It’s always fun watching someone describe something that they love. They’re clearly both incredible frames. For those interested in it, what about the RF01 Pro?? How does that compare to it all? And do you think it’s more worthwhile increasing the weight of the RF01 to match it into the Pro stock specs, especially at the 3 & 9, than buying a stock Pro racket? To which that way you won’t be pigeon hole’ing yourself into leading up/leather grip’ing a RF01 Pro to make it theoretically more stable, an already heavier frame? I really appreciate your insight, cheers!
Thank you! The RF 01 Pro, to me, is just a slightly more special RF 01 that's also quite a bit more difficult to use but yes, if you are just going to add that weight back in lead/leather, you might as well go for the Pro.
recently played a practice match while switching between these two racquets and I gotta say you absolutely nailed what I experienced! Sadly, this 43 year old 4.0 player doesn't quite have the game for either stick, but they are both super fun to play with.
@thammanoonjung5102 I prefer the feel of the RF, but sadly I can't get anything on my backhand when on the defensive. Aero 98 was more forgiving on backhand but overall felt heavier and more sluggish to me. If I could magically play awesome with one I would personally pick the RF.
@jabirout The RF demands more of you as a player, it really wants you to have the footwork and timing to move forward, take the ball early and stay on the attack. The smaller head and sweetspot makes it much harder to defend or be a baseline grinder compared to the Shift. And the RF has more power and spin than one would expect, but not as much as the Shift. I did find the RF to be more comfortable on the arm, however the Shift has never given me discomfort. Technically the Shift is a stiff racquet but it doesn't really seem like it if using a more vertical spin oriented swing, due to the lateral bending in my experience.
I dare you to take 10 current, professional racquets at random, paint them all black, and try to identify their characteristics under a blind test. Dare you. Edit: R&R can give these blacked out rackets to an intermediate player who may not be as familiar with shapes. I'll donate $100 to any charity, if this guy/gal or Luca Berg can identify the leading characteristics of 8/10 rackets correctly. I am willing to bet that these guys just parrot whatever the marketing teams tell them or whatever is written on the racket. If it says "Spin racquet", Luca will definitely feel the spin. If it says power, Luca will definitely feel the power.. I'm calling bullshit. I dare you.
Went from VCore 95 to PA 98 end of last year. I've gone 4 rankings up during this year. This frame just does it all, and has forgiveness. I just need to find the perfect string and I'll be in heaven for good.
Great review Luca! Having played with both, I personally prefer the Aero 98 as it is more user friendly and is a much more enjoyable experience. It just has a special kind of magic to it that is lacking in just about every other racquet on the market
I just bought rf 01 last week and yea its not forgiving at all it need focus to use it and my arm,shoulder kinda hurt too but i really love it when i hit in the sweet spot its really satsfying and i can feel the ball.I prefer pure aero its more comfortable to use. everything you said is truee
It's a great store Luca, not going to lie. Great job explaining both these racquets as well. I want to try out the Solinco Whiteout 98, the Nordic Dots 99 and the Carver too. Yes sir that's my only beef with Rackets & Runners... SELECTION. To be fair, there might be too much pickleball profitability. Did I mention I look at PickleBall as Guerilla Ping-pong. Yeah if I can't get a demo on something I'm really interested in, I'll just go somewhere else. I'd love a manoeuverable powerful 28" racquet that's got control. R&R would have that really cool demo if carrying the Solinco line. Hearing really good things about Noric Dots as well. (hint, hint) That was the most geographically variant tennis video I've ever seen. Looked like Hawaaii? Pretty impressed with reports on the concept Head Gravity 98 Tour. 🍷
Great video. I use Blade 98 with new balls and when I play and I use Aero 100 when I coach ( easy power ) . The only thing with Babolat...my hand hurts or my shoulder or my elbow. With Wilson I have no health problems but you do have to work harder
Oh, I really liked it when you mentioned the Radical. I play with a Radical MP and also bought an RF 01, and to me, they did have a similar feeling. However, at my intermediate level (NTRP 3.5), it was hard to pin point exactly what was the same and what was different, and I couldn't find any RF review that mentioned the Radical. I would love it if you could dive a bit into that!
Well done!! Would love a comparison video of Pure Drive 98 vs RF01. Currently play w/ Percept 97 and love the feel (esp on ohbh) but is too unforgiving on D or when late. Thanks!!
wohoo I played with both today, Babolat is my main frame, and RF I just used for the workout. as a PA98 user RF01(320g) feels amazing a lot of power, its quick, good control. It's hard to say which one is better, though .. PA definitely great for spin and pushing opponents out of the court, RF01 is excellent for precise striking, still good spin and flattening the ball in attack. I had no chance to try 300g version .. and yes, after 1 hour, I started to feel this extra weight slowing me down.
Thx for the comparison I also waited for. I am currently testing my RF01 with different types of strings. The racquet takes over the feelings of the strings quite much. So it feels very different with each string. My older string of choice, Alu Power Vibe in the mains and Technifibre Ice Code in the crosses does not suit the racquet. I am now trying softer Polys and also Multis which I never have tested with my older racquets. Multis lack on spin and durability (1,5 hours of playing with 1.30mm), but great feel and power. I think a softer poly will fit the RF01. Right now, I have the RPM Soft in the racquet, works quite well. There are still 4 Strings to be tested. I am really looking forward for the comparison Head Gravity 98 with these two racquets. I think my new weapon will be one of these three. Best regards
I buy blind a RF 01 because of all reviews said that it’s one of the best attacking frame and to be honest it is! The racket fit for my game because I love to attack more than being a defensive player and while I was attacked I found it’s do nothing except just throw the ball above the net and wait for losing point😂😂
I used to play with the Pro Staff 97 315g but was looking for a frame that would help me generate more acceleration and spin for my mostly flat shots, as I don’t have much power on my own. I tested the Aero 98, loved it, and ultimately decided to buy it. However, I initially felt unsure about whether I should have given the RF01 a chance. Now, my doubts have disappeared, and I’m glad I chose the Aero 98. It seems to align better with what I was seeking. Since both frames lack that soft control, I would have likely been disappointed with the RF01.
You wont be able to tell that unless you tried em side by side. I played eith these 3 few hours earlier. So far, Ps > rf > pa98 on ground strokes. On serve power pa 98> ps > rf. serve direction control ps> rf > pa.
Hi Luca, great comparison. I know you love the aero 98 and you rave about it in a lot of videos, so why not make the switch? The issue I have is that it's super string sensitive so needs restringing constantly, I don't think you have that problem.. 😅
Hi Luca, as someone currently playing with the 315g Pro Staff 97 v13, how do the RF01 (/ Pro) and the PA98 compare to the v13? Also wondering how the v14 Pro Staff factors into this. Thanks!
I literally practiced with the wall, and service side by side of these 3 that youre asking. They are all very good regardless of your playstyle but ofcourse a spin racquet will suit a spin player more and same with other types. I have different setups of strings and tension on these racquets (pa 98 48/50 otoro, ps Solstice power black 52/52, rf solstice teal 50/50) I personally liked the PSv14 the most (I hit more flatter and I always attack). I have less errors with it compared to PA98, and the feel and touch with volley is night and day, I think its the balance and beam of the racquet. Rf is very nice too, kinda like ps x pa98 hybrid. But the balance is a bit hard/ demanding. On service, pa 98 is the most powerful and spinny, ps and rf kinda similar but rf more power while ps more directional precision.
Hey big fan of the channel but this was the first time I found your to camera style a bit hard to take in. Maybe it’s using an autocue or the actual script but despite making perfect rational sense it all felt like a bit of a word salad. You have such a perfect positive vibe and informed demeanour but I don’t think I learned anything this time around. Frankly it’s your enthusiasm for a racket that makes me want to buy it not the specs. So content like this that’s informative can just pass me by somewhat. Spec differences are marginal but basic weight and balance are pretty easy to grasp. Phrases like pocketing addictive hitting dwell time have become a little cliched and over used not so much as phrases in themselves but when combined in an autocue script. The weight of words becomes uniform and everything soon sounds like noise. Most channels suffer from it eg tennis warehouse but I had never noticed it before with your channel. The pieces that you have done unscripted have been excellent and maybe a bit of a relief all round. I get it when regurgitating tonnes of specs having an autocue really helps but it can flatten the sense of your personality coming through and your real feelings for a racket. You are always honest but the weight of your opinion is really what is compelling. I know that you are trying to inform and sell so it’s a difficult balance but when you reference your own game then comments tend to come alive and have weight. Again for the record I think that you’re a fantastic communicator and as I say without a script sometimes lets you breath and bring your personality to bear on what you are talking about a little more. I get it practically speaking it’s way easier to make content to a script. Btw as much as I love rackets and have a range to play with I can’t help feeling that there are simply so many variables regarding rackets and micro adjustments that when comparing two rackets like this seem marginal. A comparison of the pro would have been maybe more interesting but I guess in selling rackets that makes less sense for most players buying a frame from you. Meanwhile I can’t help feeling that at a rec level having new strings makes a massive difference on almost any racket. Obvious I know but the difference is insane. I would love to know more about the longevity of string sets. Most people are buying strings on a regular basis rather than rackets and most sets that are used by pros fall off a cliff after some immediate use. People might be shocked how quickly strings last at a pro level. Like you I am a fan of the gravity and have three strung very differently. So I guess when comparing rackets it would be great to know your recommended set up more specific to the racket being tested. Btw do we really think that the beam profile affects the aerodynamics of the frame moving through the air. The variations in beam thickness surely have more to do with rigidity and weight distribution. Likewise string patterns and grommet size? At high tensions these days surely most strings are it really moving significantly differently. I hear the theory but I’m not convinced by the physics. More spin? Sure change the string to something that grabs the ball a bit better but changing your swing and contact is surely what makes the real difference. Sorry it’s a ramble. Keep up the great work.
If I can help you with that decision, extreme pro is very very different from PA 98 Both for spin not the same manoeuvrability Couldn’t play with the PA98, I used to play with a speed mp and I was looking for more power with spin frame and I got exhausted so quickly with the PA98 The weight at the top of the frame is something that takes off a lot of maniability Haven’t tried the rf 01 though
Luca when is your review of the RF01 on its own coming out? And what do you think about it vs the Pro? I got my hands on the demos for both and thought from all the reviews I’d seen that I would prefer the lighter 01. But my goodness the Pro is amazing. Just hit with them today for the first time so early days. Will add some weight to the 01 to see how it feels but yes, so far, LOVING the pro. Feels ideal for my one handed game. Look forward to your thoughts. P.s. are you on holiday in the Caribbean in this video 😊? As always, keep up the great work. Don
I don't think I'll be doing the RF 01 on its own at this point but it's just a bit softer and less stable than the Pro. I was home in Hawaii for this review!
I think there's much alike between RF01 and Percept 100D. Luca, if you have the time and opportunity, please make a comparison of both :) Great review as always!
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver Yes, I must agree. I was thinking about how both racket has superb directional control--in which RF 01 is more superior, but less forgiving. While 100D provide similar results, but much more forgiving. Although 100D is more sluggish, it still gives ample stability. So imo, you can compensate it with athleticism and better "read" of the game.
@@LanciaGaming I would personally try flipping that hybrid. You'd benefit more from Confidential's grip in the mains, and Hawk's ultra slickness and dent-resistance in the crosses. But hey, to each their own!
I always tried to stay away from Babolat … but with the PA98 and PS 98 2024 ( both patterns but especially 18x20 ) Babolat just knocked out of the park … great great sticks
Aero 98 didn’t work for me. Didn’t like the hollow feel, and also thought it was very hard to play with. If you don’t fully commit to the shot, it launches the ball towards the fence. Meant for really advanced players I think. Prob means I won’t like the RF01?
Hey Luca, please compare the RF01 Pro with RF97 V13. I know RF97 V13 is not in the market anymore, but please make it happen. It will be a very impressive video
To some extend I feel like Pure Aero 98 is more comparable to Blade 98. Pro Staff / RF 01 is a bit different in play style. I played with the old nCore 90 and both 98 to me lose quite a bit of precision but gain a lot of power (and ofc a lot of forgiveness)
It's always good to remember that just because pros tend to use feel racquets doesn't mean feel and control are objectively better. Every player on tour is using what they grew up with and are familiar with, and future generations of pros will inevitably use what they used as juniors. If you told racquet purists that all four slams in a single year would be won by zoomers using a youtek speed MP and a stock pure Aero VS, they'd turn their noses at you. Players will evolve with tech
I do believe the RF 01 is Wilson's Aero clone with more focus on precision and control. Like I believe the philosophy when designing the RF 01 is "What if we took the Aero and inserted the Pro Staff's control DNA?" It seems as if Wilson is testing a new style of frame, then getting many people to test it by slapping Roger's name into it to guarantee people will play with it. It would be interesting to see if it becomes its own line if it removes the RF tag.
@@ColdBrew_1I am saying once the name gets discontinued because I don't think Wilson can keep holding the lie that Roger "designed" the frame if something like an RF 02 or RF 03 came out. However, if the RF line becomes racket sets where they radically change from model to model with new things "Roger" finds interesting in a racket, I'd not complain.
@@allainangcao28 oh I get what you saying now. But we never know, Roger is a businessman. I would love if the last thing you said will come true. But I do think even without Roger’s participation in the future Rf models, people will still buy them.
@@ColdBrew_1you think pro staff is better than rf01? Do you use a one handed backhand? I’m trying to find people that tried both and get their opinions on them
@@joaosandesneto I havent tried the rf on a matchplay yet. But just comparing it hitting with the wall and service practice, I would say PS is better for me. I dont have one handed backhand(but I look good doing it) but I tried it sometimes and it feels better on RF. The balance of rf (more weight on throat) makes it feel good to swing on one hand BH and slice. Im happy to answer if you got more questions. 🤘🏻
It’s always fun watching someone describe something that they love. They’re clearly both incredible frames. For those interested in it, what about the RF01 Pro?? How does that compare to it all? And do you think it’s more worthwhile increasing the weight of the RF01 to match it into the Pro stock specs, especially at the 3 & 9, than buying a stock Pro racket? To which that way you won’t be pigeon hole’ing yourself into leading up/leather grip’ing a RF01 Pro to make it theoretically more stable, an already heavier frame? I really appreciate your insight, cheers!
Thank you! The RF 01 Pro, to me, is just a slightly more special RF 01 that's also quite a bit more difficult to use but yes, if you are just going to add that weight back in lead/leather, you might as well go for the Pro.
recently played a practice match while switching between these two racquets and I gotta say you absolutely nailed what I experienced! Sadly, this 43 year old 4.0 player doesn't quite have the game for either stick, but they are both super fun to play with.
@thammanoonjung5102 I prefer the feel of the RF, but sadly I can't get anything on my backhand when on the defensive. Aero 98 was more forgiving on backhand but overall felt heavier and more sluggish to me. If I could magically play awesome with one I would personally pick the RF.
Give shift pro v1 a shot you won’t regret it. Coming from a player who have been playing for 15 years with blx n pro staffs.
@kabirkapoor1205 Shift 99 is my main stick! been playing with it for a year now... Good call! 🍻
Rf01 more demanding than the shift?
I loved the shift but it lead to elbow pain.
Was the rf01 as manoeuvrable as the shift?
Thank you 😊
@jabirout The RF demands more of you as a player, it really wants you to have the footwork and timing to move forward, take the ball early and stay on the attack. The smaller head and sweetspot makes it much harder to defend or be a baseline grinder compared to the Shift. And the RF has more power and spin than one would expect, but not as much as the Shift. I did find the RF to be more comfortable on the arm, however the Shift has never given me discomfort. Technically the Shift is a stiff racquet but it doesn't really seem like it if using a more vertical spin oriented swing, due to the lateral bending in my experience.
The Review we were all waiting for!! Cheers Luca, the best tennis content on RUclips
Thank you very much!
candid review . I only tried the aero 98 and will try to find a rf to demo soon. thank you
Did you go for the Rune look with Aero? It really worked. Your forehand is kind of similar 😉
Tune look & forehand to 😀
I've definitely taken some inspiration from him 😅
Excellent review!! Thank you
The sales performance between Pure Aero 98 with the other comparable rackets says a lot about the best racket in the market right now.
Yes, agreed.
I dare you to take 10 current, professional racquets at random, paint them all black, and try to identify their characteristics under a blind test. Dare you.
Edit: R&R can give these blacked out rackets to an intermediate player who may not be as familiar with shapes. I'll donate $100 to any charity, if this guy/gal or Luca Berg can identify the leading characteristics of 8/10 rackets correctly. I am willing to bet that these guys just parrot whatever the marketing teams tell them or whatever is written on the racket. If it says "Spin racquet", Luca will definitely feel the spin. If it says power, Luca will definitely feel the power..
I'm calling bullshit. I dare you.
Yes please!
Nice Idea 😂
Wont work luca would be able to recognize most racquets on the shape alone
That sounds pretty easy... They're racquets, not speaker amplifiers....like getting in ten different cars and having to tell them apart
@@topspin4handI want an audiophile to see this reply 😂 I agree with your point though.
Went from VCore 95 to PA 98 end of last year. I've gone 4 rankings up during this year. This frame just does it all, and has forgiveness. I just need to find the perfect string and I'll be in heaven for good.
Lynx tour
@@curiousgeorge6921 Will try this next time. Currently palying with yonex ptp, which is kinda nice tbh.
RPM Team, Head Hawk Touch are two of the best i think for the PA98
@@Raumsedgo 4 hawk touch, better feel
How's the elbow?
Playing in that rain seemed pretty badass with the palm tress swaying in the background. Like a final boss battle :D
Ahaha I know right!
Great review Luca! Having played with both, I personally prefer the Aero 98 as it is more user friendly and is a much more enjoyable experience. It just has a special kind of magic to it that is lacking in just about every other racquet on the market
Yeah. Massive twistweight in a 98 package
The PA 98 I struggle with my one handed backhand
@@craigclark5845it will have no lift
Thank you! I agree it has a magic that you don't find all the time.
I just bought rf 01 last week and yea its not forgiving at all it need focus to use it and my arm,shoulder kinda hurt too but i really love it when i hit in the sweet spot its really satsfying and i can feel the ball.I prefer pure aero its more comfortable to use. everything you said is truee
I've spoken about it in a few videos but don't think I'll be doing a full review at this point.
What do you think about monfils racket, the tr960 control tour artengo?
I have never played with it, unfortunately.
Great video
Thanks!
I literally wanted to comment on another video of yours, a few days ago, to ask for this comparison!! 😂 Thank you so much! 🫶
You're welcome!
It's a great store Luca, not going to lie. Great job explaining both these racquets as well. I want to try out the Solinco Whiteout 98, the Nordic Dots 99 and the Carver too.
Yes sir that's my only beef with Rackets & Runners... SELECTION. To be fair, there might be too much pickleball profitability. Did I mention I look at PickleBall as Guerilla Ping-pong. Yeah if I can't get a demo on something I'm really interested in, I'll just go somewhere else. I'd love a manoeuverable powerful 28" racquet that's got control. R&R would have that really cool demo if carrying the Solinco line. Hearing really good things about Noric Dots as well. (hint, hint)
That was the most geographically variant tennis video I've ever seen. Looked like Hawaaii? Pretty impressed with reports on the concept Head Gravity 98 Tour. 🍷
Great video. I use Blade 98 with new balls and when I play and I use Aero 100 when I coach ( easy power ) . The only thing with Babolat...my hand hurts or my shoulder or my elbow. With Wilson I have no health problems but you do have to work harder
I have the same problem. Love the aero 98 but it causes too much pain!
Sort of but that does make it more powerful too. It does soften it up though so I understand what you're saying.
Oh, I really liked it when you mentioned the Radical. I play with a Radical MP and also bought an RF 01, and to me, they did have a similar feeling. However, at my intermediate level (NTRP 3.5), it was hard to pin point exactly what was the same and what was different, and I couldn't find any RF review that mentioned the Radical. I would love it if you could dive a bit into that!
Feel is quite the same but radical is head heavy, targeted for 2hbh while the rf is way more manoeuvrable, great for ohbh
I find the feel on the RF 01 to be a bit more "pure". You feel the tech a lot more on the Radical which gets in the way of truly excellent control.
Well done!! Would love a comparison video of Pure Drive 98 vs RF01.
Currently play w/ Percept 97 and love the feel (esp on ohbh) but is too unforgiving on D or when late.
Thanks!!
Thank you, I think that's going to be it for the RF 01 comparisons for a while.
@ if the new PD 98 has better feel it may quickly ascend the Tier list!
I seem to recall you’ve been playing with a 30th aniv Pure Drive, how does it relate to these two?
Keep up the good work!
Much more forgiving and has that lightweight powerful feel of a true power racket that these don't have.
wohoo I played with both today, Babolat is my main frame, and RF I just used for the workout. as a PA98 user RF01(320g) feels amazing a lot of power, its quick, good control. It's hard to say which one is better, though .. PA definitely great for spin and pushing opponents out of the court, RF01 is excellent for precise striking, still good spin and flattening the ball in attack. I had no chance to try 300g version .. and yes, after 1 hour, I started to feel this extra weight slowing me down.
Thx for the comparison I also waited for. I am currently testing my RF01 with different types of strings. The racquet takes over the feelings of the strings quite much. So it feels very different with each string. My older string of choice, Alu Power Vibe in the mains and Technifibre Ice Code in the crosses does not suit the racquet. I am now trying softer Polys and also Multis which I never have tested with my older racquets. Multis lack on spin and durability (1,5 hours of playing with 1.30mm), but great feel and power. I think a softer poly will fit the RF01. Right now, I have the RPM Soft in the racquet, works quite well. There are still 4 Strings to be tested.
I am really looking forward for the comparison Head Gravity 98 with these two racquets. I think my new weapon will be one of these three. Best regards
According to the manufacturer's website Pure Aero 98 has a stiffnes of 70 RA +/- 3 (some online shops have this number wrong).
Now versus the Boom Pro, please!
I think I have to chill with the Aero 98 comparisons for a bit 😅
I buy blind a RF 01 because of all reviews said that it’s one of the best attacking frame and to be honest it is! The racket fit for my game because I love to attack more than being a defensive player and while I was attacked I found it’s do nothing except just throw the ball above the net and wait for losing point😂😂
Using RPM Rough strings on the Pure Aero 98, which string gauge would you recommend more strongly, 125 or 130?
I always go for 1.25
I used to play with the Pro Staff 97 315g but was looking for a frame that would help me generate more acceleration and spin for my mostly flat shots, as I don’t have much power on my own. I tested the Aero 98, loved it, and ultimately decided to buy it. However, I initially felt unsure about whether I should have given the RF01 a chance. Now, my doubts have disappeared, and I’m glad I chose the Aero 98. It seems to align better with what I was seeking. Since both frames lack that soft control, I would have likely been disappointed with the RF01.
You wont be able to tell that unless you tried em side by side. I played eith these 3 few hours earlier. So far, Ps > rf > pa98 on ground strokes. On serve power pa 98> ps > rf. serve direction control ps> rf > pa.
Pure aero 98 vs Gravity 98 please!
Hi Luca, great comparison. I know you love the aero 98 and you rave about it in a lot of videos, so why not make the switch? The issue I have is that it's super string sensitive so needs restringing constantly, I don't think you have that problem.. 😅
I just don't think it's right for my game, despite being so good. I often struggle with my timing when I used it.
Solinco Whiteout 98 18x20 comparison would be interesting. Foam filled and solid frame.
I wish we carried Solinco rackets.
@ Oh damn. It’s a real nice frame.
really cool vs !
Thank you!
Luca, is your stick of choice still the Boom Pro? I loved demoing it but I’m gun shy until I see the new Ezone.
Yes, for now.
Hi Luca, as someone currently playing with the 315g Pro Staff 97 v13, how do the RF01 (/ Pro) and the PA98 compare to the v13? Also wondering how the v14 Pro Staff factors into this. Thanks!
I literally practiced with the wall, and service side by side of these 3 that youre asking.
They are all very good regardless of your playstyle but ofcourse a spin racquet will suit a spin player more and same with other types. I have different setups of strings and tension on these racquets (pa 98 48/50 otoro, ps Solstice power black 52/52, rf solstice teal 50/50) I personally liked the PSv14 the most (I hit more flatter and I always attack). I have less errors with it compared to PA98, and the feel and touch with volley is night and day, I think its the balance and beam of the racquet. Rf is very nice too, kinda like ps x pa98 hybrid. But the balance is a bit hard/ demanding. On service, pa 98 is the most powerful and spinny, ps and rf kinda similar but rf more power while ps more directional precision.
They have much more "modern" characteristics of power and control. The Pro Staffs (13 & 14) will always feel more classic and raw.
What's your personal racket,with all string tension gauge and specifications??
The Head Boom Pro w/ Head Lynx Tour at 52 pounds.
The rf01 is crazy insane its really good
Agreed
You probably won’t see this, but what are your thoughts on the Blade Pro from Wilson Pro Labs?
I haven't played with it since we aren't able to carry it at the store.
Hey big fan of the channel but this was the first time I found your to camera style a bit hard to take in. Maybe it’s using an autocue or the actual script but despite making perfect rational sense it all felt like a bit of a word salad. You have such a perfect positive vibe and informed demeanour but I don’t think I learned anything this time around. Frankly it’s your enthusiasm for a racket that makes me want to buy it not the specs. So content like this that’s informative can just pass me by somewhat. Spec differences are marginal but basic weight and balance are pretty easy to grasp. Phrases like pocketing addictive hitting dwell time have become a little cliched and over used not so much as phrases in themselves but when combined in an autocue script. The weight of words becomes uniform and everything soon sounds like noise. Most channels suffer from it eg tennis warehouse but I had never noticed it before with your channel. The pieces that you have done unscripted have been excellent and maybe a bit of a relief all round. I get it when regurgitating tonnes of specs having an autocue really helps but it can flatten the sense of your personality coming through and your real feelings for a racket. You are always honest but the weight of your opinion is really what is compelling. I know that you are trying to inform and sell so it’s a difficult balance but when you reference your own game then comments tend to come alive and have weight. Again for the record I think that you’re a fantastic communicator and as I say without a script sometimes lets you breath and bring your personality to bear on what you are talking about a little more. I get it practically speaking it’s way easier to make content to a script. Btw as much as I love rackets and have a range to play with I can’t help feeling that there are simply so many variables regarding rackets and micro adjustments that when comparing two rackets like this seem marginal. A comparison of the pro would have been maybe more interesting but I guess in selling rackets that makes less sense for most players buying a frame from you. Meanwhile I can’t help feeling that at a rec level having new strings makes a massive difference on almost any racket. Obvious I know but the difference is insane. I would love to know more about the longevity of string sets. Most people are buying strings on a regular basis rather than rackets and most sets that are used by pros fall off a cliff after some immediate use. People might be shocked how quickly strings last at a pro level. Like you I am a fan of the gravity and have three strung very differently. So I guess when comparing rackets it would be great to know your recommended set up more specific to the racket being tested. Btw do we really think that the beam profile affects the aerodynamics of the frame moving through the air. The variations in beam thickness surely have more to do with rigidity and weight distribution. Likewise string patterns and grommet size? At high tensions these days surely most strings are it really moving significantly differently. I hear the theory but I’m not convinced by the physics. More spin? Sure change the string to something that grabs the ball a bit better but changing your swing and contact is surely what makes the real difference. Sorry it’s a ramble. Keep up the great work.
Thanks for the feedback. I'm always trying to improve and I know sometimes I get a little too caught up in over analyzing.
How would you compare the PA98 and the RF01 to the Head Extreme Pro 2024?
Currently playing with the HE but looking for an option.
If I can help you with that decision, extreme pro is very very different from PA 98
Both for spin not the same manoeuvrability
Couldn’t play with the PA98, I used to play with a speed mp and I was looking for more power with spin frame and I got exhausted so quickly with the PA98
The weight at the top of the frame is something that takes off a lot of maniability
Haven’t tried the rf 01 though
I would say the two more similar ones are the RF 01 and Extreme Pro. The Aero is kind of in its own style of frame because of the shape.
What are some good Racquets for soft control that are also Spinfriendly?
Clash, Vcore, Speed MP, Shift
The Blade 98 16x19!
Luca when is your review of the RF01 on its own coming out? And what do you think about it vs the Pro? I got my hands on the demos for both and thought from all the reviews I’d seen that I would prefer the lighter 01. But my goodness the Pro is amazing. Just hit with them today for the first time so early days. Will add some weight to the 01 to see how it feels but yes, so far, LOVING the pro. Feels ideal for my one handed game. Look forward to your thoughts. P.s. are you on holiday in the Caribbean in this video 😊? As always, keep up the great work. Don
I don't think I'll be doing the RF 01 on its own at this point but it's just a bit softer and less stable than the Pro.
I was home in Hawaii for this review!
@ Thank you. And if you were to go for one or the other?
What string recommendation will you give to RF01 racket?
I like a nice round controlled poly like ALU Power.
Could you compare the RF01 Pro to the Radical Pro? I believe they could be more similar than they look
I think that's going to be it for the RF 01 comparisons for a bit.
I think there's much alike between RF01 and Percept 100D.
Luca, if you have the time and opportunity, please make a comparison of both :)
Great review as always!
yes
They're actually very different rackets. The 100D is much more sluggish and the 01 way more maneuverable.
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver Yes, I must agree. I was thinking about how both racket has superb directional control--in which RF 01 is more superior, but less forgiving. While 100D provide similar results, but much more forgiving.
Although 100D is more sluggish, it still gives ample stability. So imo, you can compensate it with athleticism and better "read" of the game.
How did you customize the Aero 98?
Just add a leather grip!
String recommendations for the RF01 pro?
Alu power at 53# or Champions Choice!
@@RacketsRunnersVancouver Try 4 g main & alu rough cross at the tension of your choice. I like it at 54lbs but needs an hour or two of break in
String setup recommendation for RF 01 Pro.
Solinco Confidential crosses, head hawk for the mains, this is my setup, and I like it, just find whatever is right for you
@@LanciaGaming I would personally try flipping that hybrid. You'd benefit more from Confidential's grip in the mains, and Hawk's ultra slickness and dent-resistance in the crosses. But hey, to each their own!
Alu Power or a hybrid of Alu and natural gut.
Aero 98 is the best modern 98 right now. Haven’t tried rf but reviews are very mixed.
Blade v9 is best modern 98
Aero 98 is an all time great racket, agreed.
I always tried to stay away from Babolat … but with the PA98 and PS 98 2024 ( both patterns but especially 18x20 ) Babolat just knocked out of the park … great great sticks
Totally agree!
Aero 98 didn’t work for me. Didn’t like the hollow feel, and also thought it was very hard to play with. If you don’t fully commit to the shot, it launches the ball towards the fence. Meant for really advanced players I think. Prob means I won’t like the RF01?
Yes, the Aero 98 has that launchy factor to it. Same with the RF01, but even more.
Hey Luca, please compare the RF01 Pro with RF97 V13. I know RF97 V13 is not in the market anymore, but please make it happen. It will be a very impressive video
Yes, definitely will do that in the future.
Wich one do you think suits better for ohbh?
I asked him in another video. He said RF01
RF 01 for sure!
To some extend I feel like Pure Aero 98 is more comparable to Blade 98. Pro Staff / RF 01 is a bit different in play style. I played with the old nCore 90 and both 98 to me lose quite a bit of precision but gain a lot of power (and ofc a lot of forgiveness)
Great video! Helps a lot! I'm looking switch to a new 98, from my Pacific X force. One of these might be just right
It's always good to remember that just because pros tend to use feel racquets doesn't mean feel and control are objectively better. Every player on tour is using what they grew up with and are familiar with, and future generations of pros will inevitably use what they used as juniors. If you told racquet purists that all four slams in a single year would be won by zoomers using a youtek speed MP and a stock pure Aero VS, they'd turn their noses at you. Players will evolve with tech
Yes, this is very true.
Compare to the TFight 305
I do believe the RF 01 is Wilson's Aero clone with more focus on precision and control.
Like I believe the philosophy when designing the RF 01 is "What if we took the Aero and inserted the Pro Staff's control DNA?"
It seems as if Wilson is testing a new style of frame, then getting many people to test it by slapping Roger's name into it to guarantee people will play with it. It would be interesting to see if it becomes its own line if it removes the RF tag.
What do you mean its own line? Its already on its own line, the RF line.
@@ColdBrew_1I am saying once the name gets discontinued because I don't think Wilson can keep holding the lie that Roger "designed" the frame if something like an RF 02 or RF 03 came out. However, if the RF line becomes racket sets where they radically change from model to model with new things "Roger" finds interesting in a racket, I'd not complain.
@@allainangcao28 oh I get what you saying now. But we never know, Roger is a businessman. I would love if the last thing you said will come true. But I do think even without Roger’s participation in the future Rf models, people will still buy them.
Gotta say I didn't like the RF 01 at all, it felt flimsy and unstable. I had no led tape to add, so I hat to go with the out of the box experience...
RF01 with natural gut hibrid... Soft control problem solved
Sort of but that does make it more powerful too. It is softer though so I understand what you're saying.
ezone 98 vs rf 01
Literally first
🏆
Slow clap
Blade 98 18 x 20 is better
I havent tried 18x20, but I had 16x19 and its the last if I rank it against PS v14, Rf 01, PA 98.
@@ColdBrew_1you think pro staff is better than rf01? Do you use a one handed backhand? I’m trying to find people that tried both and get their opinions on them
@@joaosandesneto I havent tried the rf on a matchplay yet. But just comparing it hitting with the wall and service practice, I would say PS is better for me. I dont have one handed backhand(but I look good doing it) but I tried it sometimes and it feels better on RF. The balance of rf (more weight on throat) makes it feel good to swing on one hand BH and slice. Im happy to answer if you got more questions. 🤘🏻
@@ColdBrew_1 thanks!
Great stick as well.
Just missed the podium #4
Huh. I'm finally early.
That’s what she said
Welcome!
Это никому ни интересно!! Зачем ты это все снимаешь??🤣🥎🤣
what a dumb comment review was excellent.
Literally second
3!)
5th