2022 Gear Guide: Yonex Racquets—EZONE 98 and EZONE 100

Seven racquet companies, two frames from each. One is sure to be a perfect match for your game.

HOW WE TEST: Several samples were requested of every racquet reviewed. Each model was either strung with the manufacturer’s recommended string and tension, or such a string was provided, to optimize the frame’s performance. Racquets were then distributed to our playtesters located throughout the country. Each tester was encouraged to try a racquet for as long as it took to get a feel for its particular playing characteristics, including power, control, comfort, maneuverability and overall playability. In addition to forming their own opinions, they sought assessments from playing partners, students and customers. A special note of thanks to Kevin Brandt, Mitchell Case, James Golden, and Kin Roseborough for their valuable contributions.

Yonex

EZONE 98

• PRICE: $245 (Buy)
• HEAD SIZE: 98 SQ. IN.
• LENGTH: 27 IN.
• WEIGHT: 11.4 OZ.
• BALANCE: 6 PTS. HL
• SWINGWEIGHT: 318
• RA RATING: 64
• BEAM WIDTH: 23.5 MM / 24.5 MM / 19.5 MM
• STRING PATTERN: 16X19

Player Profile:

Grip-It-And-Rip-It

Tester Quote:

“Is there an easier to use modern player’s frame from all areas of the court?”

How It Tested:

+ Continued the frame’s reputa-tion for having high playability and a low learning curve.

+ Shined on serves with equal measures targeting, spin and heat to set up aggressive ground strokes.

+ When compared to its prede-cessor, the softer response gave the frame better control and feel, while the slightly thicker beam enhanced stability.

- Excelled at higher gears, but some found muted and vague feedback when taking shorter or medium-paced swings.

EZONE 100

• PRICE: $245 (Buy)
• HEAD SIZE: 100 SQ. IN.
• LENGTH: 27
• WEIGHT: 11.2
• BALANCE: 4 PTS. HL
• SWINGWEIGHT: 316
• RA RATING: 68
• BEAM WIDTH: 23.8 MM / 26.5 MM / 22.5 MM
• STRING PATTERN: 16X19

Player Profile:

Groundstroke Guru

Tester Quote:

“Controllable power and easy access to spin are a given—it’s an EZONE 100.”

How It Tested:

+ Stellar grades all around, espe-cially on the baseline—grinding, counterpunching or stepping inside the court to take control with pace.

+ The power level was on point—there to help if needed, but otherwise unobtrusive.

+ A joy to return serve with, whether attacking, blocking, chipping or lobbing.

- Could get bossed around by incoming traffic, most notably at net; 4.5+ players may need to add weight.