The Head Microgel Prestige Pro is a classic racquet that continues the prestigious legacy of the Prestige series, offering a fine balance of precision, control, and stability. Known for its premium construction and exceptional feel, the Microgel Prestige Pro is a top choice for advanced players seeking a racquet that combines comfort and performance.
In this Head Microgel Prestige Pro Racquet Review, we will delve into the key features, on-court performance, pros and cons, and compare the Microgel Prestige Pro to other similar racquets.
Microgel Technology
The defining feature of the Head Microgel Prestige Pro is its use of Microgel technology. Microgel is a unique, highly elastic material used in the construction of the racquet's frame. This material allows for greater flexibility and shock absorption without compromising the racquet’s stability. When the ball makes contact with the string bed, the Microgel material deforms to provide more control and a more comfortable feel. This feature helps to reduce vibrations, making it an excellent choice for players who may experience discomfort or arm strain with stiffer frames.
The Microgel also enhances the feel of the racquet, giving players better feedback on every shot. For players who prioritize control, feel, and comfort, this technology is a standout feature of the Microgel Prestige Pro.
Weight and Balance
The Head Microgel Prestige Pro weighs in at approximately 11.3 ounces (320 grams) when unstrung, which places it in the mid-weight category. This weight provides a great balance of stability and maneuverability, making it an excellent option for advanced players. The head-light balance of the racquet ensures greater maneuverability, particularly on quick volleys and reactions at the net. It also reduces the strain on the wrist and arm, providing better control for players who generate their own power.
This balance makes the Microgel Prestige Pro feel nimble on the court while still offering a solid, stable response when hitting groundstrokes. The head-light setup provides a more responsive feel, helping players who like to play a fast and aggressive style.
Head Size and String Pattern
The 98 square inch head size of the Microgel Prestige Pro is perfect for advanced players who favor precision over power. It is a smaller head size compared to many other racquets on the market, which allows for better control and accuracy. Players who prefer to place their shots with consistency will appreciate the feel this racquet provides.
The 18x20 string pattern is denser than many other racquets in its class, which contributes to better control but limits spin potential. The tight pattern helps players maintain ball control, even on harder shots, making it ideal for players who prioritize hitting with precision and accuracy over generating spin.
Frame Construction
The frame of the Microgel Prestige Pro is constructed using high-performance materials, including the Microgel and Graphite fibers. This combination ensures that the racquet provides stability and power while also maintaining a high level of feel and feedback. The overall stiffness of the frame provides a crisp, solid sensation on every shot.
The racquet's design prioritizes feel and precision, allowing advanced players to take full advantage of their technique and shot-making skills. The frame is less forgiving than some other racquets, so it requires a more refined skillset to get the best performance.
Grip and Comfort
The Hydrosorb Pro grip included with the Microgel Prestige Pro is designed for comfort and control. It offers a cushioned feel that absorbs sweat and provides a firm, non-slip grip during long rallies. The grip is ergonomic and fits comfortably in the hand, reducing fatigue and allowing players to focus on their game without worrying about losing control of their racquet.
The Microgel technology and Innegra fibers also contribute to the racquet's overall comfort. These materials help dampen vibrations on impact, providing a smoother feel and less strain on the arm, especially on off-center hits.
Head Microgel Prestige Pro Racquet - Performance on the Court
Groundstrokes
On groundstrokes, the Head Microgel Prestige Pro excels in providing control and precision. The smaller 98 square inch head and dense 18x20 string pattern work together to allow players to place their shots with incredible accuracy. The racquet's Microgel technology also provides a soft, yet responsive feel, which enhances ball control and feel.
The head-light balance of the racquet makes it agile, allowing for quick adjustments on the court, especially during fast rallies. However, due to its control-oriented design, it lacks the raw power that some other racquets offer. Players who rely heavily on heavy topspin may find it slightly limiting, as the tighter string pattern does not generate as much spin as an open pattern would.
Serves
The Microgel Prestige Pro shines when it comes to serving. Its head-light balance and relatively mid-weight design provide an ideal blend of speed and control, allowing players to place serves with pinpoint accuracy. Whether you’re aiming for the corners or going for a precise body serve, the racquet offers great responsiveness and stability on contact.
While it might not generate the same power as a racquet with a larger head size (such as the Babolat Pure Drive), the Microgel Prestige Pro makes up for it with its control. Players who prefer to place their serves carefully rather than relying on sheer speed will appreciate the precision this racquet offers.
Volleys
At the net, the Microgel Prestige Pro performs exceptionally well. The head-light balance makes the racquet incredibly maneuverable, allowing for quick reactions during volley exchanges. The frame is stable, so it feels solid even when hitting off-center volleys. Whether you’re aiming for sharp angles or flat volleys, the Microgel Prestige Pro provides the control needed to execute these shots accurately.
The Microgel technology enhances the feel of the racquet, providing a comfortable yet precise response on volleys. The Hydrosorb Pro grip further adds to the racquet’s comfort, making it easier to maintain a firm hold during fast exchanges.
Spin Potential
The Microgel Prestige Pro has a denser 18x20 string pattern, which results in a lower spin potential than some racquets with more open patterns. While the racquet still allows for decent spin generation, players who rely heavily on topspin for power or control may find that they need to work harder to achieve their desired spin.
This limitation on spin may be a drawback for players who play with heavy topspin, but the Prestige Pro compensates by offering superior control, precision, and consistency.
Comfort
Comfort is one of the standout features of the Head Microgel Prestige Pro. The Microgel technology absorbs shocks on off-center hits, reducing vibrations and ensuring a smooth, comfortable feel. This makes it a great option for players with arm problems or those who prefer a racquet that minimizes strain.
The Hydrosorb Pro grip adds to the comfort, offering a cushioned, ergonomic feel during long matches. The combination of these features makes the Microgel Prestige Pro one of the most comfortable racquets on the market for advanced players.
Head Microgel Prestige Pro - Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent Control and Precision: The racquet’s smaller head size and denser string pattern provide fantastic control and shot placement.
- Microgel Technology: Offers great comfort and reduces vibrations, making it more arm-friendly.
- Stability and Feel: The construction provides a solid, stable feel even on off-center hits, and excellent feedback on all shots.
- Great for Advanced Players: Perfect for players who prioritize control and precision over power.
- Comfortable Grip: The Hydrosorb Pro grip offers a non-slip, cushioned feel, reducing hand fatigue during long rallies.
Cons:
- Limited Power: The racquet does not provide as much power as racquets with larger head sizes or more open string patterns.
- Limited Spin Potential: The 18x20 string pattern restricts spin generation, which may not appeal to players who rely heavily on spin for control.
- Less Forgiving: The Microgel Prestige Pro is not as forgiving as racquets with larger head sizes or more flexible frames, making it best suited for advanced players.
- Not Ideal for Beginners: Due to its precision-focused design, this racquet may not be the best choice for beginners or less experienced players.
Head Microgel Prestige Pro Racquet - Comparison with Similar Racquets
Wilson Blade 98
The Wilson Blade 98 is similar to the Microgel Prestige Pro in terms of control and precision. Both racquets feature smaller head sizes and denser string patterns, making them ideal for players who want accuracy over power. However, the Blade 98 offers a slightly more forgiving feel due to its Graphite construction, making it a better choice for players with less consistent technique. The Microgel Prestige Pro, on the other hand, has a stiffer feel with less flexibility, making it better suited for advanced players.
Babolat Pure Drive
The Babolat Pure Drive is designed for players who seek power and spin. With a larger head size (100 square inches) and a more open string pattern (16x19), the Pure Drive is a more spin-friendly racquet that generates more power. In contrast, the Microgel Prestige Pro is more control-oriented, making it better suited for players who prioritize placement and accuracy over power and spin.
Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Pro
The Graphene 360+ Prestige Pro is a newer version of the Microgel Prestige Pro and shares many similarities in terms of weight and balance. However, the Graphene 360+ material provides a slightly more stable and solid feel compared to the Microgel frame. While both racquets are excellent for control, the Graphene 360+ Prestige Pro offers better stability and is slightly more forgiving on off-center hits.
Head Microgel Prestige Pro Review - FAQ
1. Is the Head Microgel Prestige Pro suitable for beginners?
No, the Microgel Prestige Pro is designed for advanced players who value control and precision. Its smaller head size and dense string pattern make it difficult for beginners to handle.
2. Does the racquet offer good power?
The Microgel Prestige Pro is not known for its power. It is more focused on offering precision and control. Players who rely on raw power may find it lacking.
3. Can I use this racquet for doubles play?
Yes, the Microgel Prestige Pro is highly maneuverable at the net due to its head-light balance, making it a great option for doubles play.
4. How does the racquet perform for spin generation?
The Microgel Prestige Pro has a dense 18x20 string pattern, which reduces its spin potential. Advanced players can still generate some spin, but it is not as spin-friendly as racquets with more open string patterns.
5. Is this racquet comfortable to use?
Yes, the Microgel Prestige Pro offers excellent comfort due to its Microgel technology, which reduces vibrations, and its Hydrosorb Pro grip, which provides a cushioned feel.
Conclusion
The Head Microgel Prestige Pro is an excellent choice for advanced players who value precision, control, and comfort over raw power. Its Microgel technology enhances comfort, while its head-light balance offers excellent maneuverability. While it may not be the best choice for players who rely heavily on spin or power, its superior control, stability, and feel make it a standout option for experienced players looking for ultimate precision on the court.