Volkl Organix 10 325g Racquet Review
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Since my current frame is the Volkl PB10 Mid, I was eager to try this racquet. I feel that my Volkl is probably the best racquet I have ever hit with and one that would be tough to match, much less beat. With the new Volkl Organix 10 325, Volkl promises that racquets with Organix materials “will be loaded up with kinetic energy during ball impact and release it back again immediately and better handling, due to extraordinary vibration-absorbing properties”. They also say that there is “up to 30% more dynamic power”. Lots of information to digest but I just wanted to see how it plays. This test model is 98 sq in and has a 16x19 string pattern. The stiffness rating is in the mid 60’s and around 12 oz strung.
Groundstrokes
When I began hitting with this racquet, it felt like I was hitting with an old friend and the larger head size (98 sq in) allowed my confidence to soar. This is a heavier racquet but it didn’t feel too heavy as the weight seems to be distributed just right. My arm felt all warm and fuzzy as I felt no arm discomfort. The string in this racquet was a synthetic gut and is not known for explosive spin. However, I was still able to get excellent spin. I was impressed with it on both sides as I was able to come over the ball or slice and dice very well. I love to move my opponents back and forth on my groundstrokes and this racquet delivered. I controlled it nicely and spin it as needed. I had good, solid power on both sides. When given short balls, it was point over!
Volleys/Overheads
With the 98 sq in head, I felt very comfortable at net and I was able to power through both sides equally. Control was there whether I was trying to punch it hard or just feather it. Solid as a rock! Overheads were consistent and powerful as I had no issues. The head size provided all the confidence I needed to put the ball away every time.
Serves/Returns
Serving is the only area where I felt it was a bit lacking. However, it’s not a bad serving racquet. It just didn’t have the power I wanted when called upon. Spin and control wasn’t an issue, only power. When I really leaned on it to crank an ace (hopefully!), it just didn’t deliver. I would like to experiment with different strings such as a co-poly or even natural gut. A different string might change up the playing characteristics offering more power. Returns, however, were great. I think the size of the head along with how solid the racquet is combined for an excellent returning stick. I could block it with ease on a rocket serve or return it with pace on a floater.
Overall, this is an excellent racquet for a 4.5 and above player. Singles or doubles players will find this racquet solid, comfortable and reliable. Keep in mind that this is a heavier racquet and the faint of heart need not apply. Also, the handle shape is different than other brands as Volkls are more angular so there’s a brief adjustment period. For better players, you’ll see excellent results on groundstrokes, volleys, returns and overhead. Be willing to sacrifice a small amount on power serves. The upside to that is that you’ll gain a bit of control, so it’s still good news! I don’t know if Organix is responsible for the excellent results I had, but it certainly didn’t hurt! I’m staying with my Volkl PB10 Mid’s but I could play with this racquet with very little adjustment.
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