Features to look 4 In a Serve and Volleyer's Racquet?

Question

Hey peeps...

I'm an average serve and volley player, well okay I'm a noob at volleying, but I think I'm an okay player =P.

I'm in the market in purchasing a performance tennis racquet that compliments a Serve and Volley Player... I just figured on mimicing Roger Federer's equiptment on Tenniswarehouse, but not sure if he's a serve and volleyer...

I don't want to rely on tennis celebs... I actually want to learn what features to look for or what ability to look for in a racquet for a devoted volley player...

Control?

Power?

Spin (Pop?) Bite

Light weight, or Heavy weight frame?

Specific performance model suggestion would be nice, and an simple explanation...

Thank you very much yahoo members,

G man

Answer 1

On the control/power aspect of the racquet, it depends on how much power you can create.  If you can create enough power, then you don't need the racquet to do anything for you.  If you need a little help, then a slightly more powerful racquet would be good.  Basically, heavy frames have more control, light frames have more power.

As far as spin, that's pretty much up to you, too.  The racquet can make it easier to produce spin, but you should be able to create as much as you need.  Generally, larger heads with more open string patterns (16x19 instead of 18x20) are easier to produce spin with.  But, the more dense stringbeds offer more feel, which is good for volleying.

Head size:  Smaller head gives more control, larger head gives more power.  Again, only go oversize if you need the extra power, or if you don't have a very consistent swing.  The oversize racquets are more fogiving with off-center shots.

One thing i can tell you outright, is that you want a head light racquet.  They are easy to maneuver, making them great at the net.  Head heavy racquets are too bulky to work well at the net.

As far as specific model recommendations, I can't do that.  Pretty much any racquet over 11 oz. is going to have these specs.  Just knowing that you are a serve-and-volleyer isn't enough.  I don't know how heavy a racquet you can handle, or how much power you already create, or if your strokes are consistent.  You must answer those yourself.  Once you know that, you'll know the general range you are looking for.  Demo some racquets that fit that category, and get what you think feels the best.