PRICE: $190
HEAD SIZE: 100 sq. in. (MP); 110 sq. in. (OS)
LENGTH: 27 in. (MP); 27.5 in. (OS)
WEIGHT: 11.1 oz. (MP); 10.2 oz. (OS)
BALANCE: 3/10 in. head light (MP); 1/5 in. head light (OS)
FLEXIBILITY: Firm
IDEAL SWING: Long (MP);medium to long (OS)
NTRP: 4.0–7.0 (MP); 3.0–5.0 (OS)FIRST TAKE:
In 1997, Prince had the year’s best-selling racquet, the ThunderBolt. What made the (now discontinued) stick a hit? It had a solid feel and appealed to a broad range of players, from intermediate to advanced. With its latest frame, Prince is once again courting the masses.COMPARE TO:
Prince ThunderBolt

HOW IT TESTED:
The Shark has an extraordinarily solid feel, which is a result of the merging of old and new technologies. The old: the Sweet Spot Expansion System, also found in the ThunderBolt. These bigger grommet holes at the 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock positions allow the strings to move freely and produce a forgiving feel. The new: a thermoplastic rubber pallet inside the handle that stops vibrations from reaching your arm, and braided carbon fibers in the throat for a softer feel. The mid-plus is heavy yet maneuverable, with a terrific combination of power and control for long-swinging advanced players. The Shark’s only weakness was that it didn’t produce enough spin, players said. Almost an ounce lighter, the oversize received its best reviews from intermediates, particularly doubles specialists, who liked the power it delivered on the staple shots: serves, returns, and volleys.

BOTTOM LINE:
This racquet will win you over with its exceptionally solid feel and good control.