How does the HEAD Flexpoint Radical tennis racquet perform on the court. What are the key features of the Flexpoint technology. Does the racquet deliver on its promises of improved control and feel.
Understanding HEAD’s Flexpoint Technology
HEAD has introduced an innovative approach to racquet design with their Flexpoint technology. The core of this innovation lies in a “precisely engineered hole” at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions on the racquet head, accompanied by a dimple that reduces the beam width by up to 25%. This design aims to increase flexibility in the upper hoop of the racquet, theoretically leading to improved performance.
The Science Behind Flexpoint
The primary goal of Flexpoint technology is to alter the way the racquet flexes upon impact with the ball. While traditional racquets flex from the tip down through the shaft, Flexpoint racquets are engineered to increase flex in the hoop. This design is intended to create a “cupping” effect on the ball, which HEAD claims results in:
- Longer dwell time (duration of ball contact with the strings)
- Greater control and feel for the player
- More accurate hitting due to reduced angles at which the ball leaves the strings
These claims are certainly intriguing, but do they hold up under real-world testing? Our comprehensive review aims to answer this question.
Flexpoint Radical Midplus: Performance on Groundstrokes
The Flexpoint Radical Midplus received positive feedback from our testing team when it came to groundstrokes. Players noted several key performance aspects:
Ease of Use and Comfort
Testers found the racquet easy to use, with smooth and effortless strokes from both forehand and backhand sides. The racquet facilitated consistent deep and controlled shots from the baseline, providing a comfortable feel for various stroke types.
Spin and Control
Despite initial concerns about spin generation due to the smaller head size and tight string pattern, testers found that they could produce decent topspin. The racquet also performed well for slice backhands, both as defensive shots and approach shots.
Sweet Spot Performance
Shots hitting the sweet spot were reported to have good depth and pace. However, off-center hits tended to land short, highlighting the importance of consistent ball striking with this racquet.
Comparing Flexpoint to Liquidmetal Technology
Several testers drew comparisons between the Flexpoint Radical Midplus and its predecessor, the Liquidmetal Radical Midplus. Key observations included:
- Subtle but noticeable difference in feel
- Improved response on off-center hits
- Better control and pace maintenance when hitting off-balance or close to the body
- Similar spin potential and power
- Enhanced touch for drop shots
One tester noted that the Flexpoint version felt slightly more head-heavy than the Liquidmetal model, providing good stability but potentially sacrificing some maneuverability for players who prefer a more head-light balance.
String Sensitivity and Customization Potential
An interesting observation from the playtest was the increased string sensitivity of the Flexpoint Radical Midplus. This characteristic suggests that players may be able to fine-tune the racquet’s performance even further by experimenting with different string types and tensions.
How can players optimize the Flexpoint Radical’s performance through stringing? Consider the following options:
- Experiment with various string materials (polyester, multifilament, natural gut)
- Adjust string tension to find the optimal balance between power and control
- Try hybrid stringing setups to combine the benefits of different string types
This customization potential adds another layer of versatility to the racquet, allowing players to tailor its performance to their specific playing style and preferences.
Flexpoint Technology: Impact on Volleys and Serves
While groundstroke performance is crucial, a well-rounded racquet must also excel at the net and on serves. How does the Flexpoint Radical Midplus fare in these areas?
Volley Performance
Testers reported positive experiences when volleying with the Flexpoint Radical Midplus. The racquet’s stability and control translated well to net play, allowing for precise touch volleys and solid punch volleys. The increased feel provided by the Flexpoint technology seemed to benefit players when executing delicate shots at the net.
Serving with Flexpoint
On serves, the racquet received mixed reviews. Some players found that they could generate good pace and spin, particularly on slice serves. However, others noted that the racquet felt slightly underpowered compared to more modern, stiffer frames. The control and precision offered by the Flexpoint Radical Midplus were consistently praised, allowing for accurate placement of serves.
Who Is the Flexpoint Radical Midplus Best Suited For?
Based on the playtest feedback and analysis of the racquet’s characteristics, the HEAD Flexpoint Radical Midplus appears to be well-suited for:
- Intermediate to advanced players who prioritize control and feel over raw power
- All-court players who require versatility in their racquet
- Players with full swings who can generate their own pace
- Those who enjoy a more traditional, control-oriented playing experience
Players who primarily seek maximum power or those with shorter, more compact swings may find the Flexpoint Radical Midplus less suitable for their game.
Durability and Long-Term Performance
When investing in a tennis racquet, durability and long-term performance are important considerations. How does the Flexpoint Radical Midplus hold up over time?
Our month-long playtest didn’t reveal any significant durability issues with the racquet. The frame appeared to maintain its structural integrity and performance characteristics throughout the testing period. However, long-term studies would be needed to fully assess the durability of the Flexpoint technology.
It’s worth noting that the presence of the engineered holes at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions could potentially make the frame more susceptible to damage if the racquet is subjected to severe impacts in those areas. Players should be mindful of this when considering the racquet for their game.
Final Thoughts on the HEAD Flexpoint Radical Midplus
The HEAD Flexpoint Radical Midplus represents an interesting evolution in racquet technology. While it may not revolutionize the game, it does offer noticeable improvements in feel and control compared to its predecessors.
Key takeaways from our review include:
- Enhanced feel and control, particularly on off-center hits
- Good spin potential despite the dense string pattern
- Improved touch for drop shots and volleys
- Potential for customization through string selection and tension
- Suitable for intermediate to advanced players seeking control and precision
Is the Flexpoint technology a game-changer? While it may not drastically alter your playing style, it does offer subtle improvements that discerning players will likely appreciate. The racquet’s ability to provide increased feel and control, especially on off-center hits, could translate to more consistent performance during match play.
Ultimately, the HEAD Flexpoint Radical Midplus is a solid choice for players who value precision and feel in their game. Its blend of control, spin potential, and versatility make it a worthy consideration for all-court players looking to elevate their performance.
As with any racquet, personal preference plays a significant role in determining the right fit. Players interested in the Flexpoint Radical Midplus would be well-advised to demo the racquet and experience its unique characteristics firsthand before making a purchase decision.
The tennis equipment market continues to evolve, with manufacturers constantly pushing the boundaries of technology and design. The HEAD Flexpoint Radical Midplus represents an interesting step in this evolution, offering a blend of traditional control-oriented performance with modern engineering aimed at enhancing feel and precision.
As players and coaches continue to explore the potential of this technology, it will be interesting to see how Flexpoint and similar innovations shape the future of tennis racquet design. Will we see further refinements of this concept in future models? Only time will tell, but for now, the Flexpoint Radical Midplus offers a compelling option for players seeking a control-oriented racquet with a touch of modern engineering.
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Flex Point on Impact | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Flexpoint Radical MidplusGroundstrokesOur entire team enjoyed the Flexpoint Radical Midplus off the ground. Both Chris and Don compared the Flexpoint Radical Midplus to its Liquidmetal predecessor. Chris said, “I noticed a subtle but discernable difference in the feel of the Flexpoint Radical Midplus compared to the Liquidmetal Radical Midplus. Shots hit slightly off center seemed to come off the stringbed of the Flexpoint with a little more zip and depth compared to the Liquidmetal racquet. I also noticed that I could maintain better control and pace when hitting off balance or when catching the ball a little too close to my body. Apart from that, the Flexpoint Radical Midplus offered the same excellent response from the baseline that I loved when hitting with the Liquidmetal Radical Midplus. Spin potential and power also felt very similar, but I did find more touch when hitting droppers with the Flexpoint. VolleysThe Flexpoint Radical Midplus offered plenty of feel and control for our team at net. Finding good direction on his volleys was Brad. “Volleys with this racquet felt good. I found that I was able to direct the ball where I wanted and the higher swingweight of the racquet did not affect me at all. Don also found good stability, but would have preferred a more head light feel to the racquet. “The almost even-balance lends stability on volleys, although here again, I like a head-light racquet for quick net exchanges. Volleys were very solid but the racquet wasn’t as maneuverable as I would like. Good touch and feel, especially considering the dense string pattern.” Chris was very impressed with the Flexpoint Radical Midplus at net. “I found lots of feel and control at the net. There was a softer feel to the Flexpoint version of the Radical Midplus on the volley. The level of feel I found at net reminded me of a Prestige type feel and this is the first Radical I’ve found to offer that type of response. ServesWhile the amount of power and spin our team developed with the Flexpoint Radical Midplus on serve varied from player to player, everyone was serving with impressive consistency. Enjoying the feel of the 18/20 stringbed was Josh. “I liked the tighter string pattern of the Flexpoint Radical Midplus. The pattern seemed to compliment the 98 square-inch head size and my service game. My serves had a little extra pop and control, though my second serve didn’t kick as much as with the Tour model. This racquet felt very similar to the Dunlop 200G on serve.” Struggling to find his usual pace was Brad. “My serves were mediocre with this racquet. I felt like I was able to place them where I wanted, but didn’t feel like I could get as much pace as I normally do. Again, spin was not an issue even with the tighter string pattern.” Don found his targets consistently when serving with the Flexpoint Radical Midplus. Serve ReturnsThe controlled response of the Flexpoint Radical Midplus gave our team plenty of options when it came to hitting returns of serve. Finding plenty of maneuverability from the racquet was Brad. “I found that the lighter weight of this racquet made it easier to get prepared for returns. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Head Flexpoint Radical Midplus Combined Scores(Scores are determined by averaging individual play test scores)
Flexpoint Radical OversizeGroundstrokesImmediately noticeable to our team was the added power and the increased sweetspot size of the Flexpoint Radical Oversize compared to its Midplus sized brother. Also finding a lively response off the strings was Don. “The Flexpoint Radical Oversize is quite similar to the Liquidmetal Radical Oversize. Josh enjoyed the Flexpoint Radical the most when trading groundstrokes. “I was most pleased with my groundstrokes while playtesting the Flexpoint Radical Oversize. I was able to hit deep, consistent shots without much effort. The racquet provided decent topspin and the stringbed didn’t feel like a trampoline, as many oversized racquets do. I was confident hitting forehands and backhands on the move and I wasn’t concerned about holding back when I was stationary.” Comparing his experience with previous Radicals was Chris. “I found plenty of comfort and about as much power as I’d want from a player’s racquet with this one. VolleysOur team had a mixed experience with the Flexpoint Radical Oversize at net. Having good success at net was Brad. “Volleys with this racquet were comparable to the Midplus version. Wendi found the response of the Flexpoint Radical to be a little too lively. “At net the oversize was a little too responsive for my liking. I felt that the ball could go anywhere. I don’t think I am a good enough player to control this type of racquet at net. It was maneuverable and stable, but just too loose of a feel off the strings. I did think the flex was good, it’s definitely not a stiff racquet.” Unlike Wendi, Don enjoyed the lively response off the stringbed. “The larger head certainly made volleying easier. Josh said, “the headsize felt a bit larger than the listed 107 sq. inches. The racquet wasn’t necessarily cumbersome, but my reaction time during quick exchanges at net seemed slower than usual. Again, it didn’t take much to hit deep volleys and angled returns were fun to explore.” ServesOur team found good access to spin with the Flexpoint Radical Oversize when serving. Chris said, “I really enjoyed hitting kick serves with this racquet. I managed to get some nice angle on my kickers out wide to the ad side. Likewise, slice serve to the deuce side had some nice swerve to them. I enjoyed moving the ball around with this racquet and rarely went for a flat heater. I prefer hitting serves with spin and found this racquet to be a good fit for my service game.” Hitting some nice wide serves to the deuce side was Brad. Wendi would have liked a little more control on serves than she was finding with the Flexpoint radical Oversize. “My serving was very fluid with the Flexpoint Radical Oversize. I didn’t have any troubles settling in to my serves, and the power was nice. If I hadn’t played with the Flexpoint Radical Tour after this one, I’d say it was a great serving racquet. In comparison, the Oversize is again too powerful and maybe too open feeling. I wasn’t getting the feeling of being in control of the point. My serves were in play and hard, but easy to return. I didn’t have the precision that the Tour Midplus boasted.” Don found good results hitting a variety of serves. Serve ReturnsThe power and large sweetspot of the Flexpoint Radical transferred into some smooth and effortless returning for some members of our team. Don said, “this racquet was right at home for me when returning serves. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Head Flexpoint Radical Oversize Combined Scores(Scores are determined by averaging individual play test scores)
Review date: April 2005. If you found this review interesting or have further questions or comments please contact us. All content copyright 2005 Tennis Warehouse.
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Head FLEXPOINT 10 Tennis Racket / Racquet NEW demo
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HEAD FLEXPOINT 10 Oversize Tennis Racquet NEW MSRP $149. 00 Specifications : Grip Size: 4 1/2 – 4 Head Size: 780 cm sq./ 121 in. sq. Length: 27 1/2 inches Beam: 31 mm String Pattern: 16/19 Swing Style Rating: S10 Weight: 235 grams / 8.3 oz Our Head Tennis Racquets come to you from a major sporting goods retailer’s overstock. This racquet has been on display and may have been handled. Upon visual inspection we found 1 tiny scuff on the frame. Overall it looks MINT! We posted accurate unedited pictures for your review so you can decide for yourself. Please feel free to ask questions as we check our eBay messages often and will respond quickly. PayPal Payment: Due within 2 days of purchase unless prior arrangements are made. Shipping: We ship using varied services via UPS, FedEx, and USPS and may substitute based on delivery time, price, and overall customer service. WE SHIP WORLDWIDE. International buyers are responsible for their home country’s customs and shipping restrictions. Return Policy: We will accept returns within 3 days of delivery.
Refunds are issued within 3 business days of return or sale cancellation. Refunds are given as money back or exchange. Buyer will pay for all shipping costs on any returned item. Please refer to manufacturer for warranty information. We strive to make your purchase a pleasant one but,
communication is key. If you have any questions, concerns, or would wish to return merchandise, please contact us as soon as possible. We look forward to exchanging positive feedback. Don’t Forget to Visit Our eBay Store for More Great Deals!!!
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External view | Name | Short description | Price |
Head i. | Technology : Intelligence Material : Graphite Composite and Piezzo Electric Profile rims: 19 mm Size heads: 93″ / 600 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 330 gr. Balance (without strings): 315 mm. Length : 685 mm. / 26.97″ String Pattern: 18 x 20 Swing Style: L6 Grip : Head ComfortTac Traction | 4990 | |
Head i.S10 | Technology : Intelligence Material : Titanium/Graphite Profile Rims: Box+PowerFrame, Size heads: 114″ / 735 sq. Weight (without strings): 225 gr. Balance (without strings): 380 mm. Length : 705 mm. / 27.76″ String Pattern: 14 x 17 Swing Style: S10 Grip : Head ComfortTac Traction | 5990 | |
Head Liquidmetal Fire | Technology : Liquidmetal technology Material : LiquidMetal Titanium / Graphite and Piezzo Electric Fibers Profile rims: 23 / 25 / 21 mm Size heads: 102″ / 658 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 280 gr. Balance (without strings): 335 mm. Length : 695 mm. / 27.36″ String Pattern: 16 x 19 Swing Style: L1 Grip : Head HydroControl | 4650 | |
Head Liquid Metal Instinct | Technology : Liquidmetal technology Material : LiquidMetal Titanium / Graphite and Piezzo Electric Fibers Profile rims: 23 / 25 / 21 mm Size heads: 100″ / 645 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 295 gr. Balance (without strings): 320 mm. Length : 685 mm. / 26.97″ String Pattern: 18 x 19 Swing Style: L3 Grip : Head HydroControl | 5290 | |
Head Liquid Metal Prestige MID | Technology : Liquidmetal technology Material : LiquidMetal Titanium / Graphite and Piezzo Electric Fibers Profile rims: 19 mm Size heads: 93″ / 600 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 330 gr. Balance (without strings): 310 mm. Length : 685 mm. / 26.97″ String Pattern: 18 x 20 Swing Style: L6 Grip : Head HydroControl | 6890 | |
Head Liquid Metal Prestige MP | Technology : Liquidmetal technology Material : LiquidMetal Titanium / Graphite and Piezzo Electric Fibers Profile rims: 21 mm Size heads: 98″ / 632 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 320 gr. Balance (without strings): 310 mm. Length : 685 mm. String Pattern: 18 x 20 Swing Style: L6 Grip : Head HydroControl | 6890 | |
Head Liquid Metal Radical MP | Technology : Liquidmetal technology Material : LiquidMetal Titanium / Graphite and Piezzo Electric Fibers Profile rims: 21 mm Size heads: 98″ / 632 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 295 gr. Balance (without strings): 325 mm. Length : 685 mm. / 26.97″ String Pattern: 18 x 20 Swing Style: L4 Grip : Head HydroControl | 5060 | |
Head LiquidMetal Radical MP Tour | Technology : Liquidmetal technology Material : LiquidMetal Titanium / Graphite and Piezzo Electric Fibers Profile rims: 21 mm Size heads: 98″ / 632 sq. Weight (without strings): 325 gr. Balance (without strings): 315 mm. Length : 685 mm. / 26.97″ String Pattern: 18 x 20 Swing Style: L4 Grip : Head HydroControl | 5290 | |
Head LiquidMetal Radical OS | Technology : Liquidmetal technology Material : LiquidMetal Titanium / Graphite and Piezzo Electric Fibers Profile rims: 21 mm Size heads: 107″ / 690 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 295 gr. Balance (without strings): 320 mm. Length : 685 mm. / 26.97″ String Pattern: 18 x 19 Swing Style: L4 Grip : Head HydroControl | 5060 | |
Head Liquidmetal Rave | Technology : Liquidmetal technology Material : LiquidMetal Titanium / Graphite and Piezzo Electric Fibers Profile rims: 25 mm Size heads: 98″ / 632 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 285 gr. Balance (without strings): 330 mm. Length : 695 mm. / 27.36″ String Pattern: 16 x 19 Swing Style: L2 Grip : Head HydroControl | 5960 | |
Head Ti.S1 Supreme | Technology : Titanium Material : Titanium/Graphite Profile Rims: Boxshape, Size heads: 102″ / 658 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 255 gr. Length : 700 mm. / 27.56 String Pattern: 16 x 19 Swing Style: S1 Grip : Head SoftTac Cushion | 2490 | |
Head Nano Ti. | Material : Nano Titanium profile rims: 24 mm, Size heads: 102″ / 658 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 255 gr. Balance (without strings): 350 mm. Length : 685 mm. / 26.97″ String Pattern: 16 x 19 | 3560 | |
Head Nano Ti.Heat | Material : Nano Titanium profile rims: 22 mm, Size heads: 102″ / 658 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 265 gr. Balance (without strings): 345 mm. Length : 685 mm. / 26.97″ String Pattern: 16 x 19 | 3350 | |
Head Nano Ti.S1 | Material : Nano Titanium profile rims: 26 mm, Size heads: 107″ / 690 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 250 gr. Balance (without strings): 345 mm. Length : 695 mm. / 27.36″ String Pattern: 16 x 19 | 3340 | |
Head Nano Ti. | Material : Nano Titanium profile rims: 25 mm, Size heads: 102″ / 658 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 245 gr. Balance (without strings): 360 mm. Length : 695 mm. / 27.36″ String Pattern: 16 x 19 | 3560 | |
Head Nano Ti.S4 | Material : Nano Titanium profile rims: 26 mm, Size heads: 107″ / 690 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 240 gr. Balance (without strings): 355 mm. Length : 690 mm. / 27.17″ String Pattern: 16 x 19 | 3560 | |
Head Protector MP | Technology : Electronic Dampening System (EDS) Profile rims: 26 mm Size heads: 102″ / 658 sq. cm Weight (without strings): 265 gr. Balance (without strings): 355 mm. Length : 695 mm. / 27.36″ String Pattern: 16 x 19 Swing Style: S3 Grip : Head Protector Cushion | 9890 | |
Head Protector OS | Technology : Electronic Dampening System (EDS) Profile rims: 28 mm Size heads: 115″ / 742 sq. Weight (without strings): 260 gr. Balance (without strings): 375 mm. Length : 703 mm. / 27.68″ String Pattern: 16 x 19 Swing Style: S9 Grip : Head Protector Cushion | 9890 |
Akces-Med Sp. z o.o. – Producent Przedmiotów Ortopedycznych GIPPO™ | Akces-Med Sp. z o.o. 2
Size chart
Symbol | Measurement | Unit | Size 1 mini | Size 1 maxi | Size 2 mini | Size 2 maxi |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W | Approximate user height** | [cm] | 70 – 100 | 70 – 100 | 90 — 120 | 90 — 120 |
A | Seat width | [cm] | 20*/ 31 | 15 – 31 | 34 | 17 – 35.![]() |
L | Seat depth | [cm] | 25 | 19 – 30 | 30 | 20*** / 25-35.5 |
B | back height | [cm] | 40*/45 | 44 — 55 | 55 | 50*** / 55-64 |
C | headrest height | [cm] | 40 – 51*/ 44 – 54 | 40 – 51*/ 44 – 54 | 55 — 64 | 55 — 64 |
E | Back width | [cm] | 31 | 31 | 34 | 34 |
F | Footboard length | [cm] | 0 – 8 (top mount) 15 – 25 (bottom mount) | 10 – 25 | 0 – 11 (top mount) 18 – 28 (bottom mount) | 18 – 33 |
Foot length | [cm] | 14 | 14 | 18.![]() | 18.5 | |
X | Backrest angle | [°] | 90 – 150 | 90 – 150 | 90 – 150 | 90 – 150 |
Y | Seat angle | [°] | 10 | 30 | 10 | 30 |
Z | Footrest angle | [°] | 90 – 180 | 90 – 180 | 90 – 180 | 90 – 180 |
Max. user weight | [kg] | 25 | 25 | 35 | 35 |
ATTENTION: The tolerance of the dimensions indicated in the table is +/- 1.5 cm.
*The measurement is measured from the seat narrowing cushion.
**Height measurement should not be the basis for equipment sizing.
***Measurement is measured from the side cushions narrowing the depth, width, height of the seat
How to measure the user? – press
Product weight and dimensions
Measurement | Unit | Size 1 | Size 2 |
---|---|---|---|
Width | [cm] | 66 | 66 |
Length | [cm] | 118 | 120 |
Height | [cm] | 105 | 113 |
Folded width | [cm] | 64 | 67 |
Folded length | [cm] | 112 | 112 |
Folded height | [cm] | 56 | 56 |
Weight | [kg] | 19 | 21 |
ATTENTION: The tolerance of the dimensions indicated in the table is +/- 1.