Ben Shelton's Racket: What Does He Use?

by Jhon Lennon 40 views

Alright, guys, let's dive into the burning question on every tennis fan's mind: What racket does Ben Shelton use? This young tennis sensation has been making waves on the ATP tour, and his choice of equipment is definitely a hot topic. Knowing the specifics about Ben Shelton’s racket isn't just about satisfying curiosity; it also provides insights into his playing style and preferences. For aspiring tennis players, understanding the gear used by pros like Shelton can offer valuable lessons and inspiration for their own equipment choices.

Unveiling Ben Shelton's Racket of Choice

So, what stick does Ben Shelton rely on to unleash those powerful serves and groundstrokes? Ben Shelton uses the Yonex EZONE 98. This racket is a popular choice among tour players, known for its blend of power, control, and feel. But it's not just about picking a racket off the shelf; Shelton's setup involves some customization to match his specific needs and playing style. The Yonex EZONE 98 is designed for intermediate to advanced players, offering a balance of power and control that suits a variety of playing styles. Its isometric head shape expands the sweet spot, providing more forgiveness on off-center hits, which can be crucial during high-pressure match situations. The racket's frame is constructed with high-quality graphite, enhancing its stability and responsiveness, allowing players to maintain control even when hitting with significant force.

The Yonex EZONE 98 is also engineered with technologies like Vibration Dampening Mesh (VDM) integrated within the grip to filter out unwanted vibrations, resulting in a cleaner, more comfortable feel. This technology helps reduce fatigue and improves a player's ability to stay connected to the ball, offering enhanced feedback and precision. The frame's aerodynamic design further enhances swing speed, making it easier for players to generate power and maintain control throughout their swing. Ben Shelton's expertise combined with the Yonex EZONE 98 allows optimized performance.

Key Features of the Yonex EZONE 98

  • Head Size: 98 sq. in.
  • Weight: Around 11.3 oz (unstrung)
  • Balance: 6 pts HL (Head Light)
  • Length: 27 inches
  • String Pattern: 16x19
  • Swingweight: 325

These specifications contribute to the racket's overall playability, offering a balance of maneuverability and stability. The head-light balance allows for quick racket head speed, which is essential for generating spin and power, while the dense string pattern provides enhanced control and precision. The Yonex EZONE 98 allows players to tailor their shots with precision, allowing them to dictate the pace and direction of play with confidence.

The Importance of Customization

Now, here's the deal: While Shelton endorses the Yonex EZONE 98, pro players rarely use a stock racket straight off the shelf. Customization is key to optimizing a racket for their game. This typically involves adjusting the weight, balance, and grip size to perfectly match their preferences. Pro players often add lead tape to specific areas of the racket to increase its weight and adjust the balance point. This allows them to fine-tune the racket's feel and performance, enhancing its stability and power. Grip size is another critical factor, as it affects a player's comfort and control. Using the wrong grip size can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even injuries over time.

Shelton likely works closely with Yonex to fine-tune his rackets to meet his exacting standards. The specific customizations he employs are usually kept under wraps, but it's safe to assume he's made adjustments to optimize his racket for power and stability. String choice and tension are also crucial elements of customization. Different strings offer varying levels of power, control, and spin potential, while string tension affects the racket's responsiveness and feel. Ben Shelton may experiment with different string combinations and tensions to find the perfect setup for his game. In addition to lead tape and grip adjustments, pro players may also modify the racket's handle shape and add silicone or foam to the handle to dampen vibrations and enhance comfort. These seemingly minor adjustments can have a significant impact on a player's performance, allowing them to swing with confidence and precision.

Why the Yonex EZONE 98 Suits Ben Shelton's Game

So, why is the Yonex EZONE 98 a great fit for Ben Shelton? Well, consider his playing style. Shelton is known for his explosive power, particularly his booming serve and aggressive groundstrokes. The EZONE 98 provides the stability and control needed to harness that power effectively. The racket's head size offers a generous sweet spot, providing forgiveness on off-center hits, while its relatively dense string pattern enhances control and precision. This combination allows Shelton to swing big without sacrificing accuracy.

The Yonex EZONE 98 also complements Shelton's all-court game. Whether he's dictating play from the baseline or attacking the net, the racket provides the versatility he needs to execute a variety of shots. Its maneuverability allows for quick reactions and adjustments, while its stability ensures consistent performance in high-pressure situations. The Yonex EZONE 98 allows him to maintain control over his shots, even when hitting with maximum power. Its design helps reduce frame twisting and flexing, providing a stable platform for consistent ball contact. This stability is particularly important for players like Shelton who generate a lot of racquet head speed.

Other Gear Ben Shelton Uses

Okay, we've covered the racket, but what about the rest of Ben Shelton's gear? Here's a quick rundown:

  • Strings: While the exact string setup can vary, pro players often use a hybrid string combination. This typically involves using a durable polyester string for the mains (vertical strings) and a softer synthetic gut or multifilament string for the crosses (horizontal strings). This combination provides a balance of power, control, and comfort.
  • Apparel: Ben Shelton is sponsored by Yonex, so you'll typically see him sporting Yonex apparel on the court. This includes shirts, shorts, and hats designed for performance and comfort.
  • Shoes: Asics is Ben Shelton’s shoe brand of choice, providing him with the support and stability he needs to move confidently on the court.

How to Choose the Right Racket for You

Inspired by Ben Shelton's racket choice? That's awesome! But before you rush out and buy a Yonex EZONE 98, remember that the best racket for you depends on your individual playing style, skill level, and preferences. Don't just blindly follow what the pros use; instead, take the time to find a racket that complements your game.

Here are some tips for choosing the right racket:

  1. Consider Your Skill Level: Beginners should opt for a lighter racket with a larger head size, which offers more forgiveness and a larger sweet spot. Intermediate and advanced players can consider heavier rackets with smaller head sizes for more control and precision.
  2. Think About Your Playing Style: Do you prefer to stay at the baseline and grind out points, or do you like to attack the net? A racket that suits a baseline player may not be ideal for a net rusher. Baseline players typically prefer rackets with more power and stability, while net rushers may prefer rackets with more maneuverability and control.
  3. Demo, Demo, Demo: The best way to find the right racket is to try out several different models. Most tennis shops offer demo programs that allow you to test rackets on the court before you buy. This allows you to get a feel for how each racket performs and determine which one best suits your game.
  4. Get Professional Advice: If you're unsure which racket is right for you, consult with a tennis professional or a knowledgeable sales representative at a tennis shop. They can assess your playing style and make recommendations based on your individual needs.

Final Thoughts on Ben Shelton's Racket

So, there you have it! Ben Shelton trusts the Yonex EZONE 98 to bring the heat on the court. While his specific setup is customized to his liking, the EZONE 98 provides a solid foundation for his powerful and dynamic game. Remember, finding the right racket is a personal journey, so take the time to experiment and find what works best for you. Keep an eye on Ben Shelton's career – he's definitely one to watch! And who knows, maybe his racket choice will inspire you to elevate your own game.