With the VCORE PRO 97 (290) Yonex has created a surgical racket that specializes in speed and precision. At 290 grams (unstrung), this is the perfect racket for the intermediate player who wants the control of a more traditional player's racket without the burden of weight. For this generation of the VCORE PRO franchise, Yonex implements an Improved Throat Design, which combines a thinner and longer shaft with a lowered throat, resulting in more torque, dwell time and spin-potential. Also new to this series is a Vibration Dampening Mesh (VDM), which is fully integrated into the handle in order to reduce unwanted vibrations for a cleaner feel at impact. Like the previous generation, this update benefits from a material technology called NAMD, which is a uniquely flexible carbon material used in strategic locations to improve feel and increase energy return to the ball. From the baseline the VCORE PRO 97 (290) offers pinpoint control and outstanding feel at impact. The extremely precise response will give you the confidence to attack the ball with your most powerful strokes, and the speedy acceleration makes it easier for you to execute shots under pressure. With its near even weight balance, this racket has plenty of mass in the head, giving it decent levels of stability, comfort and power. At net and on service returns, the 97 (290) comes around with remarkable ease but it still manages to feel solid at impact. You'll also find enough control on serve to swing for power and target the lines. Ultimately, this light version of the VCORE PRO 97 is a must demo for improving intermediates who want the needed control to attack the ball.