My personal consumer review of the last Head Instinct MP tennis racket in production
Hey guys! Today, I’m reviewing the Head Instinct MP tennis racket. As you know from my video, I’ve had the pleasure of using this racket for a few months, and it has become one of my favorites for several reasons. It’s part of the last generation of the Head Instinct series, released in 2022, and I’ve played around 10 games with it so far. In this review, I’ll share my impressions, key features, and how it compares to other rackets in my collection.
Key Features & Specifications
- Weight: 300 grams (unstrung)
- Head Size: 100 square inches (645 cm²)
- Balance: 32 cm (head-light)
- String Pattern: 16x19
- Beam Width: 23mm / 26mm / 23mm
- Length: 27 inches (68.58 cm)
- Stiffness: 64 RA
- Technology: Graphene 360+ for improved energy transfer and flex
- Recommended String Tension: 48-57 lbs (22-26 kg)
My Personal Experience with the Head Instinct MP
From the first time I picked up the Head Instinct MP, I immediately noticed how comfortable and forgiving it felt compared to some of the heavier or more control-oriented rackets like my Radical Pro. Weighing in at 300 grams, this model is a bit heavier than the lighter Instinct models I’ve used in the past, but the extra weight adds much-needed stability and power to my game, especially during longer rallies.
Power and Forgiveness
The 100 square inch head size offers a generous sweet spot, making this racket quite forgiving on off-center hits. This is ideal for players who want to add power to their shots without compromising comfort. I found that this extra bit of forgiveness allowed me to stay more consistent during matches, which was a weakness of mine when using smaller head sizes like the Radical Pro’s 98 square inch frame.
Balance and Feel
With a head-light balance, the racket is still very maneuverable, making it easy to swing quickly when I need to be more aggressive at the net or during fast exchanges. Despite its slightly increased weight, the racket doesn’t feel sluggish at all. The Graphene 360+ technology adds to this maneuverability by enhancing the frame's flex, providing better energy transfer and overall comfort on every shot.
Control and Spin
Although this racket is more power-oriented, the 16x19 string pattern allows me to generate plenty of spin. My topspin forehand felt natural and easy to execute with the Head Instinct MP, and my slices were surprisingly effective, with a good mix of precision and spin.
Comfort and Playability
I’ve always found Head’s Instinct series to be one of the most comfortable lines of rackets on the market. The Graphene 360+ technology not only improves the racket’s overall feel but also enhances shock absorption, making it great for players who suffer from tennis elbow or other arm discomforts. After multiple matches, I’ve had no issues with soreness, which is a huge win for me.
Comparison with the Head Radical Pro
I’ve also been using the Head Radical Pro, a heavier racket with a smaller 98 square inch head size. The Radical Pro offers more control and precision, but the Instinct MP is far more forgiving due to its larger head size and lighter weight. For players who enjoy a faster, more aggressive style of play with a balance between power and control, the Instinct MP is a perfect choice. It’s also a great option for those who may struggle with the Radical Pro’s demanding nature, particularly when it comes to generating power on their own.
Who Is the Head Instinct MP For?
The Head Instinct MP is ideal for intermediate to advanced players looking for a racket that offers a good balance of power, spin, and comfort. It’s particularly suited to players who want a bit of extra pop on their shots without sacrificing feel. The larger head size and relatively light frame make it forgiving, making it a great choice for someone transitioning from a more beginner-friendly racket but still wanting a more advanced tool for growth.
Notable Users: The Instinct series has been popular among professional players, including Maria Sharapova and Tomas Berdych, which further reinforces its credibility as a performance-oriented racket.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Powerful and forgiving thanks to its 100 sq. inch head size.
- Lightweight and maneuverable, making it easy to handle in fast-paced exchanges.
- The Graphene 360+ technology improves energy transfer and comfort.
- Great balance between power and spin, with a comfortable feel.
- Ideal for intermediate players looking to elevate their game with a more performance-oriented frame.
Cons:
- Not as control-oriented as rackets like the Radical Pro, which might be an issue for advanced players seeking maximum precision.
- Some players may find it too light, especially those used to heavier, pro-level frames.
Final Thoughts & Rating
Overall, the Head Instinct MP has been a great addition to my racket collection. Its comfort, power, and forgiveness make it a solid choice for intermediate players looking to enhance their game. While it might not offer the same level of control as the Radical Pro, it more than makes up for it with its ease of use and playability. I highly recommend it for anyone seeking a versatile and user-friendly racket.
Rating: 4.5/5
If you’re interested in the Head Instinct MP, keep in mind that it may be one of the last models from this series, as Head seems to have phased out new Instinct releases after 2022. If you’re like me and enjoy switching between different rackets, the Instinct MP offers a nice change of pace from control-oriented models like the Radical Pro while still delivering high performance.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments if you've tried this racket, and don’t forget to subscribe for more reviews and tennis tips!
Comments