Dunlop Force Evolution 130

The Dunlop Force Evolution 130:

Image via Dunlop

Racket Info

The Dunlop Force Evolution 130 is new for 2015, and is replacing last year’s Dunlop Biomimetic Evolution 130 in the Dunlop lineup.

Note: this racket is being replaced by the Dunlop Hyperfibre+ Evolution 130 in 2017.

This is similar in head shape to the Dunlop Force Evolution 120, which is also new for 2015 and of course is supposed to be 10 grams lighter. I weighed both rackets (strung), and the 130 was only two grams heavier than the 120, though this is within the normal tolerance of +/- 5 grams.

This Force 130 is supposed to be an even balance, and the Force 120 is supposed to be head-light. That matched up with how the rackets felt in my hand.

Dunlop is promoting the Force 130 as Alison Waters’s racket, and the Force 120 as Nick Matthew’s. Which is interesting, because last year it was reversed — Nick was using the Biomimetic 130, and Alison was using the Biomimetic 120. Anyway, the pros are picky about their weights, and probably have them customized to their liking, so this is really about the marketing.

Previously Dunlop gave the Biomimetic 120 a pink color — i.e. subtly positioning it the “girl racket” — but this time both rackets are unisex. I think that’s smart. It means they’re leaving it up to players to decide whether they like the 120 gram or the 130 gram, without trying to push boys to one and girls to another.

Advertised Specs

Weight: Light (130 grams)
Balance: Even
Head Size: Large (490 sq cm)
String Pattern: 14 x 18

Reviews

Check out my video review below. If you’ve tried this racket, please leave a review in the comments!

Here’s Paul from PDH Sports:

From a review by Diego Caballero at controlthet.com:

A racquet that doesn’t fail to deliver in either control or power and with an even balance, the EVO 130 is great for players who tend to be more patient on court. It also a great feel on contact when hitting the ball as it provides great stability due to its string pattern.

Spotted

Here’s Declan James with the Force Evolution 130 at the British Nationals in 2016:

Photo via Steve Cubbins →