Wilson Shift V1 Tennis Racket Review
We tried out the first release version of the Wilson Shift 99 V1 tennis racket to see where this new addition stands
The brand new Wilson Shift V1 tennis racket has been specifically designed to offer an ideal blend of spin and controllable power.
Where to buy: www.wilson.com
Whenever Wilson releases a new tennis racket franchise, it’s worth taking note, and the new Shift line which was released in the summer of 2023 is no different.
In this article, we’re going to bring you everything you need to know about the Wilson Shift. We’re going to cover the key things to know about this impressive racket and also reveal our experience with having used and tested it recently.
So, with the introductions out of the way, it’s time to begin our review of the Wilson Shift V1.
(Photo: The Sport Review)
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Wilson Shift 99 V1 – Things To Know
As mentioned above, the Wilson Shift line was official launched in July 2023. The new rackets are designed to provide players with the ideal weapon for creating spin and power together.
At the time of writing, there are three different rackets in the Wilson Shift line: The Shift 99 Pro V1, the Shift 99 V1, and the Shift 99L V1.
The main difference between the three different versions is the weight of the rackets. The Pro version is the heaviest (315g unstrung), with the Shift 99 V1 in the middle (300 unstrung) and the Shift 99L the lightest version (285g unstrung).
For the purposes of this review, we’re going to be focusing on the version we tried out, the Wilson Shift 99 V1. For more information on the other two models, you can check out the Shift section on the official Wilson website.
(Photo: The Sport Review)
The Shift line was originally developed within Wilson Labs, the company’s storied innovation arm, and it underwent testing and development with athletes and customers worldwide before being released and finalised this year.
During the development, the sweet spot of the racket was lifted upwards to sit higher in the frame. This was achieved by altering the balance point in the racket to increase the string weight.
So, is the Wilson Shift a good option for you. Simply put, if you’re looking for a good blend of spin and power as part of your game, then it could be an excellent choice.
It’s a great options particularly for players looking for a racket that’s been specifically engineered to produce amazing spin without compromising on power.
(Photo: The Sport Review)
One of the key features of the Shift V1 is the string pattern and bending profile. The racket has been designed to be laterally flexible to help produce both spin and power.
The new Shift also includes Wilson’s new patent-pending ARC 3D frame technology, designed to specifically optimise lateral bending without losing any torsional stability.
Wilson Shift 99 V1 – Key Specifications
So, what are some of the key numbers to know about the new Wilson Shift 99 V1? Here are some of the important specifications to know about if you’re considering buying this tennis racket.
• Head size: 639cm / 99in
• Length: 68.58cm / 27in
• String Pattern: 16 x 20
• Strung Weight: 316g / 11.15oz
• Unstrung Weight: 300g / 10.58oz
Bear in mind that the numbers above apply exclusively to the Wilson Shift 99 V1. You can check out the specifications of the Shift 99 Pro V1 and the Shift 99L V1 on the official Wilson website.
(Photo: The Sport Review)
It’s worth noting that the Shift 99 V1 has somewhat similar specifications to the Wilson Burn 100 V5, which we also recently reviewed. The weight of the two rackets are the same, along with the length. However, the head size of the Shift is smaller, and the newer racket also features a different and innovative 16×20 string pattern, compared to the 16×19 of the Burn V5.
We love the ‘icy’ arctic look of the Shift range. The frame has a matt finish and features a really cool colour-shifting, prism texture. The grip is dark grey and head bumper is translucent to fit the overall look and feel of the racket.
According to Wilson, the feedback they received from players and customers about the overall look and feel of the racket during the testing phase was largely positive, so the colour scheme remained largely unchanged.
(Photo: The Sport Review)
How Does It Play?
The Wilson Shift V1 is a great racket for a modern player looking for spin and power from their shots. We tried out the 300g (unstrung) version of this particular racket and were pleasantly surprised.
Most of the rackets I’ve played with recently are around the 300g unstrung mark, so it was easy to adapt to the Shift.
What’s notable about this racket is the good blend between both spin and power. The Shift range is specifically designed to facilitate great spin, but it has not been overdone and the racket still has ample power.
We’ll come back and update this section of the review once we’ve played with the Wilson Shift a bit more.
(Photo: The Sport Review)
Price And Where To Buy
The new Wilson Shift 99 V1 is one of the brand’s premium rackets. At the time of writing, it costs $269 / £240 unstrung from the official Wilson website, making it one of the pricier options in Wilson range.
It’s definitely worth browsing the Shift section on the official Wilson website for yourself, as they do offer discounts and promotions from time to time.
Generally speaking, we think it’s better to buy your racket directly from the manufacturer where possible. Wilson also offer a custom stringing service, so you can receive your racket ready for use.
It’s also worth taking a look on Amazon to see what’s available, as many of Wilson’s rackets are available there and elsewhere online.
Anything Else To Bear In Mind?
As there are currently three versions of the Shift available, it’s worth taking the time to consider which may be the best option for you. The Pro version is the heaviest, and if you tend to gravitate towards a lighter racket, then the 99L version may be a better choice. Check out the specific section on the Wilson website for more details.
Where possible, we do recommend that you visit your local racket sports store. This can give you the chance to hold a few different rackets in your hand and see what feels good for you.
Visiting a store can also give you the opportunity to get some tailored advice and tips from store staff, who can use their experience to help you to choose the right option.
If you do end up shopping online like many of us do, just be sure to familiarise yourself with the returns, refunds and exchanges policy of the site you end up making your purchase on.
(Photo: The Sport Review)
Wrapping Things Up – Review Conclusion
So, that brings us to the end of our look at the Wilson Shift 99 V1. We’ve walked you through the key things to know about this impressive new racket and have also covered what it’s like to play with.
If you’re game is built around spin and power, then the Shift could be a really good choice. Wilson really need no introduction as one of the world’s best tennis brands and the Shift is an excellent addition to the company’s already impressive line-up.
