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Wilson Steam 99S - Review, Comparison and Video Playtests

Wilson Steam 99S Review - Pictures, Videos, Feedback and Video Review

 Bonus Coverage: More 2013-2014 Racket Sneak Previews
(from Babolat, Head, Wilson, etc...)

Close-up HD Pictures of 2013-2014 Rackets

Wilson 99 S

Research and Background Info on Wilson Spin Effect Technology (SET)

TW Playtesting:

ITF Testing Lab and Wilson's TV commercial:

Info on patented technology - 3000+ RPM averages with 4G Lux strings:

Tennis.com's interview with Wilson (TrackMan: Doppler Measurement of Spin)
http://www.tennis.com/gear/2012/09/gear-talk-wilsons-john-lyons-part-1/39374/#.UJdQeIWmCcY

Tennis Bargains Review of Wilson Steam 99S

Pros:

  • Lots of Spin
  • High Arch and Trajectory
  • Well Rounded Racket with Solid Defensive/Offense
  • Designed for 3.5-4.0+ players
  • For Flat hitters, racket adds safety with extra net clearance
  • Moon-ballers' dream; Ground stroke nirvana

Cons:

  • Less control in general, Open patterns typically are less precise than Closed pattern rackets
    • Steam 16x15 (open) vs Blade 18x20 (closed)
  • Must generate racket head speed for Spin to get control (requires moderate to fast swing speed)
  • Racket will break strings faster, requiring thicker gauge strings (15g or 16g)
    • Poly Luxilon 4G recommended
  • 1-Hand Backhanders' nightmare (for the opponent) :)




Tennis Bargains Score Card for Steam 99S (A-)

  • Volleys (4/5) - crisp on contact; moderate feel
  • Groundstrokes (4.5/5) - topspin, slice, side-spin (3x checks); biggest strength
  • Returns (4/5) - gets balls back; even against hard servers, the ball finds the court often
  • Overheads / Serves (4/5) - surprisingly similar to other 100 headsize (MP) rackets I've used

Summary

Wilson has a new star here. Hopefully they will branch out to include the heavier 6.1 rackets soon too. We really appreciate the opportunity to play test and hope you will get a chance to demo it soon too! For those looking for less spin but a heavier Wilson frame, take a look at the Wilson Blade 98 (18x20) - our review here.

How to Pre-Order

If you're interested in getting one on Day 1, we have been told that Tennis Topia will offer free stringing if you pre-order the new Wilson Steam 99S from them today *while supplies last*. They also have a great demo program available in the DC area.

Check out our 2014 tennis coupons and promos here


Our Next Tennis Playtest Review

Is this Nadal's next racket for next year? Check back for our preview, coming soon...