The VCore lineup from Yonex has long blended control with power and spin. The updated VCore SV lineup looks to take the spin production and power to the next level without sacrificing the control the line is known for. The new Yonex VCore SV 100 boasts a tremendous blend of power and accuracy. Using technologies like AeroFin for maneuverability, a new beam design that uses a more aerodynamic throat and Nanometric XT Carbon for improved ball response, the SV 100 looks to establish itself as a premier choice for baseliners looking to dictate play. Here’s a recap of my time on court with the SV 100.

Groundstrokes
Explosive was the word that came to mind for groundstrokes with the SV 100. This thing had power for days from either side. The stiffer layup and thicker 25/25/22mm beam gave the frame a truly dangerous power level. At 11.1oz strung, the frame also had enough mass to get my groundstrokes to penetrate through the court. I had no problem crushing groundstrokes from either wing. At times I had a bit of trouble reigning in the power but I think a stiffer, more control oriented string would have helped with the issue. The 100 inch head size made good use of Yonex’ hallmark Isometric head shape to create a huge sweet spot, providing excellent forgiveness and a stable power level on off center shots. While not as control focused as the 95 or 98 inch models, I’d still place this racquet as one of the more accurate 100 inch frames on the market. Once I had the power dialed in, I was able to target the lines and corners consistently and stay on offense consistently during points. The SV 100 also produced plenty of spin off the ground. The headlight balance and 16x19 string pattern let me whip the frame through the zone and grip the ball for additional topspin. I was able to hit with plenty of margin and then have the ball drop in right before the baseline. The easy spin was especially useful on my backhand, allowing me to put some extra air under my typically flat stroke from that side. The generous sweet spot and quick feel had me snapping winners off on the run. Defensively, the frame had enough mass to remain stable against most shots and anybody looking for more stability would have room to add a bit of weight to the hoop as desired.

Volleys & Serves
At net, the SV 100 was more than capable of holding its own. Its impressive power gave me plenty of finishing ability. I made quick work of any ball that opponents made the mistake of leaving up high when I was at the net. The manageable weight and headlight balance also helped keep the frame maneuverable. I was able to keep up during rapid fire exchanges and get the racquet quickly into position on defensive volleys. The frame was a bit less accurate on volleys compared to the smaller head sizes SV frames and the high power level had me overcook a few more volleys overall. Controlled aggression was the key for me to be able to direct volleys deep into the court and give myself the upper hand.

The SV 100 had incredible firepower at its disposal on serve. The thicker beam gave me lots of power and it was still fast enough for me to accelerate through contact. The power level was so easy to tap into that I didn’t mind the reduction in accuracy this model had. I was able to use brute force on my first serve to win free points and push opponents off the baseline. While I wasn’t able to hit spots with pinpoint accuracy, I found enough directional control to move my serve around the box and add a bit of variety. On second serves, my kick serve produced incredible movement. The ball jumped high off the court and quickly moved out of reach for returners. Slice serves had enough weight to skid through the court and I was able to use both kick and slice to yank opponents off the court and hit an aggressive first ball.

Feel/Comfort
The thick beam and stiff construction produced a very firm feel on contact with the SV 100. While the Isometric head shape widened the sweet spot, the racquet still displayed a very firm response across the string bed. I use a fair amount of variety and touch in my game so the lack of feel made me less confident when executing touch and drop shots. I didn’t have any comfort issues as the racquet was paired with a softer string. While a poly could help improve control of the power level, players with sensitive arms would want to lower their tension or use a hybrid to improve the comfort level.

Overall
Yonex VCore SV series has a excellent blend of on court attributes. The SV 100 has massive power for baseline tennis while still being an effective tool at the net. Players who can manage the stiff feel will fins outstanding power and enough spin and accuracy to hit a variety of winning shots. The new Yonex VCore SV 100 should appeal to any advanced or intermediate player who wants the power to play offense without losing the ability to hit with confidence and spin.

About the Reviewer: Matt Locke currently serves as the Junior Programs & Development Coordinator for USTA-Idaho and is an active USTA League and Tournament player.