Executive Summary
The Yonex VCORE (2026) occupies the "Spin" slot in the Yonex matrix, sitting opposite the EZONE (Power) and PERCEPT (Control). It is designed for players who generate pace through heavy topspin rather than raw flat ball-striking.
Key Characteristic: The 2026 generation delivers a meaningful update — particularly for the 98 — with a reported sweet-spot increase of ~11% versus the 2023 model. The frame feels more solid and forgiving while retaining the defined, spin-oriented response the VCORE is known for.
Key Positioning: If the EZONE gives you "free power," the VCORE gives you "free spin." It's built for modern baseliners who win points with heavy, looping groundstrokes that pull opponents off court.
Performance Profile
The VCORE 98 is the headline model of this generation. Comparing it against the 100 clarifies which frame suits your game.
Performance Comparison: VCORE 98 vs VCORE 100
VCORE 98 leads in spin and control · VCORE 100 leads in power and maneuverability
Model Comparison Guide
Three head sizes serve different player profiles. The 98 is the headline update this generation.
VCORE 95
A specialist tool for players who prioritize precision above all. Smaller head demands consistent contact but rewards with surgical placement.
VCORE 98
The standout update of the 2026 line. ~11% larger sweet spot vs 2023, improved stability, and a slightly stiffer hoop (~66 RA). Best balance of spin, control, and forgiveness.
VCORE 100
The most accessible entry point into the VCORE spin concept. More free power and forgiveness on defense — ideal for players developing their heavy topspin game.
Who Plays With This?
The VCORE line is the natural home for heavy topspin baseliners on tour. Note that tour frames are typically customized with lead tape and modified specs beneath the retail paintjob.
Ruud's entire game is built on relentless topspin from the baseline, particularly on clay. The VCORE 98 amplifies his looping forehand and gives him the spin margin to play aggressive targets safely.
Rune's aggressive, high-ball-speed baseline game needs a frame that keeps heavily struck balls in the court. The VCORE's spin response gives him the safety margin to swing freely on big points.
Hurkacz benefits from the VCORE's blend of spin and stability. His powerful, flat serve pairs with a topspin-heavy baseline game that keeps opponents pinned behind the baseline.
A reliable, high-consistency baseliner who thrives with the VCORE's forgiving spin response. The 98's improved sweet spot in the 2026 version is a direct upgrade for his repetitive ball-striking style.
Technical Must-Knows
String Setup Guide
The VCORE is highly tunable with strings. The goal is to enhance spin and comfort without losing the crisp, defined response the frame is known for. Reference range (VCORE 98): 44–58 lbs (20–26.5 kg).
Quick Start (Most Players)
- Start point (soft poly, 1.25mm, full bed): 48–51 lbs (21.5–23 kg) for the best spin + control balance.
- If the ball is flying long: Add 2 lbs next restring, or move to a slightly thicker gauge (1.27–1.30mm).
- If you want more spin: Drop 2 lbs and try a shaped poly in the mains — the extra bite amplifies the VCORE's natural movement.
- If your arm feels the stiffness: Drop 3–4 lbs, switch to a softer poly, or move to a poly/multi hybrid with multifilament crosses.
- VCORE 100 note: It's inherently more powerful; consider +1–2 lbs vs your 98 tension for a similar launch angle.
Recommended Setups by Goal
| Goal | Recommended Setup | Starting Tension | What You'll Feel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balanced | Soft poly (full bed), 1.25mm | 48–51 lbs (21.5–23 kg) | Crisp response, reliable spin, comfortable on arm |
| Max spin | Shaped poly mains (1.25mm), soft poly crosses | 46–50 lbs (21–22.5 kg) | Maximum snapback, heavy topspin loop, slight arm softness |
| More control | Firmer poly or thicker gauge (1.30mm), full bed | 52–55 lbs (23.5–25 kg) | Lower launch, confident acceleration on big swings |
| More comfort | Hybrid: poly mains + multifilament crosses | 46–50 lbs mains (21–22.5 kg) | Softer impact, better pocketing, noticeably easier on arm |
| Max durability | Thicker poly (1.30mm) full bed | 50–54 lbs (22.5–24.5 kg) | Consistent feel over time, reduced string movement |
Top 3 Recommended Strings
Best for: Players wanting maximum spin output from the VCORE's open pattern.
Octagonal profile creates aggressive string bite and fast snapback. Engineered to pair with Yonex frames — the VCORE's spin-first design amplifies this string's core strength. Soft feel despite its shape.
Best for: Advanced players (4.5+) who want firm control with heavy topspin patterns.
The tour-standard spin poly. Round profile with a co-polyester composition creates excellent slide-and-snap. The VCORE's open pattern lets the string move freely — pairs perfectly with RPM's controlled launch. Used by many VCORE-endorsed pros.
Best for: Modern baseliners who want maximum spin with an aggressive, low-launch trajectory.
Square-shaped profile creates maximum string movement and bite. The VCORE's power platform lets you swing out with confidence while Hyper-G keeps the ball in the court with a heavy, dipping arc. Note: tension loss is noticeable after 4–6 hours — cut early.
Full Specifications
| Specification | VCORE 95 | VCORE 98 | VCORE 100 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Head Size | 95 sq in | 98 sq in | 100 sq in |
| Weight (Unstrung) | 310g / 10.9oz | 305g / 10.8oz | 300g / 10.6oz |
| Length | 27 in | 27 in | 27 in |
| Balance | 310mm (11 pts HL) | 315mm (9 pts HL) | 320mm (7 pts HL) |
| String Pattern | 16×19 | 16×19 | 16×19 |
| Beam Width | 22–23–19mm | 23–24–20mm | 23–25–21mm |
| Stiffness (RA) | ~64 | ~66 | ~67–68 |
| Swingweight | ~322 | ~318–322 | ~315–318 |
| Generation | 2026 | 2026 (major update) | 2026 |