Price: $200
Head Size: 98 sq. in.
Length: 27 in.
Weight: 12.2 oz.
Flexibility: Extremely flexible
Balance: 4/5 in. head light
Ideal Swing: Long
NTRP: 4.5–7.0

SALES PITCH:
A control-oriented, highly flexible racquet for advanced tournament players.

COMPARE TO:
Völkl DNX 10

HOW IT TESTED:
In case the name of this racquet throws you, here’s the scoop: “Boris Becker” is a new brand at Völkl. The six-time Grand Slam champ has been a co-owner of the racquet company since he retired in 1999. The BB 11, which is descended from the Völkl 10 family, is a racquet that Becker himself could use, as it has all the hallmarks of a bonafide player frame. In order to hit penetrating shots, you need aggressive, technically sound strokes that put the ball in the center of the sweet spot. It has a dense, 18x20 string pattern, which aids in control but is not as helpful for spin production. (If you want to put more action on the ball, there’s a lighter version with a 16x19 pattern.) At more than 12 ounces, the BB 11 is plenty heavy, and the addition of DNX, a strong carbon-fiber material, to more parts of the head and throat than past versions gives the racquet good stability. Combine that sturdiness with a head-light balance and it’s easy to see why playtesters who like to volley trusted the BB 11 at net.

BOTTOM LINE:
The control and maneuverability make it ideal for skilled serve-and-volleyers, but you’ll need plenty of your own power to get juice off the ground.