Racquet Review: Wilson Blade 100 v9

• Price: $259
• Head Size: 100 sq. in.
• Length: 27 in.
• Weight: 11.2 oz.
• Balance: 4 pts. HL
• Swingweight: 320
• RA Rating: 60
• Beam Width: 22 mm
• String Pattern: 16x19

What’s New

The Blade 100 is a relatively new model in the Blade family. The head size has been in the lineup for several generations, but it wasn’t until the v8 family when it carried this weight, balance and stiffness. This latest model has quite similar specs to its predecessor, but with a few enhancements. The most notable is StableFeel—a new technology that bolsters both the bending and torsional stabilities of the racquet for a more solid, dependable response at contact.

Blades will also now have a narrower spec tolerance in terms of unstrung weight (+/- 5.5g), balance (+/- 7.5mm) and swing weight (+/- 10kg-cm²). And the Click & Go system makes it easier to install replacement grommets and bumpers to the frame.

What Works

Can two square-inches make that much of a difference? That’s the big question when it comes to the Blade 100. Even though it’s probably intended for a different type of player, comparisons to the hugely popular Blade 98 are inevitable. And while it shares similarities to its more established sibling, the Blade 100 cuts with its own unique style.

Similar to how the Pro Staff X is a friendlier version of the Pro Staff 97, the Blade 100 is a more accessible Blade 98. For one thing, the increased head size means a bigger sweet spot. It’s more forgiving on off-center contact, so you can be less exact and still produce a workable shot. It’s also 5g lighter, making it a bit easier to swing. Throw in the comfortable, solid feel and it’s not out of line to say it’s easier to use.

Being a Blade, power sits at a very practical level. It doesn’t have the same weight of shot as the 98, but clean contact still results in good depth on ground strokes and peppy serves. If you want to ramp up the velocity on either, it can shift into another gear. However, there are other frames in the 100 square-inch category that offer more straightforward assistance in this aspect.

Where this racquet pokes its head above that crowd is in the control department. Once you establish a rhythm, it’s generally a very reliable partner, more predictable and easier to command than many of its peers. Because of its forgiving nature, it may even be more consistent than the 98, although not as precise hitting into smaller target windows.

The added surface area and more spread string pattern also make the racquet a surprisingly capable spin-producer. The Blade is generally not held in this regard, but the 100 can really put a lot of work on the ball. Players who build their consistency around heavy topspin ground strokes will appreciate the amount they can generate. Secondary shots like rolling angles, topspin lobs and kick serves can all be accentuated. Slice backhands don’t skid quite as sharply as with a heavier frame, but it’s not for a lack of backspin.

Can two square-inches make that much of a difference? That’s the big question when it comes to the Blade 100.

The response at contact is another asset as well. It might be too muted for some, but it’s certainly Blade-like. At this weight and with such a low stiffness rating—even more flexible than the 98—stability could be an issue. But that’s not the case. Unless repelling heavy pace, the frame rarely feels overwhelmed by incoming shots.

This translates into varied and capable net play. It handles smoothly and that big sweet spot almost always seems to catch the ball and send the volley back deep into the court. The constant beam—slightly thicker than the 98—offers respectable feedback and ball connection to play more subtle shots and angles short in the court. Whether attacking net in singles or taking up space in doubles, the racquet can get the job done.

I’ve generally found Blades to be limiting in some way, but this one did just about everything I asked it to do. TENNIS.com racquet tester

What Needs Work

The bending technology Wilson has been implementing with recent Blades bolsters stability, but can make the frames a little launchy. The 100 also has plenty of flex and a wider string pattern to go along with it, so it can produce its share of fliers—both at the baseline and net. It’s by no means wild, but if you’re coming to it from a true control racquet it can take some adjustment.

Similarly, advanced players may find the frame a little light. It swings pretty easily, and can get away from you if you’re used to taking big cuts. Adding weight would give the frame more heft in hand and bolster both stability and plow through. Fortunately, the specs make it a good platform for customization.

Lastly, it’s a comfortable, arm-friendly frame with a soft pocket, but the feel might be lacking for players who prefer something firm and crisp, with more lively feedback. To some, this one could be on the numb side.

The specs make it a good platform for customization.

Tester Comments

• “I’ve been contemplating moving on from my Blade 98 to a racquet that offers a little more help without going overboard. This might be it.”
• “I’ve generally found Blades to be limiting in some way, but this one did just about everything I asked it to do.”
• “It’s a player’s racquet for players who don’t want the demands of a true player’s racquet.

Bottom Line

The Blade 100’s friendly, balanced playability puts it middle-of-the-road for the franchise. Which, for a lot of players, will be right in their strike zone.