Tennis racquets – now and then

It doesn’t seem so long ago that we were all playing with wooden racquets. In those days, there wasn’t much variation on what was available until the introduction of aluminum and graphite. You either had a wooden racquet or no racquet at all. And the prices, oh the prices. It doesn’t take much research to find out what racquet prices were like back in the day. Check out the sporting goods sale ad in a local paper below. I don’t have a date for the ad but you can clearly see it’s circa 1960′ – 1970’s. Racquets range from $6.99 up to $33.00 and hey, did you notice the price of a can of tennis balls? $1.99 which ironically is the average price of a can at any Walmart today.

Tennis racquets didn’t used to be made of space age materials and cost upwards to $300. In today’s marketplace new and supposedly “improved” racquets are introduced every year and the “technologies” are often beyond ones wildest imagination. Terms like space age, variations on graphite or carbon fiber blends and the list seems never ending. Marketing groups are definitely working overtime! Below is a sampling of the jargon you’ll see when shopping for a new racquet today.

Aerodynamic Frames 

These frames reduce air resistance, allowing for faster swing speeds and better maneuverability.

• Faster Swing Speeds: Aerodynamic frames cut through the air more efficiently, allowing players to swing faster and with less effort.
• Better Maneuverability: These frames enhance the racquet’s maneuverability, making it easier to respond quickly to shots.
• In-Store Expert Insights: Our staff often recommend aerodynamic frames to players looking to improve their speed and agility on the court.

Enhanced Sweet Spots

Larger sweet spots make hitting easier and more forgiving, especially on off-center shots.

• Larger Hitting Area: Racquets with enhanced sweet spots have a larger area that provides optimal contact with the ball.
• More Forgiveness on Off-Center Hits: This design reduces the negative impact of off-center hits, making it easier to play consistently.
• Player Testimonials: Many customers have reported fewer mishits and more confident strokes with racquets featuring enhanced sweet spots.

Vibration Dampening Technologies

These technologies reduce arm strain and increase comfort, making the racquet more enjoyable to use.

• Reduced Arm Strain: These technologies minimize vibrations that travel up the arm, reducing fatigue and the risk of injury.
• Increased Comfort: Players experience a smoother, more comfortable feel when hitting the ball.
• Staff Recommendations: Our experts often suggest racquets with vibration dampening for players with a history of arm discomfort or those seeking extra comfort.

One of the latest additions to come along are smart racquets and the apps that accompany them.

Smart Racquets

Built-in Sensors

Sensors provide real-time feedback on your performance, helping you analyze and improve your game.

• Real-time Feedback: Sensors embedded in the racquet provide immediate data on swing speed, ball impact, and other metrics.
• Advanced Metrics: These racquets track detailed performance data, helping players understand their game better.
• User Reviews: Customers have praised the insights gained from sensor data, noting improvements in their technique and strategy.

Performance Tracking Apps

These apps collect data from the sensors and offer personalized training programs.

• Data Collection: Apps linked to smart racquets collect extensive data during play, offering a comprehensive view of performance.
• Personalized Training Programs: Based on the collected data, these apps can create customized training plans to target specific areas for improvement.
• Integration with Coaching: Coaches can use the data to provide more targeted advice and drills, enhancing the effectiveness of training sessions.

Data Analysis for Improvement

Detailed analysis helps you identify strengths and weaknesses, leading to tailored practice sessions.

• Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses: Detailed data helps players pinpoint exactly where they excel and where they need work.
• Tailored Practice Sessions: With this information, practice can be more focused and efficient, leading to faster improvement.
• Success Stories from Local Players: Many local players have seen significant improvements in their game after using smart racquets, with some even attributing their recent tournament successes to the detailed insights provided by the technology.

So the industry has come a long way and the choices today are more varied and interesting than ever!