Racquet Preview: Coco Gauff's new frame, the Head Boom 2024

The Boom is Head’s crowd-pleasing franchise. It’s a forgiving and versatile racquet that can suit a wide range of players and styles. Its unique head shape is wider in the upper hoop to expand the sweet spot for easy power, generous spin production and clean hitting. Overall, it’s the type of frame that feels good in hand and even better at contact, encouraging users to go for their shots.

Being just the second generation of the franchise, this update didn’t undergo any major changes. Head wants the Boom to gain more traction before it decides whether bigger overhauls are warranted. The primary addition is Auxetic 2.0, which has been implemented in all of the brand’s recent models. The carbon fiber construction resists deformation at contact while delivering more connected feedback. It was initially introduced to the yoke of the frames and has now been expanded to the handle, and is intended to give the Boom a more plush and more stable response.

Outside of that, most of the frame remains the same. The Morph Beam has a thick cross section for extra power which combines with an elongated box shaft for easy playability. A uniform string pattern allows for consistent ball trajectory and added forgiveness. And enlarged power grommets and directional drilling maximize string movement to increase the sweet spot even further for comfortable impact.

The green-and-black appearance of the Boom looks very similar to its predecessor, but the color-blocking scheme now matches Head’s other silos. Same goes for the concept specs, which have been cleaned up and moved from the perimeter of the hoop to the inside of the throat. In addition to the standard look, a special Mint cosmetic option will also be available for the MP and Team L models. Coco Gauff is expected to use this colorway on Tour.

There’s also a new addition to the lineup—the MP L. It’s lighter and less demanding than the MP, positioned in a weight class that is growing in popularity. The quick handling and easy playability is proving a worthwhile bridge from junior to standard length racquets.

Here’s a look at the whole family:

Upon the release of the original Boom models, Head also released a new string—Lynx Touch—to use with the frame. It continues to be the recommended pairing. Just like the racquets, it’s a string designed for a wide target audience. Its friendlier feel—deeper ball-pocketing, increased snapback, softer response—should be attractive to players looking for more power and forgiveness than the typical polyester.

The new Boom models hit store shelves on March 7. Check back in the coming weeks for more detailed reviews.