The Head Pro Tour 630 is a classic player’s racquet that has stood the test of time due to its exceptional control, feel, and craftsmanship. Known for its precise balance and elite performance, this racquet is favored by many advanced players who prefer a more traditional feel on the court.
Originally introduced in the late 1990s, it has remained a staple for players who value touch, control, and stability over pure power. In this Head Pro Tour 630 Review, we will dive into the features, performance, and why the Head Pro Tour 630 is still a popular choice for competitive players.
The Head Pro Tour 630 is a blend of traditional design and modern technologies, offering an unparalleled playing experience for advanced players. Here are the key features that make this racquet a standout:
Frame Construction and Material
The Head Pro Tour 630 features a graphite construction, which is designed to provide excellent control and stability. The racquet’s frame is solid yet flexible, allowing players to feel connected to the ball with every shot. The graphite construction also makes it highly responsive, especially on controlled shots and touch play.
Head Size
At 98 square inches, the Head Pro Tour 630 has a smaller head size compared to modern racquets. This gives the racquet a more compact feel and allows players to achieve a higher level of precision. Although the smaller head size may reduce the overall power, it compensates by providing excellent control, particularly for players with an advanced level of technique who can consistently hit the sweet spot.
Weight and Balance
Weighing around 320 grams (unstrung), the Head Pro Tour 630 is a bit on the heavier side. This added weight provides stability during fast exchanges and heavy hitting, making it ideal for aggressive players who can handle the weight. The headlight balance of the racquet ensures that the frame is highly maneuverable, allowing for quick reactions and volleys at the net.
String Pattern
The Head Pro Tour 630 features an 18x20 string pattern, which is more closed than the popular 16x19 pattern found on many racquets today. This string pattern helps generate a high level of control and reduces the likelihood of overhitting the ball, making it an excellent choice for players who want to focus on precision rather than raw power.
Grip and Comfort
The grip of the Head Pro Tour 630 is designed for comfort and reduces vibrations upon impact. This makes it a great choice for players who suffer from arm fatigue or tennis elbow. The ergonomic grip allows for a secure and stable hold, especially during long rallies.
Head Pro Tour 630 Racquet - Performance on the Court
When it comes to on-court performance, the Head Pro Tour 630 offers a controlled and comfortable experience. Let's break down its key performance aspects.
Control and Precision
The Head Pro Tour 630 is renowned for its incredible control. The combination of its smaller head size, 18x20 string pattern, and graphite construction offers unmatched precision. Players who rely on accuracy will find this racquet delivers exceptional feedback and allows them to place the ball exactly where they want. Whether it’s a backhand down the line or a drop shot at the net, the Head Pro Tour 630 excels in offering pinpoint accuracy.
Power and Spin
While the Head Pro Tour 630 isn’t designed for maximum power, it still provides decent pop for players who can generate their own pace. The racquet’s 98 square inch head size means it requires a bit more effort to generate power compared to larger-headed models, but players with advanced techniques can still produce powerful shots. However, the racquet is more focused on control rather than excessive power, making it less ideal for players who rely on hitting big shots.
The 18x20 string pattern also limits the amount of spin compared to more open-patterned racquets like the Babolat Pure Drive. However, players with solid technique can still generate decent topspin and slice with this racquet, especially on groundstrokes and serves.
Comfort and Feel
One of the standout features of the Head Pro Tour 630 is its comfort. The graphite construction and vibration-dampening design ensure that players experience minimal shock on impact, making it a great option for those prone to tennis elbow or arm fatigue. The racquet’s feel is solid and responsive, providing excellent feedback and allowing for greater confidence when executing touch shots.
Maneuverability
Despite its weight, the Head Pro Tour 630 has a headlight balance that makes it surprisingly maneuverable. This feature allows players to react quickly to fast shots and execute volleys with ease. Whether you’re at the baseline or at the net, the racquet’s responsiveness ensures that you can play with precision and agility.
Stability
The Head Pro Tour 630 is built to withstand high-impact shots while maintaining its stability. Its 320-gram weight and solid construction allow it to remain steady even during powerful exchanges. The racquet doesn’t feel flimsy, even when returning fast serves or executing heavy groundstrokes.
Head Pro Tour 630 - Pros and Cons
Pros
- Incredible control: The smaller head size and 18x20 string pattern provide exceptional precision, allowing players to place shots with great accuracy.
- Excellent comfort: The racquet’s construction and vibration-dampening technology make it easy on the arm, reducing the chances of injury.
- Stability: The 320-gram weight and headlight balance provide solid stability, even during fast exchanges.
- Feel and feedback: Offers excellent feedback for touch players who rely on finesse shots like drop shots and slices.
Cons
- Limited power: The smaller head size and more closed string pattern mean that players may need to generate more power themselves.
- Not ideal for beginners: The Head Pro Tour 630 is a racquet designed for advanced players who can control their shots well. Beginners may struggle with the small sweet spot and the lack of power.
- Less spin: While it’s possible to generate spin, it’s not as easy to do so with the 18x20 string pattern compared to more open patterns found in racquets designed for spin.
Head Pro Tour 630 Tennis Racquet Comparison with Similar Racquets
When comparing the Head Pro Tour 630 to other high-performance racquets like the Wilson Pro Staff 97 and Babolat Pure Strike 98, there are some clear differences:
- Wilson Pro Staff 97: Both racquets offer great control and feel, but the Wilson Pro Staff 97 is a bit heavier and offers a more traditional feel, which appeals to players who like a classic, low-powered racquet. The Head Pro Tour 630, however, is a bit more maneuverable and is designed with comfort in mind.
- Babolat Pure Strike 98: The Babolat Pure Strike 98 has a more open string pattern (16x19) and a larger head size, making it easier to generate spin and power. In contrast, the Head Pro Tour 630 prioritizes control, precision, and stability, making it a better option for players who focus on placement rather than power.
Head Pro Tour 630 Racquet Review - FAQ
Who is the Head Pro Tour 630 best suited for?
The Head Pro Tour 630 is best suited for advanced players who prioritize control, feel, and precision. It’s ideal for those who have developed solid technique and prefer a racquet that offers feedback and allows them to place shots accurately.
Is the Head Pro Tour 630 good for beginners?
No, the Head Pro Tour 630 is better suited for intermediate to advanced players. Its smaller head size and heavier weight may make it challenging for beginners who are still developing their technique.
How does the Head Pro Tour 630 compare in terms of spin?
While the Head Pro Tour 630 can generate some spin, its 18x20 string pattern and smaller head size make it less spin-friendly compared to racquets with more open string patterns, such as the Babolat Pure Strike.
Is the Head Pro Tour 630 arm-friendly?
Yes, the Head Pro Tour 630 is known for its comfort. Its vibration-dampening features and the graphite construction help reduce strain on the arm, making it a good choice for players who suffer from tennis elbow or arm fatigue.
How long will the Head Pro Tour 630 last?
The Head Pro Tour 630 is a durable racquet that can withstand regular play. With proper maintenance and care, it should last for many years.
Conclusion
The Head Pro Tour 630 is an outstanding racquet for advanced players who prioritize control, precision, and comfort. While it may not offer the extreme power or spin of more modern racquets, it excels in delivering a classic feel and stability, making it an excellent option for players who value touch and finesse. Whether you’re a competitive player or someone who enjoys a more traditional approach to the game, the Head Pro Tour 630 is a timeless option that won’t disappoint.