Yonex EZONE 98 (2017): A Deep Dive

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 35 views

Yonex EZONE 98 (2017): Unveiling a Tennis Classic

Hey tennis enthusiasts! Today, we're diving headfirst into a real gem: the Yonex EZONE 98 (2017). This racquet has a legacy, and for good reason! It's loved by club players, serious competitors, and anyone who appreciates a sweet spot that feels like a trampoline. So, let's break down everything about this iconic stick. From its playability to the technology behind it, you'll get the full scoop on why the EZONE 98 (2017) remains a favorite for so many, even years after its release.

The EZONE 98 (2017) – What Makes It Special?

First off, what makes the Yonex EZONE 98 (2017) stand out from the crowd? This racquet isn't just about power; it's a blend of power, control, and feel, all wrapped up in a sleek package. The 98 square-inch head size hits that sweet spot (pun intended!) between a forgiving larger head and the pinpoint accuracy of a smaller one. The 11.3 oz unstrung weight offers a stable feel, allowing you to drive through the ball with confidence, while the balance point further enhances maneuverability. For those who enjoy a lively string bed, the EZONE 98 (2017) offers exceptional comfort and a responsive feel that allows for excellent ball feedback. The frame's construction, incorporating Yonex's signature technologies, minimizes unwanted vibrations, leading to more comfort and, ultimately, better control. The unique head shape contributes to a larger sweet spot. This means off-center hits are far more forgiving than with many other racquets. This is a crucial element for players who want to maintain consistency throughout their matches, especially under pressure.

But the magic doesn't end there! The EZONE 98 (2017) has a distinctive feel at impact. Many players describe it as a 'plush' feel, meaning that the racquet offers a good degree of comfort and shock absorption. This makes the racquet very arm-friendly, which reduces fatigue during longer matches. Furthermore, the racquet provides excellent ball pocketing, meaning the ball stays on the strings for slightly longer, allowing for greater control and the ability to impart spin. The combination of all these features makes the EZONE 98 (2017) a versatile racquet suitable for a wide range of playing styles. Whether you're a baseline grinder, a serve-and-volley player, or an all-court attacker, this racquet offers a good balance of features to support your game. Its design is really optimized to enhance both power and control, making it perfect for players looking to elevate their game.

Technology and Design: The Science Behind the Success

Let's get a little techy, shall we? The Yonex EZONE 98 (2017) isn't just a pretty face; it’s packed with technology that makes it perform. Yonex has always been at the forefront of racquet innovation, and the EZONE series is a testament to this commitment. The core technology that sets the 2017 model apart from other racquets is its isometric head shape. This unique design is something that Yonex has been using for years, and it's a key ingredient in their racquets' success. The isometric shape squares off the top of the head, creating a larger sweet spot compared to traditional round-headed racquets. This means even off-center hits feel more solid and generate more power, boosting the racquet's forgiveness and playability. This technology is incredibly beneficial for players of all levels, helping them to maintain consistency and improve their overall performance.

Another significant technology integrated into the EZONE 98 (2017) is the HYPER-MG technology in the upper frame. This graphite material enhances frame stability and power, providing greater energy transfer to the ball. This feature gives the racquet a more solid feel and allows players to generate more power with less effort. Combined with the Micro Offset Layout technology, the string bed is designed to absorb more vibration, resulting in a cleaner feel and reduced shock on impact. This design minimizes unwanted vibrations, adding to the comfort level, particularly when hitting the ball off-center. This design element ensures a higher level of precision and feel, improving the player's control and providing a more connected feel with the ball. These technologies, working in concert, transform a good racquet into a great one.

On-Court Performance: Feel the Difference

So, how does the Yonex EZONE 98 (2017) perform on the court? Simply put, it's a pleasure to play with! The balance between power and control is really what makes this racquet stand out. The 98-square-inch head size offers a good sweet spot without sacrificing control, making it easier to hit the ball consistently. When you strike the ball in the sweet spot, the feel is incredible. It's solid, clean, and you get a satisfying 'thwack'. This feedback helps you to feel connected to the ball, giving you greater confidence in your shots. You'll find that you can generate excellent racquet head speed, allowing you to hit with more pace and spin.

The racquet's mid-plus head size and manageable weight make it versatile for all court styles. Baseline players will appreciate the power and stability when hitting groundstrokes, while those who like to come to the net will find the racquet's maneuverability helpful for quick volleys. The spin potential is also worth noting. The open string pattern (16x19) allows you to generate a significant amount of topspin, which is crucial for dictating play and keeping the ball in. It gives you the ability to hit heavy, dipping shots that are tough for your opponent to handle. This open pattern aids in getting the ball up and over the net, ensuring shots land deep in the court. The EZONE 98 (2017) provides a balanced blend of features that make it a great choice for players looking to elevate their game.

Who Should Play with the EZONE 98 (2017)?

Alright, who is this racquet perfect for? The Yonex EZONE 98 (2017) is a solid choice for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for a blend of power, control, and feel. It’s ideal for players who like to attack the ball but also want a racquet that's forgiving. If you're a player who likes to generate their own power and control the pace of the game from the baseline, then this racquet might be perfect for you. The racquet’s balance and maneuverability also make it suitable for players who enjoy coming to the net and playing aggressive serve-and-volley. This versatility makes it a great option for those who are still developing their game and want a racquet that can adapt to different playing styles.

Club players and competitive players will find the EZONE 98 (2017) to be a reliable and consistent performer. The larger sweet spot ensures that off-center hits are still effective, which is especially important during match play when fatigue sets in. The racquet's arm-friendly design makes it a good option for players who are prone to arm issues or who simply prefer a more comfortable feel. Furthermore, the racquet is well-suited for players who want to improve their spin generation. The open string pattern and responsive frame allow you to easily whip the racquet through the ball and create heavy topspin. Overall, the EZONE 98 (2017) is a well-rounded racquet that can help players of all skill levels improve their game.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

To give you a balanced view, let's look at the pros and cons of the Yonex EZONE 98 (2017):

Pros:

Excellent blend of power and control: This is the hallmark of the EZONE 98 (2017), making it versatile for many playing styles.
Large Sweet Spot: The isometric head shape provides a generous sweet spot, increasing forgiveness on off-center hits.
Comfortable Feel: The racquet's design incorporates technologies that minimize vibration, providing a comfortable feel at impact.
Good Spin Potential: The 16x19 string pattern facilitates excellent topspin generation.
Maneuverability: The weight and balance provide great racquet head speed for easy handling.

Cons:

Not the Most Powerful Racquet: While it offers good power, it might not suit players who need extreme power. It caters to a more controlled power style.
String Selection Matters: The racquet’s performance is highly dependent on string selection; players should experiment with different strings to find what suits them best.
Can Be Slightly Stiff: While generally comfortable, some players might find the frame a little stiff compared to other racquets.

Comparing the EZONE 98 (2017) to Other Racquets

When comparing the Yonex EZONE 98 (2017) to other popular racquets in its class, several key features become apparent. For instance, compared to the Babolat Pure Aero, the EZONE 98 (2017) offers more control and a softer feel. The Pure Aero is renowned for its power and spin, while the Yonex racquet provides a more balanced approach, making it more accessible to a wider range of players.

Against the Wilson Pro Staff series, the EZONE 98 (2017) often provides more forgiveness. While the Pro Staff is known for its precision and feel, it requires a more advanced technique to maximize its potential. The EZONE 98 (2017), with its larger sweet spot and forgiving nature, allows players to hit the ball more consistently and confidently. Compared to the Head Graphene 360+ Speed MP, the EZONE 98 (2017) often has a slightly more muted feel. The Speed MP is known for its responsiveness and speed, while the Yonex racquet provides a more solid and stable feel.

Ultimately, the best racquet comes down to personal preference and playing style. Players should consider their needs and what they're looking for. The EZONE 98 (2017) is a great choice for those seeking a blend of power, control, and comfort, making it a well-rounded option in a competitive market.

Conclusion: Is the EZONE 98 (2017) Still Worth It?

So, is the Yonex EZONE 98 (2017) still a relevant racquet in today's market? Absolutely! Even though it's been around for a few years, it holds its own against newer models. Its blend of power, control, and feel makes it a reliable choice for players of many levels. The racquet's reputation is built on its consistent performance, comfortable feel, and the ability to enhance a player's game. Whether you're a seasoned player or looking to improve, the EZONE 98 (2017) offers a balanced and enjoyable playing experience.

If you're in the market for a new racquet, the EZONE 98 (2017) should be at the top of your list to check out. Its ability to accommodate various playing styles and provide both power and control makes it a great investment. Remember to try it out, string it to your liking, and see if it's the perfect match for your game. Happy hitting, and enjoy the court!