Jayce
Let me start with a story.
A scholar from the agricultural bureau went to the fields for an inspection and noticed that the crops along the power lines and pylons grew more lushly. Intrigued, they initiated a research project to study the effects of electromagnetic waves on crop growth. After years of research with no positive results, the scholar returned to the fields in search of clues. During this visit, they encountered a farmer and casually asked for his thoughts.
“Oh,” the farmer replied, “the birds on the power lines drop their droppings, which fertilize the crops.”
This simple and straightforward explanation is often overlooked in today’s increasingly refined methods of operation—something that hides in plain sight.
Parameters:
- Weight: 3U (G5) without the original grip
- Overall Weight in Use: 91.38g
- Balance Point: 312mm
- Shaft Length: 215mm
- Stiffness: High
- Frame: Octagonal aerodynamic frame
- Stringing Pattern: 80 holes
- Stringing Holes at 9-3 Points: Grooved
- Max Tension: 28 lbs
- String Tension Used: 26 lbs with BG80 strings
The paint quality of the METEOR series isn’t particularly great, even the METEOR 80 often had issues with chipping. For mid- to low-end models, this problem is even more apparent. The MX360 only differs from the MX260 in terms of color scheme. The T-joint and head have been changed to a stronger contrast black, and the magenta color at the 2, 10, 5, and 7 o’clock positions has been replaced with orange. This gives the racket a more vibrant and neutral look. Personally, I don’t dislike this restrained aesthetic. While there’s nothing particularly eye-catching about it, it is pleasing to the eye.
This is a purely offensive racket. The removal of the original grip reveals a strong head-heavy feel, significant overall weight, and a high stiffness level—all of which emphasize its attacking nature, making it drastically different from the gentler MX260. The power transfer is robust, with even a casual swing from the lower grip able to send the shuttlecock to the opponent’s baseline with a high trajectory. When playing clears, it’s essential to control the swing speed and force to avoid hitting the shuttle out of bounds. The 80-hole stringing pattern is a familiar friend, offering a high sweet spot and easy adaptability
By now, most users should have a good sense of the racket’s feel, but its high swing weight and stiff design still demand a lot from the player’s physical abilities, with a usage load comparable to that of top-tier offensive rackets.
The MX360 exudes raw power, delivering fast shuttle speeds with strong penetration, making it ideal for using drives to pressure the opponent’s baseline in singles or targeting the female player’s overhead area in mixed doubles. The racket’s strong defensive potential in smash situations makes it difficult for opponents to anticipate the shuttle’s trajectory after several exchanges. Additionally, the MX360’s frame stability ensures consistent performance in various control scenarios, from net shots to backcourt drops.
This time, the nano resin technology finally shines through, with the shaft’s elasticity approaching that of high-end rackets. This, combined with the racket’s powerful downward pressure, produces explosive attacking force. When you capitalize on a backcourt smash opportunity, the MX360 delivers a heavy and forceful shot that’s both low and powerful, placing considerable pressure on the opponent’s defense.
However, the racket struggles in terms of consistency. Its high swing weight and long wind-up time make it less effective in fast-paced rallies, particularly in doubles where quick exchanges are common. Defensive blocks, especially in the mid-to-front court, are challenging, and it’s often best to resort to lifting the shuttle high as a means of escape, particularly during consecutive defensive plays. Yet even when opting to lift, the high force requirement in emergency situations sometimes leaves the MX360 feeling underpowered in defensive scenarios.
When you can no longer effectively reach high points at the net, softer blocks and net shots become more advantageous. Thankfully, the MX360’s solid and stable feel doesn’t hinder these plays.
Positioned as a mid-tier racket, the MX360 brings to mind the Columbia series, with which it shares a similar price range. However, in terms of materials, the MX360 still has a way to go, as the Columbia 6 remains the king of this level. Creating a mid-range racket with a strong identity isn’t easy, but the MX360’s simple and brutal design has already made a lasting impression.
