PRICE: $225
BALANCE: 2/5 in. head heavy
HEAD SIZE: 115 sq. in.
FLEXIBILITY: Firm
LENGTH: 27 in.
IDEAL SWING: Compact
WEIGHT: 8.6 oz.
NTRP: 2.0– 3.5

SALES PITCH:
This is the flagship and most powerful model in the Airflow family.

COMPARE TO:
N/A

HOW IT TESTED:
The Airflow 7, with its large face and ample sweet spot, is built for comfort. Thanks to Metallix (a matrix of carbon fibers and a new crystalline metal alloy) in the throat, which provides stiffness and stability, this racquet delivers power without being exceedingly head heavy. Playtesters found the Airflow 7 to be maneuverable, with minimal twisting on off-center shots. The built-in string-vibration dampener gives the racquet a forgiving feel. And the cupping effect on the ball, provided by the Flexpoint technology at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions on the frame, something all Airflows have, enhances control. The grips on the Airflows, which are thinner at the top and thicker at the bottom, are designated in sizes extra small, small, medium, and large rather than the traditional fractions (don’t worry, the racquet comes with a conversion chart). Stronger women with aggressive swings may find this Airflow too light, but when it came to the lower intermediate playtesters for whom this racquet is designed, we heard nothing but compliments.

BOTTOM LINE:
A comfortable racquet that should appeal to new women players or older ones looking for a lightweight option.