As a lifelong Babolat player who recently transitioned to the Yonex Vcore 100, I’ve always been open to trying out new rackets. The Head Boom Pro has been on my radar for a while now, largely due to its rave reviews and some of my tennis buddies swearing by it. So I just had to do a Head Boom Pro review myself.
With a tennis journey that started at the tender age of 6, a history dotted with numerous tournaments, and years of experience as a tennis coach, I believe I can provide you with a comprehensive and unbiased review of the Head Boom Pro. Let’s dive in and dissect this popular racket.
A.             Short Summary
- The Head Boom Pro tennis racket, endorsed by professional players like Coco Gauff and Lorenzo Musetti, is designed for a wide range of players, making it suitable for both seasoned players and novices.
- This racket offers an impressive blend of control, precision, and power. It has a high launch angle for effective topspin and ensures commendable shot speed, which can significantly enhance a player’s game.
- Despite being slightly heavier than some other rackets, which may cause slight fatigue in some players, the Head Boom Pro provides excellent stability during play. Its high-quality design and performance capabilities make it worth the investment, despite its higher price tag.
I.                Head Boom Pro Review: Specs
| Model | Head Size | Length | Strung Weight | Balance | Swingweight | Stiffness | Beam Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head Boom Pro | 98 in² | 27in | 11.6oz / 329g | 12.79in / 32.49cm | 325 | 66 | 22.5mm / 22.5mm / 22mm |
When choosing a racket, understanding its specifications is critical. These details significantly influence your performance on the court. Let’s look at some of the key specs of the Head Boom Pro.
The Head Boom Pro features a head size of 98 square inches. This mid-plus size provides a good balance between control and power. At 27 inches, the racket’s length is standard, offering the maneuverability required for a versatile playing style.
The strung weight of the racket is 11.6oz (or 329g), which categorizes it as a medium weight racket. Such rackets offer a balance between stability and maneuverability, making them suitable for a wide range of players.
The balance point of the Head Boom Pro is at 12.79in (or 32.49cm), placing it in the slightly head-light category. This attribute gives the racket good maneuverability without compromising on stability during impact.
With a swing weight of 325, the racket provides enough momentum for good plow-through, helping in imparting power and spin to the shots. The racket’s stiffness rating is 66, indicating a moderately stiff frame. This level of stiffness provides a balance between power and comfort.
Finally, the racket’s beam width, which is 22.5mm/22.5mm/22mm, contributes to its power, control, and overall stability.
In summary, the Head Boom Pro offers a well-rounded combination of specs, making it a versatile choice for many players. For a more in-depth analysis of these specifications, visit my detailed post on the Head Boom Pro specs.
II.              Head Boom Pro Review: String Tension
| Racket | Rec. String Tension | String Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Head Boom Pro | 22-26 kg / 48-57 lbs | 16/19 |
String tension is a crucial aspect of racket setup as it significantly impacts your shot’s power, control, and feel. The Head Boom Pro comes with a recommended string tension of 22-26 kg or 48-57 lbs, which provides a decent range to customize according to your game style.
At the lower end of the tension spectrum (22 kg or 48 lbs), the racket will provide more power and a deeper trampoline effect. This lower tension setup can be beneficial for players seeking to add more power to their game, especially if they have a slower swing speed.
Mid-range tensions will offer a balanced blend of power, control, and comfort. This is a suitable setup for most recreational and club level players who desire an all-around performance from their racket.
It’s essential to note that while it’s okay to string below the manufacturer’s recommended tension, stringing at a higher tension than recommended is not advisable. Doing so can increase the risk of frame damage and may also lead to a harsh, uncomfortable feel.
Moreover, the Head Boom Pro’s 16/19 string pattern allows for a good amount of spin potential while maintaining a pleasing level of control and durability.
Remember, the best string tension is largely dependent on personal preference, playing style, and physical strength. For a more comprehensive guide on finding the ideal string tension for your Head Boom Pro, check out our detailed post on Head Boom Pro string tension.
III.            Playability and Performance
| Racket Model | Cross-Court Forehand in | Down-The-Line-Forehand In | Total Forehand In | Cross-Court Backhand in | Down-The-Line-Backhand In | Total Backhand In | Avg Shot Speed kmh | Avg Shot Speed mph | Shots Beyond Service Box |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head Boom Pro | 87% | 83% | 81% | 77% | 94% | 90% | 77 | 48 | 67% |
When I put the Head Boom Pro to the test on the court, the racket’s performance data, captured by the Swing Vision app, was quite enlightening. This information can help you understand how the racket performs in terms of forehand and backhand precision, as well as shot speed. So, here is the heart of this Head Boom Pro review:
Looking at the forehand, the Cross-Court Forehand In rate was 87%, while the Down-The-Line Forehand In rate was 83%, bringing the Total Forehand In rate to 81%. These statistics indicate that the Head Boom Pro offers impressive accuracy and control on forehand shots, allowing for a high degree of precision whether you’re aiming cross-court or down the line.
On the backhand side, the racket maintained a good level of control with a 77% Cross-Court Backhand In rate. What stood out was the Down-The-Line Backhand In rate, which hit a remarkable 94%, making the Total Backhand In rate 90%. This suggests that the Head Boom Pro is particularly adept at down-the-line backhand shots, offering excellent accuracy and control.
The Head Boom Pro also proved itself in terms of shot speed. The average shot speed clocked in at 77 km/h (or 48 mph). This speed is quite respectable and implies that the racket can support an aggressive style of play without sacrificing control.
Lastly, 67% of the shots ended up beyond the service box, showcasing the racket’s ability to generate deep and penetrating shots.
In summary, the Head Boom Pro offers an impressive combination of feel, precision, and control, making it a versatile racket suitable for various styles of play. Although there are faster rackets out there, the Head Boom Pro holds its ground in offering a balanced performance that will surely appeal to many players.
1.             Personal Anecdote from my Playtests:
While on the court, I felt an incredible sense of power and precision with each swing of the Head Boom Pro. The sensation of striking the ball was akin to conducting a symphony with a perfectly tuned instrument. There was a definitive, almost euphoric sense that I was sending the ball whizzing through the air at speeds that would make a professional tennis player envious.
With these impressions still vivid in my memory, I eagerly returned home to corroborate my feelings with the cold, hard facts from the Swing Vision app. As I navigated the data, however, an unexpected revelation hit me harder than any of my perceived thunderous shots. My doubles partner, quietly efficient as always, had managed to outpace my serves with a deceptively effortless 10 km/h speed advantage.
It was a humorous realization, akin to a race car driver proudly flooring the accelerator, only to discover later that their family minivan-driving competitor had been quietly coasting along at a faster pace. It’s a humbling lesson in the deceptive power of quiet efficiency and a testament to the Head Boom Pro’s capacity to suit a wide array of player styles.
And so, albeit with a chuckle and a touch more humility, it’s back to the court for more practice with my trusty Head Boom Pro. This time, I’ll remember that raw power can often take a backseat to consistent, controlled pace.
IV.            Head Boom Pro Review: Pros and Cons
Based on my playtesting sessions and years of experience in the tennis field, I have compiled a more comprehensive list of pros and cons for the Head Boom Pro tennis racket:
Pros:
- Exceptional Touch, Power, and Precision: Hitting the ball in the sweet spot of the Head Boom Pro racket felt nothing short of incredible. The racket seemed to synergize with my strokes, producing fantastic power and precision. The overall touch, power, and precision of the racket were truly a delight and could enhance the effectiveness of your shots.
- Comfort and Feel: The overall feel of the racket was another notable positive aspect. It was comfortable to handle and made the playing experience very enjoyable. The racket seemed to naturally fit in my hand and became an extension of my arm, providing a seamless playing experience.
- Impressive Spin Potential: The Head Boom Pro has a definite advantage in the spin department. I was able to generate a satisfying amount of spin on my groundstrokes and second serves. This added spin can be a potent tool in your arsenal, helping you keep your opponents off-balance and create unique shot patterns.
- Effective Serving Racket: With the Head Boom Pro in my hands, my serves felt impactful. I was able to serve some serious bombs with both first and second serves. The high bounce on the second serve kick could prove to be a challenging return for your opponents, giving you an upper hand during your service games.
Cons:
- Potential for Fatigue: Despite the numerous positives, one issue that I encountered was the onset of fatigue after around 45 minutes of rigorous play. This resulted in some unclean shots and decreased performance. If you’re planning on playing for longer durations, or if you’re prone to fatigue, this could be a significant point to consider.
- Volley Performance: The one stroke where I had a mixed feeling was during volleys. Despite putting in a good amount of effort with my legs and arms, the response of the racket during volleys felt a bit off. If volleys form a crucial part of your game, you might want to take this point into account.
- Pricing: The Head Boom Pro carries a substantial price tag of $269. While it’s clear that the racquet’s quality, innovation, and features are top-tier, the cost might make budget-conscious tennis players pause. However, for those who are willing to invest in a performance-enhancing piece of equipment, the price could be well justified. For the most current pricing and availability, check the official Head homepage.
In summary, the Head Boom Pro has an impressive array of strengths but also a few aspects that might need consideration depending on your specific playing style and physical stamina.
Who is the Head Boom Pro for?
Here are two players, that the Boom Pro is a really good choice for:
- Maria, the Competitive Amateur: Maria has been playing tennis at a competitive level in her local league for several years now. She has a strong and powerful playing style but struggles with precision in her shots. The Head Boom Pro, with its unique balance of power and control, can elevate Maria’s game to new levels. However, Maria should also keep in mind that the Head Boom Pro requires a good level of physical stamina to use for prolonged periods. Given her experience and regular training, she might find the extra effort worthwhile for the advantage she gains in precision and speed.
- John, the Aspiring Junior Professional: At 16 years old, John is a promising young tennis player aiming to transition into professional tournaments. He needs a racket that can match his aggressive baseline play and deliver fast, accurate serves. The Head Boom Pro fits this requirement perfectly with its advanced technology designed for speed and accuracy. But as a growing athlete, John needs to be cautious. Even though he is in peak physical condition, the demanding nature of the Head Boom Pro could be challenging over longer matches. Nonetheless, if he can master it, the racket could be a significant stepping stone in his professional career.
V.             Head Boom Pro Review: Boom Pro vs Radical MP
Recently, I also had the privilege to playtest the Head Radical MP, another esteemed racket in the Head lineup. The review of the Radical MP is coming soon, but I believe it’s helpful to provide a brief comparison between these two rackets based on my initial impressions.
In terms of feel, the Head Boom Pro seemed to have an upper hand. It provided a more solid sensation, which, coupled with its impressive power and precision, made for a gratifying playing experience. This solid feel extended to all strokes, lending a sense of consistency to my game.
A notable difference came in the form of the launch angle. The Head Boom Pro produced a more suitable launch angle for my heavy topspin style of play. The higher launch angle not only assisted in adding depth to my shots but also facilitated my topspin strokes, making them more effective.
In contrast, the Head Radical MP had a noticeably lower launch angle. While this might appeal to players with a flatter hitting style, it wasn’t quite suitable for my game. The low launch angle didn’t provide the depth I usually seek in my groundstrokes, which affected the overall effectiveness of my shots.
Furthermore, I felt that I had to put in more effort to hit a clean ball with the Radical MP compared to the Boom Pro. This added effort could potentially affect the quality of play during longer matches.
Certainly, it’s essential to mention the suitability of these rackets for different styles of play. The Head Boom Pro, with its higher launch angle and inherent power, complements topspin players perfectly. Its design and specs allow players to generate heavy spin, adding dimension and tactical variety to their game.
On the other hand, the Head Radical MP, with its lower launch angle, seems more suitable for players who prefer flatter shots and love to counterpunch. Its lower launch angle facilitates precision and control, vital attributes for players who thrive on responding aggressively to their opponent’s power. Thus, depending on your style of play, each of these rackets could prove to be a valuable addition to your tennis gear.
In conclusion, while both rackets have their unique strengths and can cater to different playing styles, I found the Head Boom Pro to be more suited to my game, offering a more solid feel, suitable launch angle, and effortless contact with the ball. Stay tuned for my upcoming in-depth review of the Head Radical MP for a more comprehensive comparison.
VI.            Who uses Head Boom?
In this section, we’re highlighting the professional players who currently endorse the Head Boom Pro. Since this racket is relatively new to the market, only a handful of players are associated with it. These include the youthful talents Coco Gauff and Lorenzo Musetti, who have achieved impressive results with this racket in their hands.
B. Coco Gauff:
Biggest Achievements: Gauff’s breakthrough came in 2019 when she, as a qualifier, reached the fourth round of Wimbledon, defeating Venus Williams in the first round. Since then, Gauff has clinched two WTA singles titles and two WTA doubles titles. She also made it to the quarterfinals of the French Open in 2021.
Playstyle Characteristics: Gauff is renowned for her aggressive baseline play, fortified by potent groundstrokes and an effective serve. Her impressive court coverage and defensive skills also set her apart.
C. Lorenzo Musetti:
Biggest Achievements: Musetti first gained international acclaim when he clinched the 2019 Australian Open Boys’ Singles title. In 2020, he advanced to the third round of the Italian Open, defeating former top 5 players Stan Wawrinka and Kei Nishikori. In 2021, Musetti reached his first ATP final at the Eastbourne International.
Playstyle Characteristics: Musetti, an all-court player, is known for his outstanding shot-making skills, particularly his one-handed backhand. He also commands a strong serve and is comfortable at the net.
Please keep in mind that while these players have been associated with the Head Boom racket, the specific model they use may be customized to their personal preferences. Therefore, it may not reflect the exact characteristics of the retail version of the racket. This highlights the versatility of the Head Boom Pro, which can be tailored to suit a variety of playing styles and levels.
VII.          Conclusion
The Head Boom Pro stands out as a versatile and robust tennis racket suited to a wide array of player styles. Its exceptional blend of control, precision, and power makes it a desirable tool for both seasoned and novice players.
With its higher launch angle, impressive spin potential, and commendable shot speed, it suits aggressive topspin players. Its moderate stiffness, coupled with a slightly head-light balance, ensures an enjoyable and comfortable playing experience.
While a higher price tag and potential for fatigue may give some players pause, its overall performance and capabilities offer compelling reasons to consider this investment. Supported by professional players like Coco Gauff and Lorenzo Musetti, the Head Boom Pro is indeed a promising choice for those seeking to enhance their game and add a versatile tool to their tennis arsenal.
So, with the Head Boom Pro review, you have all the info you need to make the right decision for your tennis racket!
VIII.        FAQ Section
Q1: Who is the Head Boom Pro tennis racket best suited for?
A: The Head Boom Pro tennis racket is versatile and suitable for a wide variety of players. It’s an excellent choice for both seasoned players and novices who are keen to improve their game.
Q2: What are the main benefits of the Head Boom Pro?
A: The Head Boom Pro offers an impressive blend of control, precision, and power, higher launch angle for effective topspin, and commendable shot speed. It is balanced to give an enjoyable playing experience.
Q3: Does the Head Boom Pro cause fatigue?
A: Some users have reported slight fatigue due to the racket’s weight. However, it also provides a good amount of stability, which can make up for the weight.
Q4: Is the Head Boom Pro endorsed by any professional tennis players?
A: Yes, professional players like Coco Gauff and Lorenzo Musetti endorse the Head Boom Pro.
Q5: Is the Head Boom Pro worth its higher price tag?
A: The Head Boom Pro’s price reflects its high-quality design and performance capabilities. While it is more expensive than some rackets, many players find its benefits and performance justify the investment.