ProKennex Ki Q+5 Pro Review

Thanks to a fellow tennis nerd I got the chance to play-test the ProKennex Ki Q+5 Pro and the Ki Q+5X Pro (27.5 inches).

As you might know from my previous ProKennex racquets review, I’m a fan of their arm-friendly technology and these frames are no different. The ProKennex Ki Q+5 Pro is actually very close to the Ki Q+5 that was my favorite from the previous play-test. It’s a little heavier and more head-light but otherwise, they’re pretty much the same. The Ki Q+5X Pro is also similar but in 27.5 length.

What makes ProKennex racquets arm-friendly? Well, their kinetic tech has moving mass in locations inside the frame that will position themselves towards where the ball impacts the string bed and by doing so, reduce shock. I have a sensitive arm and whenever I play with ProKennex racquets I pretty much feel nothing, so I can safely say that the technology works.

Specs

Ki Q+5 Pro

Ki Q+5X Pro

As you can see in the tables above, the specs are very close between the Ki Q+5 Pro and the Ki Q+5X Pro. The 27.5-inch version has a reduced static weight to compensate for the extra 0.5 inches, so they are both close in swing weight.

Talking about swing weight, these racquets are up in the 330s and not exactly “whippy” so they require you to be a pretty advanced player (NTRP 4.0) to deal with the mass. If you can get it moving effectively, it’s very solid and offers great plow-through.

How do they play?

They are both very solid, quite difficult to swing, excellent on volleys and flatter shots, but not your heavy topspin player’s natural choice due to the high swing weight. Players who like to hit aggressively and step into the court will enjoy these racquets and their 16×20 string pattern. They can create a nice and heavy serve and volleys are easily put away. Touch shots are also pretty easy to come by and the Kinetic system doesn’t dampen vibration in a way that leaves you disconnected from the string bed.

I prefer the standard length, although players who just want more of everything: more power, plow-through, stability (at the cost of less control and maneuverability) can go for the 5X version. Since the specs are pretty similar it’s easy to change in between the 300g version, the 315g version (Pro), and the 5X version. I think I enjoy the lighter one of these three, but there is also a 280g option if feel like the 300+ ones are a bit too much to handle.

Summary

These racquets are excellent for advanced players who like to play aggressive tennis and have a flatter swing path. They work well for serve and volley and any game styles that require a really solid feel from the frame. If you have a whippier style based on topspin and fast swing speeds, I would look into the Black Ace Pro instead.

Check out ProKennex racquets at our affiliates Tennis Warehouse Europe or Tennis Warehouse (worldwide).