When I heard about a racquet “sequel”, I was thinking purely of a cosmetic update. But this HEAD Speed Legend MP 2 Review reveals that there is something new in the layup.
The HEAD Speed Legend 2 MP still has the HEAD Speed MP 2024 mold, but without that odd “touch” paint. This cosmetic is beautiful. Black gloss and some exposed carbon detailing inspired by the car industry, and gold accents. One of the best looking of the top racquets on the market if you ask me, and possibly also Novak Djokovic.
However, this is not just a cosmetic update. In the layup is something called Hy-Bor. What is Hy-Bor? Well, Wikipedia (click this link to read more about Hy-Bor) has some answers.
Hy-Bor is a trademarked brand of hybrid composite materials that combines boron fiber and carbon fiber in a unidirectional prepreg. The portfolio was introduced to the commercial market in 1993 by Textron Specialty Materials[1] and currently marketed by Specialty Materials. The material’s unique combination of constituent properties for fiber-reinforced composites has led to adoption in aerospace, sporting goods, and space applications.
Boron has been used before in tennis racquets. Some might remember the Prince Boron from the 90s. I am sure there have been other examples as well. However, I assume the Hy-bor in the HEAD Speed Legend 2 is a sign of the next line of technology updates from HEAD. The idea of Hy-Bor tech is to make racquets light yet stiffer. In my guesstimation, a bit of an upgrade compared to Graphene.
Specifications & Technology
- Head Size: 100 in²
- Length: 27 in
- Strung Weight: ~11.0–11.1 oz (320 g)
- Balance: ~13 in (4 pt HL)
- Swingweight: ~330
- Beam: 23 mm
- Composition: Auxetic2 / Hy-Bor / Graphite, boosting both feel and stability
- String Pattern: 16×19
- Stiffness: ~60–61 for the 2024 HEAD Speed MP, but feels a little higher in this one.
Performance Breakdown
1. Maneuverability & Swing Speed
Despite a relatively high swingweight (~330), most players feel that the HEAD Speed MP swings faster than expected. This is also the case here, it does its name justice.
2. Power & Stability
The power and stability comes from materials and swing weight. The Hy-Bor version feels a little more stable than the 2024 MP. But it also feels stiffer.
3. Control & Spin
Thanks to the open 16×19 pattern you get plenty of spin, but for flat hitters or players wanting precision, the control might be a little lacking here and would be easier with the Pro.
4. Feel & Comfort
The Speed MP in the latest editions with Auxetic has played comfortably. This one with Hy-bor played a little stiffer, but fine with the correct setup. As always, we recommend not stringing polyester strings too high.
5. Versatility
The Speed MP is a versatile line and can suit a wide range of players. Doubles specialists, aggressive baseliners, counter-punchers, for example. Like I said above, flat hitters might struggle with control, so it’s more suitable for players with spinnier forehands.
Summary
| Attribute | Notes |
|---|---|
| Power | Medium–high with enhanced plow-through |
| Spin | Very good, thanks to 16×19 pattern |
| Control | Strong, maintains depth even under pace |
| Stability | Excellent, especially up at the net |
| Feel | A bit stiffer than the 2024, slightly lively |
| Maneuverability | Adequate for experienced players; may feel hefty for some due to SW |
| Versatility | Excellent across player styles except for flat hitters |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stunning blacked-out cosmetic with carbon detailing
- Clean, firmer feel compared to Legend 1
- Excellent stability, even on off-center shots
- Solid power level without being uncontrollable
- Versatile – suits counter-punchers, baseliners, and doubles players
- Comfortable if strung at the right tension
Cons
- Not a major update from Legend 1
- Open 16×19 pattern can feel erratic for flatter hitters
- Swingweight variation (QC issues) may affect playability
- Feels firmer – string choice is crucial for comfort
Who Should Buy It?
The HEAD Speed Legend MP2 (2025) is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who seek a fast, stable, and modern racket with a firmer, cleaner feel than the Legend 1, without sacrificing comfort. If you value control above all, the Pro (18×20) might be the better choice.
Final Thoughts
The HEAD Speed Legend 2 MP shines where it matters to intermediate and advanced players: controllable power, excellent spin, refined feel, and a confident, stable response. It truly plays faster than its numbers suggest, rewarding good technique.
However, if you’re looking for a muted, heavily controlled frame—particularly for touch or volley-centric play—the lively feedback might hold you back. In that case, you can check out the Speed Pro or maybe a Gravity or a Radical within the HEAD line-up.
Overall recommendation: Remains an excellent all-around frame for those who can harness its liveliness to unleash its full potential. Check it at the HEAD official website to purchase.
Have you tried the HEAD Speed MP Legend 2? What are your thoughts? Please comment below.
Shift might be it’s targeted hitting partner.
Hi Jonas, thank you for your written review. And hoping that you will bring a video out as well. ;-) I agree especially with your impression of the increase of stiffness but finding it more than just a slight enhance. So I’m still surching for a good string setup. Do you have any recommendation on this making it enough comfortable and arm friendly? Best regards, Michael
My impression is great for this racket, i combined it with hybrid strings combination, Luxilon Alu Power for main string, and Luxilon Bronze desert 4G with 54 pounds tension, it is produce high power with spin when you hit forehand and backhand… but also great when you play in front of the net…
Of course all are comeback to your play style and level of skills, but overall, this is a great racket!!!
Good Job Head?