Key specifications and design details of the Oxdog Ultimate Tour 2025
The reviewer highlights that the Oxdog Ultimate Tour 2025 shares much of its DNA with the Ultimate Pro, but introduces subtle changes that make it stand out as a “best buy” in the Oxdog Ultimate series. The racket is designed for intermediate to advanced players seeking a diamond-shaped racket that offers both power and playability from either side of the court.
- Weight: 365g (without cap), 368g (without cap), slightly more with the standard 8g Oxdog butt cap installed
- Balance: 26 cm with the 8g cap, 26.6–26.7 cm without the cap (medium-high, but still manageable)
- Shape: Diamond
- Core: Medium, slightly more elastic than the Pro version
- Face material: S Carbon
- Handle length: 12.5 cm (regular, allows for overgrip)
- Surface finish: Satin, not sanded but with a slight texture
Stylistically, the reviewer appreciates the classic Oxdog diamond shape and the signature heart design. The handle is comfortable even for larger hands, and the overall build quality is praised, though the satin finish can show marks more easily than other finishes.
Comparison with the Oxdog Ultimate Pro and other models
While the Ultimate Tour and Ultimate Pro are closely related, the reviewer notes a few key differences. The Ultimate Tour features a slightly more elastic core, resulting in a racket that is a bit less rigid and offers a larger sweet spot. The Pro is described as more communicative on impact and provides a touch more control, but the Tour is easier to play with, especially for intermediates seeking a forgiving racket.
The reviewer also mentions that the balance point on the Tour is a bit higher than on the Pro, making the racket feel more present in the hand—without being heavy. This subtle shift enhances power and leverage, especially on overheads and smashes.
Compared to Oxdog’s Pro Plus models, the Tour is less demanding physically and technically, making it more accessible for a wider range of players. The reviewer emphasizes that the Tour is not a “lightweight” option, but its playability makes it suitable for both left and right-side players who want a diamond-shaped racket with easy power.
On-court performance: power, control, and sweet spot
During playtesting, the reviewer found the Oxdog Ultimate Tour 2025 to be energetic and easy to use from the back of the court. The racket delivers strong ball exit (“uscita di palla”) with minimal effort, and its sweet spot is slightly larger than that of the Pro. This makes it forgiving on off-center hits and allows players to play with more relaxation and confidence.
While the Tour offers a bit less control than the Pro, the difference is not dramatic. The reviewer notes that the racket is still manageable and moves well in the hand, with the added benefit of a more generous sweet spot—especially toward the top of the face. This combination of features makes the Tour particularly appealing to intermediates who want both power and forgiveness.
One minor drawback is that the feel is not as refined as the Pro Plus models, but the Tour compensates with ease of use and a lively response on most shots.
Spin, volleys, and overheads: practical impressions
The reviewer highlights that, despite lacking the sanded finish of higher-end Oxdog models, the satin face of the Ultimate Tour offers improved spin potential compared to the Pro. The slight texture and core elasticity help generate more spin with less effort, making it easier to play aggressive topspin shots and effective slices.
On volleys, the racket is described as sincere and responsive, with ample power and a decent sense of what’s happening on contact. The reviewer would have preferred a bit more feel, but overall, the Tour performs well at the net and rewards players with solid, consistent results.
For overheads like vibora and bandeca, the Tour is generous and easy to use, providing good depth and weight on the ball without requiring excessive force. The racket’s mass and balance help on flat smashes and “smash and kick” shots, offering a satisfying blend of power and control for intermediate players. However, at very high speeds, the response can feel a bit softer, which is typical for a medium-core racket.
Who should consider the Oxdog Ultimate Tour 2025?
The reviewer is clear that the Ultimate Tour 2025 is an excellent choice for intermediate and intermediate-advanced players who want a diamond-shaped racket that is powerful yet forgiving. It is especially suitable for those who want:
- Easy ball exit and a generous sweet spot
- A racket that plays well from both the left and right sides
- A slightly head-heavy feel without excessive weight
- Good spin potential without a sanded surface
- Excellent value for money within the Oxdog range
Players seeking an extremely refined feel or a very rigid racket might prefer the Pro Plus or other high-end models. The reviewer also cautions that the Tour is not ideal for beginners or those seeking a very light racket, as its weight and balance are designed for players who already have a solid technical base.
Key strengths and weaknesses according to the reviewer
- Strengths:
- Outstanding value for money (“best buy” in the Oxdog Ultimate series)
- Easy, powerful ball exit with minimal effort
- Generous sweet spot, especially at the top of the face
- Good spin potential for a non-sanded surface
- Versatile for both left and right-side play
- Comfortable, manageable balance and mass
- Weaknesses:
- Feel is less refined than Pro Plus or other premium models
- Satin finish marks easily
- Not suitable for those seeking a very light or extremely rigid racket
- Sweet spot is medium-high, not centered in the “belly” of the racket
Alternative rackets and market comparisons
The reviewer suggests several alternatives for players considering the Ultimate Tour 2025:
- Oxdog Ultimate Pro: Slightly more control and refined feel, but less forgiving and more expensive.
- Wilson Defy LS: Offers even more power and spin, with a full fiberglass face, but the Ultimate Tour provides better feedback on impact.
- Babolat Air Viper: More powerful with a smaller sweet spot, similar maneuverability and feel.
- StarVie Power Star: Superior feel and spin, but the Ultimate Tour is easier and more generous for less experienced players.
Within the Oxdog range, the reviewer also mentions the Promete as an alternative for those seeking more feel and control.
Final verdict: a top value choice for ambitious intermediates
Summing up, the reviewer strongly recommends the Oxdog Ultimate Tour 2025 for players who want a high-performing, accessible diamond-shaped racket at a competitive price. Its blend of power, forgiveness, and playability makes it a standout option for intermediates looking to elevate their game without the demands of more technical or rigid models. The Ultimate Tour 2025 is positioned as a “best buy” in the Oxdog lineup, delivering impressive performance and versatility for its price point.
