If there is one piece of squash equipment that players are particularly picky about, it’s their shoes. Head has produced a solid entry for consideration—the Speed Pro II. The fit is snug, with a lacing system that travels high up to the ankle area. That’s important with this shoe because the heal area is cut relatively low on the sides. The sole is pliable out of the box for that “already broken in” feel. And the shoe base around the ball of the foot is wide, offering excellent traction. We also like the sole rising above the sides of the sole in the forefoot area which helps maintain the feel of the floor when changing direction. Oh…and they look cool too!
The newest racquets from Head span the range of weights and balances to fit just about any player. The interesting thing about two of the frames is that because of the differences in their balance points, you will be surprised to find that one is 10% heavier than the other.
Featuring open throats, the Typhoon2 150 (176g strung) and Xenon2 135 (159g strung) both pack plenty of power and feature stiff frames with virtually zero vibration. But that’s about the end of their commonalities. The Typhoon2’s head size (470cm2) is slightly elongated relative to the Xenon2 (460cm2)—which makes it possible for the Typhoon2 to add one additional row of cross strings (Typhoon2 has 14 mains and 17 crosses, while the Xeonon2 features 14 mains and 16 crosses). However, the string pattern in the Typhoon is slightly more dense (i.e., less space between strings). The most noticeable difference, however, is that the Typhoon2 is evenly balanced, while the Xenon2 is decidedly head heavy. So while both pack a punch, the Xenon 2 is built to be manhandled.
The Anion2 135 (162g strung) features a closed throat with just 12 main strings and 17 crosses. With the more open string pattern, the bite on the ball is excellent which is helpful with the short game. Because of its elongated head (500cm2), the sweet spot is stretched as well. The Anion2 is also head heavy, though not as dramatically as the Typhoon2.
Visit head.com to get more info on all three racquets and shoes.
