Ben Shelton's Racket: The Ultimate Guide (2025)

Hey tennis fans! Ever wondered what racket helps Ben Shelton unleash those powerful serves and groundstrokes? You're not alone! Everyone's curious about the tools the pros use, and Ben Shelton's racket is definitely a hot topic. In this guide, we're diving deep into everything you need to know about Ben Shelton's equipment in 2025. We'll break down the specs, the strings, and why he chooses what he does. So, grab your racket, and let's get started!

Unveiling Ben Shelton's Racket of Choice

Let's get straight to the point: Ben Shelton endorses and plays with the Yonex EZONE 98. This racket isn't just some random choice; it's a carefully selected piece of equipment that complements his aggressive playing style. The Yonex EZONE 98 is known for its blend of power, control, and feel, making it a favorite among many professional and amateur players alike. Shelton's version, however, is likely customized to meet his specific needs and preferences. This customization is super common among pro players, as they need their equipment to be perfectly dialed in for peak performance.

But what makes this racket so special? Well, the Yonex EZONE 98 features an isometric head shape, which is a signature Yonex design. This shape expands the sweet spot, making it more forgiving on off-center hits. For a player like Shelton, who goes for big shots, that extra forgiveness can be crucial. The racket also has a relatively thin beam, which enhances feel and control. This allows Shelton to dictate the ball's placement and add spin with precision. The balance and swingweight are also key factors, and Shelton's racket is likely weighted to his exact specifications to maximize his power and maneuverability.

In 2025, expect Shelton to continue refining his setup. Pro players constantly tweak their equipment based on performance and feedback. Minor adjustments to weight distribution, string tension, or even grip size can make a significant difference at the highest level of competition. So, while the core racket model will likely remain the Yonex EZONE 98, keep an eye out for subtle changes as Shelton continues to evolve his game. And remember, while having the same racket as a pro is cool, it's essential to find equipment that suits your own game and physical abilities!

A Closer Look at the Specs

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty details. While Ben Shelton's exact racket specs are confidential and subject to change, we can make some educated guesses based on the standard Yonex EZONE 98 and common pro player customizations. Typically, the head size of the Yonex EZONE 98 is 98 square inches, providing a balance between power and control. The weight, unstrung, is around 11.3 ounces (320 grams), which is a standard weight for a player's racket. However, Shelton likely adds weight to his racket to increase its stability and power. This is usually done by adding lead tape to the hoop or handle.

The balance point of the racket is another crucial factor. The Yonex EZONE 98 typically has a balance point of around 6 points head light. Again, Shelton may adjust this to suit his preferences. A more head-light balance can make the racket more maneuverable, while a more head-heavy balance can increase its power. The swingweight, which measures how heavy the racket feels when you swing it, is also important. A higher swingweight generally means more power, but it can also make the racket harder to swing quickly. Shelton likely optimizes his swingweight to find the perfect balance between power and swing speed.

The grip size is another personal preference. Most male professional players use grip sizes ranging from 4 3/8 inches (size 3) to 4 5/8 inches (size 5). Shelton's grip size is likely in this range, and he may also use an overgrip to increase the grip size and absorb moisture. The overgrip can also affect the feel of the racket, so it's an important part of the overall setup. Remember, these are just educated guesses based on available information. Shelton's actual specs may vary, and he may make changes throughout the season based on his performance and comfort. Analyzing these details can give you insight into the equipment choices of top players, and help you make informed decisions about your own gear.

The Strings That Power Shelton's Game

Now, let's talk strings! The strings are arguably just as important as the racket itself. They are the engine that powers the ball and dictates how it responds. Ben Shelton is known to use a hybrid string setup, combining different types of strings for optimal performance. A hybrid setup involves using one type of string for the mains (the vertical strings) and another type for the crosses (the horizontal strings).

While the exact string combination can vary, Shelton often uses a Yonex Poly Tour Pro in the mains for its durability, control, and spin potential. For the crosses, he often uses a softer, more responsive string to enhance feel and comfort. This combination allows him to generate tremendous spin on his groundstrokes while maintaining control and feel for his touch shots. The tension of the strings is also crucial. String tension affects the power, control, and comfort of the racket. Lower string tension generally provides more power and comfort but less control. Higher string tension provides more control but less power and comfort. Shelton likely strings his racket at a tension that allows him to maximize his power and spin while maintaining adequate control.

String technology is constantly evolving, so it's essential to stay up-to-date on the latest developments. In 2025, we may see Shelton experimenting with new string types or tensions to further optimize his performance. Factors like court surface, weather conditions, and his opponent's playing style can all influence his string choices. Professional stringers are experts at fine-tuning string setups to meet the specific needs of each player. They use sophisticated tools and techniques to ensure that the strings are installed correctly and at the desired tension. Shelton relies on a team of experienced stringers to keep his rackets in top condition throughout the season. Choosing the right strings and tension can significantly impact your game, so it's worth experimenting to find what works best for you. Don't be afraid to try different combinations and tensions until you find a setup that complements your playing style and abilities.

Why This Racket Works for Ben Shelton

So, why does the Yonex EZONE 98 work so well for Ben Shelton? It all comes down to his playing style and physical attributes. Shelton is known for his aggressive, power-based game. He likes to hit big serves and groundstrokes, and he needs a racket that can handle that kind of power. The Yonex EZONE 98 provides the stability and control he needs to keep his shots on target, even when he's going for broke. The racket's forgiving sweet spot also helps him maintain consistency on off-center hits.

Shelton's height and strength also play a role in his racket choice. He's a tall player with a powerful build, which allows him to generate tremendous racket head speed. The Yonex EZONE 98 is designed to complement players with fast swing speeds, providing them with the power and control they need to dominate the court. The racket's maneuverability also allows Shelton to react quickly at the net and hit sharp angles. His ability to generate spin is another critical factor. The Yonex EZONE 98 is known for its spin potential, which allows Shelton to add topspin to his groundstrokes and slice to his backhands. This versatility gives him a significant advantage over his opponents.

Ultimately, the best racket for any player is the one that feels most comfortable and allows them to play their best tennis. Ben Shelton has found that the Yonex EZONE 98 meets his specific needs and helps him unleash his full potential on the court. By understanding the features and benefits of this racket, you can gain valuable insights into the equipment choices of top players and make informed decisions about your own gear. And remember, while having the same racket as a pro is cool, it's essential to find equipment that suits your own game and physical abilities. So, get out there, experiment with different rackets and strings, and find the setup that helps you play your best tennis!

How to Choose the Right Racket for Your Game

Alright guys, now that we've dissected Ben Shelton's racket, let's talk about how you can choose the right racket for your game. It's super important to remember that what works for a pro might not work for you. Factors like your playing style, skill level, and physical strength all play a huge role in determining the best racket for you. First, assess your playing style. Are you an aggressive baseliner like Shelton, or do you prefer a more defensive, counter-punching style? Do you hit with a lot of spin, or do you prefer flatter shots? Your playing style will help you narrow down the types of rackets that are best suited for you.

Next, consider your skill level. If you're a beginner, you'll want a racket that's forgiving and easy to swing. Look for rackets with a larger head size (100 square inches or more) and a lighter weight (under 11 ounces unstrung). These rackets will provide a larger sweet spot and more maneuverability, making it easier to hit the ball consistently. If you're an intermediate or advanced player, you can start to experiment with rackets that offer more control and power. Rackets with a smaller head size (98 square inches or less) and a heavier weight (11 ounces or more unstrung) will provide more stability and control, allowing you to hit the ball with more precision. Also, your physical strength matters. If you're not very strong, you'll want to avoid rackets that are too heavy or head-heavy. These rackets can be difficult to swing quickly and can lead to fatigue. If you're stronger, you can handle a heavier racket, which will provide more power and stability.

Don't be afraid to demo different rackets before you buy one. Most tennis shops will allow you to demo rackets for a small fee. This is a great way to try out different models and see how they feel in your hand. Pay attention to how the racket feels when you swing it, how it feels when you hit the ball, and how it affects your overall game. Also, consider the grip size. The grip size should be comfortable in your hand, not too big and not too small. If you're not sure what grip size you need, ask a tennis professional for help. Choosing the right racket can make a big difference in your game, so take your time and do your research. By considering your playing style, skill level, and physical strength, and by demoing different rackets, you can find the perfect racket for you. Remember, the goal is to find a racket that feels comfortable and allows you to play your best tennis. Good luck, and happy hitting!