head prestige tour cpi 400

Head Tennis Racket Ultimate Buyer’s Guide (2024)

• Tennis EN 🇺🇸 🇬🇧

Here is the extensive Head tennis racket guide. From this guide, you will find different racket models, their characteristics, and specifications.

Note! Some of the models may not be available anymore .

Racket model reading guide : name of the racket , head size, and string pattern

For example. Head Speed Pro 100 18×20

This article contains affiliate links (these links are marked with *-symbol and I may get a commission for purchases made through these links)

Speed ⚪️ 2024

Prestige ⚫️🔴, boom ⚫️🟢 2024, best head rackets for beginners, best head rackets for intermediate players, best head rackets for advanced players, corresponding models from other racket manufacturers, where to buy head’s tennis rackets.

Speed is Head’s most popular competitive racket model. It is endorsed by the world’s top tennis players such as Novak Djokovic , Jannik Sinner , and Bianca Andreescu.

Head Speed is designed to offer players excellent control and power production. It is suitable for all-court players who are looking for a polished balance between control and power. It sits between Head’s control-focused Prestige-racket and Head’s power-focused Extreme-racket.

Head Speed has also arm-friendly models that are capable of producing spin when needed.

Head Speed comes in standard 100-square-inch head-sized models. This head size offers players a good amount of stability and power production. The Speed series also has larger head-sized models called Power or PWR which are designed for senior players.

The basic Speed models weigh 300 grams which is the standard for competitive tennis rackets. The weight of 300 grams allows the racket to be versatile offering players good maneuverability, control, and power production.

Speed also comes in slightly heavier and lighter models that are aimed at more competitive players and others for more recreational players.

Speed MP is the standard Head Speed model. It has a head size of 100 square inches and it weighs 300 grams which is the average weight of a tennis racket. Head Speed MP is constructed with classic straight beam technology which offers players excellent feedback when hitting the ball.

Head Speed MP has an open 16×19 string pattern which offers good power and spin production making it an all-around racket that performs well in every aspect of the game.

Speed MP is best suited for intermediate to advanced all-court players who are looking for a versatile and stable power-producing Head racket.

Price range: $270 / 250€

Similar models from other manufacturers:

• Wilson Blade Pro 98 16×19 v9
• Babolat Pure Stike 98 18×20 2024
• Yonex Vcore 98+ 2023

Speed Pro is the most competitive model of the Speed series. It has a closed string pattern of 18×20 which offers players more control and precision. Due to the closed string pattern, the strings have less room to move and the racket produces less spin and power.

In addition to a more closed string pattern Speed Pro is also heavier than the basic MP-model. It weighs 310 grams compared to the basic model’s 300 grams. This additional weight enhances Speed Pro’s control and stability.

Speed Pro is best suited for advanced players who are looking for a competitive Head racket with excellent stability, control, and maneuverability.

Price range: $270 / 300€

• Wilson Blade 98 18×20 v9
• Head Graphene 360+ Gravity Tour
• Prince ATS Textreme Tour 100 310

Speed MP L is the Lighter version of the basic MP model. It shares the same string pattern as the original model but it weighs 280 grams compared to the original model’s 300 grams. Due to its lightweight, it offers players more maneuverability and comfort. In addition to these improvements, Speed MP L has better power production capabilities than the standard model.

Speed MP L is best suited for beginner to intermediate players who are looking for a lighter and easier to play with Speed racket. Thanks to its lighter weight it is also suitable for older junior and women players.

• Head Boom MP 2024
• Prince Phantom 100X 290g
• Wilson Blade 104 v9
• Dunlop CX 200 OS

Speed Team Rackets

Head Speed Team rackets are more beginner-friendly models (formerly known as Speed S). They are intended for beginner to intermediate players who are looking for easier and lighter Speed models. Due to their lightweight and different (head-heavy) balance point, they offer players improved maneuverability thus making them more beginner-friendly.

Speed Team is the basic Team model from the series. It has a larger head size of 105 inches and it weighs 270 grams. Due to its larger head size and lighter weight, it is more maneuverable and comfortable than the basic Speed MP model. However, due to its lightweight, it doesn’t produce as much control as the basic MP model.

Speed Team is best suited for beginner to intermediate players who are looking for a lighter, easier version of the basic Speed model. Due to its lighter weight, it is also suitable for junior and women players.

• Head Radical Team 2023
• Babolat Pure Aero Lite 2023
• Wilson Blade 100UL v9
• Babolat Pure Strike Team 2024

Speed Team L

Speed Team L is a Lighter version of the basic Speed Team model. It weighs 265 grams compared to the original model’s 285 grams. It is the most maneuverable racket from the Speed series and due to its lightweight, it is also very arm-friendly.

Speed Team L also offers players good power production capabilities making it suitable for beginners and younger players.

Speed Team L is best suited for beginner players who are looking for a light, easy, and beginner-friendly Speed racket that offers good power production. Due to its lightweight, it is also suitable for younger junior players.

Price range: $250 / 230€

• coming soon!

Head Speed PWR Rackets

Speed PWR or Power rackets are racket models intended for senior players. They come in lightweight models with increased head size for easier maneuverability and greater comfort.

Head Speed PWR is one of Head’s most powerful and arm-friendly rackets. It is a lightweight racket weighing just 255 grams offering players great maneuverability and comfort. In addition to lighter weight, it has an oversized head size of 115 square inches offering players a bigger sweet spot and greater comfort when hitting the ball.

Head Speed PWR is best suited for senior players who are looking for a Head racket that produces effortless power and great comfort and stability.

Price range: $315 / 290€

Speed PWR L

Speed PWR L is the Lighter version of the basic Speed PWR model. It weighs 230 grams compared to the original model’s 255 grams making it extremely lightweight. Due to its lightweight, it is able to offer players excellent comfort, maneuverability, and power production.

Compared to the original PWR model the PWR L model has an increased length of 70 centimeters ( 27,7 inches) making it easier to reach difficult balls.

Speed PWR L is best suited for senior players who are looking for a very lightweight PWR racket that has increased length.

Price range: $280 / 260€

Radical is the Head’s more powerful and spin-focused model. It is widely endorsed by top tennis players such as Taylor Fritz and Diego Schwartzman.

Head Radical offers players decent control but excellent power and spin production capabilities. It performs well at redirecting hard shots thus making it an excellent choice for an aggressive player.

The standard Radical models come in 98 square-inch head-sized models. The smaller 98-inch head offers players greater control and precision compared to the basic 100-inch models. Head Radical also comes in larger 100-inch + head-sized models that are designed for beginners.

The standard Radical model weighs 300 grams which is the average weight of a tennis racket. It offers players great versatility in the form of stability and power production.

• Babolat Pure Strike Tour
• Technifibre TFight ISO
• Wilson Pro Staff 97

Radical MP is the standard Radical model. It has a smaller head size of 98 square inches and an open string pattern of 16×19. It weighs 300 grams which is the average weight of a tennis racket.

With the help of a smaller head size Radical MP is able to offer players a good amount of control and feel when hitting the ball compared to 100-inch head-sized racket models. The open 16×19 string pattern offers players good power production making Radical MP a good versatile racket that combines control and power.

Even though Head Radical MP has an open string pattern it doesn’t produce as much spin as other Head models with the same 16×19 string pattern. Players who are looking for a more spin and power-producing racket could find Head Extreme a fitting choice.

Radical MP is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for a power-producing Head racket that has good control.

Price range: $300 / 280€

• Yonex EZONE 98 (305g)
• Head Extreme MP 2022
• Dunlop CX 400 Tour

Radical Pro

Radical Pro is the most competitive racket model in the Radical series. It has the same head size as the MP model but it weighs 15 grams more (315 grams in total) and has a thinner beam. With the help of these modifications, it is able to offer players more stability and control.

Even though Radical Pro is considered to be on the heavier side of rackets it still has decent power-producing capabilities especially when redirecting harder shots.

Radical Pro is best suited for advanced players who are looking for a Head Radical model with improved control and stability.

Price range: $325 / 300€

• Dunlop Srixon CX 200
• Dunlop SX 300 Tour
• Prince Textreme Beast 98

Radical Team Rackets

Radical Team rackets are the Radical series’ more beginner-friendly rackets. They are more lightweight and they have a bigger 102-inch head size compared to the basic model’s 98-inch head. Due to lighter weight and bigger head size, they are easier to play with and produce more power.

Radical Team

Radical Team is the team series’ basic model (formerly known as Radical S). It has a bigger head size than the basic Radical model making the racket’s sweet spot bigger and more forgiving. Radical Team also weighs 280 grams compared to the original model’s 300 grams making it significantly easier to maneuver.

The bigger head size and lighter weight together make the Radical Team a little bit more power-producing than the original model but also less precise.

Radical Team is best suited for beginner to intermediate players who are looking for a lighter, more power-producing, and easier-to-maneuver Radical racket. Due to its lightweight, it is also suitable for younger junior players and women.

• Yonex EZONE 98L
• Babolat Pure Strike 103

Radical Team L

Radical Team L is the Lighter version of the original Team model. It weighs 260 grams compared to the basic model’s 280 grams. It is the lightest and most maneuverable racket in the Radical series. Radical Team L has a 102-inch head size which is capable of producing a good amount of comfort, power, and spin.

Radical Team L is best suited for beginner players who are looking for a beginner-friendly, extra-light Radical racket that produces a good amount of power. Due to its extra lightweight, it is suitable for younger junior players as well.

Prestige might be Head’s most popular model. It is endorsed by tennis professionals such as Marin Cilic and Aslan Karatsev. It has received vast recognition for its unmatched control, precision, and feel.

Prestige series rackets are designed for advanced players who are looking for control-focused heavier rackets with smaller head sizes. These rackets offer an excellent amount of control and precision for those who are skilled enough to handle them. For advanced players Prestige rackets have one of the best ball feedbacks from all other competitive tennis rackets.

Due to their small head size and greater weight, they can be rather hard to play with for inexperienced players and thus they are recommended only for those players who have solid technique and demand extreme control.

Prestige series rackets are designed to have extremely small head sizes ranging from 93 to 99 square inches. These head sizes produce a great amount of control, precision, and feel but their power production capabilities are below average.

Prestige rackets are also considerably heavier than average rackets weighing from 300 grams to 330 grams. This higher weight offers players a greater amount of stability but also makes the rackets harder to maneuver.

Prestige Tour

Prestige Tour is the second most competitive model in the Prestige Series alongside Prestige Pro. It weighs 315 grams and has a small head size of 95 square inches. With heavier weight and extra small head size, it offers excellent precision and feel.

In addition, the Prestige Tour has a thicker beam and an open 16×19 string pattern which is capable of producing a decent amount of spin and power. This is particularly useful in situations where a player needs to redirect the pace of a hard-hitting opponent.

Head Prestige Tour is suitable for ad vanced players who are lo oking for a middle-level competitive Prestige Model that offers precision and decent power production.

• Yonex VCORE 92 2023
• Yonex EZONE 98+
• Wilson Ultra Tour

Prestige Pro

Prestige Pro is the most competitive model from the Prestige series alongside Prestige Tour. It weighs 320 grams and has a small head size of 98 square inches. It offers players excellent control, precision, and feel just like the Tour model.

Prestige Pro has a more closed 18×20 string pattern which compared to Prestige Tour’s 16×19 string pattern is able to produce more control but less spin. It also has a thinner 20mm beam which further improves control, especially in harder outstretched shots.

Head Prestige Pro is best suited for advanced players who are looking for the most control-focused Prestige Model and who are capable of producing their own power.

Price range: $345 / 320€

• Wilson Blade 18×20 v8
• Prince Phantom 97P
• Prince Tour 95

Prestige MP

Prestige MP is the most player-friendly model in the Prestige series. It is a little bit lighter than other Prestige models weighing 310 grams. It has a unique string pattern of 18×19 which makes it more forgiving and easier to play with.

Prestige MP has also a larger head size of 99 square inches compared to the Prestige Tour’s 95 inches and the Prestige Pro’s 98 inches.

Prestige MP is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for a more forgiving Prestige model that is easier to play with.

• Babolat Pure Strike 18×20 3rd Gen
• Wilson Pro Staff X v14
• Yonex VCORE 100

Prestige MP L

Prestige MP L is the Lighter version of the MP model. It weighs 300 grams compared to the original model’s 310 grams. It is the lightest model in the Prestige series and therefore it offers the best maneuverability and speed.

Prestige MP L also has an open 16×19 string pattern which offers players more forgiveness, power, and spin when hitting the ball.

Prestige MP L is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for a forgiving and light Prestige model that offers great power and spin production.

• Head Graphene Touch Speed Pro
• Technifibre TF40 315 16×19
• Dunlop Srixon CX 200 Tour 18×20

Prestige Classic

Prestige Classic is a remake of a late 80s Prestige model. It is built on the basis of the old Prestige. Head Prestige Classic has an extremely small 93-inch head size and a heavy weight of 330 grams. It also has a closed string pattern of 18×20. With all these specifications it can be said that it is the most control and feel-focused racket in the Prestige series.

The idea of Prestige Classic is to offer players a collectible that they can also play with. With the extremely small head size and heavy weight, players can try out what it was like to play with Head Prestige 30 years ago. Though Prestige Classic has been produced with extra stability and power-producing improvements.

Head Prestige Classic is best suited for advanced players who are fond of the Prestige model and curious to know what it was like to play with the Prestige racket back in the late 80s.

• Babolat Pure Strike VS
• Head Prestige Tour 2023
• Dunlop CX 200 Tour 18×20

Gravity is the Head’s control and feel-focused racket series. It is endorsed by top tennis players such as Alexander Zverev and Andrey Rublev.

Head Gravity has a unique teardrop-shaped head which gives the racket a bigger sweet spot towards the tip of the racket. This helps to improve the racket’s stability and increase its spin and power production capabilities.

The teardrop shape also improves Gravity’s maneuverability making it more responsive and faster to play with.

Head Gravity comes with standard 100-inch head sizes that offer players a good amount of stability and forgiveness. There are also larger 104-inch Gravity team models that are intended for more beginner players.

Head Gravity models weigh a little bit less than standard tennis rackets. The lightest gravity model is 270 grams and the heaviest model is 315 grams.

Gravity MP is the Gravity series basic model. It has a standard head size of 100 square inches and a more closed string pattern of 16×20. It weighs 295 grams which is slightly less than an average tennis racket.

Due to a closed string pattern and lighter weight Gravity MP is able to produce a good amount of power and spin to the shots while retaining control. The racket head’s special teardrop shape makes hitting the ball also more forgiving increasing the racket’s comfort.

Gravity MP is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for a comfortable spin and power-producing Head racket with a bigger sweet spot.

Gravity MP L

Gravity MP L is the Lighter version of the MP model. It weighs 280 grams compared to the original model’s 295 grams. Due to its lighter weight, it is more arm-friendly and produces more power than the standard MP model.

Gravity MP L is best suited for beginner to intermediate players who are looking for a lighter and more arm-friendly Gravity racket that produces more power. Due to its lighter weight, it is also suitable for older junior and women players.

Gravity Tour

Gravity Tour is the second most competitive model in the Gravity series. It has a standard head size of 100 square inches but a closed string pattern of 18×20. It weighs 305 grams which is a little bit over the standard weight of a tennis racket.

Due to the more closed string pattern, Gravity Tour is able to offer players more control and precision compared to the Gravity MP model. The closed string pattern restricts the string movement which reduces power and spin production. This together with extra weight gives players more control over their shots.

Gravity Tour is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for a more control-focused Gravity racket that isn’t super heavy.

Gravity Pro

Gravity Pro is the most competitive model from the Gravity series. It has a standard head size of 100 inches but a heavy weight of 315 grams. It is the most control-focused racket in the Gravity series.

Due to a closed 18×20 string pattern and a thin 20mm beam Head Gravity Pro is able to offer players excellent ball feedback and precision. In addition to these Gravity Pro offers players one of the best levels of comfort regardless of its heavier weight.

Gravity Pro is best suited for advanced players who are looking for a heavier Gravity racket with the best control and ball feedback.

Gravity Team Rackets

Gravity Team rackets are lighter, more power-producing, and forgiving Gravity models. They have a larger head size of 104 square inches compared to the original Gravity models’ 100 square inches. This bigger head size offers players more stability and comfort.

Gravity Team

Gravity Team is the basic Team model. It has a large head size of 104 inches and a lighter weight of 285 grams. The larger head size offers players more stability and comfort while the lighter weight improves the racket’s maneuverability and arm-friendliness.

Head Gravity Team is best suited for beginner to early intermediate players who are looking for a player-friendly Gravity racket with a lighter weight and extra large head size.

Gravity Team L

Gravity Team L is the Lighter version of the basic team model. It weighs 270 grams compared to the basic model’s 285 grams. Due to this extra lightweight Gravity Team L is the lightest model in the Gravity series and it has excellent maneuverability.

Gravity Team L is best suited for beginner to early intermediate players who are looking for an extra light player-friendly Gravity racket that is stable and produces a good amount of power.

Head Extreme is the Head’s most spin and power-focused model. It is widely endorsed by tennis professionals such as Matteo Berrettini, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, and Barbora Krejcikova.

Head Extreme is intended to offer players a great amount of spin and power and therefore it is suitable for big-hitting players. It is close to Wilson’s Blade model and the Tour model shares some similar characteristics with the blade.

Head Extreme comes in 90, 100, and 105 square-inch models.

Head Extreme models weigh from 265 grams to 305 grams.

Head Extreme MP is the basic Extreme model. It has a standard head size of 100 square inches and it weighs 300 grams. It has an open string pattern of 16×19 which allows good string movement for spin and power production.

Head Extreme is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for a Head racket that produces a great amount of spin and power.

• Head Radical MP 2023
• Wilson Blade 98 16×19
• Babolat Pure Strike 16×19
• Technifibre ISO 300

Extreme MP L

Head Extreme MP L is the Lighter version of the MP model. It weighs 285 grams compared to the basic model’s 300 grams. Due to its lighter weight, it has improved maneuverability making it more player friendly.

Extreme MP L is best suited for beginner to intermediate players looking for an easier player-friendly Extreme MP model. Thanks to its lighter weight it is also suitable for older junior players and women.

Extreme Tour

Head Extreme Tour is the most competitive model from the Extreme series and closest to Wilson Blade. It has a smaller head size of 98 square inches and it weighs 305 grams which is identical to Blade’s specifications.

The smaller 98-inch head size and open 16×19 string pattern offer players an excellent amount of spin and good control.

Extreme Tour is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for the most control-focused and competitive Extreme model.

• Yonex Vcore 98 2023
• Dunlop CX 200
• Wilson Ultra Pro 18×20 v4

Extreme Team Rackets

Head Extreme Rackets are lighter more power-producing models in the Extreme series. They come in standard 100-inch head sizes and extra large 105-inch head sizes.

Due to lighter weight and larger head sizes Extreme Team rackets offer players a more user-friendly experience to the Extreme series.

Extreme Team

Head Extreme Team is the standard Team model. It weighs 275 grams and it has a standard 100 square inch head size. Due to its lighter weight, it has better maneuverability and power production than the basic Extreme models.

Head Extreme Team is best suited for beginner to intermediate players who are looking for an Extreme model with improved maneuverability and power production. Due to its lighter weight, it is also suitable for older junior and women players.

Extreme Team L

Extreme Team L is the Light version of the basic Team model. It weighs 265 grams compared to the basic model’s 275 grams. It also has an extra large frame size of 105 square inches making the racket forgiving and power-producing.

Head Extreme Team L is best suited for beginner players looking for an extra light power-producing Extreme racket with a large head size. Due to its lightweight, it is also suited for younger junior players.

Price range: $225 / 210€

Head Boom is Head’s newest power and spin-focused model. It is endorsed by top tennis players such as Coco Gauff and Lorenzo Musetti. Boom is similar to the Extreme model but the priority is on power production rather than spin production.

In addition to power and spin production, Head Boom is designed to be a fast, arm-friendly racket with good stability.

Head Boom comes in 98, 100, and 102 square-inch models.

Head Boom models weigh from 260 grams to 310 grams and are a bit lighter than other Head models.

Head Boom MP is the standard Boom model. It has a standard head size of 100 square inches and weighs 295 grams, a little less than the average tennis racket. It has an open string pattern of 16×19 which offers players a good amount of power and spin production capabilities.

Due to its lighter weight, Head Boom can be considered a little more agile than the average 100-square-inch competitive racket.

Head Boom is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for an agile Head racket that prioritizes power and spin production.

Boom MP L is the Lighter version of the MP model. It has the same head size but it weighs 270 grams compared to the standard model’s 295 grams. Due to its lighter weight, it offers players more maneuverability and comfort than the standard model. However, because of the lighter weight, it is not as stable as the standard model.

Head Boom MP L is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for a more maneuverable and comfortable Boom MP model. Due to its lighter weight, it is also suitable for junior players.

Price range: $260 / 230€

Head Boom Pro is the most competitive model from the Boom series. It has a smaller head size of 98 square inches and it weighs 310 grams which is a little bit more than an average tennis racket. It has an open power and spin-producing string pattern of 16×19 just like in the other Boom models.

Due to its heavier weight, Boom Pro is the most control-focused racket in the Boom series. Together with a smaller head size and extra weight Boom can offer players extra stability and precision.

Head Boom Pro is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for the most control-focused racket in the Boom series.

Price range: $270 / 280€

• Wilson Blade 98 18×20
• Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Midplus
• Prince ATS Textreme Tour 95
• Babolat Pure Strike 100 16×20 2024

Boom Team Rackets

Head Boom Team rackets are lighter and more power-producing versions of the standard Boom models. They come in larger 102 and 107 square inch head size models.

Due to their lighter weight and larger head size Boom Team rackets are easier to play with and offer players a more user-friendly approach to the Boom series.

Boom Team is the standard Team model. It has a head size of 102 inches and a lighter weight of 275 grams. The larger head size and lighter weight together offer players more stability and maneuverability.

Head Boom Team is best suited for beginner to intermediate players who are looking for a lighter and easier Boom racket with power-producing capabilities. Due to its lighter weight, it is also suitable for older junior and women players.

Boom Team L

Boom Team L is the Lighter version of the standard Team model. It has an extra large 107 square inch head and it weighs 260 grams. Due to this lightweight and extra-large head size, it is the most forgiving and power-producing Boom racket. In addition to these Boom Team L is considered to have the best maneuverability in the Boom series.

Boom Team L is best suited for beginner players who are looking for an easy, forgiving Boom racket with good power-producing capabilities. Due to its lighter weight, it is also suitable for younger junior and senior players.

Head’s Junior Rackets

Head also offers Junior players a wide variety of rackets. These junior rackets are lighter and easier to play with versions of the adult rackets. Head’s junior rackets come in various sizes and you’ll find a size guide at the end of this chapter.

Here is a list of juniors and kids rackets:

Competitive rackets

• Speed Junior 25, 26 –> more power-producing competitive racket
• Junior Radical 25, 26 –> more precise and spin-producing competitive racket
• Gravity Junior 25, 26 –> more control-focused competitive racket
• Extreme Junior 25, 26 –> more spin-focused competitive racket
• Boom Junior 26 –> more comfort-focused competitive racket

Note! Competitive junior players can also play with Head’s lighter racket models that have the Team tag in the racket’s name.

Recreational rackets

• Junior Radical
• IG Gravity Junior
• Novak Junior
• Coco Junior

Racket size guide

Best Head Rackets for Junior Players

Head recreational rackets.

Recreational tennis rackets are aimed at casual and beginner players who play every now and then. They are a good affordable way to play tennis but the features in the rackets are limited to casual play due to the racket’s lighter materials.

List of Head’s Recreational Rackets

• HEAD MX Attitude Elite Tennis Racquet
• HEAD MX Attitude Comp Tennis Racquet
• HEAD MX Attitude Suprm Tennis Racquet
• HEAD Spark TOUR Tennis Racquet
• HEAD Spark PRO Tennis Racquet
• HEAD Spark ELITE Tennis Racquet
• HEAD Challenge MP Tennis Racquet
• HEAD Challenge PRO Tennis Racquet
• HEAD Challenge LITE Tennis Racquet

Gravity MP, MP L, Team

• Excellent all-around racket that offers great stability and forgiveness.
• Good power and spin-producing comfortable racket

Speed MP L, Team

• Power-producing racket with good maneuverability

Gravity MP, MP L

• Good power and spin-producing racket

Price range:  $280 / 260€

Speed MP, MP L

• Excellent all-around racket with good power production and maneuverability

Speed MP, Pro

Radical mp, pro.

• Aggressive racket with good power and spin-producing capabilities

Extreme MP, Tour

• Aggressive racket with excellent spin-producing capabilities.

Best Head Rackets for Senior Players

Speed pwr, pwr l.

• Excellent arm-friendly all-around racket with large head size and good power-production

Price range:  $315 / 290€

• TennisPro.eu
• TennisPoint
• TennisPoint UK*

What are Head MP Models

– Head MP models are the standard models of each racket series.

What are Head Team Models?

– Head Team Models are lighter and larger head-sized models of the Head rackets. Due to the larger frame and lighter weight, they produce more power.

Wilson Tennis Racket Guide

Babolat Tennis Racket Guide

How to Choose a Tennis Racket?

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• head graphene 360 prestige tour racket review

Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Tour Racket Review

Oh, the classic Prestige - one of Head’s oldest racket lines, and a fairly legendary racket.

This range recently got Head’s latest update, with Graphene 360+ technology, and we took the chance to playtest the Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Tour.

This racket is a world away from the traditional Prestige that many people associate with Marat Safin, but it does retain some of the great virtues of control and precision, whilst offering much more friendly maneuverability.

Custom Fittings

Discover your perfect racket and string combo!

At 305g unstrung, and with a 99 sq inch frame, this stick is much easier to play with than the Prestige Mid, opening it up to a wide variety of players.

As always with a Prestige racket, you’re in for plenty of control and feel, but with modern maneuverability that really allows you to swing through the ball.

We were big fans of the old version of this racket , but hopefully, the Graphene 360+ technology would add that extra bit of stability, and turn this racket into a serious threat.

Looking at the specs, you can see Prestige Tour is going to be competing with rackets like the Wilson Blade 98 and Babolat Pure Strike , so it does have some stiff competition.

To make it stand out though, Head has opted for a slightly unusual 18 x 19 string pattern, which should fall somewhere in the middle of a normal 16 x 19 and 18 x 20.

We took the Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Tour out with a string setup of Head Sonic Pro at 52lbs.

This string setup should suit the control-oriented nature of the Prestige and allow us to swing through with plenty of confidence.

Groundstrokes

8.5 out of 10

The new Prestige Tour might look very modern, but it still has some of that classic control and feel these rackets are known for.

When you combine this control with a racket that swings extremely fast, you’ve got a recipe for some big strokes.

If there’s one complaint I would have it’s that this racket does lack a little bit of stability if I compare it to the Pure Strike, but otherwise, I think you have a very good racket.

The 18 x 19 string pattern leans towards control, but it still manages to give you a bit of pop and some reasonable spin potential.

This was particularly useful on my backhand side, where I don’t get as much action on the ball, and I was really pleased with how I was able to keep hitting deep and stop my opponent from attacking.

This set me up nicely to get play onto my forehand side, where I was able to make the most of the control and precision of the Prestige by really attacking the ball.

I always picture Prestige rackets in the hands of aggressive players, and I do think those are the kinds of players this Prestige Tour is best suited to.

At 305g it’s light enough to work for younger players as well as older players, and the easy maneuverability really allows you to attack the ball.

Although I enjoyed playing on the front foot, the Head Prestige Tour doesn’t let you down when you’re scrambling around on defense either.

You’ve got to hit through the ball to keep it deep, but it encourages you to do this with its easy playability.

We were impressed with the Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Tour from the back of the court.

It’s much easier to play with than traditional Prestige rackets, meaning more people can enjoy the precision and control of this stick.

We gave it an 8.5 out of 10 from the back of the court.

If you’re someone who spends a lot of time at the net and you want a racket around the 305g weight, then you can’t go too wrong with the Head Prestige Tour .

The blend of maneuverability, control, and precision works really well at the net and allows you to feel comfortable, even on the most difficult volleys.

I generally like to volley with something a little bit heavier than this stick, but it’s hard to find negatives given it’s a 305g racket.

It could possibly benefit from a little bit more stability, but other than that, it’s got everything you need.

The feel on this racket is so soft, which allows you to play the most delicate shots with real confidence.

When you’re forced to play those difficult pick up volleys you can guide the ball back into court, giving you a platform to start attacking from.

Of the Prestige range, I would probably say the Tour is the most groundstrokes oriented racket, but it still does a very good job at the net.

Whether you come to the net infrequently, or you love to get there as quickly as possible, this racket has all the tools you need to volley well.

We gave the Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Tour an 8.5 out of 10 at the net.

8 out of 10

The serve is an area where I find the Prestige can lack a little bit of pop.

It seems you need to have a very good action, and plenty of power to be able to get the most out of this stick on serve.

However, if there is one Prestige racket that’s slightly easier to serve with then it’s the Tour.

The main reason for this is the fact that the Prestige Tour is that little bit lighter, so it’s easier to get some racket head speed to produce the power you need.

With the heavier Mid racket, it always feels like you’re laboring to get the racket moving, but you don’t have the same problems with the Tour.

This allows you to get your technique right, and although it isn’t the most spin or power friendly racket, there is enough to be found to turn your serve into a threat.

I particularly enjoyed the control aspect of this racket, allowing me to get good precision, particularly when I was hitting my slice serve out wide.

I find it’s easy to get too much slice on this and the ball ends up doing nothing, but the balance of the Prestige Tour felt just right for me.

All in all, I thought the Graphene 360+ Prestige Tour did pretty well on the serve and I gave it an 8 out of 10.

Based on the rest of the playtest, I was pretty sure the Prestige Tour would offer a good package for returning.

It’s got the speed, control, and precision that I enjoy when taking on the return, and I used it to good effect.

It’s another area where I could have perhaps used a touch more stability, but other than that, I really liked what I got with this stick.

It’s especially nice on second serves, where you’ve got a little bit more time and can take big aggressive swings at the ball but it served me pretty well on first serve returns too.

Control is the first thing I look for when it comes to returning – that last thing you want is to be pinging the ball long every time.

Luckily, when it comes to 305g rackets, there are few options that offer better control than the Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Tour.

We gave this stick another great score of 8.5 for the return.

The big question with updated rackets is always is better than the previous version.

I always find the answer is normally – yes it’s slightly better. In general, good rackets remain good and not so good rackets remain not so good.

That’s exactly the case with the Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Tour.

The Graphene 360+ technology makes this racket a little bit more arm friendly, but other than that, it’s really more of the same and that’s a good thing.

We love the idea of a 305g racket that offers classic control, feel, and precision and that’s what the Prestige Tour does.

It’s fast through the swing, which allows you to swing through with lots of confidence and really go after your shots.

It excels from the back of the court, but it’s extremely comfortable at the net as well, so it’s ideal for players who have an all-round game.

I think the main thing is it opens the Prestige up to players who love control and precision, but don’t want a heavy, more cumbersome racket, and that makes it a very nice option.

We gave the Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Tour an 8.5 out of 10.

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Sep 14, 2023 • Boom Head

Head Boom MP Tennis Racket Review

So, you want to know all about the Head Boom MP? From the family of frames endorsed by US sensation Coco Gauff and the classy Italian, Lorenzo Musetti? The celeste and black color frame makes the Boom line stand out, but does its performance match the cosmetic? With an ever…

Aug 31, 2023 • Babolat Dunlop Head Prince Wilson Yonex

Men’s vs Women’s Tennis Rackets: What’s the Difference?

Is there really a difference between men’s and women’s rackets? This is a commonly asked question that doesn’t have a very clear answer. Whilst there aren’t specific rackets that are designed for men or women tennis players, there are some trends in both the men’s and women’s games that make…

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Head Graphene 360+ Prestige Tour

Posted by RacquetQuest

When we do the testing and “number taking” for our demo racquets, we try to think as the consumer may think and include comments that may help the consumer make the best decision.

We do not want to make these posts so dull that you go to sleep, but data is essential, so we are going to include it…so stay awake!

Data is particularly relevant to the Prestige Series from Head.

This review is for the Prestige Tour, and it points to the differences between Prestige racquets that may go unnoticed or misunderstood.

The Prestige Tour is a 99 (645 cm²)square inch racquet with an 18 x 19 string pattern. If you have read the post on the  Prestige MP , you may wonder, what’s the difference?

You may notice that the Prestige Tour has one (1) fewer cross string.  Not a big deal . You may see that the Prestige Tour has one (1) square inch larger head size. Also,  not a big deal.  What you may not notice is the Prestige Tour has an in-plane stiffness of 400, and the Prestige MP has an in-plane stiffness of 359.  That is a big deal!  Even with a bigger head and fewer strings, the Prestige Tour has a higher string bed stiffness than the Prestige MP. The higher the in-plane stiffness, the less the racquet will “bend” during impact.

The Prestige Tour is more stiff overall (62 v 58) than the Prestige MP, and the 21.5mm beam contributes to that stiffness.

So, take a look at the numbers for this racquet to see if you can find other exciting differences!

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Posted on January 21, 2020, in 360+ , Accuracy , Customization! , Demo , Distortion , head , Inspiration , Kinesiology , Patterns , PEEK , Racquet Demo , String , String Patterns , Technology , Tips . Bookmark the permalink . Leave a comment .

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Head Prestige MP (2021) Tennis Racquet

11226 Gold Express Drive #208 Gold River CA 95670 United States

2381 Fair Oaks Boulevard Suite 7 Sacramento CA 95825 United States

DESCRIPTION

The upgraded PRESTIGE MP TENNIS RACQUET is made for aggressive players seeking precision and control.

You can play attacking tennis, while still enjoying precision and control, with the PRESTIGE MP, which has a larger head and sweetspot. Previously known as the PRESTIGE TOUR, the PRESTIGE MP has a new and highly distinctive see-through carbon element, which is slightly different every time, giving your racquet its unique appearance. As part of a design update that is inspired by PRESTIGE frames from the 1980s, the PRESTIGE MP also has a translucent Bordeaux color that adds to the premium aesthetic. • For attacking players • Ultimate precision and control • Sensational feel • Fresh, premium design • Distinctive, see-through carbon element

WEIGHT (UNSTRUNG):310 g / 10.9 oz

STRING PATTERN:18/19

HEAD SIZE:640 cm² / 99 in²

GRIP SIZE:1-5

BALANCE:320 mm / 1 in HL

LENGTH:685 mm / 27.0 in

BEAM:21,5mm

We are open: 12:00-18:00 Monday-Friday, 12:00-17:00 Saturday-Sunday at 5277 Av Du Parc!

Free shipping in Canada on orders over $150*

( $250 in the contiguous U.S.)

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Head Prestige MP 400 Tennis Racquet Unstrung

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• Backordered, shipping soon

The upgraded PRESTIGE MP TENNIS RACQUET is made for aggressive players seeking precision and control.

You can play attacking tennis, while still enjoying precision and control, with the PRESTIGE MP, which has a larger head and sweetspot. Previously known as the PRESTIGE TOUR, the PRESTIGE MP has a new and highly distinctive see-through carbon element, which is slightly different every time, giving your racquet its unique appearance. As part of a design update that is inspired by PRESTIGE frames from the 1980s, the PRESTIGE MP also has a translucent Bordeaux color that adds to the premium aesthetic. • For attacking players • Ultimate precision and control • Sensational feel • Fresh, premium design • Distinctive, see-through carbon element

WEIGHT (UNSTRUNG):310 g / 10.9 oz

STRING PATTERN:18/19

HEAD SIZE:640 cm² / 99 in²

BALANCE:320 mm / 1 in HL

LENGTH:685 mm / 27.0 in

BEAM:21,5mm

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HEAD Graphene 360+ Extreme Racquets Preview

HEAD has now revealed their new Extreme racquets and I am working on my review. But first: a HEAD Graphene 360+ Extreme Preview.

The HEAD Extreme series has always been focused on helping the player generate more topspin. It’s endorsed by players such as Matteo Berrettini  and Jan-Lennard Struff .  The HEAD Graphene 360+ Extreme racquets introduce spiralfibers for a softer, more comfortable feel. The spiralfibers have improved the feel of the Prestige and Speed racquets, so I was very curious about this update.

There are six racquets in the new HEAD Graphene 360+ Extreme line of racquets. The new addition is the Tour which comes in at a 98 sq inch head size and another update is that the Pro has a denser string pattern than the MP.

Check out the marketing photos on the HEAD Tennis Official Instagram account

Specs and tech

The new HEAD Extreme racquets are all about spin! The technologies in the racquet are mainly centered on aerodynamics and string movement, two areas that will help produce racquet head speed and spin.

You can see the tech included in the pic below such as Spin Shaft, Spin Pattern, Spin Grommets, and Power Grommets.

HEAD Graphene 360+ Extreme Pro

(Unstrung specs)

Head size: 100 sq inches / 645 sq cm Weight: 315g / 11.1 oz Balance: 315 mm / 7 pts HL Beam: 23/26/21 mm Length: 68.5 cm / 27 inches String pattern: Tight 16×19 Stiffness : Medium Stiff Power level: CPI 400 (HEAD power scale) – relatively high

HEAD Graphene 360+ Extreme Tour

Head size: 98 sq inches / 630 sq cm Weight: 305g / 10.8 oz Balance: 315 mm / 7 pts HL Beam: 22/23/21 mm Length: 68.5 cm / 27 inches String pattern: Tight 16×19 Stiffness : Medium Stiff Power level: CPI 500 (HEAD power scale) – relatively high

HEAD Graphene 360+ Extreme MP

Head size: 100 sq inches / 645 sq cm Weight: 300g / 10.6 oz Balance: 325 mm / 5 pts HL Beam: 23/26/21 mm Length: 68.5 cm / 27 inches String pattern: Open 16×19 Stiffness : Stiff Power level: CPI 600 (HEAD power scale) – high

HEAD Graphene 360+ Extreme MP Lite

Head size: 100 sq inches / 645 sq cm Weight: 285g / 10.1 oz Balance: 325 mm / 5 pts HL Beam: 23/26/21 mm Length: 68.5 cm / 27 inches String pattern: Open 16×19 Stiffness : Stiff Power level: CPI 700 (HEAD power scale) – high

HEAD Graphene 360+ Extreme S

Head size: 105 sq inches / 680 sq cm Weight: 275g / 9.7 oz Balance: 340 mm / even Beam: 23/26/22 mm Length: 68.5 cm / 27 inches String pattern: Open 16×19 Stiffness : Stiff Power level: CPI 800 (HEAD power scale) – high

HEAD Graphene 360+ Extreme Lite

Head size: 105 sq inches / 680 sq cm Weight: 265g / 9.3 oz Balance: 345 mm / even Beam: 23/26/22 mm Length: 68.5 cm / 27 inches String pattern: Open 16×19 Stiffness : Stiff Power level: CPI 900 (HEAD power scale) – high

First impressions – Review coming soon

(Video goes live on July 16, 8 pm CET) I am working on my first impressions video that should be published shortly. I have mainly hit with the Tour and Pro and so far my feeling is positive. The racquets are more comfortable and controlled than the predecessor, which I definitely appreciate. I also find the Tour to be a great addition for players who want to combine the spin and power of the Extreme racquets with the more controlled response of a 98 sq inch head size racquet with a tighter 16×19 string pattern.

Release dates of the new HEAD Graphene 360+ Extreme racquets:

Japan: launch 22/07

USA (and rest of the world except Europe): launch 30/07

EU:  launch 20/08

The HEAD power scale

More to come shortly! What do you think of the design?

Jonas Eriksson

Jonas has been known as "tennis nerd" mainly for his obsessing about racquets and gear. Plays this beautiful sport almost every day.

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Power vs control racquets, you may also like, head gravity tour 98, karolina muchova’s racquet – player profile, new tecnifibre tf40 (2024), adv backpack v2 review, wilson rf pro or pro staff rf 97..., racquet advice, the best tennis racquets in 2024, new head extreme 2024, tennis brand sponsorships among the top 200 rankings, choosing the best tennis grip for your playing....

Hey I had the chance to hit with the extreme tour foe while, Solid racket for aggressive baseliner, also serving felt good. It is not stable enough for net play.

Do you know if the pro version will de released in the USA? So far only the tour is available out of the heavier versions. Many thanks

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Head Prestige MP 2023 Racket

Select Your Country to View Pricing

Head Tour Racket Bag M Black

1 rackets plus Head Tour Racket Bag M Black is 246,80 €.

Savings: 15,00 €

Head softens the feel of the Prestige MP for 2023

Head adds another chapter to the Prestige MP ! Like the previous generation, the Prestige MP combines an 18x19 string pattern with a classic 21.5 mm box beam and a slightly more forgiving 639 cm 2 . Although it is under 340 grams (strung), this update feels wonderfully solid, which bodes well for those who want a traditional player's racket without the bulk. For 2023, Head lowers the RA stiffness to give this racket a softer more classic feel. Head has also lowered the swingweight, making it easier for the player to scramble on defence, whip up spin or react quickly at net. The main technology is Auxetic 2 , a uniquely flexible material in the yoke and handle to optimise feel. The MP also benefits from Graphene 360+ (labeled Graphene Inside), which strengthens the frame in key locations to increase power and stability. Ultimately, the Prestige MP is an outstanding option for intermediate and advanced players who solid feeling player's racket with outstanding control and feel.

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Head Prestige MP 400 2021

Estimated delivery between Monday 16 September - Monday 23 September .

he upgraded PRESTIGE MP TENNIS RACQUET is made for aggressive players seeking precision and control.

You can play attacking tennis, while still enjoying precision and control, with the PRESTIGE MP, which has a larger head and sweetspot. Previously known as the PRESTIGE TOUR, the PRESTIGE MP has a new and highly distinctive see-through carbon element, which is slightly different every time, giving your racquet its unique appearance. As part of a design update that is inspired by PRESTIGE frames from the 1980s, the PRESTIGE MP also has a translucent Bordeaux color that adds to the premium aesthetic. • For attacking players • Ultimate precision and control • Sensational feel • Fresh, premium design • Distinctive, see-through carbon element

WEIGHT (UNSTRUNG):310 g / 10.9 oz

STRING PATTERN:18/19

HEAD SIZE:640 cm² / 99 in²

GRIP SIZE:1-5

BALANCE:320 mm / 1 in

HLLENGTH:685 mm / 27.0 in

BEAM:21,5mm

• 4 1/4 - $199.00

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Kursk incursion deals blow to Putin’s prestige marking first ground invasion of Russia since World War II

The 1,000 square kilometers Ukraine says it controls in Russia's Kursk Oblast amounts to a tiny share of Russia’s massive terrain. Yet, politically, the surprise Ukrainian move poses one of the biggest challenges to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s grip on power.

The stunning operation , conducted by Ukraine’s Armed Forces, amounts to the first ground invasion by a foreign power of Russian territory since World War II.

It also appears to be the most severe blow for the Kremlin since warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin's insurrection in June 2023.

"It has caused significant damage to Putin's prestige,” Russian political analyst Dmitry Oreshkin told the Kyiv Independent.

The Ukrainian operation in Kursk Oblast comes as Kyiv continues to relentlessly conduct long-range air strikes on Russian military airfields, oil refineries, and ammunition depots in Russia and occupied parts of Ukraine.

The Kremlin's setback in Kursk Oblast resembles Moscow’s withdrawal from parts of Kharkiv and Kherson oblasts in 2022, when Putin had to mobilize conscripts to hold the line.

Since Russia lacked troops to repel the Ukrainian incursion in Kursk Oblast, the likelihood of a second mobilization is increasing, analysts say. Putin has postponed conscription due to risks of potential domestic instability caused by an apparent decrease in the number of people willing to fight in Ukraine.

At the same time, the Kremlin is facing a backlash from pro-war hawks, who believe Russia's leadership has failed to protect the border and created a military system that’s unable to properly wage the war.

The Kursk operation may also weaken the West's fears of escalating the war since the ground invasion of Russian territory did not lead to any dramatic consequences like a nuclear war or a conflict with NATO. The nuclear saber rattling, used occasionally by the Kremlin, disappeared altogether as Ukrainian troops, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky, took control of 74 Russian settlements.

Read also: Kursk incursion and Crimea strikes could ease pressure on Ukraine’s Donbas forces

Scale of the problem

Ukraine launched its incursion into Kursk Oblast on Aug. 6.

Although Russian volunteers fighting for Ukraine had previously conducted small-scale raids into Bryansk, Belgorod, and Kursk oblasts, the ongoing operation in Kursk Oblast is the first significant ground invasion of Russian territory by a foreign power since the last world war.

This time, the incursion is being carried out directly by the Ukrainian army, not by a small number of Russian volunteers under Ukrainian control.

Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said on Aug. 12 that Ukrainian troops controlled about 1,000 square kilometers of Russian territory in Kursk Oblast, while Zelensky said the next day that Ukraine holds 74 settlements.

Alexei Smirnov, acting governor of Kursk Oblast, said on Aug. 12 that Ukrainian forces had pushed 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) into his region across a 40-kilometer (25-mile) front and currently control 28 Russian settlements.

Smirnov also said that 121,000 people had been evacuated or left Kursk Oblast on their own. The authorities are planning to evacuate 180,000 people from the region, he added.

Residents of the region have recorded videos saying that the authorities had not helped them to evacuate and called on Putin to interfere.

Some 11,000 residents of a nearby district in Russia's Belgorod Oblast have also left their homes, Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said on Aug. 13.

Putin’s prestige

Oreshkin says that since the start of the full-scale invasion, the Kremlin was trying to spread the message that Russia is “invincible and stronger than everyone," but this idea has been dealt a major blow.

"It's clear that things aren't going as well for Putin as he's trying to present it," Oreshkin said.

"When he started the ‘special military operation,’ he thought it would be fast and painless and would bring fame. It has turned out to be lengthy, bloody and hopeless," Oreshkin added.

A political analyst based in Russia told the Kyiv Independent that Ukraine's control of Russian territory is a "very sensitive issue" for Putin, who "took it very hard." The analyst spoke on condition of anonymity due to fear of reprisals from state authorities.

He thinks the Kursk incursion will not have any major domestic political consequences for Russia. Still, Putin will likely have to send significant reserves to the region to offset the blow to his reputation, he added.

Meanwhile, state propaganda is downplaying the Kursk incursion and trying to minimize the damage to the Kremlin's prestige, Oreshkin said.

He added that the Kremlin had decided to block the YouTube video hosting service and the Signal messaging app to crack down on alternative sources of information competing with state propaganda.

Putin's propaganda machine appears to be at least partially effective in keeping the population inert and apathetic.

Russian political analyst Andrei Kolesnikov argued that "the majority of the population is distanced from the war, and their attitude towards the Kursk (incursion) may be the same as towards (Ukrainian attacks on) Belgorod."

"These events are unlikely to have a fundamental impact on attitudes towards Putin at this point," he said. "However, it's too early to draw conclusions – there have been no surveys or focus groups yet."

Read also: Kursk Oblast incursion would be ‘less necessary’ if Kyiv could strike deep in Russia with Western arms, Kyiv says

Destabilization?

Speculation is rife on whether the Kursk operation will destabilize the political situation in Russia.

Putin himself said on Aug. 13 that "the enemy will keep trying to destabilize the situation in the border zone in order to destabilize the domestic political situation in our country."

“Russia has long been in a situation where anything can cause destabilization in an unpredictable way,” Russian political analyst Georgy Satarov told the Kyiv Independent.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin has faced a backlash from the most hawkish and imperialist part of the population – pro-war bloggers.

They have criticized Russia's leadership for failing to prepare for the Ukrainian operation and have fueled a panic mood similar to that during Russia's withdrawal from parts of Kharkiv and Kherson oblasts in 2022.

Pro-war blogger Roman Alyokhin said on Telegram that he "just couldn’t believe what was happening" when he found out about the Ukrainian incursion.

"I thought that all this was just a series of mistakes that would be quickly corrected," he said. "But after the speech by the Chief of the General Staff (Valery Gerasimov), I became convinced that these are no longer just mistakes.... It reminds me of the series of lies about Kherson and Izium (in Kharkiv Oblast).”

Another pro-war propagandist, Yury Podolyaka, was also furious.

"How did it happen that after two and a half years, a full-fledged defensive line was not created in the Kursk border area?" he wrote on Telegram. "Doesn’t anyone question why everything is like this? Maybe it’s time to change something in our usual system, where ‘everything seems to be fine’ – at least that’s what they say on TV, but in reality, it’s not so great, to put it mildly."

While Russia's hawks are unhappy with the Kremlin's blunders during the Kursk incursion, another part of the population is increasingly frustrated with the war itself.

One of Russia's wealthiest tycoons, Oleg Deripaska, called for an unconditional ceasefire in an Aug. 8 interview with Nikkei and said Russia's war against Ukraine was "mad."

According to a survey published by Russian pollster Levada Center on Aug. 8, 58% of the respondents supported starting peace talks with Ukraine, and 34% were in favor of continuing the war.

However, the Levada Center also said that 75% of those polled supported the war, and 17% were against it. Although Levada is seen as independent from the Kremlin, its polls have been questioned due to alleged distortions caused by respondents' fear of the authorities that have been actively persecuting those who oppose the country’s war against Ukraine.

Outside of Russia, the ongoing incursion may have an even more dramatic effect.

As things stand, the offensive weakened the West's fears that attacks on Russian territory with the use of Western arms could lead to an escalation. Russia has repeatedly threatened to use nuclear weapons or to attack NATO territory if "red lines" were crossed, but the threats have failed to materialize.

"It's become clear that talk of red lines is nonsense," Oreshkin said. "This is important for the West's position."

The political analyst currently based in Russia also said that the Kursk operation would have "consequences in the West" because "the West will be persuaded once again that the Kremlin's red lines are fake."

The Kursk incursion has already drawn praise from some Western politicians, including top members of the Republican Party.

Visiting Kyiv, U.S. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham on Aug. 12 called the Kursk operation "brilliant," "bold," and "beautiful."

"Give them weapons they need to win the war they can’t afford to lose," Graham said following a meeting with Zelensky in Kyiv.

Meanwhile, the U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters on Aug. 12 that Putin should "just get the hell out of Ukraine" if he is worried about the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast.

Russian independent observers now add that Ukraine's control of part of Kursk Oblast could be used as a bargaining chip in potential peace talks.

Putin said in June that, as a condition for peace negotiations, Ukrainian troops must leave the country’s Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts. He added that Ukraine must recognize Russia's illegal annexation of those regions and abandon any ambition to join NATO.

"Now, this sounds hollow," Oreshkin said.

Long-term prospects

Despite all the upsides of the Kursk operation for Ukraine, a lot depends on whether it continues for a long time.

"The impact of the Ukrainian operation in Kursk Oblast on the political situation in Russia and on Putin's image will depend on how long it lasts, how actively it develops, and what its successes will be," Russian columnist Sergei Parkhomenko told the Kyiv Independent.

"So far, it has been going on for a very short time and has not had a significant impact beyond Kursk Oblast itself and two adjacent areas... For now, the scale is insufficient for serious consequences," he added.

Parkhomenko and Oreshkin said that serious political decisions like full-blown mobilization that risks a public backlash are only possible if the operation is long-lasting.

"(Additional forced mobilization) is possible if it lasts for months," Oreshkin said. "But if Ukrainian forces are pushed out soon, there will be no need to carry out a mobilization."

The analyst based in Russia said that mobilization is not highly likely, but the possibility of mobilization is increasing due to the Kursk operation.

"If it happens, the second mobilization will be harsher than the first because all those who were easy to mobilize have already been drafted," he said. "And since people don't want to serve in the army, the authorities will likely close the border."

Read also: How Ukraine’s Kursk incursion threw Russia’s top propagandists into crisis

We’ve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent .

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Out In The Open And On The Move In Russia’s Kursk Oblast, Ukrainian Forces Are Vulnerable—And Losing Lots Of Armored Vehicles

But the losses might be worth it, if Ukraine can seize and hold a big portion of Kursk.

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A Ukrainian gunner with the 45th Artillery Brigade.

Eleven days in their invasion of Russia’s Kursk Oblast, Ukrainian troops firmly control 200 square miles of Kursk—and contest an additional 350 square miles.

But the galloping advance has cost the Ukrainian invasion corps—made up of around a half-dozen brigades and a few independent battalions plus supporting units—a significant number of precious armored vehicles plus potentially scores of troops.

Russian forces have lost only a few vehicles but their bewildered infantry have surrendered to the attacking Ukrainians by the dozen.

The ratio of equipment losses—heavy Ukrainian write-offs compared to relatively few Russian write-offs—is unusual. On average throughout Russia’s 29-month wider war on Ukraine, the Russians have lost many more vehicles than the Ukrainians.

Whether the high losses are worth it to the general staff in Kyiv depends on the invasion’s objectives—and whether the loss ratio flips as the Kursk campaign develops.

On an average day in the 905-day wider war, the Russian military loses nearly four tanks and nearly eight infantry vehicles, according to a running tally by the analysts at Oryx. The Ukrainian military loses just one tank and three infantry vehicles on an average day.

Ukraine’s invasion of Kursk has not been average. Rolling across the border through gaps in Russian defenses on Aug. 6, Ukrainian forces restored maneuver to a war that, for many months, has been static: both sides fighting from trenches and struggling to advance more than a few hundred yards at a time.

But the Ukrainian maneuvers have exposed their tanks and infantry vehicles to Russian drones, artillery and ambushes . In the first nine days of the invasion, the Ukrainians lost four tanks and 41 infantry vehicles, according to one Oryx analyst. The losses have included a rare British-made Challenger 2 tank and several American-supplied Stryker fighting vehicles.

The attrition of infantry vehicles—including tracked fighting vehicles and wheeled personnel carriers—has been especially acute for the Ukrainian armed forces. They’re losing these valuable vehicles at almost double the normal rate. And where the average loss rate is for the entire 700-mile front of the wider war, those losses in Kursk are occurring along a 50-mile front.

The loss of so much valuable equipment may not worry Ukrainian planners—provided, of course, the strategic gains of the Kursk campaign justify the material cost.

If Jack Watling, an analyst for the Royal United Services Institute in London is correct in his assessment, Ukraine wants Kursk Oblast as a bargaining chip. As a bargaining chip, the oblast might be worth—so far—a few dozen armored vehicles.

“Politically, the purpose of the operation is to build leverage ahead of possible negotiations,” Watling wrote in The Guardian . “If Donald Trump wins the U.S. presidency in November, the threat of withdrawing military-technical assistance is likely to force Kyiv to negotiate. The Ukrainian government wants to make sure that if it has to enter that process, it has things that Russia wants to trade for concessions.”

“The Ukrainian military, therefore, must take and hold a sizeable chunk of Russian land for the duration of potential negotiations,” Watling stressed.

It’s also possible that, as the pace of Ukrainian advance inevitably slows, the loss ratio flips. “There is a limit to how far this force can push before it overextends, meaning it will need to dig in soon if the Ukrainians are to hold the ground until negotiations,” Watling explained.

“The best-case scenario for Ukraine is that its units dig in and Russia—feeling compelled to retake the ground—suffers inordinate losses in trying to push the Ukrainians back.”

In that sense, the fighting in Kursk could begin to look more like the fighting along the front line in Ukraine, where poorly-trained Russian troops suffer heavy losses trying—and usually failing—to defeat entrenched Ukrainians.

For now, however, the Ukrainians are out in the open and on the move in Kursk. That makes them vulnerable—and prone to lose many more vehicles than they normally do.

1. Deep State: https://deepstatemap.live/#10/51.1504940/35.4171753

2. Oryx: https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-equipment.html; https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-ukrainian.html

3. Naalsio: https://x.com/naalsio26/status/1823520515543155060

4. Jack Watling: https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/aug/17/ukraine-offensive-russia-political-logic-but-high-risk-strategy

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