The Nordicdots Model 99 is here. We wrote about the prototype, but the retail edition is out now and here is our Nordicdots Model 99 review.
Introduction
This is Nordicdots first entry into the racquet market. They have released strings before, like the TS 127, which I use as one of my regular strings. But creating a racquet with a new mold, layup and all the research and development and cost that goes into that is quite an undertaking.
We have seen brands like Stiga, Furi, Heysil and TenX enter the racquet market in recent years with some nice racquets, but it is more difficult for them to get on the market without endorsed pro players. I don’t know if Nordicdots will have pros playing with their Model 99, but they already have players on Futures/Challenger tours using their apparel so it is not unlikely.
Specifications and Technology
There is no tech jargon when it comes to the Nordicdots Model 99. Just high-quality materials, a promise of +-5 grams and mm balance points in quality control assurance (better than the standard 7), and that the actual racquet specs will be listed on the box. This is something that I am sure most tennis nerds will appreciate.
The head shape is similar to a Ezone Isometric or Boom Morph, expanding the upper part of the sweet spot. The 23 mm beam is constant and not tapered so fans of racquets like the H22 will likely enjoy it. It is kind of like a Wilson Blade Pro meets a HEAD Speed Pro meets a Yonex Ezone.
One thing that stands out is the progressive string pattern. It is dense at the top of the racquet and a bit more open in the center. The idea is that players naturally hit higher up in the string bed with modern stroke mechanics, and that will give you more control. Players who hit flatter, however, will find more power from the racquet in the middle of the string bed. I haven’t seen this concept before and it might not be for everyone, but it has worked well enough for my game to take his racquet into tournament matches without hesitation.
Model 99 Specifications
Head size: 99 sq in
Weight: 300gr
String pattern: 16×20
Balance: 31.8 cm
Beam width: 23 mm constant
Colors: Grey gloss, Black gloss (same racquet, just different cosmetics)
Swing weight: 290-295 on the ones I have measured
How does it play?
This is the description of the Model 99 from the Nordicdots website (15% off on all products using TENNISNERD15)
Introducing Model 99 – a professional grade tennis racket developed to the highest standards and modern game demands. The unique construction with a constant 23mm beam and progressive string pattern that offers great feel and connection to the ball.
Sometimes, there is a lot of BS in racquet descriptions, but this one is pretty spot on. The racquet feels pro stock in the hand and when hitting the ball. There has been no skimping out on cheap graphite/carbon here. Gloss cosmetic is another selling point. The 23 mm beam and 16/20 pattern should appeal to intermediate to advanced players looking for a balance of power and control.
It gives you good power, but is not competing with 100 sq inch power or spin racquets like the Yonex Ezone 100 or the Babolat Pure Aero 2023. This is more in the Ezone 98, HEAD Boom Pro, Babolat Pure Strike 98 16/19 category. You get more power than your standard Radical or Blade 98, but not all the way to the power or spin racquets I mentioned.
I think this is a strength because it is where many tennis players find themselves. They need more power than a Blade but don’t want to go to a Pure Drive.
The feel and sound is excellent, truly pro stock style. The spin potential is not bad for the dense pattern, but it is not like an Babolat Pure Aero 98 either. Players looking for help producing heavy top spin should look at that racquet or even the Yonex VCORE 98 Tour. But for players who want a bit more of a controlled launch angle than those racquets. Perhaps they like a Boom Pro but want a bit better feel and control? Then this Model 99 can be the right choice.
Pros and Cons
I like pretty much everything about this racquet. The specs are exactly what I like, including the black gloss cosmetic. The dense 16/20 pattern is sadly rare on the market as most racquets today go quite open to create a higher launch trajectory. The progressive pattern can be something to get used to, though, it depends a bit on how you hit the ball. I think it encourages me to go for my shots while still retaining control when I just need to “wrist” the ball past my opponent.
However, if you are inconsistent where you hit the ball in the string bed, it can sometimes produce a surprising result, as you get more power in the center than higher up in the hoop. Also, the 23 mm constant beam can feel clunky to some players who prefer tapered and more aerodynamic cross sections. Coming from racquets like the H22/Blade Pro, I have not personally struggled with it.
The grip shape is excellent, similar to Wilson and Babolat, and not rectangular like old HEAD racquets or Tecnifibre. This is obviously a matter of taste and can be customized or tweaked.
I have tried to customize the racquet and it works well with some lead tape at 12 o’clock (I only added 2 grams) and some more in the handle. If you start adding more, I feel the maneuverability suffers a bit.
+
Feel
Balance of power/control
Specs are great for modern attacking players
Quality control
–
Progressive pattern can be an issue
23 mm constant beam won’t work for everyone
The butt cap logo is symmetrical and cannot be used to determine who starts serving :)
Video review
You can watch our video review of the Nordicdots Model 99 racquet below.
Summary
The Model 99 is an excellent first venture into the racquet market by Nordicdots and a good sign of things to come. They released the racquet with a cover and stencil included for €225 and both colors sold out in a day. I don’t know when they will restock the racquet, but hopefully they will bring some L1 and L4 for players who prefer smaller or larger grip sizes (they only launched L2 and L3).
I am now keen to hear if you have tried this racquet and what you think about it. Please put your comments below. Tennisnerd is a community effort and it is always helpful to hear other people’s opinions.
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