Wilson

Blade 98L V9 review

The Blade's control and feel, 28g lighter. The most accessible, arm-friendly Blade.

Racquet product shot
Highly recommended
Head 98 98 16×19 V9: 98
Weight 277g 98 16×19 V9: 305g
Pattern 16×19 98 16×19 V9: 16×19
Stiffness 60 RA 98 16×19 V9: 62 RA
Swingwt 303 98 16×19 V9: 326
Balance HL 98 16×19 V9: HL
Full specsBlade 98L V9 · Blade 98 16×19 V9 · Blade 98 18×20 V9
Blade 98L V9Blade 98 16×19 V9Blade 98 18×20 V9
Head size98 sq in98 sq in98 sq in
Weight (unstrung)277 g305 g305 g
Weight (strung)300 g330 g330 g
Swingweight303326330
Stiffness60 RA62 RA62 RA
String pattern16×1916×1918×20
BalanceHead LightHead LightHead Light
Fit check

Is it for you?

Level (NTRP)
Swing
Arm
Your match Strong fit
Strong fit. Blade precision and feel at a weight you can swing all match.

    Performance

    Blade 98L V9 Blade 98 16×19 V9

    Playtest

    Blade feel, quicker swing.
    Full notes

    The control-leaning, connected feel in a lighter, more manoeuvrable frame, with a touch more free pace. Less planted against heavy balls.

    + Pros

    • Blade control in a lighter frame
    • Easy to swing and manoeuvre
    • A touch more free pace
    • The most arm-friendly Blade

    − Cons

    • Less stable than the Blade 98
    • Less plough-through against pace
    • Advanced hitters will want more mass
    • Slightly livelier launch

    String for

    48–52 lbs 21.8–23.5 kg Soft poly, full bed, 1.25mm Pick: Babolat RPM Soft

    Recommended strings

    1. 1
      Wilson NXT Multifilament Soft and lively for sensitive arms.
      50–54 lbs 22.5–24.5 kg · 1.30mm
    2. 2
      Luxilon ALU Power Control poly Keeps the light frame from launching long.
      48–52 lbs 21.8–23.5 kg · 1.25mm
    3. 3
      Babolat RPM Soft Soft poly Poly spin and control without the harshness.
      47–51 lbs 21.4–23.2 kg · 1.25mm

    Who plays it

    Tour frames customised

    No player in our database uses this frame.

    Verdict: 8.5

    The accessible Blade: the family's control and connected feel in a lighter, faster, more arm-friendly frame. More stability: Blade 98 16×19 V9. More control: Pro Staff 97.

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    FAQ

    Is the Wilson Blade 98L good for beginners?

    It works well for improvers with a developing full swing. Complete beginners may prefer an even lighter, more powerful frame.

    Wilson Blade 98L vs Blade 98: which should I buy?

    The 98L for a lighter, faster, more arm-friendly frame. The standard Blade 98 for more stability and plough-through.

    Is the Wilson Blade 98L arm-friendly?

    Yes: it is the most arm-friendly Blade. Pair it with a soft poly or hybrid at a sensible tension.

    What string and tension is best for the Wilson Blade 98L?

    A soft poly or multifilament around 48–52 lbs. Firmer for control, shaped for spin.

    Is the Wilson Blade 98L a control or power racquet?

    Control-leaning, with a touch of accessible power.

    Who is the Wilson Blade 98L best for?

    Intermediate players who want Blade control and feel in a lighter, arm-friendly frame.