Racquet Preview: Solinco unveils Blackout V2

Some racquet updates are addition by subtraction. The manufacturer determines that a technology or feature has overstayed its usefulness and pulling the plug will actullay improve the frame’s performance. For the second iteration of its Blackout, Solinco opted to keep the racquet’s foundation and to continue build out. The frame already had a solid base of power, but enhancements to its stability and feel would make it superior across the board.

There are two main advancements intended to better the Blackout. The first is the addition of Foam Tech Core. Racquets in the Blackout’s class—100 square-inch, thick tapered beam width—are typically hollow; as was the original version. However, the V2 has PU density foam filling the head of the frame to reduce vibrations for a more comfortable feel at impact.

It’s already a feature in the brand’s thinner-beamed, more control-oriented Whiteout franchise, but the added thickness of the Blackout created challenges. The trick was to keep the same weight and specs while accounting for the extra mass of the foam needed to fill out the beam. Ultimately, Solinco believes it gives the frame a friendlier ride than many of its competitors.

“We wanted to add that tech into the Blackout to dampen vibration and make it smoother,” says KT Kim, Director of Solinco Sports. “Generally speaking a lot of people are thinking of arm health with this type of stiffer racquet.”

The other notable addition is Arch-2 Construction. Also in the Whiteout, it’s a new architecture and carbon fiber layup that bolsters the frame’s stability and responsiveness. It keeps the racquet composed when taking big cuts, fostering greater confidence when trying to put extra sizzle on shots or confronting faster ball speeds.

The look of frame also gets a makeover, taking on a striking Tiger Camo paint job inspired by gaming skins. However, fans of the V1 should take heart that everything else returns. This includes 40T Carbon Fiber, Liquid Crystal Technology and the innovative Weight Control Module—interchangeable 5-gram and 10-gram butt-cap plates to fine-tune the racquet’s weight and balance.

“We feel it’s now a racquet that can really be used across a wide spectrum of players,” says Kim. “Beginners to pros, it can handle heavy pace under fire and is an easier, more comfortable racquet to swing.”

The initial Blackout V2 rollout hits stores on September 22 and includes three frames: 285g and 300g standard-length versions, along with a 300g extended (27.5-inch) option. All three retail for $240. Additional 245g and 265g models will be available later this year.

Check back in the coming weeks for more detailed reviews.