Groundstrokes
Right from the start I could tell I was going to enjoy this upgraded Ezone 98. Although the specs are still similar to previous versions, I could feel a true difference in control and flex when I was hitting and it made me fall in love. The flex is a little firmer than before which gave me extra help when I needed it most. There is a great balance of power and control which allowed me to comfortably blast my shots deep into the corners and take offense right away. Compared to its predecessor, I felt there was more directional accuracy when I wanted to go for aggressive targets and put away balls. Racquet head speed felt even easier to generate and left me in winning positions on court.Volleys and Serves
I was very surprised by my net play with the new Ezone 98. With the last version of the Ezone’s, I didn’t have much success coming to net and hitting comfortable volleys. However, this updated version I found a completely different result and it reminded me of the DR version. It has great stability and flex on contact thanks to the added M40X technology in the throat. Power was easy to generate thanks to the slightly firmer flex, and it doesn’t lose out on touch or feel. The frame was never sluggish in quick exchange volleys and I always felt confident getting the upper hand on my opponent. No matter the pace of the ball hit directly at me, I felt at ease hitting volleys with this frame.Feel/Comfort
Similar to the VCore Pro line, this racquet has improved in feel and comfort. The new VDM mesh in the handle did exactly what it was advertised to do soaking up a ton of shock. Off center and frame hits were much more bearable helping me play longer without any elbow troubles. The racquet feels smoother across all areas of the string bed without any hint of buzzing or jarring. Although the flex rating is higher, players should not shy away from trying this frame out.Overall
All in all, the new Yonex Ezone 98 truly is an upgrade from its predecessors. There is improved control, flex and shock absorption making it easy for any advanced player to command the court from the baseline to the net. The unique innovative technologies improve the overall performance of the frame and will make you want to switch. Those who are die-hard fans of the buttery feeling Ezone DR 98 will love this newly updated Ezone 98.Play Tester: Chris Virk-Brown

NTRP Rating: 4.5
Plays: Right Handed, Two-Handed Backhand
Background: I started the game of tennis in 9th grade after playing basketball and baseball. Through hard work and dedication, I played four years on my varsity team at Liberty High School in Eldersburg, MD, while also playing junior tournaments whenever I could. I was fortunate enough to get recruited to play at Neumann University and play four years of Division III collegiate tennis. While at Neumann I was able to obtain my degree in Marketing and help our team advance twice to the NCAA tournament. After obtaining my undergrad degree, I was able to pursue my Master’s degree in General Management at Elmira College and coach collegiate tennis. Later I went on to coach at Cabrini University and then teach in a variety of incredible venues with Peter Burwash International. Now, in my spare time, I mostly play USTA Leagues and Tournaments to continue enjoying the game I love.
For More: