The Wilson Ultra Tour, launched in 2017, is a control-oriented tennis racket designed for discerning advanced players. Endorsed by professionals like Feliciano Lopez, this unique frame prioritizes feel and precision over raw power. Its low stiffness, dense string pattern, and thin beam create an exceptional connection with the ball, allowing for pinpoint accuracy and deliberate shot placement. Unlike power-focused rackets, the Ultra Tour demands a higher level of technical skill, rewarding precise technique with superior control.While the stock racket offers impressive control, its lightweight nature might require customization for optimal performance. Many players enhance stability and power through lead tape additions, while adjusting the handle weight balances the overall feel. This adaptability allows the Ultra Tour to be tailored to a wide range of player preferences and playing styles, making it a highly versatile option for the advanced player seeking ultimate control and responsiveness.
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Racket Overview: Low Power, High Control
The Wilson Ultra Tour, released in 2017, is a unique tennis racket designed for advanced players prioritizing control over raw power. Endorsed by players like Feliciano Lopez, it's characterized by its low stiffness rating, tight string pattern, and thin beam. This combination aims to deliver exceptional feel and precision.
Unlike power-focused rackets, the Ultra Tour isn't about generating massive spin or speed. Its subtle design encourages finesse and accuracy, making it appealing to players who prioritize precise shot placement over overwhelming power.
Customization for Optimal Performance
The stock Wilson Ultra Tour, while offering excellent control, is relatively lightweight. To enhance its performance, many players opt for customization. Adding lead tape to the hoop, at 3, 9, and 12 o'clock positions, can significantly improve stability and power.
Counterbalancing the added weight of lead tape with a leather grip or adding silicon/blue tack to the handle can fine-tune the racket's weight distribution to match individual preferences and playing styles. This level of customization makes the Ultra Tour highly adaptable to a wide range of players.
On-Court Performance and Feel
The reviewer found the Wilson Ultra Tour to provide exceptional control, allowing for precise shot placement and consistent accuracy. The tight string pattern contributed to a noticeably crisp feel when making contact with the ball.
While praising the control, the reviewer noted a tendency to occasionally hit the ball slightly short. This highlights the need for precise technique and suggests that a more open string pattern might suit some players.
Stringing and Similar Rackets
The review unit was strung with Luxilon Alu Power at 22 kilos, but the reviewer believes the racket would respond well to a wide array of strings, including polyester, multifilaments, and hybrids. This versatility allows players to further personalize the racket's feel and performance.
The Wilson Ultra Tour is fairly unique in its combination of features. Similar models, such as the Prince Extreme Tour 95 or Tecnifibre T-Fight 315, come close, but offer slight differences in head size and other specifications.
Conclusion: Is the Wilson Ultra Tour Right for You?
The Wilson Ultra Tour is a specialized racket targeted at advanced players who prioritize control and feel. It's not a power racket, and its lightweight nature may require customization for optimal performance. However, this customizability allows for a highly personalized playing experience.
If you're an advanced player seeking a precise, responsive racket that rewards skilled technique, the Wilson Ultra Tour is definitely worth considering. However, players who prefer more power or a less demanding learning curve should explore other options.
