What Needs Work
Because of the frame’s higher launch angle and predilection for spin, hitting hard and flat can be a bit tricky. It’s not out of the question, but shouldn’t be a major part of the repertoire. Players with more conservative grips and linear swing paths may struggle to keep their shots inside the lines.
The concentration of mass in the teardrop hoop delivers power and stability, but can make the racquet a little challenging to accelerate. It’s most apparent when attempting to cut, roll, or pick up the ball from weaker positions. Returning serve is another area, as the higher launch makes blocking the ball back risky, and you need to take a fuller swing to provide coverage over the shot. It’s generally not an issue at net, although quick exchanges could be a test.
Although not necessarily a shortcoming, the brawny performance may not be what some were expecting from this frame. It’s not a quicker Pro model with a more open string pattern. If you were hitting a blacked-out version, you may not guess it’s a Gravity. That said, while several testers don’t think the Tour supplies the plush feel or all-court precision they were hoping for, it’s performance in competition is nonetheless highly effective.
Tester Comments
“I found I could really thump the ball, and despite the pocketing and launch from the stringbed, the ball still stayed in the court.”
“It feels more like a battering ram—albeit a good one—than a scalpel.”
“It seems more like a cousin than a brother to the rest of the line.”
Bottom Line
The Gravity Tour has been transformed. Players in the market for a potent 98 should definitely add it to their demo list.
