Wilson Ultra 100 V5

Stiffness is down to 67 RA, a clear change for an Ultra: the frame flexes a little more than the previous generation and impact reaches the arm more gently, while the crisp, quick response the series is known for stays. It is aimed at intermediate players, and experienced ones, after easy access to power and spin.

Crush Zone grommets compress at impact, keeping the ball on the strings longer. The updated FortyFive makes the frame steadier and more flexible at once. The handle is full carbon. That cuts twisting when you miss the centre. 300 g on a 320 mm balance gets the frame to the ball quickly, and an open 16x19 bed across 100 sq in grips the ball readily for spin.