Ben Shelton's Racket: What Brand Does He Use?

by Jhon Lennon 46 views

Hey tennis fans! Ever watched Ben Shelton absolutely crush it on the court and wondered, "What racket is that guy using?" You're not alone! Knowing the equipment of top players like Shelton can give us insights into what might work for our own games. After all, we all want that extra edge on the court, right? Let's dive into the specifics of Ben Shelton's racket and explore what makes it such a good fit for his powerful game. Understanding the nuances of a pro's equipment choices helps us appreciate the technology and personal preferences that go into achieving peak performance. Plus, it's just plain interesting to know what the pros are using! When you see Shelton unleashing those massive serves and forehands, you can't help but wonder if his racket plays a role in that incredible power. So, let’s break it all down and get the lowdown on Ben Shelton’s weapon of choice.

Unveiling Ben Shelton's Racket of Choice

So, what racket does Ben Shelton actually use? Ben Shelton endorses and plays with the Yonex EZONE 98. This racket isn't just some off-the-shelf model, though. Like many top pros, Shelton's racket is likely customized to meet his specific needs and preferences. The Yonex EZONE 98 is known for its blend of power and control, making it a popular choice among aggressive baseliners like Shelton.

But what makes this racket so special for him? Well, it starts with the basics. The EZONE 98 offers a head size of 98 square inches, providing a good balance between forgiveness and precision. This means that even on off-center hits, the racket still offers decent power and control. The frame weight is around 11.5 ounces unstrung, which gives it enough heft to handle big serves and heavy groundstrokes. However, it’s not so heavy that it becomes difficult to maneuver quickly at the net. The balance point is also crucial; it affects how the racket feels in your hand and how easy it is to swing. Typically, pro players like Shelton will have lead tape added to specific areas of the racket to adjust the balance and swingweight to their liking.

Customization is key for professional players. They fine-tune every aspect of their racket to match their playing style. This can include adjusting the grip size, adding weight to the head or handle, and choosing specific strings and string tension. For Shelton, these customizations are essential to maximizing his performance on the court. It allows him to generate incredible power while still maintaining control over his shots. Keep in mind that what works for a pro might not necessarily work for an amateur player. It’s always a good idea to test out different rackets and setups to find what feels best for your own game. Don't just blindly copy a pro’s setup without understanding why they use it.

The Specs: Diving Deep into the Yonex EZONE 98

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty details! The Yonex EZONE 98 is designed for players who want a blend of power, control, and comfort. It features an Isometric head shape, which expands the sweet spot, making it more forgiving on off-center hits. This is a signature Yonex technology that has been refined over the years. The racket also incorporates M40X graphite in the throat, which enhances frame stability and flex. This results in improved ball feedback and a more comfortable feel. The frame cross-section is designed to provide optimal power transfer, allowing players to hit with more pace and spin.

Here’s a quick rundown of the key specs:

  • Head Size: 98 sq. in.
  • Weight: 11.5 oz / 326 g (unstrung)
  • Balance: 315 mm / 9 pts HL
  • Length: 27 inches
  • String Pattern: 16x19
  • Swingweight: Typically around 325-335 (customized for pros)

The 16x19 string pattern is quite common among modern tennis rackets. It offers a good balance between spin potential and control. The open pattern allows the strings to bite into the ball more effectively, generating more topspin. The swingweight is a measure of how heavy the racket feels when you swing it. Pro players often prefer a higher swingweight because it provides more stability and power. However, it also requires more strength and can be more tiring to swing for extended periods. The balance point is measured in points head-light (pts HL). A head-light balance makes the racket feel more maneuverable, which is important for quick reactions at the net. The overall design of the Yonex EZONE 98 makes it a versatile racket suitable for a wide range of playing styles.

Why the EZONE 98 is a Great Fit for Ben Shelton

So, why does the Yonex EZONE 98 suit Ben Shelton so well? Shelton is known for his aggressive, attacking game style. He likes to dictate play with his powerful serve and forehand. The EZONE 98 complements this style by providing the necessary power and control to execute his shots effectively. The racket's stability allows him to handle the pace of the modern game, while the open string pattern helps him generate the heavy topspin he uses to control the ball and create difficult angles for his opponents. The EZONE 98 is designed to provide a solid feel at impact, which is crucial for players who like to take big swings at the ball. This allows Shelton to feel connected to his shots and make adjustments as needed.

Furthermore, the EZONE 98's maneuverability is beneficial for Shelton's all-court game. While he primarily plays from the baseline, he's also capable of moving forward and finishing points at the net. The racket's head-light balance allows him to react quickly and volley effectively. The combination of power, control, and maneuverability makes the EZONE 98 an ideal racket for players who want to play an aggressive, all-court game. It's a versatile racket that can handle a variety of playing styles and situations. While Shelton's specific racket is customized to his exact specifications, the base model provides a great platform for players looking to emulate his game. Remember, though, that the racket is just one piece of the puzzle. It takes years of practice and dedication to develop the skills and athleticism required to compete at the highest level.

Alternatives to the Yonex EZONE 98

Okay, so maybe you're not quite ready to commit to the Yonex EZONE 98. What are some other options? If you're looking for similar characteristics in a racket, there are a few excellent alternatives to consider. These rackets offer a blend of power, control, and feel that can cater to a variety of playing styles. Each of these options has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, so it's worth trying them out to see which one feels best for you.

  1. Wilson Blade 98: The Wilson Blade 98 is another popular choice among advanced players. It offers a similar head size and string pattern to the EZONE 98, but with a slightly different feel. The Blade is known for its excellent control and feel, making it a great option for players who like to hit with precision. It also provides good access to spin and is very stable on off-center hits. The Blade is a versatile racket that can be used by a variety of playing styles, from aggressive baseliners to all-court players.
  2. Babolat Pure Drive: The Babolat Pure Drive is a power-oriented racket that is perfect for players who like to hit with pace and spin. It has a slightly larger head size than the EZONE 98, which makes it more forgiving on off-center hits. The Pure Drive is known for its explosive power and is a popular choice among players who like to dictate play from the baseline. It also provides excellent access to spin and is very stable at high speeds. The Pure Drive is a great option for players who want to add more power to their game.
  3. Head Graphene 360+ Speed Pro: The Head Graphene 360+ Speed Pro is a versatile racket that offers a good balance of power, control, and feel. It has a similar head size and string pattern to the EZONE 98, but with a slightly different construction. The Speed Pro is known for its comfortable feel and is a great option for players who want a racket that is easy on the arm. It also provides good access to spin and is very stable on off-center hits. The Speed Pro is a versatile racket that can be used by a variety of playing styles, from aggressive baseliners to all-court players.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Racket for You

Ultimately, choosing a tennis racket is a very personal decision. What works for Ben Shelton might not work for you, and that's perfectly okay! The key is to find a racket that complements your playing style and feels comfortable in your hand. Don't be afraid to experiment with different brands, models, and customizations until you find the perfect fit. Consider demoing different rackets before making a purchase. Most tennis shops will allow you to try out rackets for a small fee. This is a great way to get a feel for how a racket performs before committing to buying it. Pay attention to how the racket feels when you hit the ball. Does it feel stable and comfortable? Does it provide enough power and control? Does it allow you to generate spin easily?

Remember that the racket is just one tool in your tennis arsenal. It's important to focus on improving your technique, fitness, and mental game as well. No matter what racket you choose, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the game! So get out there, try some different rackets, and find the one that helps you play your best tennis. Good luck, and happy hitting!