The Top 5 BEST Rackets for a One-Handed Backhand!! | Rackets & Runners

Rackets & Runners' Luca Berg shares his thoughts on the top 5 rackets for a one handed backhand.
Dunclop CX 200 Tour 18x20 : racketsandrunners.ca/products...
Yonex Vcore 95 : racketsandrunners.ca/products...
Head Prestige Pro : racketsandrunners.ca/products...
Wilson Pro Staff 97 : racketsandrunners.ca/products...
Yonex Percept 97 : racketsandrunners.ca/products...
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#onehandedbackhand #federer #wawrinka #dimitrov #tsitsipas #wilson #prostaff #prostaff97 #yonex #vcore95 #percept97 #headtennis #prestigepro #prestige #thiem #bestrackets #racketreview #racketsandrunners #alcaraz #madridopen #dunlop #cx200tour

[@oakmountaingod]

My man bald Shelton with another cameo lmao... Loved the video, like always. Keep it up

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Thank you very much!

[@Maiqel]

Great video as always! You are a great reviewer, it's incredible how honest, insightful and detailed your reviews are, especially considering your reviews are on a shop's account. Keep up the good work, Luca.

[@SplinterTM_]

HAHA couldn't watch the video until the evening, but had a smile on my face all day. I'll have to test the Percept 97 at the next opportunity. Had the best experience so far with the Radical MP and the 2024 Pure Strike Thanks for the great video and of course for responding to our request :), honestly HILARIOUS.

[@poqeteer]

When I learn to play tennis back in the dark ages it was one handed backhands with wood rackets, talk about heavy... I've played with the Gravity Pro from when it came out. Not super whippy but if you can get it moving, there is plenty of power. I've recently switched to a VCore 98 Tour. Only 15 or so grams lighter (and I guess the aerodynmics), but makes quite a difference. I don't play with a dampener so get plenty of feel.

[@jamieleong9381]

Even though the Ezone 98 2022 hasn't had an update - aside from a cosmetic change I think it's worth throwing into that mix of racquets suited to a OHBH

[@gabrieljimenez6952]

I REALLY like the Ezone and play well with it. The one thing that bugs me about the Ezone for the OHNH is the curvy throat shape. On quick grip changes it does not feel as good on my left hand compared to flatter beams.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I actually really enjoyed it but thought it was a tad too muted to make the top 5.

[@jaimepinheiro5264]

The Head Boom Pro is also a great Racquet for the one handed Backhand players, its my racquet of choice and I think my backhand improved a lot with the Boom Pro ( auxetic 2.0), I think thats because of the racquet face shape idk but something in that Racquet makes it easier to hit it cleaner than when im hitting with my Percept 97

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Yes it definitely is, I agree.

[@KeyboardKat]

I love these videos! I can’t believe this isn’t a bigger channel

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Thank you!

[@s1rlemon45]

@@RacketsRunnersVancouvercan u film a review on Wilson Pro Staff 95 v14

[@baldazor22]

Great tips i agree totally on all of them! Recently i tried the new Extreme Tour and it was perfect for my one handed backhand. It is very fast and maneuverable but not so stable but since i added some weight around 315gr unstrung performed amazing!!!

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Thank you! I'll have to try the Extreme Tour a little more.

[@gilmillan1909]

I'm agree with your list Luca. I need great stability, at least 330 Swingweight, 64 or more Stiffness and from 95 to 98 headsize. After playing with more than 15 Racquets I'm finally pretty happy with my Head prestige Tour 2021, I have now everything that I was looking for, Spin, control, plow through, stability, feel, decent maneuverability and comfort. Cheers

[@Muzzballs]

ProStaff 97 is a cheat code for the one hander. It's THAT phenomenal. Everything that you said in the common characteristics is EXACTLY what I look for, and for those EXACT reasons. Stability, speed, and maneuverability are so incredibly important for the shot. If the frame shakes or it hurts your wrist when you turn the shoulder at the end of the shot, then the racket is immediately a no-go.

[@KorvanAleric]

+1 also for the boom pro. I found a good transition from Pro Staff.

[@johnnylee8337]

As a tennis player with a OHBH, the best racket I've used is definitely the Wilson Pro Staff 97 v13. It doesn't have that muted feeling that most rackets have nowadays and has a lot of feedback. Of course, it is 315 grams plus more after stringing, changing the grip and putting on an over grip. But it has the maneuverability and head-lightedness needed for precision shots and has enough weight to block back powerful shots. I've also had the VCore 95 2023 for almost a year now but haven't been liking the muted feel on my backhand. I've tried the Percept 97 last summer and liked it on my backhand but disliked it on my forehand. I might have to demo it again because of this list! Lol.

[@brianho6689]

this and my Babolat PS13. Best 1BH frames imo!

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I loved the v13...

[@ER_aka_RAM]

That was awesome to identify the introduction! Bravo 👏🏽 I’m in the midst of demoing the last batch of racquets and my 2 top contenders for OHBH and modern versatility are currently the Blade 98 v9 (16x19), and the Speed MP… The Speed is up in the air, but it has a 300g static weight with the higher swingweight at 330 (which was really good for serving). I picked up a Percept 100 to demo and I was going to replay the Prestige Tour (which I wish had a larger head size), but I tried playing a match with it last weekend and quickly reverted to the Blade 98 and an EZONE 98. Coming from the Wilson nTour 95 (a la Justine Henin’s racquet)… I just haven’t felt comfortable with modern 95s. The VCORE and Prestige Tour are back in the box to return… but it’s been a sometimes painful journey settling on a racquet that is going to help progress my game and play USTA National events. I’m curious to try the Pro Staff 97 and the Percept 97 per your suggestion, but as much as I loved the Ultra Pro… there would be a lot of trial and error customization. Much thanks for putting in the legwork and making a super insightful video for us one-handed backhanders! 🙏🏽

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Thank you very much, glad I could help!

[@elg0rdo351]

Good points made in this video and I like the confidence and dynamic of your shots. I use the HEAD IG Prestige Mid as a one-hander. Nowadays, the prostock variant (TGT292.1) is easier to get than the retail one so it costs an arm and a leg. It's worth it though: Fast through the air, stable af, and plenty of control so it boosts the confidence of a player to really step in to make the shot. For the guy handfeeding you balls to your backhand: He might want to consider feeding from a position where actual balls come from.

[@javace79]

Switched to the new boom pro. Loving it so far, easy controllable depth and power. Head light, stable and spin friendly enough for my one hander. Is Musetti still using a verison of the extreme tour?

[@liambergin5732]

Great video, I would also mention the lighter ProStaff for us older 1-handers! I find it quite arm friendly and still very precise to hit with

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Definitely, the 97L is the best "light" racket for one-handers.

[@keymonkey7352]

Radicals , both Pro and MP with a leather grip are great great feeling OHBH . Vcore 95 is great as it is VC 98 . The Percept 97 is the only one I didn't had the pleasure to test/own ... It will be the next one I guess :) VCP H is amazing but I can't really say I'm strong enough to play it consistently thorugh 2 hours or so

[@Raumsed]

I was using the speed xt mp ltd with leather, 3 and 9 lead and it felt amazing too, radical mp felt too powerful for me but it was also so stable and faster

[@keymonkey7352]

@@Raumsed I also use the 2022 Speed Mp , great racquet but it seems more power than the radical and just a tad sluggish compared to the 98 head . Vcore 98 and Speed Mp my preferred sticks , followed shortly by Rad MP .

[@myrkotennis]

That was a really nice vid man! Where would you put the older Yonex Ezone DR98 here? I play with it as my main and switched to it only last year, playing a 1HB.

[@spykp]

Amazing video, thank you for all the info! Question: what about Federer's autograph pro staff 97? Is that one even close to the top 5?

[@seamusbjh]

Finally got me to pull the trigger on a new racket! Top quality video as always! Quick question, what string setup did you find worked best for the Yonex Percept 97?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Thank you! I love Lynx Tour in the Percept. Gives it a bit more bite but still super consistent and solid, and it has better feel than something like Poly Tour Pro.

[@seamusbjh]

@@RacketsRunnersVancouver thought that might be the answer based on your recent favourite strings video! Which gauge and tension did you gravitate to? I’m thinking of trying the 17g at 50lbs.

[@Richibald1]

HILARIOUS intro I was gutting myself! Who's your coach, swear he looks familiar from somewhere. 🤥 (Edit) Luca you are one unpredictable dewd. Last year you must have vented a dozen times about dampening tech. Last year I tried 23's 97D V-Core if memory serves but anyway I was genuinely shocked how accurate that frame was. I'm sure you felt it was too mushy but without a word of a lie that racquet I was swinging for the fences... Out of my shoes as they say. It hit deep but not to long, accuracy on an inside outside f/h was well. Between you and me Fed would have squirmed with envy I was painting the lines. 🤫 So are there any V-Core 97D's still there from last year at a generous discount. Beautiful everything frankly. Alright I'll bite so are you saying the Perrrrrcept 97D is notably better? I nearly bought a 100 Pro Staff last year. Funny story I was angry with an off court conversation so I just let go and unloaded a forehand right between the guy's legs. (I'm still giggling) Well darn it all I was getting clear indications the Percept line Achilles heel is it is too mushy. Now you have me wondering. Which 97D would you go with because we all like pocketing and feel. The V-Core 97D for me seemed the Shangri-La racket, simply could do no wrong. One those rare rackets that pushes you hit harder aim deeper and closer to the side lines. Now you really have me doubting myself...Which do you prefer on a backhand between the last two 97 D's 🤔

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I much prefer the Percept to the last Vcore Pro just purely based on feel but honestly if it works for you, it's the same racket pretty much, just obviously a different layup.

[@SaqibSheikh]

I agree with this. I use v core pro 97 for my one hander. I’d also say the 97D is quite good. Stability is the key here. They can be a bit underpowered though so u might have to add weight in the head

[@paddyup8770]

When I switched away from my Yonex VCore Pro 97 I tested the Perception 97 and the Ezone 98 and I have to say definitely try the Ezone as well. The beam helps you to create great speed with the OHB especially on faster surfaces while still beeing quite stable (I added 2 g on 12). Furthermore it helps you to be even more agressive with the FH and Serve to avoid to many backhands in a match :D For example look at Daniel Altmaier playing with the Ezone and ripping the OHB.

[@snickaren111]

Good option, you just have to put some lead on the handle to lower the balance point. Ezone in stock is not Head light enough to suit OHBH, but that is easy to adjust, just a little bit of weight in the handle, and you're ready to go..

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Totally agree with the Ezone and that racket head speed you can produce with the beam especially if you have modern technique. I tried it and really liked it but I didn't want the video to be ridiculously long so I didn't include it but what I might do in the future is a tier list of rackets for 1HBH where I can talk about how each one performed in less detail.

[@Wiz3742]

I play with a PS97 v14 and a demo with the Percept 97 damn near made me switch. Both amazing one hand rackets though

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Go for the 315. It's super spin-friendly for an 18x20 and has so much more stability than the 300.

[@nicks8060]

First of all, your backhand was looking mighty impressive for someone who doesn’t hit it all the time!! I’ve only recently gotten the v-core 95, but I love it. Super stable and very quick through the air. Mega forgiving, makes it feel like a 98 most of the time haha makes it great for serve returns and blocking heavy balls if you don’t have enough time to set up. Definitely not as precise as your top picks on this list, but the extra spin really makes it worth it for me :)

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Thank you very much! Glad the 95 is working for you.

[@sdfswords]

Gonna demo these, and a few more, my two Volkl 10's are getting a little battle worn. The tech just keeps getting better, an arms race!

[@knightatthecrossroads222]

I played one hand backhand in 1988 with wooden racket Lion....later with Donnay Bjorn Borg used to play with.

[@michiel2364]

I'm looking for a racket with especially control but also enough power. Yonex percept 97/100D maybe? I'm using a babolat pure aero for a year now, but it's a little bit stiff and I miss control/flat hitting. What's your advice?

[@Yo_keebs]

Thanks for the list! Any thoughts on the Pure Strike 97 for OHBH? Thought it would tick all the boxes. On a side note, amazing ball feeding by coach beckett😂

[@Julian0K]

As somebody that's played with all of these racquets and has a one hander, the Pure Strike VS (now Pure Strike 97) one of my favorites along with the Blade Pro.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Best ball feeder in the world. I think it's a really solid frame but definitely needs a lot of customization.

[@Julian0K]

@@RacketsRunnersVancouver Could say the same about the CX 200 which you called "one of the best"

[@LongusMis]

I miss one racket/brand on that list - ProKennex. I switch to my Ki Q+ Tour Pro 98 (315gr) when I have arm or shoulder issues. (Playing with a one-hand backhand comes with a price.) Guess the weight compartments stabilise it a lot and provide additional power from the baseline, it’s very whippy and last but not least it has that Head-style grip. Personally I prefer the rectangular grip for my one-hander, I grew up with rounded grips but it doesn’t feel as good as the rectangular ditto for my one-handed backhand. That racket has a great spin potential which comes in handy when hitting balls closer to the net. Though, it can’t beat my go-to-racket, Yonex VCore Pro 97D (2019 version). That’s a beast for hitting one-handers and a better choice overall. Your review focused mainly on backhands so from that point of view I understand your racket choices. But a racket also needs to work for other strokes. The Prestige and ProStaff may be good for backhands but they are advanced and difficult to handle overall. I used Prestige for 15 years but switching to the VCore Pro made life on court in general so much easier. In addition to backhands it’s also unbeatable when it comes to slices and serves.

[@franciscoa3878]

Loved the video, tried all these rackets but always go back to my Prestige Tour 95 16x19. Best blend of everything

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Thank you!

[@Maiqel]

95 prestiges were a special animal. I really liked the combo of 95 and 18x20, they made for a super dense pattern, and some came in a PT57A mold (like the Graphene Touch MP).

[@franciscoa3878]

@@Maiqel absolutely ! I still prefer the 95 18x20 but I need to admit the new one with Auxetic 2 and 16x19 is a really nice blend of power and control.

[@Maiqel]

​@@franciscoa3878 I've yet to try them, looking forward to it!

[@gabrieljimenez6952]

Great video. I have used the Percept 97 and agree with you, but I am an intermediate and struggle when on defense and it is less forgiving as I can only get depth when hitting with time. I am now trying the Percept 100 & 100D...as well as the Prestige MPL with 5 extra grams in the handle. All the percepts are very stable but a little extra lag in the ohbh when on D...but I can easily switch to a good slice. The Prestige MPL just seems less stable on the ohbh. I felt your list is great for high intermediate to advanced players...so trying to balance your advice with something more user friendly all around. Thanks and keep up the great content!! - Gabe

[@macattack78]

Big vote from me for the Prestige MPL. The big caveat to that - as well as most the rackets in this vid is… “if played in stock form”. Check out TennCom’s MPL vid about being the perfect platform racket. You can make it anything you want. Mine is now 345g, 7HL & 336SW. stability, manoeuvrability, precision all easy to add - and at much lower specs than where I’m at. Easy Power is maybe the drawback for an intermediate. My 2cts anyway. 🤙

[@gabrieljimenez6952]

@@macattack78 Thanks for the feedback. I am toying with customization on the MPL but haven't found the setup that works for all aspects of my game. I love a box beam 22mm, with playing weight at a static 330g & SW around 320 (+/- 4 pts.), definitely head light balance. I am a good 4.0 doubles player that hits vs guys with BIG swings in usta 18 & 40+. Since I picked up tennis at age 35 and am now 50 my preparation is NOT great, so whenever I get a heavier/slower racket my game sufferers, due to hitting the ball late. I can generate plenty of power, but when I play with Percept 97 static weight seems to give me trouble vs 25% of opponents that can put me on Defense more than I'd like....when I had time it was The Best. I thought this was my holy grail...but had a fe bad matches and sold it...maybe regretting that. I am just looking for something a little more forgiving, thus trying the MPL, Percept 100/100D. I played 4 years w the Vcore98 and was winning more than losing, but I had to hit every single shot with spin & big target or it would go long & I could not flatten it out. With the Percepts 97/100/100D & MPL & ezone98 I have been more consistent on serves. I have a very aggressive kick serve as my bread and butter.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Agreed that this list is more "if you're advanced these are the best". What I may do in the future is a tier list of all the rackets for one handers and then discuss which ones could be better for lower levels.

[@gabrieljimenez6952]

What do you feel is “easier” to use for an ntrp 4.0….mostly aggressive doubles…vcore 95 or percept 97? Any particular reason? I can figure out my forehand with most rackets but i notice more variation on my ohbh & serve. I want to maximize serve & maintain consistency on ohbh. Thanks again for the great breakdown!

[@WIRUNTHONGCHUMNUM]

"I typically use a one-handed backhand and have found that with good technique, you can play effectively with any racket. I don't entirely agree that a racket should weigh 300 grams or more because if you lack strength, it can be challenging to time your swings perfectly for optimal contact. Personally, I use the Vcore98 and Radical MP rackets, and I agree that a more spin-friendly racket is generally better. My backhand is more consistent with the Vcore98, even when I'm running fast. On the other hand, rackets designed for flatter hits can sometimes struggle, especially on low balls (which is a problem I encounter with my Radical MP). By the way, this is my longest comment on your channel 😂😂. Thanks for the video, as I always look forward to this topic! 🎉🎉"

[@vanodne]

No Boom Pro? Seems like a cross between the Percept 97 and Pro Staff X. Works for me

[@WIRUNTHONGCHUMNUM]

@@vanodnei have money for just these two rackets😂😂 hope I own lot more in the coming future

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Very interesting to read, thanks for sharing!

[@Leo-nc3yx]

@@WIRUNTHONGCHUMNUM I feel like the reason to have the racket to weight over 300g is the stability. Especially when you're against a heavy hitter,it's hard to compete against them with a,let's say 270g racket. Based on my personally feeling,300g against big hitters is already a little unstable at times. It depends on the racket as well,just in general,if you want easier plow through and more stability you go for a 310+ racket.

[@loklokoppa9255]

Good video. What's your view on the Ezone 98 for a 1hbh? Also, on grip size. I heard a normal or larger grip size is better than the current standard of a smaller grip for the topspin players. What's your view?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I would have thought so too, but it actually didn't make too much difference for me. I've gone down in grip size with a couple of rackets (Percept included) and I actually liked the extra wrist pronation that gave me. I would still say, don't go down drastically in grip size because you still need that stability.

[@edwardvawdrey1444]

Nice! Where do you think is the best place to add weight for the ohbh? Are you looking for 3/9 forgiveness, or more swing/recoil?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I think 3 and 9 on most of these for forgiveness.

[@paddycable1723]

The OHBH is so elegant and the way tennis should be played in my opinion.

[@jasonhumphries6131]

Owned all of these except for the percept. I have landed on a weighted up Prestige Pro, RF97, PK 325 and a Zuus 100 as may preferred sticks in rotation right now. This video makes me want to play the Percept now. I am a Canadian who lives in L.A. so I get to play outdoors 3 times a week all year round - if you are ever in L.A. I got the club hookup for ya :)

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Give it a shot, it's great! My best friend lives in LA so I'll definitely let you know if I make my way down there.

[@AllanTennis]

Hey Luca! I’m also a local vancouverite and just started posting my own tennis videos. Just want to say keep up the great work and maybe one day we could collab. Cheers

[@Sandro_Z68]

Consider that my 1hbh is my "natural" shot, and that I obviously played w/ Prestige Pro (90!) as a young boy, now I felt in love with the Gravity Tour... as the Prestige would be too demanding now that I'm older. The way I test a frame is simple: IF my bh is ON, then maybe I can play with the stick, otherwise, no chance. Of modern frames I tested, the only other one I liked was the Boom Pro. Speed Pro and VCore 98 were simply "wrong". Amen.

[@catherineau4176]

Hi, I'm looking for a forgiving racket with good feel, control, and spin. I'm currently using an ezone 98 and find it a little too unforgiving and stiff. What would you recommend?

[@jabirout]

Under 310 you have terrific racquets Head extreme tour, Wilson blade, Ezone 98, Prince tour 98 Gravity tour Vcore 98. Pro staff and prestige have a to high sw to play long matches ohbh.

[@SDOKELL]

Thoughts on Ezone 98? Just got a new one 50/50 pound Yonex Poly Tour Strike 1.25 strings. Feels OK on the single backhand.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

It's great for one handers. A little too muted for my taste but definitely up there with the best.

[@comissaria]

Great video , thank you. I'd like to know which racquet and string you recommend for a 55 years player intermediate level , some knees injuries as well. I prefer control racquets over powerful ones. I play an average of 5 days a week. I tried several types of racquets but not sure if I am able to pick one to be my official racquet of choice, I tender to change every 2 months my point of view. Thank you

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I would go for something light with a fairly forgiving sweet spot and 100 square inch head size. The Pure Drive Team is where I would start, but anything similar around that 285 gram category would work as well. In terms of strings, go for a hybrid. Good blend of power and control and it will be forgiving on the arm.

[@murilo3123]

I am a OHBH and nothing was better for me than the Gravity MP... it's not soo heavy, the 16x20 string pattern gives a lot of control/spin and the feel of the Heads are the best... Only problem is stability against big hitters, that the frame is not soo good... and mine is customized now with some weight... Now i am looking to try the Gravity PRO, because of more weight (and tho more stability) and more control and the lower angle on the slice backhand... let's see how it goes... got curious about the Prestige and the Percept, altough i don't like the feel of the Yonex... Wilson Blade 98 and Pro Staff are really really good for the OHBH, has an amazing feeling and stability, but i don't like them a lot to mobility, does not fit my game... Nice video btw, a lot of great options and i was happy to see the Gravity and the Speed here!

[@evkyv4614]

I play with a TF40 18x20 at 305gms, i also find it decent for OHB..what are your thoughts?

[@DelZ3030]

Should using a one-handed backhand affect my string choice? Also, I LOVE my one handed backhand with the Head Boom Pro (previous version). Something about it just gives me some effortless power. Might have to give the prestige a try. I sometimes use my vcore 98 FOR the more muted feel--I often switch to it when dealing with tennis elbow. Not sure if just random chance, but my slice also feels better on it than my Head racquet.

[@honkymonky7033]

For my one hander i rely exclusively on my Pro Staff Six One 95 pro stock The pro staff 97 is also super good, easier to use.

[@jamesbittle9789]

The Diadem Elevate V3 is excellent for a one-handed backhand as well.

[@NL-si6gs]

Also the Prestige with the 16x19 String Pattern is good Choice for OH.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Definitely!

[@gregoryallenhansen108]

Thoughts on the TF40 315? Underrated racquet with good feel, maneuverability, and spin generation.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

It was very close to be honourably mentioned 😅 I liked it, just something a little weird about the swing pattern for me.

[@macattack78]

The blade 98v8 is still my match stick - with a bit of weight added for stability and more headlight. Just a great mix of speed and solidity. Less muted than the V9 I’m guessing? Feel not an issue for me anyway. But my new love is the Prestige MPL. Born to be customised. I’ve hit the MP and Pro and genuinely think the modded MPL is better for most players. Forgiving yet precise, great feel and fast as lightning through the air. Stability and plow not a problem after a little weight added - and the 16x19 string pattern gives you that extra pop and spin. Give it try!

[@user-xe5vr5ir9o]

Great tip! How much weight did you use and where did you place it?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Yeah the MPL is awesome if you want to customize. I still prefer some version of the Gravity but totally it's so good.

[@lutius]

Great review - you just missed the head extreme tour which is fantastic for one handers!

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Thank you! And I'll have to try it out.

[@VincentTang-kd9ee]

Has anyone tried ProKennex Black Ace Pro for SHBH?

[@martininportland]

I wonder how you'd compare the 97 with the 97D. I had the opportunity to hit with a friend's 97D and loved it. The level of precision was ridiculously good.

[@snickaren111]

More spin with the 97. The 97 is more lively with its lower weight(310g) and open string pattern(16*19). The 97D(D=dense) has a denser string pattern(18*20) and weights 320g. Personally I like the 97 and 97H(330g) better than the 97D.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I'd like to try it but unfortunately we didn't bring it in.

[@williambaumert7726]

Makes you appreciate Gasquet who has/had one of the best one backhands on tour playing with a head extreme pro 100sq inch

[@outcometechnology]

Like so many pro's who don't play with what they're advertised to play with, Gasquet doesn't play with an Extreme Pro. He plays with a LiquidMetal Instinct Tour XL (27.5" 100" 18x19) with an Extreme paint job. Pro stock code is PT161A -- the TK161 mold with the Pro Tour layup ("PT"), still hand-made in Kennelbach, finished/painted in China. Gasquet's strung spec is a fairly monstrous 361g/32.4cm/381sw, and it's that 381 swing weight combined with the "ball and socket" mechanism he's built (the overgrip+tape "ball" at the bottom of his grip, rotating/pivoting inside his palm) that gives him such unworldly shape and angulation to his one-hander. He still has to supply the expertise in wielding it, but his gear choice certainly helps to make his backhand what it is. For more information, see this TennisNerd post: tennisnerd.net/gear/richard-gasquets-racquet/3048

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I wanted to include something about the pros but then I thought those guys use no logic sometimes, they just go with what worked and they're so good it doesn't matter 😭

[@berryj2432]

I have a OHBH and demoed the 97 and loved it for that. On forehands it was nice, but it is so headlight with low swing weight in stock form that I struggled with heavy hitters. Curious to know if the Percept 100D could offer best of worlds, or that the bigger head size takes away too much maneuverability for a OHBH

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

That head size would take away too much maneuverability IMO. I think you just need to add a bit of lead to the hoop on the 97 until you find what works.

[@berryj2432]

@@RacketsRunnersVancouver thank you for being my tennis guru 🙏

[@jonathanhahn1506]

Solid list! I’d put the PS97 over the Percept 97 though all day any day. :) Where is your Boom Pro? No honorable mention? :) Maybe not the most rock solid but it can shoot out a OHBH pretty nicely when paired with the right string.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

It's definitely top 10. I like it a lot but do think it's a little too different for such a classic stroke.

[@timsterwhale1272]

can you guys make a top 5 all rounder racket video?

[@simon0yeung]

What about prostaff X? Very much like 97, classic feel, slighter bigger and forgiving

[@arthurbubu2616]

Any thoughts on tecnifibre tfights for this? at 300, 305 or 310

[@CH-yp5by]

they are only 4 points head light while the Percept and Prostaff are 7, even the Ezone 98 2022 is 6points headlight, I'm surprised he did not even mention this

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I find them a little too head heavy for my taste.

[@thiagoweasley]

I've been playing with a KTour Team FX for the past 10 years and was thinking about getting a Clash 100 v2 or a Blade 98 v9, does this make any sense? I have zero knowledge on rackets. Would love if somebody could help me. I like to play aggressive and force top spin shots (but have trouble controlling the game), right forehand and 2 arms backhand.

[@James-qv1dr]

Maybe a top 5 for rackets that are comfortable yet powerful. Like a lot of people, my arm / shoulder can't handle stiff rackets like a pure drive, but I still want some help from the frame. The current vcore 100 comes to mind for this category.

[@user-xe5vr5ir9o]

Agree on that. I have the Vcore 100 and placed 20 grams on the handle to make it more maneuverable. Works best for me

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Definitely something I'll look into thanks for the suggestion.

[@jorgetirado3201]

Surprised the pure strike 97 isn’t mentioned! Dominic Thiem wouldn’t be pleased 😜

[@wishyrater]

Because the racket wasn't mentioned or because he's on the cusp of retiring? ^^

[@outcometechnology]

@@wishyrater Likely both. Like most Babolats, the Strike is a great from a results perspective. From an arm-friendliness perspective? Debatable. I cringed every time I heard him make contact with that crispy layup and frying pan of a string bed. Regardless, Dom's wrist is cooked, and no amount of dietary change, therapy, training, stem cell seeding, etc. will give him back the same "snap" on his groundies as he had before the injury. Period. Yeah, it sucks, as he was one of the last truly effective one-handers at the top, but it is what it is. I'm sure we'll see some more promising ones come through, such as 20-year-old Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who is like a combo of John Isner and James Blake. And there are more youngsters coming after him, so all is not lost.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I liked it, but it's just a little too tough to maneuver with it's massive swing weight.

[@jorgetirado3201]

@@RacketsRunnersVancouver you must have gotten one way off spec - the PSVS/PS 97 typically have a strung sw of ~310s to low 320s, and are about 7 pts head light.

[@JayRuf3438]

IMHO Yonex vcore and ezone 98 deserve consideration. The vcore 98 works well with my one hander IMHO.

[@bodzislawfakjutu]

Radical MP and Blade 100 v8 and T-Fight ISOFLEX 300 👍

[@WIRUNTHONGCHUMNUM]

When I hit flat with Radical MP in perfect timing it have so much power that even myself can’t control it very well and I have to say that it’s one of the best racket for one-handed backhand except a low balls

[@JohnSmith-pb4ri]

I guess not a surprising list. I usually use an Extreme Tour w/ lead tape @ 12 o'clock. Not ideal but I feel confident using different rackets while hitting my one-handed backhand and gear my racket choice more toward what I like using on the forehand. Eventually I'll try out the Pro Staff and Percept. But I'm so used to playing the Extreme Tour and Pure Aero 98 that it's really hard to get myself to make a switch.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Lots of shouts for the Extreme Tour. It's never been my cup of tea but it sounds like it works for a lot of people.

[@Famouss]

How is ezone 98 not on the top 5 baffles me 😅

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I find it a bit too muted but everything else about it is fantastic.

[@Nikhil_G9]

I am finding difficulty in choosing what to buy btw Ezone 98 vs Boom Pro can you suggest me what to choose

[@faizanahmed1702]

Bump

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

You really can't go wrong with either. If you want a bit more spin go for the Ezone and more stability go for the Boom Pro.

[@Nikhil_G9]

@@RacketsRunnersVancouver Thanks Luca

[@albertozabeo77]

percept 97D is even better. But if you really want the ultimate precision, speed, feel etc.. you have to try an old Pro staff 90

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

They are a little too head heavy for my taste.

[@glebz7294]

What about 6.1 95 prostaff? 331gr unsprung frame, hand heavy, 95sq.?

[@damon123jones]

100+ has so much power but your topspin stroke has to be amazing

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Exactly, it's a little too tough to control those.

[@starkhong8563]

The technique of one handed backhand is much more important than the racquet itself. You can't cheat the shots with arm or wrist like forehead and two handed backhand. Ones someone dominanted the one handed technique. The choice of racquet would lean more towards his/her forehand preference since the percentage of using backhand during a match is very low. I personally use the blade pro 1619 with a unstrung swimg weight of 303.

[@loklokoppa9255]

To me, Lendl had the best backhand. It's in the technique. Same with topspin. You can play with topspin with any racquet as long as your technique is good.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

This is a great point.

[@Jodesy11]

Thoughts on the boom pro? Would it be in the top 10?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Yes, definitely. I should have at least included it in the honorable mentions.

[@Jodesy11]

@@RacketsRunnersVancouver cool, because I am absolutely loving it

[@theotherstevemiller]

Hahahahaha! One handed player forced by my coach to develop a two so I loved this.

[@bruno_mart]

The one hander is such a beautiful liability.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Ahaha exactly

[@bladex9061]

the PRO STAFF 97, are you talking about this year's model?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Yes

[@wildflower7574]

Babolat aerostorm is my pick

[@RobBlanzy]

T-fight 315 is incredible for 1hbh. It’s stable and great with spin.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Agreed, I liked it a lot just not quite as much as the other ones here.

[@Nikhil_G9]

Video on Top 5 Power Racquet please

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Already have one out!

[@77door97]

is the percept 97 okay stock?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I think it needs a bit of weight at 3 and 9 to bring it up to the low 320s for swingweight.

[@js4_y567]

anybody has a take on body height and style of backhand (one or two hander)?

[@IronChefPeter]

For a guy who doesn’t hit one handed, your preparation and technique are pretty decent

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Thank you very much! Needs a lot of work still but not as bad as I feared.

[@Phoniq]

Pure strike VS?

[@alastairtheduke]

I don't think I've ever seen a buggy whip one hander before ;)

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

😭

[@tatsf226]

Prostaff 85, classic prestige mid are the best for single backhand, that's why they are still being sold at tw.

[@rampitup36]

18x20 microgel radical for me

[@bleras00]

what about the Head Radical Pro 98?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

It sounds like it also works for a lot of people but I couldn't quite get the hang of it.

[@viktorbenedek868]

Pro Staff RF97 is above all. It's in another league ;)

[@snickaren111]

Especially version 11, the black one from 2016. :)

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Yes sir, similar to what I said about the Percept 97H just even more.

[@JonoLam]

How about the vcore 98?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I didn't love it because it's a little too muted but it's quick and spin-friendly so definitely worth a shout.

[@JonoLam]

@@RacketsRunnersVancouver when I demo'd it, It definitely had a more muted plush feeling but I didn't find it as much as the blade 98 v8. Was able to hit every one hander with almost certainty it was going in. My current Wilson ncode six one team 95sw inch is a double edged sword not forgiving but if you hit it plush it feels amazing.

[@damon123jones]

good athlete

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Thank you!

[@hobbyfuntennis6287]

No Boom Pro on your list?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Top 10 for sure.

[@kagakai7729]

He's going to mention the Percept 97H edit: PERCEPT MENTIONED

[@jerome_morrow]

There’s a weird obsession with leather grips on this channel.

[@makcyeap]

Mb you going to make “best leather grips”?;)😮

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Best video topic ever

[@LarzB]

I don't agree with the list. The Prestige and the pro staff have a too shallow sweet spot to be good one hander rackets for the majority of players who don't consistently hit the exact center of the hoop. The percept 97 and vcore 95 are rounder and have a bigger sweet spot. My one hander doesn't feel with the extreme tour, but the radical pro (last 2 versions with the thinner beam) is really working well. I have a way underspec gravity pro 360+ (swing weight strung under 330) with the 20mm beam and this way it is very fast and whippy and stable and a perfect 100 for a one hander. Another fantastic 100 racket for the one hander is the speed mp from before they increased the beam to 23mm. So sinner's racket or in my case the one before that (Graphenext and graphene touch). With the introduction of the 23mm beam on the speed line it got more sluggish. I really want to say the Dunlop cx line is great, but only if you know how to customize or have someone do that for you. Stock the swing weight is way too low and we a result the rackets are unstable and no plow. In the Wilson family I've owned the blade 98 v8 18x20 and still own the pro staff 97 v13. The blade to me is too mushy and it is hard to track where you hit the ball in the hoop. Similar issue i had with the extreme tour, but little bit better as i had additional issues with the extreme tour of not finding the contract point and erratic string bed. The pro staff i still have had better feel, but the sweet spot is just too unforgiving. As is the prestige pro. As with babolat. Pure strike 98 18x20, too stiff, too muted, too sluggish. Pure strike vs 97, dunno why (as it looks gorgeous and i wanted to like it), but outside the sweet spot it feels boardy and the sweet spot was hard to find.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Agree that small sweet spots like this make it harder, but again, it's such a precise stroke that you really want the best possible feel and that only happens with small sweet spots.

[@chidiannakendrick5198]

So what is your main racket now?

[@flodar1548]

Well, I am not sure about this top 5, prestige pro as top3, seriously it is a pretty hard racquet to play with. What about speed pro, prostaff X, shift?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

The Speed and Pro Staff X are a bit too slow IMO and the Shift a little too muted but if it works for you, great!

[@ivandean1]

Yonex VCore 95 (with total 4g of lead at 2 and 10, leather grip and 2g of lead in the handle) is excellent racquet for 1H BH. Very maneuverable, lots of spin, excellent feel (leather grip helps a lot) But it is not forgiving. Requires from the player to always be in place. thinking between Percept 97 and 100D for my next racquet, looking for a more forgiving racquet.

[@TheRob2D]

Here's a good one I bet you didn't think of. Wilson Shift.

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

I'll have to give it more of a go - a lot of people mentioning it.

[@TheodorosKolokotronis799]

Blade v9 no ?

[@RacketsRunnersVancouver]

Top 6/7 but not quite top 5 for me.

[@islandmerchandise3017]

No yelling, much better. You can consider adding segments and chapters so we can skip to that section