In the market for a new tennis racket? The Solinco Blackout V2 could be the one for you.
I recently added the V2 285 to my bag, and to say that it was a good decision would be an understatement. As a Babolat Pure Drive user, I find the Solinco Blackout V2 relatively similar — except I’m getting even more pop on my shots without any loss of control.
You can also buy the V2 300 (300g, or 10.6 lbs unstrung), but I have always been a fan of lightweight rackets. They are simply easier to swing and I have never had any arm issues (literally none…knock on wood!) — specifically no elbow problems — in more than 30 years of playing tennis. The 285g equates to 10.1 lbs unstrung.
The feel on impact is outstanding and it’s also quite forgiving on shots I hit off center (hopefully that doesn’t happen too often!). I’m not talking about outright shanks off the frame (also hopefully not happening much!), because that is simply user error. But when I’m hitting it off the strings albeit not directly in the sweet spot, the results are still solid.
Here are some facts and figures about the V2:
Upgrades from version 1 include a Foam Tech Core that is now integrated into the head of the frame, Arch-2 Construction that is Solinco’s new carbon-fiber layering process, and Power Flex Zone for an improved sweet spot.
Models include the Blackout 300 XTD, an extended 27.5-inch version, the Blackout 300 (standard unstrung weight of 300g), and the Blackout 285 (a lighter, more maneuverable option and the one I use).
Also, you should try out the lime green Solico Hyper-G strings. I’ve been using them for 10 years and they are AWESOME — and a perfect complement to the Solinco Blackout V2.
Ricky contributes to 10sballs.com and also maintains his own tennis website, The Grandstand. You can follow him on Twitter at @Dimonator.