Ben Shelton's Tennis Racquet: Weight And Specs Revealed

by Jhon Lennon 56 views

Hey tennis enthusiasts! Ever wondered about the secrets behind Ben Shelton's powerful game? Well, a big part of it comes down to his trusty tennis racquet. In this article, we're diving deep into the specifics of Ben Shelton's racquet, focusing particularly on its weight and other important specs. Knowing the details of a pro's equipment can give you insights into what might work for your own game, so let's get started!

Unveiling Ben Shelton's Racquet

So, what exactly does Ben Shelton swing on the court? Ben Shelton uses the Yonex EZONE 98 racquet. This racquet is known for providing a great blend of power and control, which perfectly suits Shelton's aggressive baseline game. The Yonex EZONE 98 is a popular choice among many professional and recreational players because of its versatility and comfortable feel.

The EZONE series is designed to offer a larger sweet spot, thanks to Yonex's Isometric technology. This means that even on off-center hits, players can still maintain good power and control. For a player like Shelton, who goes for big shots, this forgiveness is crucial.

Ben Shelton Racquet Weight

Okay, let's get to the main question: What's the weight of Ben Shelton's tennis racquet? Typically, the unstrung weight of a Yonex EZONE 98 is around 305 grams, which is approximately 10.8 ounces. However, professional players like Ben Shelton often customize their racquets to match their specific preferences and playing styles. This customization usually involves adding weight to certain areas of the racquet to increase stability, power, and swing weight.

Customization is key at the pro level. Players work closely with racquet technicians to fine-tune their equipment. For Ben Shelton, it's highly likely that he has added weight to his Yonex EZONE 98, bringing the total weight up to somewhere between 320 to 335 grams (11.3 to 11.8 ounces). This added weight provides more plow-through on his shots, allowing him to hit with even more power and depth. The extra weight also helps to absorb the impact of the ball, reducing the amount of shock that travels to his arm.

Understanding Racquet Weight

Racquet weight is a critical factor in how a racquet performs. A heavier racquet generally offers more power and stability, while a lighter racquet is easier to swing and maneuver. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Lighter Racquets (Under 10 ounces unstrung): These are great for beginners or players who prioritize maneuverability and fast swings. They are easier on the arm and allow for quicker reactions at the net.
  • Mid-Weight Racquets (10 to 11 ounces unstrung): These offer a balance of power and control. They are suitable for intermediate players who have developed their technique and want a racquet that can do a bit of everything.
  • Heavier Racquets (11 ounces and above unstrung): These are typically preferred by advanced players who generate their own power and want maximum stability and plow-through. They require more strength and good technique to swing effectively.

For a player like Ben Shelton, who has a naturally powerful swing, a heavier racquet complements his game style perfectly. The added weight helps him to control his power and keep the ball in the court.

Other Important Specs of Ben Shelton's Racquet

Besides the weight, several other specs contribute to how Ben Shelton's racquet performs:

  • Head Size: The Yonex EZONE 98 has a 98 square inch head size. This is a mid-size head that offers a good balance of control and forgiveness. Smaller head sizes (95 sq. in. or less) provide more control but are less forgiving on off-center hits. Larger head sizes (100 sq. in. or more) offer more power and a larger sweet spot.
  • Balance Point: The balance point of a racquet affects its swing weight and maneuverability. Ben Shelton likely has a slightly head-light balance, which means that the weight is more distributed towards the handle. This makes the racquet easier to swing and maneuver, allowing him to generate fast racquet head speed.
  • Swing Weight: Swing weight is a measure of how heavy the racquet feels when you swing it. It takes into account the racquet's weight and balance point. A higher swing weight means the racquet will feel heavier and more stable, while a lower swing weight means it will feel lighter and easier to swing. Ben Shelton's racquet likely has a fairly high swing weight due to the added weight, which contributes to its power and stability.
  • String Pattern: The Yonex EZONE 98 typically comes with a 16x19 string pattern. This open string pattern provides a good balance of power and spin potential. Ben Shelton may experiment with different string types and tensions to fine-tune the feel of his racquet and optimize his performance. String tension affects how the ball comes off the racquet. Lower tensions generally provide more power and spin, while higher tensions offer more control.
  • Grip Size: Choosing the right grip size is crucial for comfort and control. Ben Shelton likely uses a grip size that allows him to hold the racquet securely without having to squeeze it too tightly. An improper grip size can lead to discomfort and even injury.

How to Choose the Right Racquet Weight for You

Okay, so now you know all about Ben Shelton's racquet weight, but how do you choose the right weight for your own racquet? Here are a few tips:

  1. Consider Your Skill Level: Beginners should start with lighter racquets that are easier to swing. As you improve your technique and strength, you can gradually move to heavier racquets.
  2. Think About Your Playing Style: If you have a fast swing and generate your own power, a lighter racquet might be a good choice. If you have a shorter swing and need help generating power, a heavier racquet could be beneficial.
  3. Demo Different Racquets: The best way to find the right racquet weight is to try out different racquets. Many tennis shops offer demo programs that allow you to test racquets before you buy them. This will give you a feel for how different weights affect your game.
  4. Consult with a Pro: A qualified tennis coach or racquet technician can help you analyze your game and recommend the right racquet weight and specs for you.

The Importance of Customization

As you've seen with Ben Shelton, customization is a big part of playing at a high level. Even if you're not a pro, customizing your racquet can help you to optimize your performance and prevent injuries. Here are a few common customizations:

  • Adding Weight: As mentioned earlier, adding weight to your racquet can increase its stability and power. Lead tape is a popular way to add weight to specific areas of the racquet, such as the head or handle.
  • Changing the Grip: You can change the grip on your racquet to adjust its size and feel. Overgrips are a cheap and easy way to add cushioning and absorb sweat.
  • Adjusting the Balance: You can adjust the balance of your racquet by adding weight to the head or handle. This can affect its swing weight and maneuverability.
  • Experimenting with Strings: Different string types and tensions can have a big impact on how the ball comes off your racquet. Experiment with different strings to find what works best for your game.

Final Thoughts on Ben Shelton's Tennis Racquet Weight

So, there you have it! Ben Shelton's racquet of choice, the Yonex EZONE 98, is a testament to the blend of power, control, and customization that defines modern tennis. While the stock weight of the racquet provides a solid foundation, it's the personalized adjustments that truly tailor it to Shelton's explosive game. Understanding these nuances can help you appreciate the finer details of professional tennis and maybe even inspire you to tweak your own gear! Remember, finding the right racquet is a journey, not a destination. Experiment, seek advice, and most importantly, enjoy the process.

Keep experimenting with different setups, and you might just find the perfect combination that unlocks your best tennis. Who knows, maybe you'll be the next big thing on the court! Thanks for reading, and see you on the courts! This deep dive into Ben Shelton's racquet hopefully gave you some insights into the importance of racquet weight and customization. Happy hitting!