Racquet Review: Dunlop SX 300 

Dunlop SX 300

• Price: $219
• Head Size: 100 sq. in.
• Length: 27 in.
• Weight: 11.2 oz.
• Balance: 4 pts. HL
• Swingweight: 315
• RA Rating: 69
• Beam Width: 23 mm / 26 mm / 23 mm
• String Pattern: 16x19

What’s New

For this latest SX 300, the diameter of the Spin Boost XT grommets in the throat have been increased by 58%. This increases movement of the main strings at contact which helps put more spin on the ball, as well as making for a more forgiving string bed, effectively enlarging the sweet spot. The frame stiffness has been elevated to make a more stable hitting platform for increased speed, spin and predictability. Additionally, the mold has been widened to help prevent twisting. Vibroshield, a highly elastic vibration dampening positioned at the 3 and 9 o’clock and the throat, lowers shock and raises comfort.

What Works

The Dunlop SX franchise is all about spin. It may not carry the same reputation as the Babolat Pure Aero or Head Extreme, but it’s every bit as capable for the assignment. The third generation of the SX 300—the flagship model of the line—is the most accomplished yet.

When spin is the prime directive, a spread string pattern is practically a prerequisite. The 300 has always had plenty of space in its 16x19 configuration, and this latest version accentuates its string movement with wider grommets in the throat. This pairs with the uniquely angled grommets at the top of the hoop that encourage the strings to move in a particular direction. Now the strings can move even more freely before snapping back into place.

“Thank you, says my topspin forehand and kick serve.”Tester comment

It results in a hitting platform that combines a high launch angle for easier net clearance and depth with heavy spin potential. The 300 is well-equipped to produce topspin for an array of offensive shots, looping rally balls or rolled angles. Slices don’t quite have the same drive and bite as a heftier frame, but it’s certainly capable of putting enough backspin on the ball to change the pace or dig yourself out of trouble.

All of which is amplified by another spin essential: racquet acceleration. The swingweight on this update seems to have been lowered, so it’s whip the face through contact. The easy swing speed comes in handy when pulling the trigger on a flat first serve or getting lots of curve and jump when introducing spin to your deliveries. Play with a shaped poly and you can really make the ball dance.

An additional wrinkle—a slightly stiffer layup—also helps to this end. It gives the frame more stability in the wake of the lower swingweight. So when you do go after the ball there’s greater composure at contact and predictable results.

Yet it doesn’t feel quite as stiff as its heightened flex rating would suggest. Some of this can be attributed to the deeper ball pocketing created by the string spacing and movement, which gives more natural cushion to contact. From a tech standpoint, the Sonic Core material Dunlop uses in its frames remains and it gives a measure of elasticity to the hoop. And the new Vibroshield dampening does a respectable job of filtering out unpleasant feedback. The racquet still has a firm feel—particularly around the throat—but off-center contact isn’t overly brassy or uncomfortable.

Because of liveliness of the frame, it favors full swings over half measures. At net, it’s quick and responsive with fairly reliable outcomes. The ready underspin helps with consistency and keeping the ball out of an opponent’s strike zone. It’s not a natural at taking pace off an incoming ball and applying touch, but it’s not a complete waste in that department. However, anything soft or above the shoulders is easy pickings.

“I found it very easy to play with when working the ball around the court, and felt in control until the incoming ball speed really picked up.”Tester comment

What Needs Work

The devil’s bargain struck for all that string movement is lessened control. Slices can float and there’s a bit more risk when directing shots at ambitious targets. It also makes it more challenging to flatten out a short ball put-away or driving a low passing shot. All in all, though, it’s not a major demerit or totally out of line for a spin-centric frame.

The racquet’s stock weight should not be an issue for intermediate players. However, more advanced users who see faster ball speeds may require added weight for more stability. It would also give the frame a bit more finishing power; it sometimes feels that you need to come out of your shoes to end a point. Fortunately, the specs make it a willing platform for customization. If you don’t like to tinker, the heavier and more challenging 300 Tour is also an option.

“It’s speedy, lively, and pretty forgiving. For this category of racquets, it checks a lot of boxes.”Tester comment

Bottom Line

Quicker, with a crisper, more connected feel, the SX 300 continues to refine its formula for the spin-to-win crowd.