to wilson but otherwise...I'm leaning towards X. If you have other recommendations please shoot! Thanks for the awesome review:)

[@simon0yeung]

I have a similar racket history and switched to the X. It was a sensible move for me as an aging person, as I knew some years down the road I’ll need more help from a racket than a 97 can offer, may as well get it now.

[@gastongonzalez3039]

Thanks for your awesome reviews Bennet! What would be the benefit of the PSX coming from a head gravity pro? Thanks

[@TennCom]

The PSX definitely feels lighter and easier to use compared to the Gravity, but you are going to lose control and court-penetration. I'd say if you are comfortable hitting the Gravity and the higher SW isn't an issue, there's not much to be gained by going to the PSX.

[@crgb2]

Excellent, thank you

[@Hurry19671]

What I dont get. about specs. if Wilson sucks in QS. tuning might cause new trouble, at least complicates life. 》 What is your advice: better buy only stick nearer to the listed specs? (or tuning not such a big deal?)

[@TennCom]

I recommend try to get frames that match as closely to each other as possible. If you can get ones that match closely to your demo, even better. Always better to get racquet that are too light as opposed to too heavy, as its easy to add weight but very hard to remove it.

[@MarkGuy-h4y]

You make great videos, and I appreciate them but in reality, Roger Federer could have played with any racket, and he would have been awesome. He started his pro career in 1998 with the original 85 sq inch Wilson Pro Staff that was made famous and used by Sampras, Evert, Edberg, Courier, Connors (briefly) and so many others. He then switched to a 90 sq inch model and used that for most of his career until he switched to a 97 sq. inch version of the Pro Staff near the end of his career. Federer actually increased his racket head size by 12 inches over the years and it did not significantly affect his game negatively at all. I believe even if Federer used an oversize racket like Agassi and Chang did, he would have still been an awesome player. His technique and skill level would work with any size racket. I think people put too much emphasis on the racket people use instead of great technique that great players have.

[@IvanChan1804]

Hello👋first of all, very high quality video you have made👍I enjoy watching it! I am currently using Wilson blade 98 V8 18x20, and I have added 1g on each 3&9 o'clock, it feels good for me but sometimes I feel the ball is not as fast and powerful as I want, since I am a flat hitter and I like controlling racket, I am interested on the 97 one, should I give it a try?🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@TennCom]

Yes, I think the PS97 offers a bit more natural power than the V8 Blade 18x20. You might also want to try dropping the tension and little bit and moving the weight from 3 and 9 to 12 o'clock to get the most power out of your setup.

[@IvanChan1804]

@@TennCom I tried the PS97 and it is just like what you said, it has more natural power, and the quality of shot is better than the shot while I am using the Blade 98 v8 18x20, but I just feel I can’t give all my confidence and power to the swimg while I am using PS97, I am so frustrated about it🙏🏼

[@crohawg4097]

Thank you for the video. Right now I am playing with PS autograph v12 and v13, but I was wondering if PS X would be a good change. When I got back into tennis 10 years ago, I started with my old racquet Pro Staff 6.0 which was 315g, the autographs are 340g and somehow I feel like I could never get a total control like with the lighter racquet. I am strictly a power player, serve and volley, basically living at the net :) Any excuse to attack is my game plan. What do you think? Tnx.

[@TennCom]

If you are trying to go lighter, I think the PS 97 might be better. Its got a slightly stiffer feel (more like the Autographs) and a higher swingweight so you want feel the loss in static weight as much

[@crohawg4097]

@@TennCom Thank you for the suggestion, but I went back in time and got Yonex Vcore95 2018 model. It will be just fine I think.

[@cb3719]

I hit ‘aces’ like that all the time! 😂

[@TennCom]

benefit of calling our own lines ;)

[@shad3e]

Great video! Any recommendations on strings?

[@TennCom]

I loved Grapplesnake Tour Sniper in this frame, similar strings might be Tour Bite Soft or Tourna Silver 7 Tour

[@muditagarwal2617]

How different is the X from Head Gravity Pro? Feel, control, power, etc

[@TennCom]

X has more power, less control, maybe a little more responsive in feel whereas the Gravity can feel a bit more dead/muted. Gravity is less maneuverable on average due to higher swingweight. Launch angle on the Gravity is way lower. Everything else pretty close.

[@muditagarwal2617]

@@TennCom Thanks! I’m considering the new gravity pro and the new pro staff (I use pro staff v13 atm) so this is really helpful.

[@purescum9002]

@@TennCom this comment is so damn spot on

[@lutz4738]

Thanks for this great video. I am playing the X since two months . But I also have the PS97 V11. How does compare the PS97 V11 to the V14 ? Greetings from Germany

[@TennCom]

I can't really remember how the V11 plays sorry

[@lutz4738]

No problem. What string would you prefer more … Luxilon 4G 125 or Alu Power 128.

[@chadallen3211]

I've been playing with the 2015 Pro Staff 97 for 8 years now. It's time for new rackets. I'm looking for something that plays similar but offers a bit more power and control. And I refuse to ever use anything bigger than a 98. Do you think that the V14 Pro Staff 97 offers this?

[@TennCom]

I honestly cannot remember the power levels on the 2015 PS97. However, by now, your racquet's graphite is probably slightly worn out, so anything new would offer a better energy return. I would look at this one of sure, but I 'd also recommend considering the Pure Strike VS. 97 but apparently very easy to use.

[@MultiHaglund]

Hey! I used a PS97 v13 and i loved it but it got stolen when someone broke in to my car.. Now i don’t know If i should get the new 97 or X! My strength is my forehand with an ok serve. I only play at the net if someone forces me to with dropshots. Is X the right choice for me even though i liked playing at the baseline with the old 97 v13?

[@TennCom]

If you want a little extra forgiveness, the X is really nice but it doesn't quite have the full Prostaff magic like the 97.

[@tophersuwita]

Which racket is better for an all court rec player 3.5 rating playing both doubles and singles: PS97, VCP97D, or Auxetic Radical Pro? I don't like sub 300 g weight, got elbow pain from Regna 100, currently playing with EZT 98 2022 but looking for a more unmuted racket...

[@lucaritivoi8407]

ik this is very late but if you’re still wondering either radical mp or wilson blade 16x19 would work well

[@hoatran-rq1ip]

Masterclass

[@derekpappas1556]

You also forgot to mention that if you have a dense 18x20 string pattern , the strings may have issues moving . Even if with lowering tensioning . can restring zero work on a 95 inch 18x20 for spin while keeping the full control of the 18x20 ? I tried to contact the company on this , but I could not get any answers back .

[@TennCom]

I think I'll be taking a look at the 18x20 Solinco's, so I can try it then. I was getting a lot of string movement in the ET, which is relatively dense compared to like a Pure Strike 18x20 or a Speed Pro.

[@derekpappas1556]

@@TennCom My issues with the zero strings would be on a 95 " 18x20 like on my cx 200 tours , its the string to string friction with the lack of spacing . To keep the 18x20 precision , while giving added spin and height when desired , is the key . 16x19's are just much easier to mod . My choices today to do this as a vegan , is using non gut hybrids . Ashaway cross fire zx 17 and a future full bed test , Razor code white 18 on the crosses and 17 Dunlop Iconic all and or Head pps . The head pps's 6.1 or .2 spin potential along with the 6.1 or .2 of the razorcode 18 at 36 lbs , will help immensely. The string stiffness of the Iconic all 138 or 9 gives excellent playable comfort at 42 lbs . The 6 pound difference also opens the sweet spot and add power with less friction , along with its coated strings . Do you have any thoughts on this ?

[@TennCom]

@@derekpappas1556 have you tried any of the new soft/touch polys? Like Rpm soft, lynx touch or lxn smart

[@derekpappas1556]

@@TennCom No I have not touch any that you mention , The last Poly other than I mentioned , was TF Triax . Most of all the racquets I have tested were straight stiffer polys or multi's . Even triax tends to muddy the waters vs pure feelings in either direction and not consistent in reliability and looses a great deal of tension without doing anything in 2 days . I think the combination of razorcode and either Iconic all or poss an untested head pps would help since the 200 tour was used on the pro circuit with gut and alu power rough . Soft polys tend be be too muted . There are therefore fine lines of performance to , work with . And endless untested options become expensive . So , by analysis and reviews , I am trying to widdle it down .

[@TennCom]

Yeah I don’t really have any suggestions. You know your needs as well as anyone and are among the most educated. I doubt you’d get much from those soft polys they seem to be geared to towards Clash types

[@omarjmour8492]

Hi Beckett ! Great review. Some news for your new racquet ?

[@TennCom]

I am pleased to announced that I indeed play better with the 97 than my ETs. But I’m testing the VC98 now and really like it.

[@omarjmour8492]

​@@TennCom so we have to wait for the review 🧐!! I'm also interested by the vcore98 ... Wanted to have your advise. I play with blade v8 18x20 but it starts to feel like a wood stick, the maneuvrability is hard and i think i need more spin and depth. I tested the extreme tour auxetic and it was very nice with a lot of spin but your journey to change your racquet makes me wait before jumping in. You need an affiliate link for europe shops. Lots of support from France.

[@TennCom]

@@omarjmour8492 thanks Omar!!!

[@MarioGomez-kj5bc]

Im using the Prestige Pro 2019 currently (95 square inch) but now that I’m facing against better players and have to defend more it can feel a bit unforgiving, so I been thinking about pumping up that head size. Since my first racquet was a pro staff n code six one 95 team and I loved the crispness and directness of the frame I may go for the Pro Staff X when I do switch. However there are so many options on the market that it can feel a bit overwhelming

[@TennCom]

I think even the regular 97 would feel more forgiving and it would be less of a departure from your current racquet. I would also suggest taking a look at the TFIGHT ISO 305!

[@MarioGomez-kj5bc]

@@TennCom okay, will do that. Thank you and awesome video.

[@matisms]

i was using the same racquet ... the sixone 95.. trying to switch i tried prostaff v13 97.. babolat pure drive 315g.. pure drive 300g.. then i tried the pure aero+ 300g.. this was the best choice so far.. sticking with it now but i want to try the last one in my list.. the Yonex EZONE 98+

[@T20yur]

Hi What string would you recommend for the pro staff 97 v14?

[@TennCom]

I used Grapplesnake Tour Sniper for this review and couldn't have asked for anything more. Preserves the great feel of the Prostaff, lasts long, offers a good blend of spin and control.

[@EduardoGomez-hw4cu]

What's the difference between the six one 100 and the X?

[@TennCom]

Haven’t tried the 6.1

[@EduardoGomez-hw4cu]

@@TennCom Please do, I would like to hear your opinion

[@vanodne]

I thought you had a clamp to hold the racquet vertically and measure twist weight directly? Didn't I see that in a previous video?

[@TennCom]

No but if you find out where you saw, plz let me know

[@vanodne]

@@TennCom I don't know where I saw it originally, but here is Tennis Spin using it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pKiyiGmNa8R1hac

[@TennCom]

@@vanodne Briffidi reached out to me this morning and will send me an adapter

[@vanodne]

@@TennCom That's great! I just hope you keep taking spin weights as well as the others in your racquet testing (I believe that is the best indicator of maneuverability, while twist weight reflects off-center stability).

[@kaitunbokbok]

Should I get the X instead of Head Boom MP 2024? I stopped playing for 12 years.

[@TennCom]

If you used to use heavier racquets back in the day the PSX would be more familiar

[@alezalillah]

Even going forward, we'd still buy because of Federer's name

[@steveschaeffer5999]

Hey Beckett, which strings do you feel pairs best with the V14 97?

[@TennCom]

I personally like a crisper string like Tour Sniper, SIlver 7 Tour or Firestorm

[@alfandosavant4639]

Hype. Called it

[@TennCom]

but good

[@Gracle-r9v]

Should I switch this to psx coming from ezone 98? Just started playing for a couple of months.

[@TennCom]

probably not necessary but also, YOLO

[@TheodorosKolokotronis799]

Hi. Why did you choose whiteout 18x20 over this 97 ps 315 ?

[@TennCom]

At the time of testing I felt that the PS97 was too unforgiving for me so I sold it. In retrospect, I don't think it's that much less forgiving than the Whiteout and today I would have considered it more carefully. This is because these days, I'm quite a bit more fit than I was when I did this review.

[@TheodorosKolokotronis799]

@@TennCom I am blade v5 user. Recently i tried v13 ps97 and i was impressed of how much power it offers but mostly from its spin potential. The trick here is that you must go for it and then plenty of power is unlocked. And to my surprise it produces a heavier ball than blade v8 for example. What impressed me more was the precision and ease of execution on volleys. I mean this is serve n volleys best dream….. also the ease on 1HB down the line was phenomenal. My only issue was that the small head doesn’t help to track high balls easily when you want to return them with slice…. but if you ll found the Sweet spot then the slice is surgically, deep and penetrating. Also it doesn’t have huge pop to help you when in defence but it’s not that bad either. So in conclusion that it’s a racquet with huge power potential if you don’t be afraid to swing through. And the reason is that pro staff is more direct and harsh on contact while blades are more plush and ball stays a bit longer on the strings….. also blades v7 and v8 have become low powered compared to v5 and v6. Also the thin beam makes the 315 to not feel heavy. So i am very curious to try the v14. Can you compare power and spin of v14 to whiteout 18x20 ?

[@TennCom]

@@TheodorosKolokotronis799 I hit more spin with the Whiteout for sure. I was hitting more flat and heavy with the PS97 whereas the Whiteout I'm hitting more loopers.

[@ronaldadrianta7014]

How do the two compare in terms of serves?

[@TennCom]

I preferred the 97 because it felt more precise and faster through the air. Slice serves were particularly nice with it. Neither is as good as like a Pure Drive or and EZONE though.

[@ronaldadrianta7014]

@@TennCom thanks! Been trying to decide between the two, but serve is a big part of my game, so your response helps a lot!

[@alberts5739]

please review yonex percept 100" 300 grams

[@secure777]

What strings did you use? and tension?

[@TennCom]

Grapplesnake Tour Sniper 1.25 at 52lbs for both racquets

[@derekpappas1556]

The x in the pro staff must mean more than experimental . Look at X in Latin as 10 , then add a 0 and you have the head size as 100 .

[@TennCom]

I predict we will see multiple generations of this mold, wonder if they will keep the X name, as i think its kind of off putting personally

[@derekpappas1556]

@@TennCom All these companies want to name everything X . This is nonsense . If there is no significance behind it as stated , then it looses all meaning . They most likely are trying to imitate , northrop grumman's skunk works , as a labs racquet . People just mispronounce everything . Look at the I phone as an example . I for internet and 10 as a roman numeral and the 10th major update . It had to be spelled out for people fully in 11 .

[@TennCom]

@@derekpappas1556 when I release a racquet it will be called the Chung 98

[@derekpappas1556]

@@TennCom Was that Chung or Hung 98 :) on the more serious side . Have you tried the wilson shift as yet ? If so , then how does the performance level with bending and pocketing compare to the prostaff x v14 and compared to the fx 500 's power groove + ? :)

[@lamtimothy556]

cool t-shirt you are wearing

[@TennCom]

thanks! Its from the 2013 World Tour Finals collection. 10 years old!

[@posterizedz]

Awesome quality video/review. Love how you almost nerd out on the specs. Could you go more in details regarding the differences from the v13 97? The v13 is what I gravitate most among the group of rackets I currently have as part of my search for the all so elusive “perfect” racket. With added weights at the hoop and handle, I’m enjoying the blend of stability, plow through, feel, while still enabling me to put spin behind the ball when needed.

[@TennCom]

It’s been years since I hit the V13 so I can’t give you too much detail, but for me the main difference is power. Even with a hybrid setup, I really struggled to get much court penetration with the v14. Ball speeds just felt low. The new one has a lot more punch/pop so I could punish my opponents much more easily.

[@posterizedz]

@@TennCom I could always use extra power. I will have to demo the v14 sometime soon. Thanks for the input!

[@kevt8169]

@@TennCom Just to clarify, you mean you felts the V13 97 was less powerful than the V14 97? just checking to confirm the statement here "Even with a hybrid setup, I really struggled to get much court penetration with the v14"

[@matisms]

@@kevt8169 v13 97 might be the most low powered racquet ever..

[@kevt8169]

@@matisms right. thanks for the feedback. I got the v14, but still looking for a v13. can't get it anymore where I am.

[@Microtimer1000th]

You mean 1985, correct?

[@zaydfataar4327]

Ezone 100 or Wilson pro staff x?

[@TennCom]

would you be adding weight to the EZONE?

[@zaydfataar4327]

@@TennCom no I wouldn’t.

[@TennCom]

Then I you need need to figure out which weight you want. 15g is a big difference between these two frames. The PSX is much harder to use than the EZ100

[@gab_ale]

haven't finish watching the video, but just wanted to say that many players do love the Blade.

[@TANIL-X]

Anybody can tell me about cons of v14?

[@TennCom]

requires high swing speeds to maximize and stability is poor outside the sweet spot. Comfort is also poor if you have a history of arm problems

[@jimclawley9117]

Goddam who out those grips on?

[@user-be5qg7mr1s]

no one uses it though. Never seen it in a 4.0 or 4.5 tournament. Its heavy AF..one rec player I know uses it and his serve has lost power from switching lol

[@TennCom]

I've seen the 97 in the hands of a few juniors but it does seem a lot less popular than even 5 years ago

[@user-be5qg7mr1s]

who uses it in the pro world besides dimitrov and ons jabeur? wilson is in a pickle with that line. Better to focus on selling clash, blades and ultras. The average player can get more out of a Pure Aero then Pro staff@@TennCom

[@secure777]

Yonex Vcore 2033 or New Prostaff??

[@TennCom]

for who

[@secure777]

@@TennCom Me, I'm 44 years old, about 4.5 level player, I like using poly strings, I've been using Prostaff V12 countervail with tourbite, Hyper G, and Confidential @55-54 pound s, I've played with that racket for 3 years, but lately I have some light pain on elbow/arm.

[@secure777]

I'm really considering switching to Yonex Vcore 98, what do you think about that switch from Prostaff to Vcore 98?

[@TennCom]

@@secure777 good switch but I would recommend going with a thicker gauge string to tame the higher launch angle on the VC98. It should be more comfortable for you too

[@secure777]

@@TennCom great man, normally I used 17g, I'll try 16 next time, thanks for info and video, appreciate it 📷🎾👍🏼

[@Tennissensitive]

What happend to Simon?

[@TennCom]

i moved but he is still helping a lot behind the scenes. Currently he is making a video on the Saber.

[@18yearsoldnot]

Still not happy they culled the prostaff 95. There are still a huge number of players who use a 95, but Wilson just ignore it

dude they have the 6.1 pro staff 95 now

[@18yearsoldnot]

That ain’t a prostaff. That’s a 6.1 95

@@18yearsoldnot r u stupid look at tennis warehouse it’s a pro staff it’s the second version of the classic 6.0 u don’t know how rackets work man

@@18yearsoldnot r u stupid it says pro staff in the title it’s a pro staff💀the original was 6.0 now it’s the next version

[@gtye0h]

Alpha net

[@TomSmith-il6pz]

Fourth

[@TennCom]

You gotta pump those numbers up. Those are rookie numbers in this racket.

[@ACTennis]

Third

[@TennCom]

1st in our hearts

[@jonathankarakas5354]

I just stick w the king RF97 forever. there is no 2nd best

[@XDR2201]

I’m still using PS95 from 1997. Don’t really care about modern PS. They are bad.

[@nelsonemiliolozano6621]

dinosaur

[@livingtribunal4110]

It´s a rust-colored racquet. 🤮

[@TennCom]

have you seen it in person? Looks much better in daylight specifically.

[@livingtribunal4110]

@@TennCom I haven´t but obviously now I will! Talking of which, have you seen the *Babolat Pure Aero Rafa Origin?* Are you going to even playtest it? 😅

[@TennCom]

Yeah apparently Courtside is getting a few but idk what the timeline is. They will be very limited production like a 911R situation

[@cageynerd]

You're pretty bad but I still took your string recommendation.

[@TennCom]

You should see how bad I am without good strings