There is a new Wilson Blade Pro on the Wilson website. Is it the same as the previous edition or something new?
The Wilson Blade Pro is based on the popular Wilson pro stock racquet H22 that is used by many players on the pro tour like Karen Khachanov and Elias Ymer to name two. It’s quite a demanding racquet because although the static weight is low at 305 grams unstrung, the balance is 32.5 cm or 6 pts HL, which means that it’s around 33.5 cm or 2 pts HL with strings. The extra weight in the head means that the racquet has a higher swing weight and can be difficult to maneuver for intermediate players. When I reviewed the racquet last year, I needed to add some weight to the handle to get a more head-light balance.
I am not sure whether they have done any changes to it, but based on the specs, it doesn’t look that way. Most likely it’s just a design update to the new Chameleon-style paint job. The best scenario though would be to test the frame, perhaps the 16×19 version this time, and be able to determine if there are any differences.
Surprising power
When you add weight/swing weight to a racquet, you also increase its power. And considering that the Blade Pro racquets are usually around 335-340 strung, this is a surprisingly powerful racquet for its relatively low stiffness rating. To control the depth of the frame you need to generate topspin and racquet head speed and for that, you need to be a highly qualified player.
Intermediate players do better to opt for the regular Wilson Blade 98 racquets or (Blade 100 when it is launched) which has a lower swing weight and is easier to handle( especially the 16×19 version). It’s a solid racquet though and an interesting choice for advanced players and aspiring pros. The Wilson Pro Labs racquets are all excellent but require something a little extra from the player.
Check out the Wilson Blade Pro on the official Wilson website here.
Have you tried the Wilson Blade Pro?
11 comments
“I needed to add some weight in the head to get a more head-light balance’ – I guess you meant adding weight in the handle to make the racquet more head-light?
Yeah, typo! Corrected now, thanks.
Are you in the process of getting one to test it?
Nah, I don’t know if I will be able to. I will do my best.
That would be great. There are a few review on the Wilson Blade v8 and Wilson Blade Pro v7. However, as far as I can see, there is no quality review of Wilson Blade Pro v8.
TN can you please tell me the RA on Blade Pro?
I think it’s around low 60 strung
I just received 2 Willson Blade 98 Pro 16*19. To my surprise both have the same weight – 307g – and the same balance – 5pt HL – but with 2 different swing weights – 307 & 311. Is this even possible? And if yes, how would you customize those?
I just bought one. Normally use a Pro Staff V14. Like the online commentary, a very demanding racquet in stock form. I found after playing with the Blade Pro and reverting back up PSV14, I played much better and appreciate the PS14, much more now. Will continue to interchange the two. The Blade Pro improved my tennis, but not the way I expected.
hello,
This is quite interesting, but I have a simple question… How do you recognize and see the difference between a Blade Pro Labs and a Blade Pro Stock (H22)? Can you see the difference just by looking at them?
hello,
I have a simple question… How do you recognize and see the difference between a Blade Pro Labs and a Blade Pro Stock (H22)? Can you see the difference just by looking at them?