Page 48 - Tennis Magazine April 2019
P. 48
Yonex
The new VCOREs
are the most
spin-friendly Yonex
frames ever
When Yonex set out to update
the VCORE line, there was a clear EDITOR’S
directive: more spin. Several CHOICE
technological improvements
were implemented to make it a
reality. Two tweaks reduce air
resistance for faster swinging:
additional Aero Fins—grooves
at various positions along the YONEX YONEX
racquet—and trench grommets
along the top of the frame. A new VCORE 98 VCORE 100
grommet layout allows strings to
• PRICE: $219 • PRICE: $219
have a more vertical entry angle
• HEAD SIZE: 98 SQ. IN. • HEAD SIZE: 100 SQ. IN.
into the frame, so there’s more
• LENGTH: 27 IN. • LENGTH: 27 IN.
string movement and a wider
• WEIGHT: 11.4 OZ. • WEIGHT: 11.2 OZ.
sweet spot, helping increase
• BALANCE: 7 PTS. HL • BALANCE: 5.5 PTS. HL
spin on off-center hits. A flexible
graphite matrix, Namd, has been • SWINGWEIGHT: 311 • SWINGWEIGHT: 311
inserted in the bridge to increase • RA RATING: 63 • RA RATING: 68
torque—the new VCORE is seven • BEAM WIDTH: 22MM / 22MM / 21MM • BEAM WIDTH: 24MM / 25MM / 22MM
percent more flexible than the • STRING PATTERN: 16×19 • STRING PATTERN: 16×19
SV model it replaces—which • NTRP: 4.0+ • NTRP: 3.0-5.0
promotes longer ball contact and
spin generation. The VCORE 98, How it tested: A jack-of-all-trades, How it tested: The VCORE 100 won
which previously had a 16x20 the VCORE 98 shone brightly no matter over testers seeking more control than
what the stroke. All the changes from the the other similarly spec’d 100 square-
string pattern, now has a more
previous SV model to maximize RPMs inch frames. It brought some of the
open 16x19 configuration. Add
paid off. Opponents were kept on their trademark Yonex feel and precision, yet
it all up, and you get a frame
designed to put some serious heels by ground strokes and serves with there was enough added juice that you
work on the ball. loads of life. There was good pop, but not didn’t have to grind out every rally. You
so much that swings needed tempering. could hang in a point, or end it with one
The improvements not only created a swing—the frame worked for both
EXPLORING THE CATALOG more spin-friendly frame, but a plusher strategies. From angled rollers and high
one as well. From the baseline and at the looping shots to dependable volleying,
Extended models (27.5 inches) net, the VCORE 98 was comfortable and the racquet also brought a surprising
of the VCORE 98 and 100 were responsive without some of the level of versatility. It’s noticeably firmer
recently released…VCORE harshness that plagued its predecessor. than the VCORE 98, and could be a little
racquets in a special “Galaxy There were a few complaints of instability brassy when contact was off-center, but
Black” colorway came out over toward the tip of the frame, but it was still comfortable for those who like a
the winter…the updated Fusion generally solid. If you appreciate a crisp response without shocking their
Rev 3 shoe has an asymmetric racquet that balances power, spin and arm. It’s a great option for players looking
upper and curved lacing for a precision with a comfortable feel, then for the solid, less-powerful playability of a
more natural, secure fit…There the VCORE 98 will not disappoint. player’s frame, but with a little extra pop
are new colorways for the Eclip- off the strings.
sion 2 shoe…the Sonicage shoe Editor’s choice: Best Update
will come in a new wide model.
4 6 T E N N I S . C O M M A R /A P R 2 0 1 9
