Jayce
The JETSPEED series has a series of racket names that are quite puzzling: 2, 3, 8, 9, 15. Just by looking at the numbers, I can’t figure out their price range or positioning. Naturally, if there weren’t any special circumstances, they definitely wouldn’t be prioritized in my list of rackets to try out.
If it weren’t for a familiar vendor who happened to discuss these models in a group chat, I wouldn’t even know these models existed. Moreover, my friend particularly emphasized that these are a series of underrated and overlooked excellent rackets, so I took note of them.
Parameters: 3UG5, without grip tape, total weight 91.4g, balance point 295mm, 7.0mm Pyrofil carbon shaft, medium to slightly flexible tuning, Aero-Dynamic frame, 9-3 o’clock grooves, 28lbs warranty, strung at 26-28lbs with BN69.
This JETSPEED racket is gorgeous! The first thing that catches the eye is the large Aero-Dynamic frame of the JETSPEED series, with a color scheme of cyan, blue, black, and magenta from the racket head downwards. It’s vibrant and lively. If you look closely, you’ll notice that the black base coat is filled with glitter. This is a typical racket that stands up to both distant and close inspection. It’s really layered, and you won’t get tired of looking at it. Sometimes when I hold it in my hand and try a few air swings, I can’t help but touch the frame and T-joint.
If the appearance is the first surprise that feels like unexpectedly meeting a childhood friend who has grown into a beauty, then the feeling of the JETSPEED 3 in hand continues this joyful feeling, like striking up a delightful conversation with her. For a 3U racket, it feels very light and has a speed that feels like it comes from within, a kind of family lineage speed. After habitually removing the grip tape, the balance point still hasn’t reached 300mm, which even the previous 90s didn’t reach. Swinging it around is effortless, but it’s definitely not the kind of fleeting, insubstantial feeling of an ultra-light racket; rather, it’s a graceful and powerful elegance, like a ballet dancer standing en pointe.
Once on the court, my affection for the JETSPEED 3 only deepens, thanks to its easy handling, stability, and continuity.
I mentioned earlier that its frame size is quite large, possibly close to the Hypernano series, so the sweet spot is large enough that intermediate players won’t miss a shot. Moreover, the Pyrofil carbon shaft is both soft and elastic, similar to the HX300L and Mizuno 02Solear, allowing for deformation in various offensive and defensive plays even when the racket head is not heavy. So, there’s no burden in high clears; it’s comfortable and effortless to hit to the opponent’s baseline, with good speed and vibration-damping from the Strong Core fill, making it very lovable. The only thing that requires some adjustment is the slightly faster swing speed for users who are used to non-head-light speed rackets, otherwise, it might result in mishits or air swings.
As for flat drives, they might lack a bit of explosive power, and the lack of speed in the shot might result in less pressure on the opponent.
The JETSPEED 3’s shots aren’t exactly instantaneous upon contact; there’s a bit of holding, which not only lowers the power threshold but also improves overall control and downward pressure. Although it’s a racket with a relatively soft feel, the anti-torsion capability is decent, and shots are controllable. With more practice, you can hit precise points. In terms of weaponry concepts, it’s like a weapon with a low MOA. This Aero-Dynamic speed racket has a balance between stability and swing speed, both of which are at commendable levels. This is mainly due to the frame shape and the use of quality materials. The section of the frame near the T-joint adopts an oval cross-section, ensuring the frame’s anti-torsion is not too poor, and then it transitions to a sharper aerodynamic design at the top for increased swing speed. With the Strong Core fill and 7.0mm Pyrofil carbon, the racket’s anti-torsion capability is further enhanced.
Combined with the high tolerance of the JETSPEED 3, you can perform net plays, drop shots, pushes, lifts, drives, smashes, and backhands at will, with a variety of techniques.
The previous owner of this racket often used offensive rackets, so I understand why they might sell the JETSPEED 3 due to being unaccustomed to the slightly reduced power of a speed racket. Compared to a thunderous heavy smash, the JETSPEED 3’s scoring methods are more about relying on continuous and varied offensive plays, which is its forte. I’ve never feared flat drives and blocks in the mid-court; if the opponent decides to engage in fast net exchanges, you can get into position faster after a block and easily return the shot, automatically increasing the pace of the exchanges. It’s all about who gives in first, but I have the advantage of a large frame and high tolerance. If I’m pushed to the backcourt, I can still apply pressure by smashing; the JETSPEED 3 makes it easy to add power for a smash, and for players with a sense of continuity, it’s like having a CIWS installed on your arm—you can easily smash 5 or 6 consecutive shots. During the downward pressure, there’s enough time to change the shot direction continuously, attacking the front left, then front right, and suddenly driving a flat shot to the backhand rear court, putting your opponent in a tough spot.
Although the speed of the shot mostly depends on the elasticity of the shaft, I really enjoy using it to organize a continuous winning rally from the backcourt.
In short, it’s underrated, hasn’t been hyped yet, but it’s very lovely! In the JETSPEED series, this can be considered a mid-to-high-end transitional product with commendable product strength. It depends on whether the price is right; if its price matches that of the Thruster K500, I believe with some promotion, it could stir up the speed racket market at this level. For those who are considering speed rackets like the JS12TD, I recommend looking for a good deal on this racket (3U). It’s worth the extra money.
Very adorable!
