Actually guess 4 of 5 out before I even watch this haha, but I watch this through happily. Always so enjoyable to watch you clarifying and warping things up. And take care! Wish you a nice full recovery!
You are probably the most genuine and honest racket reviewer around. Keep up the good work. Everything you said about each racket was perfectly reasonable and easy to agree on. 👏👏👏
Man, you and Beckett were right on the money with the Pure Strike 98 16x19. I love that racquet. Just ordered my second with the Thanksgiving sale. That stick is a gem!
first of all - luca wish you a speedy recovery with your ankle. Being injured is not very fun. Very good list! The RF01 rackets are amazing. Especially the pro but it is very tough to use. For me it would be too stiff and my wrist would get damaged over time. But other than that I really enjoyed playing with those rackets!
I have the RF01 and I agree it's ideal for an attacking all-court player like myself with a one handed backhand...similar precision to my old six one ncode tour 90 with a very small sweet spot even though it's a 98 sq in head but a lot lighter and higher spin potential. I think many people don't get this type of racquet because there are so few classic all-court players around nowadays that would use it...I give you credit for putting it number 1 because it's a racquet you have to earn your shot making with and you can't back off of it.
@@RetourBoise It's completely stable on returns as long as you are hitting through the ball. For me the part of the racquet that has the least stability is on volleys and that may be due to how fast it is to maneuver where the head of the racquet doesn't lead you and you can get a bit wristy at net with it. Defensively I feel like my slices are floating a bit too high with it but I'm still getting the feel for that shot with it to dial it in.
Always a fan of your reviews. I could not agree more on the RF pro comments. It’s an amazing offensive racquet, amazing feel. It does get tougher on soft shots, a lot 😂. My second best racquet this year is the Blade Pro. different specs but surprised me on every aspect. I can’t be as offensive because of the massive SW probably but it’s an amazing all rounder with great feel even if it’s a much softer racquet. Very different from the standard blade. I would love to hear your thoughts. 12:03
I played for about 7 or 8 years with the old RF 97 Federer. To me, NOTHING will evr come close to the feel of this racquet (Kevlar). I sold them to promising young players and they have taken their game to a new level.
I loved the RF1 pro, it was definitely the best feel racket I have tried. Playing with it felt amazing and it also made my backhand way stronger than usual. The down the lines points were amazing too. But the serves were almost impossible for me, probably because of the launch angle of it. And even though I am used to heavy rackets, it was killing my elbow after serves. So I stay with my gravity pro :)
I love seeing the 2024 Speed MP on here as it’s my current stick; well deserved! Funny the RF01 Pro is on here as well because I also like it VERY much. Almost like a Speed and a Blade had a hefty baby 😁
Hands down best reviewer! Get Luca to TW next time! Ok, I’ll give an edge to that annoying Tenncom troll on being more entertaining lol, but I always feel like Luca describes things so well that exactly matches my experience on some of these racquets. I play with Boom Pro (2022), tried the RF01 and played better. Feel was so uniquely connected and precise, and it kinda led me to play more aggressively which isn’t my usual play-style. It didn’t feel as easy to play a loopy style, but felt amazing when I was trying to pick a target and hit a flatter ball. Slice serves were amazing, kick serves were average. Super whippy yet uniquely stable for its weight and balance. Not sure if I would switch but definitely a fun racquet to play with.
idk which version pure strike does my friend use , but i really get the feeling on pure strike unlike other racket that i borrowed from my friend ...really really love the feeling on it, even for a super duper beginner for me haha , just 2 weeks into tennis
Sorry about your injury. That sucks. If you’re trying to figure out what to do with January releases, maybe you can tell us what your customers are saying? For example, are pure drive users coming in and making any comments about the 2025 version vs the 2021? When you come back you’ll be able to give a much more thorough review less in the heat of the moment, so they will still be valuable and we will still watch 😊
Thanks for the video and I wish you a quick recovery! Does anyone know what the green overgrip is called that he's using? Looks like a green version of the Tourna Dry Grip..
I had a TF 40 18x20… a lot of control, a bit demanding… hard to release the ball… my favorite is the Tfight 305 iso… 18x19 has a great blend of power and spin and has good power too.. awesome racket!
I actually agree. I switched to the the PS 16/20 this year because it felt great, gave me more pop than the Speed pro and more control than the MP. But I almost didn't buy it because I hated the orange accents. I've gotten more used to it since, but it isn't the eye-candy that the RF 01 is. Maybe I'll take the comment sections advice and paint it black.
Nice vid. Havent played with #1 or #2, but i am lucky enough to own 3, 4 and 5 and agree these are great racquets. I actually enjoy the Speed MP the most out of the Speed, Blade, Extreme Pro. Like you say personal preference. Sorry to hear about the ankle. I had tendon tear earlier this year in right ankle. Took 3-4 months of physio to recover. Still wear ASO brace now when playing as precaution.
Great videos Alex!! Pls just a small piece of advise: I play with a 18/20 wilson blade v9. I want to buy a yonex. Which one would you recommend ? Thanks
Depends what you are looking for. If you are dead set on a Yonex and want to stay with an 18x20... Try a Percept 97D. But try the other Percepts too, such as the 97 16x19.
Hey get well soon! Can you help me in choosing a control racquet? Wilson blade v8 vs v9 100 head size vs 98 head size 16x19 vs 18x20. I personally want your opinion regarding v8, bcoz that's more friendly on my wallet.
Great video and wish you a speedy recovery Luca! I bought the blade 98 v9 much because of your videos, loving it so far! It's got crazy good spin and control, but I'm having trouble generating power...using the Head Lynx Tour string, any advice on that?
The Blade 100 v9 would have given you a little more power and a little larger sweet spot. As far as strings, try Toroline Super Toro. The ball comes off hot on that string... It has controlled power with some spin. For more spin on the ball with but a little less firm than Super Toro, try Toroline K-Pro or K-Pop (for a bit more power than K-Pro).
i used the Blade v9, and then switched to the 100, love them both but i really like the RF01 specially for my one hand backhand, i can swing it easier than the blade, the other day i tried to use the blade 100 and i couldnt it felt super heavy and hard to swing on my backhand compared to the RF01, the downside is that you definitely need to be more advance player with the RF01
Consider trying the Head Gravity Tour 98 that is coming out in January. Reviews said it's wonderful on the one handed backhand. I can't wait to try that racquet myself.
Agreed that it's always better to go lower in swingweight but brands are trying to make it so you don't have to customize their rackets nowadays. I get it from a sales perspective because it's easier to sell something that plays well right out of the box.
First I hope you won't need surgery and will recover completely and be able to play and test along, cause I like your testreports a lot and personally know what injuries can imply, mentally as well. Second I'm surprised a little in missing the percept 97, aero 98 and gravity pro, but maybe they were not introduced in 2024?
Im a beginner and leaning on more on spin. Id like to try PureStrike Gen 4. What string pattern will you recommend? Some people says that i should go for 19x20
The Pure Strike is not a racquet for a beginner. For Babolat, consider a Pure Aero...or a Pure Drive (more power). For a Yonex, a V-Core 100. For Head, an Extreme MP. For a Wilson, the Shift.
Ouch! Cannot agree with this list! my list : a real pro staff 97, Yonex percept 100d, any pure drive, Prince textreme 98, Wilson shift ( for innovation).
Wilson RF gets number 1 spot because it’s sweet spot sucks, it is not stable, and not forgiving. And gets the one spot?! Not a great endorsement. I hear a lot people don’t like them.
I have been a pure driver since i was a kid. precisely because i love the blue look lol. I don't see anyone really using that racket anymore. why is that? i just came back to tennis and grabbed one since it was always my childhood favorite.
No Yonex 🧐, 2x Head, 2x Wilson Blade is ok, pure Strike also. But RF01 is Not Racket for everyone really specific. Lot of used ones are for the sale in nearly new condition. That says more than and Review.
Nice video, Luca!! I am curious about the Extreme Pro.. and looking the specs, seems to be sinilar to the Boom Pro, that you said its fantastic too! What are the differences about it? Which one you like more, and why? Thanks!! And i wish you a good recovery!
5, 4, & 3 I can get on board with but 2 was meh and 1 absolutely atrocious. Has no business being near the top 5. I think anybody who think the RF series is some kind of amazing racquet is just fanboying, sorry!
Wishing you a speedy recovery!
Thank you 🙏
Actually guess 4 of 5 out before I even watch this haha, but I watch this through happily.
Always so enjoyable to watch you clarifying and warping things up.
And take care! Wish you a nice full recovery!
You are probably the most genuine and honest racket reviewer around. Keep up the good work. Everything you said about each racket was perfectly reasonable and easy to agree on. 👏👏👏
Man, you and Beckett were right on the money with the Pure Strike 98 16x19. I love that racquet. Just ordered my second with the Thanksgiving sale. That stick is a gem!
Like the top 4. To me the RF doesn’t deserve to be anywhere near the top 5
Thank you!
agree with you. so disapointed by the RF. blade forever !
What’s wrong with it?
@@acl7620 tiny sweetspot makes the racquet hard to play i match
first of all - luca wish you a speedy recovery with your ankle. Being injured is not very fun. Very good list! The RF01 rackets are amazing. Especially the pro but it is very tough to use. For me it would be too stiff and my wrist would get damaged over time. But other than that I really enjoyed playing with those rackets!
I agree about the RF01. Genuinely offers something different. I like it.
I have the RF01 and I agree it's ideal for an attacking all-court player like myself with a one handed backhand...similar precision to my old six one ncode tour 90 with a very small sweet spot even though it's a 98 sq in head but a lot lighter and higher spin potential. I think many people don't get this type of racquet because there are so few classic all-court players around nowadays that would use it...I give you credit for putting it number 1 because it's a racquet you have to earn your shot making with and you can't back off of it.
How is it on returns and in defending positions? Stable enough?
@@RetourBoise It's completely stable on returns as long as you are hitting through the ball. For me the part of the racquet that has the least stability is on volleys and that may be due to how fast it is to maneuver where the head of the racquet doesn't lead you and you can get a bit wristy at net with it. Defensively I feel like my slices are floating a bit too high with it but I'm still getting the feel for that shot with it to dial it in.
@@ustulo3488 Thanks for your answer 🙏
Always a fan of your reviews. I could not agree more on the RF pro comments. It’s an amazing offensive racquet, amazing feel. It does get tougher on soft shots, a lot 😂.
My second best racquet this year is the Blade Pro. different specs but surprised me on every aspect. I can’t be as offensive because of the massive SW probably but it’s an amazing all rounder with great feel even if it’s a much softer racquet. Very different from the standard blade. I would love to hear your thoughts. 12:03
I played for about 7 or 8 years with the old RF 97 Federer. To me, NOTHING will evr come close to the feel of this racquet (Kevlar). I sold them to promising young players and they have taken their game to a new level.
Head Prestige Tour (95 sq in /315 g) almost seamless transition from RF97A, slightly more maneuverable and somewhat softer, but same solid feel
I loved the RF1 pro, it was definitely the best feel racket I have tried. Playing with it felt amazing and it also made my backhand way stronger than usual. The down the lines points were amazing too. But the serves were almost impossible for me, probably because of the launch angle of it. And even though I am used to heavy rackets, it was killing my elbow after serves. So I stay with my gravity pro :)
What were other two "best feel" rackets he mentioned? Is Gravity one of them?
Thank you! Wish you speedy recovery!
I am currently torn between blade 100 v9 and speed MP, so hard decision but I think I am leaning towards blade:-)
Two weeks later, and I went with the speed mp.
I love seeing the 2024 Speed MP on here as it’s my current stick; well deserved! Funny the RF01 Pro is on here as well because I also like it VERY much. Almost like a Speed and a Blade had a hefty baby 😁
My best racket for 2024 and onwards is what I’m using now. I’m 74 and I’m whacking balls using Head TiS6. I just like the feel of titanium.
RF 01!!!!
Sorry hear about your injury. Speedy recovery.
Hands down best reviewer! Get Luca to TW next time! Ok, I’ll give an edge to that annoying Tenncom troll on being more entertaining lol, but I always feel like Luca describes things so well that exactly matches my experience on some of these racquets.
I play with Boom Pro (2022), tried the RF01 and played better. Feel was so uniquely connected and precise, and it kinda led me to play more aggressively which isn’t my usual play-style. It didn’t feel as easy to play a loopy style, but felt amazing when I was trying to pick a target and hit a flatter ball. Slice serves were amazing, kick serves were average. Super whippy yet uniquely stable for its weight and balance. Not sure if I would switch but definitely a fun racquet to play with.
idk which version pure strike does my friend use , but i really get the feeling on pure strike unlike other racket that i borrowed from my friend ...really really love the feeling on it, even for a super duper beginner for me haha , just 2 weeks into tennis
Sorry about your injury. That sucks. If you’re trying to figure out what to do with January releases, maybe you can tell us what your customers are saying? For example, are pure drive users coming in and making any comments about the 2025 version vs the 2021? When you come back you’ll be able to give a much more thorough review less in the heat of the moment, so they will still be valuable and we will still watch 😊
PLEASE HELP my speed mp got yellow got yellow at the throat beacause of sweat how do i clean it
IT IS NOT GOING AT ALL
Best thing to do would be buy the speed MP legend, will also add 10mph to you backhand
Try scrubbing it with a wet Magic Eraser. I've cleaned several stubborn marks on racquets with it.
I just wish they'd ditch the white and fluro orange color on the strikes. Never liked it. The dark grey pure strike 97 was a better color scheme.
I very much agree.
LUCA . YOU ARE THE G O A T.
I love my RF01 pro… what string set up have you tried with yours?
Where is the Pure Aero 98?
Didn't come out in 2024
It came out in 2023.
Thanks for the video and I wish you a quick recovery!
Does anyone know what the green overgrip is called that he's using? Looks like a green version of the Tourna Dry Grip..
what you think abt 2022 tf40 315 (16x19)? Just bought it bcs it was on sale for $99
TF40's are very good control racquets. Constant beam and good power from the swingweight. Foam filled as well so they're comfortable
I had a TF 40 18x20… a lot of control, a bit demanding… hard to release the ball… my favorite is the Tfight 305 iso… 18x19 has a great blend of power and spin and has good power too.. awesome racket!
It's a very solid control racket without too many bells and whistles.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver thx!! Also, hope you have a great recovery
How would you compare the EZONE 100 with the speed MP?
ezone 100 slightly stiffer & better flat control. Speed is heavier, softer, good spin
The Pure Strike flies under the radar because its paint job is ugly as hell! If Babolat did a blacked out version, I'd buy one in a heartbeat!
It looks fine. Why would you care that much
@@gregg2086 you’ll be happy with what you see this spring
I 100% agree with this
Buy one and paint it black… take you fifteen minutes. That’s what I did with my Pure Aero. Much better than that yellow and gray camo.
I actually agree. I switched to the the PS 16/20 this year because it felt great, gave me more pop than the Speed pro and more control than the MP. But I almost didn't buy it because I hated the orange accents.
I've gotten more used to it since, but it isn't the eye-candy that the RF 01 is. Maybe I'll take the comment sections advice and paint it black.
Is the RF01 similar to the blade pro? (Wilson's H22 mold?)
rf01 good for beginners?
Paid ad. This guy can't even play tennis. Also why isn't the Pure Aero Rafa on this list?
😂😂
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Racket reviewer beef better produce a banger like Not Like Us😂
Well, he looks more like Fed than Rafa anyway.
yes thats racquets is flawless but its not quite near perfection in stock form like solinco whiteout 18x20
Nice vid. Havent played with #1 or #2, but i am lucky enough to own 3, 4 and 5 and agree these are great racquets. I actually enjoy the Speed MP the most out of the Speed, Blade, Extreme Pro. Like you say personal preference.
Sorry to hear about the ankle. I had tendon tear earlier this year in right ankle. Took 3-4 months of physio to recover. Still wear ASO brace now when playing as precaution.
Feel better soon man, but also take the time you need to recover!
Thank you, I will!
How does the blade 100 compare to the blade 98? Is it better than the speed mp if you want more control and a lower launch angle?
What two other "feel" rackets are?
Great videos Alex!!
Pls just a small piece of advise: I play with a 18/20 wilson blade v9. I want to buy a yonex.
Which one would you recommend ? Thanks
Depends what you are looking for. If you are dead set on a Yonex and want to stay with an 18x20... Try a Percept 97D. But try the other Percepts too, such as the 97 16x19.
Hey get well soon!
Can you help me in choosing a control racquet?
Wilson blade v8 vs v9
100 head size vs 98 head size
16x19 vs 18x20.
I personally want your opinion regarding v8, bcoz that's more friendly on my wallet.
Great video and wish you a speedy recovery Luca! I bought the blade 98 v9 much because of your videos, loving it so far! It's got crazy good spin and control, but I'm having trouble generating power...using the Head Lynx Tour string, any advice on that?
yes
The Blade 100 v9 would have given you a little more power and a little larger sweet spot.
As far as strings, try Toroline Super Toro. The ball comes off hot on that string... It has controlled power with some spin.
For more spin on the ball with but a little less firm than Super Toro, try Toroline K-Pro or K-Pop (for a bit more power than K-Pro).
i used the Blade v9, and then switched to the 100, love them both but i really like the RF01 specially for my one hand backhand, i can swing it easier than the blade, the other day i tried to use the blade 100 and i couldnt it felt super heavy and hard to swing on my backhand compared to the RF01, the downside is that you definitely need to be more advance player with the RF01
Consider trying the Head Gravity Tour 98 that is coming out in January. Reviews said it's wonderful on the one handed backhand. I can't wait to try that racquet myself.
Get well. I want to know about the strings for these rackets..And to others too.
The older Extreme Tour was better IMO. Lower swingweight so less risk of getting an overspec one. Just add lead to the hoop if you need it.
Agreed that it's always better to go lower in swingweight but brands are trying to make it so you don't have to customize their rackets nowadays. I get it from a sales perspective because it's easier to sell something that plays well right out of the box.
@RacketsRunnersVancouver true. But for those of us familiar with lead tape it's a bit annoying.
First I hope you won't need surgery and will recover completely and be able to play and test along, cause I like your testreports a lot and personally know what injuries can imply, mentally as well.
Second I'm surprised a little in missing the percept 97, aero 98 and gravity pro, but maybe they were not introduced in 2024?
Im a beginner and leaning on more on spin. Id like to try PureStrike Gen 4. What string pattern will you recommend?
Some people says that i should go for 19x20
Pure Aero 100 sqinch
The Pure Strike is not a racquet for a beginner. For Babolat, consider a Pure Aero...or a Pure Drive (more power). For a Yonex, a V-Core 100. For Head, an Extreme MP. For a Wilson, the Shift.
Already bought Extreme MP, im having fun using it.
Keeping an open mind on your choices Luca. Must admit though, it was strange not to see a Yonex in there somewhere.
No Yonex racket came out in 2024
Know you have to carry racquet but would love to see a Solinco review
Wishing you a full recovery!
Yonex Percept 100D
Right on time for Black Friday! 😋
Tactics
Ouch! Cannot agree with this list! my list
: a real pro staff 97, Yonex percept 100d, any pure drive, Prince textreme 98, Wilson shift ( for innovation).
Wilson RF gets number 1 spot because it’s sweet spot sucks, it is not stable, and not forgiving. And gets the one spot?! Not a great endorsement. I hear a lot people don’t like them.
❤
Well said
I have been a pure driver since i was a kid. precisely because i love the blue look lol. I don't see anyone really using that racket anymore. why is that? i just came back to tennis and grabbed one since it was always my childhood favorite.
No Yonex 🧐, 2x Head, 2x Wilson
Blade is ok, pure Strike also. But RF01 is Not Racket for everyone really specific. Lot of used ones are for the sale in nearly new condition. That says more than and Review.
Get better and back on the court soon brother
Sorry to hear about the wrist. Best of luck 🤞🏼
Thank you!
Pure Srtike 100 16 x 20...?
Funny how in Italy we still have the 315 gr Extreme, now called Tour 😂
Wishing you a speedy recover 😢
Sorry about the injury. R&R might have you do pickleball reviews.
www.youtube.com/@RacketsandRunnersPickleball
Nice video, Luca!! I am curious about the Extreme Pro.. and looking the specs, seems to be sinilar to the Boom Pro, that you said its fantastic too! What are the differences about it? Which one you like more, and why? Thanks!! And i wish you a good recovery!
godspeed soldier o7
Oh wow surprised that the Pure Aero 98 is not on the top 5 list
Didn't come out in 2024
@@TriforceofPi oh derp moment! haha thanks for the info :P
Quick Recovery!!!
Thank you!
It's wild that racquet reviewers have to say "I apologize if I offend anyone..." before giving their opinion 😂
Ahaha just have to get my ducks in a row
if only your takes matched your exceptional hitting.
If only I could hit a tennis ball right now
first
Yonex..?😇
Get better, mate!
Thank you!
Use chapters, for the love of God 🙏🏻
New Year's resolution
🎉🎉🎉
I have to say again, boy, you are detached from reality. everyone who has tried the Rf 01 has been disappointed. who gives you money??
I use RF 01Future. And I really like it. Especially I can feel my OHBH is improving now
Horrible review and selection. I'll block this biased paid channel.
5, 4, & 3 I can get on board with but 2 was meh and 1 absolutely atrocious. Has no business being near the top 5. I think anybody who think the RF series is some kind of amazing racquet is just fanboying, sorry!
I will die on the RF 01 hill
@ haha and that’s why love your videos! Keep up the good work 👍🏻