Length: 27.75 in.
Weight: 8.9 oz.
Ideal Swing - Short: Yes
Ideal Swing - Medium: No
Ideal Swing - Long: No
Maneuverability: Medium
Control: Medium
Power: High
Comfort: Low
Trying to please everybody is a tough job, but the folks at Yonex appear to be working overtime to do it. Case in point: The MP-5i comes in three versions, each tailored toward a specific style of play. With plenty of pop, the oversize is a good pick for baseline retrievers and senior doubles players who like a lightweight, head-heavy racquet. The mid-plus? Aggressive intermediate baseliners will appreciate this frame's blend of power and control off the ground. The only downside: Some players said it was cumbersome on shoulder-height groundies, perhaps because of the head-heavy balance. And the "hitters specs" -- a beefier, head-light frame with a small sweet spot -- is designed for high-level hitters like Martina Hingis, who's using this baby as we speak. "You've got to crack the ball to get pace, but control was awesome," said a 4.5 tester.
BOTTOM LINE
Three versions for three decidedly different types of players.