Yonex EZONE 98 2017 (305g)

With the 2017 version of the EZONE 98, Yonex not only keeps a good thing going, but they've made some impressive tweaks to the composition and grommet system. Like past generations of the EZONE 98, this racket swings easy for a player's racket, and it has an outstanding combination of spin, touch and precision.

According to Yonex, this model comes with an updated Isometric head shape, giving it a slightly larger sweet spot than past generations. Yonex has also retooled the grommet system with its Micro Offset Layout technology, which enables the strings to soak up greater vibration at impact (think more comfort). Additional updates include the use of a hyper modulus graphite (Hyper-MG) in the upper hoop. The upshot, according to Yonex, is less frame bending at impact, resulting in greater energy transfer to the ball.  As a result, this racket feels a tad firmer (especially in the upper hoop) but it is also more powerful than its predecessor.

On groundies, the EZONE 98 feels fast, crisp and surgical. Big swings find their mark without much fuss, and there's more than enough spin potential to execute extreme angles and robust trajectories. At net The EZONE 98 is fast enough for reaction volleys, and it rewards clean mechanics with easy targeting.There's also plenty of touch for dropping the ball maliciously short. 

Although it lacks the stability of a traditionally weighted player's racket, there's plenty of room for customisation. Finally, on service returns, the quick handling and precision should prove dangerous in the right hands.

All in all, Yonex continues to impress with the EZONE 98. With some minor updates to the feel and response, this racket continues to be one of the best light player's rackets on the market.

Specification