Wilson

Shift 99 review

Parallel-drilled mains for a more consistent string bed. A stiff, stable 99.

Racquet product shot
Recommended
Head 99 Pro: 99
Weight 305g Pro: 320g
Pattern 16×19 Pro: 16×19
Stiffness 70 RA Pro: 72 RA
Swingwt 320 Pro: 343
Balance HL Pro: HL
Full specsShift 99 · Shift 99 Pro
Shift 99Shift 99 Pro
Head size99 sq in99 sq in
Weight (unstrung)305 g320 g
Weight (strung)330 g345 g
Swingweight320343
Stiffness70 RA72 RA
String pattern16×1916×19
BalanceHead LightHead Light
Fit check

Is it for you?

Level (NTRP)
Swing
Arm
Your match Strong fit
Strong fit. A stable, consistent string bed for an aggressive all-court game.

    Performance

    Shift 99 Shift 99 Pro

    Playtest

    Consistent, controlled.
    Full notes

    Parallel drilling gives a uniform string bed, so off-centre hits feel closer to centred ones. A controlled, slightly dipping ball that holds its line; bring the pace.

    + Pros

    • Uniform feel from parallel drilling
    • Controlled, slightly dipping ball
    • Stable for an all-court game
    • Countervail damps vibration

    − Cons

    • Stiff at ~70 RA
    • Unique feel takes adjustment
    • Rewards full swings only
    • Tell your stringer it's a Shift

    String for

    53–56 lbs 24–25.4 kg Co-poly, full bed, 1.25mm Pick: Luxilon ALU Power

    Recommended strings

    1. 1
      Luxilon ALU Power Precision poly Predictable direction from the consistent bed.
      53–57 lbs 24–25.9 kg · 1.25mm
    2. 2
      Wilson Revolve Comfort poly · Wilson pairing Adds string-level comfort to a stiff frame.
      51–55 lbs 23.1–25 kg · 1.25mm
    3. 3
      Solinco Tour Bite Spin control poly Adds topspin to a flat, powerful launch.
      52–56 lbs 23.6–25.4 kg · 1.25mm

    Who plays it

    Tour frames customised

    No player in our database uses this frame.

    Verdict: 8.2

    Wilson's engineering experiment that works: parallel string drilling gives a uniform, planted feel on a stiff, stable 99. Heavier: Shift 99 Pro. Softer: Clash 100.

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    FAQ

    Is the Wilson Shift 99 good for beginners?

    Not really. It suits intermediate-to-advanced players who generate their own pace.

    Who is the Wilson Shift 99 best for?

    Intermediate-to-advanced all-court players who want a stable frame with a consistent, distinctive feel.

    Is the Wilson Shift 99 arm-friendly?

    It is stiff at ~70 RA; Countervail helps. Use a soft co-poly at 51–54 lbs if your arm is sensitive.

    What string and tension is best for the Wilson Shift 99?

    A co-poly at 53–56 lbs. Drop to 51–54 with a soft poly for comfort; use a shaped poly for spin.

    What is parallel string drilling on the Wilson Shift?

    Every main runs parallel to the frame instead of fanning out, so the string bed responds the same across its width.

    Is the Wilson Shift 99 a control or power racquet?

    A stable, control-leaning frame on a stiff platform: you bring the pace, it keeps the response consistent.