Best Racquets for Intermediate Players of 2021
We've selected racquets for improving to strong intermediate players who a want a racquet that's easy to use but also leaves room for growth. (Updated November 2021)
Finding the right racquet for your game is important to optimize your game, minimize risk for injury and allow yourself to fully enjoy being on court. The racquets on our list are designed to be versatile and work well as your game improves.
Best Racquets for Intermediates
| Our Picks | Performance Highlights |
| Spin Power |
|
| Babolat Pure Drive | Power Spin |
| Wilson Blade 98 16x19 v7 | Spin Control |
| Head Radical MP 2021 | Control Feel |
| Yonex EZONE 98 | Comfort Controllable power |
| Yonex VCORE 100 | Spin Power |
| Wilson Clash 100 | Power Comfort |
| Tecnifibre TFight 300 RS | Stability Feel |
Babolat Pure Aero
Bottom line: Endorsed by Rafael Nadal, this racquet was built for the tornadic and angular mechanics of the modern game. Players looking to hit spin-loaded balls that drop hard and explode off the court will love how fast this stick whips through contact. Although it is weighted for intermediate players, the Pure Aero transcends ability level, making it as good for the dedicated beginner as it is for the wily veteran in the market for speed and spin.
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Babolat Pure Drive
Ability level: Intermediate to advanced
Bottom line: Launched in 2000, the Pure Drive is one of the most popular and versatile racquets ever made. This racquet delivers an easy learning curve to virtually any player who is looking to swing big and load the ball with pace and spin. Although it has inspired an army of clones, the Pure Drive is the undisputed king when it comes to light power frames.
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Wilson Blade 16x19 v7
Bottom line: A modern take on control the Blade 98 is spin-friendly thanks to its easy maneuverability and grippy 16x19 stringbed. Players looking to attack the ball with full swings will get the most out of this racquet. For comfort and power this stick pairs well with a multifilament or natural gut string. To maximize spin and control try the Blade 98 with your favorite co-poly string.
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Head Radical MP 2021
Why it's the best: Another racquet with a long history, the Radical MP gets a bit of a bigger update. For 2021, Head gives this racquet a lower flex rating for a more arm-friendly feel. Head also increases the static weight and swingweight for the Radical MP, which translated into more stability. Built for control and feel, this racquet doesn't skimp on power either, making it a well-rounded pick for the intermediate and stronger player.
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Yonex EZONE 98
Bottom line: Although this racquet doesn’t have the ultra plush feel of a heavy player’s racquet, it offers impressive comfort for a lighter racquet. In addition to a large sweetspot, what separates the EZONE 98 from the competition is its user-friendly blend of speed, spin and power. Rising intermediates looking for the pop of a modern player’s racquet minus the stiff feel should give this stick a test drive.
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Yonex VCORE 100
Bottom line: If you're looking for awesome power and spin, the VCORE 100 is definitely worth a long look. Offering similar levels of spin to the Pure Aero, the VCORE 100 offers a different feel and more dampening at contact. Our playtesters found this racquet to be a versatile option that would suit a wide range of players.
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Wilson Clash 100
Bottom line: The Clash 100's easy acceleration will enable you to take aggressive cuts at the ball when going for extra pace and spin. You'll also find it easy to scramble on defense or crank winners on the run. This racquet has one of the most arm-friendly flex points on the market. As a result it has better pocketing, control and touch than a typical modern player's racquet.
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Tecnifibre TFight 300 RS
Bottom line: The Tecnifibre TFight 300 RS strikes the right balance between stability and mobility. It has a manageable weight for improving intermediate players and balances power and control for all-around performance on the court. Players looking to advance their game with a racquet that offers a blend of features and comfort should check it out.
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How We Pick
Wonder how we choose best gear recommendations? We gather from our playtesters' firsthand experiences reviewing and playing with all the tennis gear. We form our lists based on their reviews and feedback. You can find all of our product reviews here.