Hey guys, I currently use the Blade 98s with Diadem Solstice Power 16 Gauge. However, these strings usually take only a week of playing to break and I was wondering if using Solinco Hyper-G 16 or 16L would make the strings on the 98s a little more durable.
@Kane Andruss, As this is one of Wilson's "spin effect" racquets, you may want to try a racquet with a less open string pattern to get the ball coming down. Have you tried the standard Blade 98 16x19? Michelle, TW
It will add some potential power, and make the racquet a bit more difficult to maneuver. Not sure if it will actually lower launch angle. I think the only thing that could really effect that, is going with the thickest string possible, essentially making the pattern more dense. Something like Luxilon 4G 15 (1.41) might help. Troy, TW
@ Atul Diwakar, The Blade line is generally going to be a bit more forgiving and controllable while the Pro Staff now is more powerful and responsive. This 98S will offer more control and stability whereas the 97LS will offer more power, spin and maneuverability. Andy, TW
@Dan Spanos, I believe it was 16 gauge Hyper-G. We find the thicker the poly the better with these racquets, to help reign in some control. We recommend trying 53 pounds, with that string. Troy, TW
This 98S offers the most spin potential and the most lively feel off the stringbed (high launch angle). It is more powerful than the Ultra Pro (or Ultra Tour), as the Ultra Pro offers the most control, and feel. The Radical Pro is the stiffest of the bunch, and offers the easiest access to power, while still offering pretty decent control. Troy, TW
Hi Tennis Warehouse Team, thanks a lot for the video! May I please ask whether this racquet is superior to the Head Graphene 360 Extreme Pro in terms of: power, spin and control? Many thanks!
This one offers a bit more control, and feel. The Extreme Pro will offer easier access to power. Spin potential is pretty similar between the two. Troy, TW
which one is more powerful like pure drive. Is it blade 98s or wilson ultra 100cv as like to play with less spin and like flat stokes ? which one is more closer to pure drive?
can someone explain to me the main differences between a 16x19 pattern vs 18x16 pattern? what are the pros/cons of each and what type of play are they each more suited for?
@ kuiyeondae, A 16x19 string pattern will offer a bit more control and feel while a 18x16 pattern will give you more power and spin. The 18x16 pattern may suit players that hit with more topspin while a 16x19 may suit players that hit a little flatter, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. I'd recommend demo'ing both and seeing which one feels the best to you. Andy, TW
Hi TW friends! Been using the Blade 18x20 for several years. Great from back of court, but would like more spin and have trouble with this racket wrapping approach shots which I can’t make them land inside the court. I prefer control, slim beams and manueveribility than power. After trying many rackets I’ve narrowed options to Blade 16x19L, Blade S 16x18, Head Prestige S and Prince Phantom 100. Any comments or preferences that may help me decide? Thanks!
@Jose Sam, The Prestige S likely has the most control of the bunch, followed by the Blade 98L, Phantom 100, and Blade 98S. A couple other racquets that I would consider are the Dunlop Srixon CX 200 Tour 16x19, and Yonex VCORE Pro 97 310. Troy, TW
@agus herrero, The Extreme Pro will offer more power and plow through but both will offer you great access to spin, with the Blade 98S being faster and easier to swing. Michelle, TW
@ Gabriel torrealba, The Pure Strike will be more powerful and more comfortable while the Speed Pro will be more control-oriented and spin-friendly. Both are great racquets so give the Pure Strike a demo and see how it compares. Andy, TW
So uh I'm a junior who has really big strokes and am currently looking for a more powerful/spin friendly racquet any recommendations? And right now I am using an RF97 and have no issue swinging it and it has to be a Wilson racquet.
@Andres Maurice Mayer, This Blade 98S Countervail will be a bit more lively and spin friendly compared to the RF97. If you are looking for more power, and spin compared to your RF97, you could consider the Burn 100, Burn 100S, and Ultra 100 Countervail racquets.The Burn 95 Countervail has a boost in power compared to the RF97, but isn't much different in spin. I tend to find that as long as maneuverability is not an issue with the RF97, it possesses a good amount of power and spin. Troy, TW
Hello TW team. I have a blade 98s 2014 and I really like it. I love the power, crispy feel and spin potential it has. How do you compare them in terms of power, crispy feel and spin potential?
Tennis Warehouse thank you. About the dampened feeling compared with the 2014 version, do you think there is a considerable lost in the feeling? this is one of the other factors I like about the 2014, there crispy feeling
RICARDO DE COSS , Please watch the video above as we touch on the difference in feel quite a bit. Whether it is a "considerable loss in feel" really is a personal preference thing and comes down to the individual. Many of our playtesters found this Countervail update to be their favorite version of the Blade yet. Andy, TW
@ llamawizard, It's really just for personal preference, but adding weight to the handle will make the racquet more head light and "whippy" feeling. It helps add heft to the racquet without affecting the swingweight all that much. Andy, TW
I want to ask more some question about the string for this racket In the review what gauge do TW use and I want some suggestion that if i use the hybrid poly/multi It that make the feel more mute
@ LaoshiNont TheiCon, We were using the 16L gauge during this playtest. A hybrid could play great in this racquet and will help give it a bit more comfort. Whether it would be more muted or not really depend on which individual string you choose. Andy, TW
I have the old Wilson racquet the K factor. It's time for an update. Does this racquet play similar? Or is there another you'd recommend? Also my current string pattern is 18x20. It sounds like this 16x19 string pattern felt better for most. Do you think that would be an easy adjustment for me who has only played 18x20? Thanks.
@ Brighty Girl, Since you're used to an 18x20 string pattern, you'll probably want to find a newer racquet with the same string pattern for a similar feel. This 18x16 pattern will feel very different, but there is an 18x20 Blade that would be worth trying. A couple other racquets I'd suggest checking out are the Head Graphene XT Prestige MP and Yonex EZONE DR 98. Andy, TW
hey TW I just want to know if this racquet is right for me I normally use a racquet that has a 11.1 or 11.2 ounce static weight and a 320 swing weight. I do like a racquet that offers pretty good power and spin. my only concern with this racquet is the beefy swing weight that may affect my playing style. any racquet suggestions in mind that is either from Wilson, Yonex, Head or babolat.
@ Vortex Designs, This racquet should feel pretty similar to the ones you're currently used to, so it sounds like it could be a good fit for you. The only way to know for sure though is to demo it and see how it feels in your hands. A few other racquets I'd suggest checking out are the Babolat Pure Aero, Wilson Ultra 100 and Yonex EZONE DR 98. Andy, TW
@Dan Spanos, The Blade 98S packs more power and spin, and is the more user-friendly of the two. The Pro Staff 97S is relatively low-powered, but provides a pretty high level of precision. Both are pretty comfortable on the arm. For the blend of power and control, I give the edge to the Blade 98S. Troy, TW
@ Girish Dar, That's really going to come down to personal preference. The Blade 98S will offer a bit more power while the Speed Pro will be more controllable and forgiving. Give them both a demo and see which one feels best in your hands! Andy, TW
@ Veronika Strickler, The 18x20 will offer more control than this Spin Effect version, but the 18x16 will still offer decent control as will. The 98S is ideal for massive topspin generation. Andy, TW
If I want to customize weight for about 300-310gram How do TW suggest me to customize for the benefit of plow through, more head light and stablility , Thanks
@ Latte De Kensz, Try adding a little bit of tungsten tape at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions on the hoop. To make it more head light, you'll have to remove the grip of the racquet and add lead tape onto the grip pallet. Andy, TW
I decide to change the replacement grip as leather grip and adding a tungsten tape at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions on the hoop about 4 gram , It's that work for this racket about the benefit of feel , plow through and stable? So thank you for your suggestion Andy , I'm the fan from Thailand , I like your every reviews in the TW and so enjoy ^^
Latte De Kensz , That should work nicely! Customization is really about personal preference, so it's important to experiment and find the feel that works best for you. Thanks for the kind words. I love Thailand...I have been there three times in my life! Beautiful country! Andy, TW
@Dan Zaharie, This 98S (18x16) version, will provide more power, comfort, and spin potential. The 18x20 version will have more control, and will feel a bit more firm on contact. Troy, TW
Haven't tested the 98S v7, as like you said it is Europe only. That said if it follows trend with the other v7 Blades, it should be an upgrade in the feel department, as pretty much all of our playtesters like the upgraded feel of the v7 Blades. Troy, TW
Wilson pro staff 97ls vs wilson blade 98l vs wilson pro staff 97l cv vs wilson blade 98s cv i am a 13.5 year old aggressive tennis player which racket do you think is best i have demoed all of them and like them all
@Finley Mathews, I would go with the Blade 98L, or Pro Staff 97L CV. Both of which have a more traditional 16x19 string pattern, and as an aggressive player, should provide you better control and feel for the ball. I have a slight preference for the Blade 98L over the Pro Staff 97L CV, because the CV in the Pro Staff 97L creates a more muted response, and reduces ball feel. I am not a huge fan of the Spin Effect Technology of the "S" versions of Wilson racquets, because I find it hard to control the ball, especially when trying to flatten-out my shots. Hope this helps. Troy, TW
Have rotator cuff issues. Looking for something with spin/comfort. I am an advanced university lvl player. Which of the following would you reccomend? 1) Wilson pro staff 97 CV 2) wilson prostaff 97s (black/red 2016) 3) wilson blade 98s CV
@Muhammed Khalfan, Of those racquets, I would go with either the Blade 98S CV, or Pro Staff 97 CV. If you are considering racquets outside of Wilson, I also recommend the Prince Phantom Pro 100. Troy, TW
@ Aswath T, The Blade 98S will offer a softer, plusher feel with a little less power and control than your Pure Aero. It will be pretty similar in terms of spin potential. Andy, TW
@ Matthew Salmon, I'm going to jump in for Chris here if you don't mind...the Blade 98S would certainly be a good racquet for you to try, but it will offer a noticeably different feel. The Blade will be a little stiffer and more dampened feeling whereas your Six.One will be more responsive and keep you more connected to the ball. The Six.One will offer more control while the Blade 98S will offer more power and spin. Since you're used to the Spin Effect racquets, I'd suggest giving the Blade 98S and Pro Staff 97S a demo and see which one feels best to you. Andy, TW
Thanks Andy. I used the 2014 PS97S and found it too heavy to swing and tail weighing it to make it headlight made it too heavy overhead. The Blade 98S might be a good one to try - love my 95S but its a bit unforgiving with the small headsize and weight.
@S Ro, Most of our playtesters prefer Hyper-G, as it has a fairly comfortable feel for a poly, and holds tension well. We would string Hyper-G at a similar tension to Revolve Spin. With Luxilon 4G, I would recommend to string it about 51 pounds on this racquet, as it is stiffer than most poly strings. Troy, TW
@Damian Bogliacino, I have a slight preference for the 2015 line of Blades. I find them to have a bit more feel and responsiveness. This Countervail update of the 98S has a bit more power, and better vibration dampening. Troy, TW
@Dimitris Tentzeris, They are very similar racquets and both offer a nice feel, decent size sweet spot and good control. We personally prefer the Blade 98 18x20 CV as we find we can amp just a bit more power out of the racquet. Michelle, TW
@Jonas Dierckx, A full bed would be ok as it is a softer poly and offers awesome bite. However, if you prefer hybriding, stick with a hybrid. Michelle, TW
@Jonas Dierckx, Not major differences, although we prefer the 16x19 version for a bit better control, while still offering good spin potential. The S version offers a high level of spin potential, but can sometimes feel unpredictable when it comes to shot placement. Troy, TW
@Kovu's Studio, Based on our TW review overall scores, we rate them in order: 1) Pure Aero, 2) Ultra 100 CV, 3) Blade 98S. The Blade is a good racquet, and would likely be my favorite of the the three, but I am not a fan of the 18x16, spin-effect string pattern. I would go with the Blade 98 16x19. Troy, TW
@Krista R, Wilson Revolve, Signum Pro X-Perience, or ISOSPEED Cream are all good options for spin and control. For some added comfort, I would consider the Wilson Spin Effect Hybrid, or Gamma Moto TNT Hybrid. With the co-poly strings I would string at about 53 pounds, with the hybrids I would string at about 55 pounds. Troy, TW
Dear TW I am looking for a racket with a bit more power and spin comparing to the pure strike 98 16x19(PO7), is blade 98s a good choice? If not, any suggestions? Thank you
This Blade offers a bit more control and feel, whereas the Warrior 100 offers a bit easier power, and is slightly more firm, crisp feeling. I would compare this Blade more closely to the Prince Textreme Tour 100 (290), or Prince Phantom 100X 290. Troy, TW
Love this racquet but it took a little bit of time to get used to how much spin needed to keep the ball in play.
Hola! ¿Blade 98S v7.0 es una raqueta buena para defender?
Hey guys, I currently use the Blade 98s with Diadem Solstice Power 16 Gauge. However, these strings usually take only a week of playing to break and I was wondering if using Solinco Hyper-G 16 or 16L would make the strings on the 98s a little more durable.
@ Kian Soltani,
You'll get a little bit more durability out of Hyper-G, so give it a try and see what you think!
Andy, TW
I can’t seem to get my ball down when playing with this but live my backhand, deep slice and serve! What are some strings you recommend?
@Kane Andruss,
As this is one of Wilson's "spin effect" racquets, you may want to try a racquet with a less open string pattern to get the ball coming down. Have you tried the standard Blade 98 16x19?
Michelle, TW
HEY TW will the blade 98ul have countervail
@ SuperSnorkelDuck,
We don't carry the Blade 98 UL, so I'm not sure if it will have Countervail or not.
Andy, TW
What's a string to try on this? I currently use Luxilon Element 16 at 52 in a 2014 Pure Strike. Thanks!
@ Drew Ge,
Try your same string, just increase the tension 2 lbs to account for the more open string pattern. Try it and see what you think.
Andy, TW
If I added lead tape to 12 o’clock on this racket would the launch angle lower a bit ?
It will add some potential power, and make the racquet a bit more difficult to maneuver. Not sure if it will actually lower launch angle. I think the only thing that could really effect that, is going with the thickest string possible, essentially making the pattern more dense. Something like Luxilon 4G 15 (1.41) might help. Troy, TW
How does this compare to the Pro Staff 97LS? How does the Blade line generally compare to the Pro Staff line?
@ Atul Diwakar,
The Blade line is generally going to be a bit more forgiving and controllable while the Pro Staff now is more powerful and responsive. This 98S will offer more control and stability whereas the 97LS will offer more power, spin and maneuverability. Andy, TW
Do you remember what gauge of Hyper-G was used during testing, and the tension that worked the best for the 98S?
@Dan Spanos,
I believe it was 16 gauge Hyper-G. We find the thicker the poly the better with these racquets, to help reign in some control. We recommend trying 53 pounds, with that string.
Troy, TW
how do you compare this one with the wilson ultra 97 20x18 and the head radical pro? thanks
This 98S offers the most spin potential and the most lively feel off the stringbed (high launch angle). It is more powerful than the Ultra Pro (or Ultra Tour), as the Ultra Pro offers the most control, and feel. The Radical Pro is the stiffest of the bunch, and offers the easiest access to power, while still offering pretty decent control. Troy, TW
Hi Tennis Warehouse Team, thanks a lot for the video!
May I please ask whether this racquet is superior to the Head Graphene 360 Extreme Pro in terms of: power, spin and control?
Many thanks!
This one offers a bit more control, and feel. The Extreme Pro will offer easier access to power. Spin potential is pretty similar between the two. Troy, TW
Cheers Troy, thank you for the reply! May I ask, between the 2 racquets, which do you consider to be more arm-friendly? Thanks again!
@@WJT.00000 , I would lean on the Blade 98S for a bit more comfort. Troy, TW
what tension should I string solinco revolution 16 in the Wilson blade 98s countervail
@ Vortex Designs,
Try it at 53 lbs and see what you think.
Andy, TW
What would be the biggest differences between the Burn 100ls and the Blade 98ls?
@ Christoffer Rokstad,
The Burn will offer more power and spin while the Blade offers more control and feel.
Andy, TW
which one is more powerful like pure drive. Is it blade 98s or wilson ultra 100cv as like to play with less spin and like flat stokes ? which one is more closer to pure drive?
The Ultra 100 is a more similar racquet to the Pure Drive. Troy, TW
Would the more open 18x16 string pattern of the 98S break the strings more often than a 16x19 string pattern?
@ Riley Cooper,
The more open 18x16 pattern will break a little more frequently than the 16x19 string pattern.
Andy, TW
can someone explain to me the main differences between a 16x19 pattern vs 18x16 pattern? what are the pros/cons of each and what type of play are they each more suited for?
@ kuiyeondae,
A 16x19 string pattern will offer a bit more control and feel while a 18x16 pattern will give you more power and spin. The 18x16 pattern may suit players that hit with more topspin while a 16x19 may suit players that hit a little flatter, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. I'd recommend demo'ing both and seeing which one feels the best to you.
Andy, TW
Hi TW friends! Been using the Blade 18x20 for several years. Great from back of court, but would like more spin and have trouble with this racket wrapping approach shots which I can’t make them land inside the court. I prefer control, slim beams and manueveribility than power. After trying many rackets I’ve narrowed options to Blade 16x19L, Blade S 16x18, Head Prestige S and Prince Phantom 100. Any comments or preferences that may help me decide? Thanks!
@Jose Sam,
The Prestige S likely has the most control of the bunch, followed by the Blade 98L, Phantom 100, and Blade 98S. A couple other racquets that I would consider are the Dunlop Srixon CX 200 Tour 16x19, and Yonex VCORE Pro 97 310.
Troy, TW
Hi! Can you compare this with te head 360 extreme mp?
@agus herrero,
The Extreme Pro will offer more power and plow through but both will offer you great access to spin, with the Blade 98S being faster and easier to swing.
Michelle, TW
im thinking of changing from my head speed pro 18x20 to the new pure strike the project one seven how do u guys think these two match
@ Gabriel torrealba,
The Pure Strike will be more powerful and more comfortable while the Speed Pro will be more control-oriented and spin-friendly. Both are great racquets so give the Pure Strike a demo and see how it compares.
Andy, TW
thanks Andy appreciate it
any other rackets do you think i should consider
***** ,
I'd suggest checking out the Babolat Pure Aero and Yonex EZONE DR 98 as well. Give them all a demo and see what feels best to you. Andy, TW
So uh I'm a junior who has really big strokes and am currently looking for a more powerful/spin friendly racquet any recommendations? And right now I am using an RF97 and have no issue swinging it and it has to be a Wilson racquet.
@Andres Maurice Mayer,
This Blade 98S Countervail will be a bit more lively and spin friendly compared to the RF97. If you are looking for more power, and spin compared to your RF97, you could consider the Burn 100, Burn 100S, and Ultra 100 Countervail racquets.The Burn 95 Countervail has a boost in power compared to the RF97, but isn't much different in spin. I tend to find that as long as maneuverability is not an issue with the RF97, it possesses a good amount of power and spin.
Troy, TW
Hello TW team. I have a blade 98s 2014 and I really like it. I love the power, crispy feel and spin potential it has. How do you compare them in terms of power, crispy feel and spin potential?
@ RICARDO DE COSS,
This updated version will have more power and spin potential but with a softer, more dampened feel.
Andy, TW
Tennis Warehouse thank you. About the dampened feeling compared with the 2014 version, do you think there is a considerable lost in the feeling? this is one of the other factors I like about the 2014, there crispy feeling
RICARDO DE COSS ,
Please watch the video above as we touch on the difference in feel quite a bit. Whether it is a "considerable loss in feel" really is a personal preference thing and comes down to the individual. Many of our playtesters found this Countervail update to be their favorite version of the Blade yet.
Andy, TW
Tennis Warehouse thank you so much
what would be the point or goal of adding weight to the handle in this racket?
@ llamawizard,
It's really just for personal preference, but adding weight to the handle will make the racquet more head light and "whippy" feeling. It helps add heft to the racquet without affecting the swingweight all that much.
Andy, TW
I have the previous version of the Blade 98S, is an update worth the price or should i stay with the old one?
@ Michael Gillesberger,
They will perform similarly but many of our playtesters preferred the softer, plusher feel of this new version.
Andy, TW
I want to ask more some question about the string for this racket In the review what gauge do TW use and I want some suggestion that if i use the hybrid poly/multi It that make the feel more mute
@ LaoshiNont TheiCon,
We were using the 16L gauge during this playtest. A hybrid could play great in this racquet and will help give it a bit more comfort. Whether it would be more muted or not really depend on which individual string you choose.
Andy, TW
Tennis Warehouse how about hyper g and solinco vanquish or tour bite rough and vamquish
I have the old Wilson racquet the K factor. It's time for an update. Does this racquet play similar? Or is there another you'd recommend? Also my current string pattern is 18x20. It sounds like this 16x19 string pattern felt better for most. Do you think that would be an easy adjustment for me who has only played 18x20? Thanks.
@ Brighty Girl,
Since you're used to an 18x20 string pattern, you'll probably want to find a newer racquet with the same string pattern for a similar feel. This 18x16 pattern will feel very different, but there is an 18x20 Blade that would be worth trying. A couple other racquets I'd suggest checking out are the Head Graphene XT Prestige MP and Yonex EZONE DR 98.
Andy, TW
hey TW I just want to know if this racquet is right for me I normally use a racquet that has a 11.1 or 11.2 ounce static weight and a 320 swing weight. I do like a racquet that offers pretty good power and spin. my only concern with this racquet is the beefy swing weight that may affect my playing style. any racquet suggestions in mind that is either from Wilson, Yonex, Head or babolat.
@ Vortex Designs,
This racquet should feel pretty similar to the ones you're currently used to, so it sounds like it could be a good fit for you. The only way to know for sure though is to demo it and see how it feels in your hands. A few other racquets I'd suggest checking out are the Babolat Pure Aero, Wilson Ultra 100 and Yonex EZONE DR 98.
Andy, TW
Hi TW... Did you prefer the Blade 98s to the Pro Staff 97s? I'm assuming the Blade will generate more spin? How about the feel between the two?
@Dan Spanos,
The Blade 98S packs more power and spin, and is the more user-friendly of the two. The Pro Staff 97S is relatively low-powered, but provides a pretty high level of precision. Both are pretty comfortable on the arm. For the blend of power and control, I give the edge to the Blade 98S.
Troy, TW
Thanks for the feedback Troy... I appreciate it!
Hey tw,
Just wondering which of the newest blades/prostaff racquets are most similar to the old blade 98 16x19?
Which racquet is better between head graphene touch speed pro or Wilson blade 98s countervail
@ Girish Dar,
That's really going to come down to personal preference. The Blade 98S will offer a bit more power while the Speed Pro will be more controllable and forgiving. Give them both a demo and see which one feels best in your hands!
Andy, TW
Is this more of a power racket than a control one? Because my feeling is that the 18*20 is a more control oriented racket. Am I correct?
@ Veronika Strickler,
The 18x20 will offer more control than this Spin Effect version, but the 18x16 will still offer decent control as will. The 98S is ideal for massive topspin generation. Andy, TW
Tennis Warehouse Does the 18*16 still have more power though?
Veronika Strickler ,
The 18x16 version will have more power than the 18x20 version. Andy, TW
Tennis Warehouse thx alot
If I want to customize weight for about 300-310gram How do TW suggest me to customize for the benefit of plow through, more head light and stablility , Thanks
@ Latte De Kensz,
Try adding a little bit of tungsten tape at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions on the hoop. To make it more head light, you'll have to remove the grip of the racquet and add lead tape onto the grip pallet.
Andy, TW
I decide to change the replacement grip as leather grip and adding a tungsten tape at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions on the hoop about 4 gram , It's that work for this racket about the benefit of feel , plow through and stable? So thank you for your suggestion Andy , I'm the fan from Thailand , I like your every reviews in the TW and so enjoy ^^
Latte De Kensz ,
That should work nicely! Customization is really about personal preference, so it's important to experiment and find the feel that works best for you.
Thanks for the kind words. I love Thailand...I have been there three times in my life! Beautiful country!
Andy, TW
Hello TW,
How would this racquet compare to the 98 18X20 CV in terms of comfort, control and power?
Thanks!
@Dan Zaharie,
This 98S (18x16) version, will provide more power, comfort, and spin potential. The 18x20 version will have more control, and will feel a bit more firm on contact.
Troy, TW
Is this the most spin friendly racquet cause of the 18x16?
The Burn 100S is a bit more spin friendly. We still have some of the Head Graphene Touch Instinct Adaptive, which can be strung as 16x16. Troy, TW
Please review the babolat pure strike 100
Hey guys! Have u tested the 98S v7 (although I think only available in Europe)? If so could u compare to the CV model? Thanks!
Haven't tested the 98S v7, as like you said it is Europe only. That said if it follows trend with the other v7 Blades, it should be an upgrade in the feel department, as pretty much all of our playtesters like the upgraded feel of the v7 Blades. Troy, TW
Wilson pro staff 97ls vs wilson blade 98l vs wilson pro staff 97l cv vs wilson blade 98s cv i am a 13.5 year old aggressive tennis player which racket do you think is best i have demoed all of them and like them all
@Finley Mathews,
I would go with the Blade 98L, or Pro Staff 97L CV. Both of which have a more traditional 16x19 string pattern, and as an aggressive player, should provide you better control and feel for the ball. I have a slight preference for the Blade 98L over the Pro Staff 97L CV, because the CV in the Pro Staff 97L creates a more muted response, and reduces ball feel. I am not a huge fan of the Spin Effect Technology of the "S" versions of Wilson racquets, because I find it hard to control the ball, especially when trying to flatten-out my shots. Hope this helps.
Troy, TW
Have rotator cuff issues. Looking for something with spin/comfort. I am an advanced university lvl player. Which of the following would you reccomend?
1) Wilson pro staff 97 CV
2) wilson prostaff 97s (black/red 2016)
3) wilson blade 98s CV
@Muhammed Khalfan,
Of those racquets, I would go with either the Blade 98S CV, or Pro Staff 97 CV. If you are considering racquets outside of Wilson, I also recommend the Prince Phantom Pro 100.
Troy, TW
Hey Andy ,
I have a big doubt
I am using Pure aero how does this 18x16 compare to my pure aero ?
@ Aswath T,
The Blade 98S will offer a softer, plusher feel with a little less power and control than your Pure Aero. It will be pretty similar in terms of spin potential.
Andy, TW
Thanks buddy
Hey Chris, would you say this is a good upgrade for someone playing with the six one 95S - how does this racket compare in terms of power and spin?
@ Matthew Salmon,
I'm going to jump in for Chris here if you don't mind...the Blade 98S would certainly be a good racquet for you to try, but it will offer a noticeably different feel. The Blade will be a little stiffer and more dampened feeling whereas your Six.One will be more responsive and keep you more connected to the ball. The Six.One will offer more control while the Blade 98S will offer more power and spin. Since you're used to the Spin Effect racquets, I'd suggest giving the Blade 98S and Pro Staff 97S a demo and see which one feels best to you.
Andy, TW
Thanks Andy. I used the 2014 PS97S and found it too heavy to swing and tail weighing it to make it headlight made it too heavy overhead. The Blade 98S might be a good one to try - love my 95S but its a bit unforgiving with the small headsize and weight.
if i loved the feel of this racket but was finding i was over hitting a lot, what racket would you recommend that's similar but more controllable
or what's a racket similar feeling but with a lower launch
Would Wilson Revolve Spin work well with this racquet? What tension do you recommend? Thanks!
@S Ro,
Definitely! Try it at 53 lbs.
Michelle, TW
Thanks so much for the reply. Was also considering Sol Hyper G and Lux 4G. Which do you recommend? Same tension? Thanks again!
@S Ro,
Most of our playtesters prefer Hyper-G, as it has a fairly comfortable feel for a poly, and holds tension well. We would string Hyper-G at a similar tension to Revolve Spin. With Luxilon 4G, I would recommend to string it about 51 pounds on this racquet, as it is stiffer than most poly strings.
Troy, TW
hi!, wich one do you recomend, this one or the previous one (Wilson Blade 98 S 2015 )?
@Damian Bogliacino,
I have a slight preference for the 2015 line of Blades. I find them to have a bit more feel and responsiveness. This Countervail update of the 98S has a bit more power, and better vibration dampening.
Troy, TW
Hi guys! Great review as always! How would you compare this Blade to the Babolat PureStrike 18x20?
Thanks,
Dimitris
@Dimitris Tentzeris,
They are very similar racquets and both offer a nice feel, decent size sweet spot and good control. We personally prefer the Blade 98 18x20 CV as we find we can amp just a bit more power out of the racquet.
Michelle, TW
Thanks a lot of the quick response Michelle!
Hello, what kind of strings are that colour fluo?
@ Daniele Martin,
As we mention at the end of the video, it's Solinco Hyper-G.
Andy, TW
Would tecnifibre hdx tour be a good choice at 23 kg
Or should I hybrid it with black code
@Jonas Dierckx,
We prefer Black Code!
Michelle, TW
Tennis Warehouse should I try full bed poly or better a hybrid
@Jonas Dierckx,
A full bed would be ok as it is a softer poly and offers awesome bite. However, if you prefer hybriding, stick with a hybrid.
Michelle, TW
Tennis Warehouse is their à big difference between the s and the 16x19 pattern
@Jonas Dierckx,
Not major differences, although we prefer the 16x19 version for a bit better control, while still offering good spin potential. The S version offers a high level of spin potential, but can sometimes feel unpredictable when it comes to shot placement.
Troy, TW
May i ask what the "countervail" is? I just got this racket
Is it a kind of material?
@X
Yes, it is a material technology added to the racquet.
Michelle, TW
Is there any good hybrids for this racket?
Wilson Spin Effect Hybrid String. Troy, TW
what kind of string en stringtension did you use ?
@willie wiel,
Be sure to check the end of the video as Chris mentions string and tension :) One for sure was Hyper G at 52 lbs though.
Michelle, TW
Wilson 98s or ultra 100 CV or babolat pure aero?
@Kovu's Studio,
Based on our TW review overall scores, we rate them in order: 1) Pure Aero, 2) Ultra 100 CV, 3) Blade 98S. The Blade is a good racquet, and would likely be my favorite of the the three, but I am not a fan of the 18x16, spin-effect string pattern. I would go with the Blade 98 16x19.
Troy, TW
what tension is recommended?
@Krista R,
The mid tension on this racquet is about 55 pounds. What type of string are you putting in it?
Troy, TW
Tennis Warehouse hello I'm putting Wilson's top spin strings
@Krista R,
Is that Ripspin, aka Revolve? If using a co-poly string I would string it at about 53 pounds.
Troy, TW
Tennis Warehouse and there is some kind of rope that you recommend me
@Krista R,
Wilson Revolve, Signum Pro X-Perience, or ISOSPEED Cream are all good options for spin and control. For some added comfort, I would consider the Wilson Spin Effect Hybrid, or Gamma Moto TNT Hybrid. With the co-poly strings I would string at about 53 pounds, with the hybrids I would string at about 55 pounds.
Troy, TW
This or the blade 98L?
The 98L is more maneuverable, whereas this one packs some added power, and spin. Troy, TW
With this string pattern ill probably break strings every 2 hours
Anthony Jan Sepe I played only once a week and I broke 5 strings in 6 months.
hey Andy, what is better for price and performance: wilson blade cv 98 16/19, blade cv, 16/19s, 2015 blade 98s, and babolat pure strike 16/19(2015)
@ The Life of Chablo,
Out of the bunch we like the 2015 Blade 98S and Blade 98 16x19 CV.
Andy, TW
Dear TW
I am looking for a racket with a bit more power and spin comparing to the pure strike 98 16x19(PO7), is blade 98s a good choice?
If not, any suggestions?
Thank you
@ Kin Wa Chan,
The Blade 98S would be a good option, but I'd also suggest checking out the Yonex EZONE DR 100 and Babolat Pure Aero.
Andy, TW
Hello TW!
How do you compare this racquet with Prince Textreme Warrior 100?
Thanks
This Blade offers a bit more control and feel, whereas the Warrior 100 offers a bit easier power, and is slightly more firm, crisp feeling. I would compare this Blade more closely to the Prince Textreme Tour 100 (290), or Prince Phantom 100X 290. Troy, TW
@@tenniswarehouse Nice! Thank you very much! Which string do you recommend for this Blade 98s?