Limited edition head rackets for top-ranked players
The channel begins by highlighting the limited edition HEAD rackets created for three world number one padel players: Arturo Coello, Ari Sánchez, and Paula Josemaría. Each racket features a unique design developed in collaboration with the players themselves, celebrating their achievements and personal styles.
Paula Josemaría’s Extreme Motion LTD stands out with an unusual color scheme and a custom icon referencing her nickname, “Dynamite.” This model is the lighter version of Coello’s racket, weighing 10 grams less but sharing the same mold and materials. The reviewer praises its maneuverability, noting that it excels in both defense and attack, especially during smashes.
Ari Sánchez’s Speed Motion LTD introduces a new logo inspired by her nickname, “Magic.” While it lacks a rough surface, the reviewer points out that it remains an agile, stiff racket with excellent control. However, it does not generate as much speed or spin as the Extreme Motion, making it less effective for aggressive attacking play.
Arturo Coello’s Extreme Pro LTD is described as the most powerful of the three. With a heavier weight and high balance, it is more challenging to handle defensively but delivers exceptional performance in attack, particularly for smashes. The reviewer notes that it demands more physical effort but rewards players with its explosive response.
Introducing head pro spin strips: concept and legality
With the purchase of any new HEAD LTD racket, players receive the innovative Pro Spin Strips—a product not yet available for individual sale. The creator explains that these strips are designed to enhance the roughness of a racket’s surface, thereby increasing the potential for spin.
There are two main types of roughness in padel rackets: relief (raised texture) and sandy (gritty, sandpaper-like finish). The Pro Spin Strips replicate the sandy type, which is generally more effective for generating spin but tends to wear out faster. The reviewer likens the feel of the strips to skateboard grip tape, emphasizing their pronounced texture.
Regarding legality, the reviewer references Daniel Windahl, a top Swedish padel player and HEAD ambassador, who has used the Pro Spin Strips in Premier Padel matches without any issues from referees. This suggests that, at least for now, the strips are considered legal in professional play.
Installation and compatibility with different rackets
The Pro Spin Strips are designed to be versatile and easy to apply. They come in various sizes to fit any racket and can be placed over existing roughness, whether sandy or relief. The reviewer offers practical advice for installation:
- Avoid placing strips over the holes to prevent breakage.
- Position strips in the sweet spot for maximum effectiveness.
During testing, the reviewer experimented with two configurations: diagonal strips for increased spin potential and rough dots between the holes for targeted grip. The diagonal strips proved significantly more effective, while the dots offered only minimal improvement and required greater precision.
The strips add a negligible 3 grams to the racket’s weight, so players are unlikely to notice any difference in handling.
On-court performance: spin, control, and shot analysis
To evaluate the Pro Spin Strips, the reviewer conducted a series of drop shots and smashes using both the standard and LTD versions of the Extreme Pro racket, with and without the strips applied. The results were clear:
- Drop shots: The extra grip from the strips was immediately noticeable, providing more consistent spin and control. The reviewer observed visible ball fuzz left on the strips after contact, indicating increased friction.
- Smashes: While the effect was less dramatic than in drop shots, the strips still enhanced spin. The reviewer noted that balls struck with the strips had more spin but slightly less speed, making them especially effective for spin-heavy shots like the x3 smash.
For flat shots, the strips were less impactful, and the reviewer found that power alone was sufficient with the standard Extreme Pro. However, for players seeking to maximize spin, especially on technical shots, the strips offered a tangible benefit.
Durability, maintenance, and long-term concerns
Durability is a common concern with sandy rough surfaces. The reviewer reports that, after initial testing, there was no noticeable wear on the Pro Spin Strips. However, longevity will ultimately depend on frequency and intensity of use. The strips are described as more prominent and seemingly more resistant than the standard sandy finishes found on most rackets.
Another practical advantage is that the strips are easy to remove and do not leave any adhesive residue, making them a convenient solution for players who wish to experiment with different configurations or replace worn strips.
Key takeaways from the reviewer’s experience with pro spin strips
- Noticeable increase in spin for drop shots and technical strokes
- Simple installation and compatibility with most rackets
- Minimal impact on racket weight (only 3 grams added)
- Legal for professional play based on current referee feedback
- Potential concerns about long-term durability remain
- Not a substitute for proper technique—the strips enhance, but do not replace, skill
Overall, the reviewer concludes that the HEAD Pro Spin Strips provide a practical, effective way to boost spin for players seeking an edge, especially on rackets lacking a sandy finish. While not a “magic” solution, they offer a valuable tool for those focused on maximizing spin and control in their game.
