I have been playing tennis with Head’s Microgel Radical Mid-Plus for almost a year know. I’m very pleased with this racket’s feel and accuracy. Not only does it deliver great performance in control, but it also has a great look. Pro tennis player Andre Agassi has also been using this racket for some time. Although retired, Andre says, “Image is Everything”. Unlike the earlier Head technologies, the Microgel technology has a foundation of fibers that compress every time the ball makes contact, allowing the impact to be spread throughout the whole head. This technology is what gives this racket its solid rock feel.
The Microgel Radical features a multi-colored skin of orange, white and black. Besides the mid-plus, there are also two other versions to this racket. These are the oversize, and the pro. The racket weighs 10.4 ounces, giving it a light feel. The head size is 98 sq in, giving a small sweet spot. Although, what the small head size does allow, is more accuracy and control.
Serving with this racket can be extremely fun, but at other times, it will leave you wanting more out of it. This type of Radical, unfortunately, lacks power. Being a skinny guy like me, you can’t get much power out of a racket like this without muscle. Since it doesn’t generate much of its own, you have to be the main supplier of energy. On the other hand, if your looking for spin and control, you’ll find that your serves are extremely consistent. Placement is key when using it, because your not going to be driving your serves as much as you would with other rackets. If you have a slice second serve, you won’t be afraid rip it, because it really bites the ball.
I found that the Microgel Radical Mid-Plus allows you to really control your ground strokes with ease. While still lacking in power, I can get some pretty aggressive topspin off the ball. Deep shots require a little bit more strength, but with all the precise control, your game can be balanced out. Also, I found that if you string it with a decent power string, you can greatly increase the energy put onto the ball.
Volleying I must say is very pleasing with this one. With the comforting feel, you can deliver volleys with pin-point accuracy. When trying to put the ball away, though, I feel a little bit uneasy. You can put the shot were you want it, but the power just isn’t always there. The maneuverability is great, for returning those fast shots at the net.
Overall, I’d I’d give this racket an 8 out of 10, based on its power and control. For control, a 10 out of 10, and for power, 5 out of 10. This racket is great for those of you who are looking for a precise tennis game.
Works Cited:
http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Reviews/HMGRAD/HMGRADReview.html
