The HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0 is a modern reimagining of the iconic Prestige Classic series, blending traditional racquet characteristics with cutting-edge technology. As with its predecessors, the Prestige Classic 2.0 is geared towards advanced players who prioritize control, precision, and feel over raw power.
This HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0 Review delves into its key features, on-court performance, pros and cons, and compares it with similar racquets in the market.
Graphene Touch Technology
The HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0 incorporates Graphene Touch Technology, a material designed to increase stability and improve the overall feel of the racquet. Graphene is known for its ability to redistribute weight throughout the frame, enhancing power and control, while Touch technology adds a more responsive and comfortable feel, reducing vibrations and improving shock absorption. This provides better comfort on off-center hits and helps prevent arm fatigue during long matches.
Weight and Balance
The Prestige Classic 2.0 weighs around 11.6 ounces (330 grams) when unstrung, making it a medium-to-heavy racquet that offers excellent stability and control. Its head-light balance enhances maneuverability, especially for players who prefer a quick response at the net or during fast rallies. This balance allows the racquet to remain stable even during high-speed exchanges, while still being responsive enough for volleying and serve returns.
The head-light setup also reduces wrist and elbow strain, which makes the racquet more comfortable for players who tend to play with a lot of movement in their strokes. It’s a racquet that requires advanced technique but rewards players who have the skill to generate their own power and consistency.
Head Size and String Pattern
The 98 square inch head size of the Prestige Classic 2.0 is ideal for players who value control over power. With this smaller head size, the racquet allows for precision in shot placement, especially for players who rely on placement rather than hitting with excessive power. It also offers a more solid feel at impact, providing direct feedback on every shot.
The 18x20 string pattern further enhances control but slightly limits spin potential. Players who prefer hitting with heavy topspin may find this pattern less favorable, as it offers less “bite” on the ball compared to a more open string pattern. However, for players with refined technique, this tighter pattern helps maintain consistent ball control and placement.
Frame Construction
The frame of the Prestige Classic 2.0 is constructed using premium materials, ensuring durability and a stable feel during play. The combination of Graphene Touch and high-quality graphite in the construction enhances stability, making the racquet feel solid upon contact with the ball. This level of frame quality provides excellent ball feedback and stability, especially during off-center hits.
Additionally, the classic beam width and traditional shape offer a comfortable and familiar feel for players who are used to the Prestige series. While the racquet has a modern technology update, it stays true to the feel that has made the Prestige Classic line a favorite among players seeking maximum control and precision.
Grip and Comfort
The Hydrosorb Pro grip included with the Prestige Classic 2.0 offers a combination of comfort and control. The grip is designed to reduce slipping and sweat buildup, ensuring a firm hold during long rallies. Its cushioned feel reduces shock and helps enhance comfort during play, preventing hand strain and fatigue.
Moreover, the Graphene Touch technology works in tandem with the grip to provide a more comfortable experience, particularly when playing with higher-stress strokes like serves and volleys. The Prestige Classic 2.0 is a comfortable racquet that minimizes vibrations, ensuring a smooth and consistent feel.
HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0 Racquet - Performance on the Court
Groundstrokes
The Prestige Classic 2.0 excels at providing precision and control on groundstrokes. The 98 square inch head size, combined with the 18x20 string pattern, ensures that the player can place the ball with accuracy. This racquet feels incredibly solid during groundstroke exchanges, and its Graphene Touch technology ensures that vibrations are dampened, allowing for a smoother hit.
This racquet is best suited for players who prefer baseline control, as it rewards well-timed shots and can punish errors. However, the lack of power may be felt by players who rely on generating a lot of ball speed, especially on off-center hits. The head-light balance makes it easier to generate fast reactions and quick adjustments, ensuring precise control during rallies.
Serves
The Prestige Classic 2.0 performs well on serves, offering both accuracy and placement. The head-light balance provides a quick, responsive feel during service motions, making it easier to control where the ball lands. While it may not produce the sheer power of larger head racquets, it allows for accurate serves to corners and body serves with precision.
The Graphene Touch technology aids in absorbing vibrations and ensuring a comfortable feel during the impact of the ball. For players who rely on placing their serves rather than just bombing them with power, the Prestige Classic 2.0 provides a great level of control and consistency.
Volleys
At the net, the Prestige Classic 2.0 performs exceptionally well, offering stability and agility. The head-light balance enhances maneuverability, making it quick to react to volleys and net exchanges. Whether executing sharp angle volleys or simple put-aways, the racquet provides a solid and responsive feel on contact.
Its stability ensures that even off-center hits maintain control, making it ideal for players who like to play close to the net and want a reliable racquet for quick reflex volleys. The Graphene Touch technology also dampens vibrations on volleys, making them more comfortable.
Spin Potential
The 18x20 string pattern on the Prestige Classic 2.0 is tight, which reduces the amount of spin the racquet can generate compared to racquets with open string patterns. While players with excellent technique can still generate spin, those who rely on heavy topspin may find this racquet less effective in that regard.
That said, the Prestige Classic 2.0 makes up for this by providing superb control on flat shots, allowing players to place the ball with pinpoint accuracy. The combination of control and feel makes it more suited for players who want to dictate the point with precision rather than spin.
Comfort
The Graphene Touch technology, combined with the Hydrosorb Pro grip, ensures that the Prestige Classic 2.0 offers a comfortable playing experience. The racquet is designed to absorb vibrations and reduce shock, making it easier on the arm and wrist, particularly during long rallies or when hitting off-center shots.
For players who are concerned with elbow or shoulder strain, this racquet’s ability to minimize harsh vibrations can make a noticeable difference. It’s a great option for those who need a comfortable racquet that still delivers excellent performance.
HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0 - Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent Control and Precision: The smaller head size and dense string pattern provide outstanding control, making it ideal for players who like to place their shots with precision.
- Graphene Touch Technology: Reduces vibrations and enhances comfort, providing a smooth feel with every hit.
- Solid Frame Construction: Offers stability and durability, making it a reliable option for advanced players.
- Head-Light Balance: Ensures excellent maneuverability and quick reactions at the net and during fast rallies.
- Comfortable Grip: The Hydrosorb Pro grip provides a cushioned, non-slip feel, reducing hand strain during long matches.
Cons:
- Limited Power: The Prestige Classic 2.0 is not known for generating significant power, which may be a disadvantage for players who rely on raw speed.
- Reduced Spin Potential: The tight string pattern limits spin generation, making it less suitable for players who rely heavily on topspin.
- Not Ideal for Beginners: Due to its control-oriented design, this racquet is best suited for intermediate to advanced players with refined technique.
- Smaller Head Size: The 98 square inch head size may feel less forgiving compared to larger head racquets, making it challenging for players who prefer a larger sweet spot.
HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0 Racquet - Comparison with Similar Racquets
Wilson Pro Staff 97
The Wilson Pro Staff 97 shares similar characteristics with the Prestige Classic 2.0 in terms of control and precision. Both racquets have a smaller head size and a dense string pattern, making them perfect for players who want to place shots with accuracy. However, the Pro Staff 97 has a slightly stiffer frame, which gives it a more solid feel at the expense of some comfort. The Prestige Classic 2.0, with its Graphene Touch technology, offers more vibration dampening, making it slightly more comfortable.
Babolat Pure Strike 98
The Babolat Pure Strike 98 offers a bit more power and spin potential than the Prestige Classic 2.0, thanks to its more open 16x19 string pattern. However, it sacrifices some of the precision and
control that the Prestige Classic 2.0 excels at. For players who want a racquet that provides more versatility in spin and power, the Pure Strike 98 may be the better option, but for those who prioritize control and feel, the Prestige Classic 2.0 remains the top choice.
HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0 Review - FAQ
1. Is the HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0 suitable for beginners?
No, the Prestige Classic 2.0 is designed for advanced players who have developed control and precision in their game. Beginners may find the racquet too demanding due to its smaller head size and dense string pattern.
2. How does the HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0 handle vibrations?
The Graphene Touch technology in the Prestige Classic 2.0 significantly reduces vibrations, offering a smooth and comfortable feel, even on off-center hits. This helps reduce arm and wrist strain, making it a more comfortable option for advanced players.
3. Does the racquet provide enough power for aggressive players?
While the Prestige Classic 2.0 excels in control and precision, it does not offer the same level of power as larger-headed or stiffer racquets. Aggressive players may need to generate their own power through technique.
4. Can the Prestige Classic 2.0 generate spin?
The tight 18x20 string pattern on the Prestige Classic 2.0 limits the amount of spin that can be generated. Players who rely heavily on spin may find this racquet less suitable, but it still offers excellent control for placement shots.
5. What type of player is the HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0 best suited for?
The Prestige Classic 2.0 is best suited for advanced players who prioritize control, precision, and feel over raw power. It is ideal for players with excellent technique who can generate their own power and want a racquet that offers excellent stability and comfort.
Conclusion
The HEAD Prestige Classic 2.0 is a fantastic racquet for advanced players who value control and precision. Its Graphene Touch technology provides comfort, while its head-light balance offers agility on the court. Although it may not be the best choice for players who prioritize power or spin, its overall performance makes it a top contender for players looking to fine-tune their game with unmatched precision.