Solinco Blackout V2 Review

I have been play-testing the new Blackout from Solinco with a couple of other players, and here is my Solinco Blackout V2 review.

The Solinco Blackout is the power line of Solinco racquets. The Whiteout V2, which we reviewed a while ago, and like that one, this one comes with new technology.

Tech

The Blackout V1 was a little “dead” in feel, but this has been worked on for Generation 2. Here is what is new.

• Foam Tech Core: An optimally formulated PU density foam is now integrated into the head of the frame. This technology is designed to significantly reduce vibration and enhance the feel of the racquet upon impact. Players who found the V1 to be a bit too lively will appreciate the added dampening and improved connection to the ball.
• Arch-2 Construction: This is Solinco’s new carbon-fiber layering process. By making subtle adjustments to the frame’s carbon layup, Solinco has enhanced the racquet’s stiffness and flex properties. The result is a more stable and forgiving frame, particularly on off-center hits, which also contributes to the improved comfort and controlled power.
• Power Flex Zone which puts the max beam height at the 5 and 7 o’clock positions to increase energy return

Find the latest Solinco racquets at Tennis Warehouse (USA, Canada), Tennis Warehouse Europe (use code TNERD10 for 10% off your order) or Tennis Only (AU).

Video review:

Models

The Blackout V2 comes in the same models as its predecessor:

Blackout 300 XTD: An extended 27.5-inch version for players seeking extra reach and leverage.
Blackout 300: The standard 300g (unstrung) model. This is what we tested for this review.
Blackout 285: A lighter, more maneuverable option for intermediate players.

I am surprised not to see a Blackout Tour or 98 sq inch version. I think in this day and age, when so many players use Aero 98 or VCORE 98 racquets, this model would make a lot of sense. Maybe it will appear later.

Specifications

These are the specifications of the Solinco Blackout 300 V2. I measured mine on the Metortune, and it was within the parameters, 320 strung with Solinco Tour Bite.

Playability of the Blackout V2

The Solinco Blackout 300 V2 hits a pleasant ball. You can feel the foam dampening from the first strike. Is that a good thing? Yes and no. For comfort, it is, you do not have to worry about nasty vibrations too much. The stiffness is also lower than most power racquets and more like a spin racquet. Compared to the predecessor, which measured at 71 RA strung, this is a noticeable 5 pts lower. Brands with fewer racquets often combine power and spin lines into a single racquet. Tecnifibre does the same with their TFX1, it offers both power and spin (more open string pattern).

Spin racquets tend to have lower stiffness ratings and more open patterns, and that is also the case with Blackout V3. In that sense, it competes more with the Pure Aero 100 than the Pure Drive or Ezone. The ball does have a high launch angle and can sail a bit on you if you are not careful. However, the lower stiffness rating and foam-filled dampening does make for a comfortable racquet, which I think many players will appreciate.

If I shorten my swing and really focus on the contact, the depth and spin come easily with this frame. You feel like tennis is effortless. But once you are on defense and you have less time to adjust, I felt like I lacked some control especially when I needed to find a short angle or a small target.

Still, it has a large sweet spot and offers easy depth and height over the net. If you can generate enough racquet head speed naturally to control your shots, then the Blackout is a good option. There is a definite improvement made over the first generation. My feeling is that they might have gone a bit too far with the damping and considering the lower flex, the response is a little too muted for my taste. However, if you like a soft, flexible response that still provides power, then you might love this one. If you want a crisper, connected feel, there are other options out there.

The power level is comparable to the Aero 2023 and does not quite reach Pure Drive or Ezone 100 levels.

Summary

The V2 is truly a V2. They improved the dampening, the pocketing and overall the feel. Perhaps they even went a bit too far and made it too dampened? At least that is how I feel. The beam design is the same as V1, and at times, I struggled to really get under the ball and whip it. Could be a user error, though.

This racquet compares really well to the Diadem Axis. Both are good tennis racquets, but they offer significant dampening, so you need to be into that feel to enjoy the Blackout V2. Pure Aero users looking for more comfort should enjoy this one.

I think Solinco might make a truly great racquet when it comes to V3, both for the Whiteout and the Blackout. Dialling back a little of the dampening and flex and you can get something that loads of players will love. I am sure V2 will find its fair share of fans, though. I liked it, but there were a few things that made me not give it two thumbs up.

Have you played with the Solinco Blackout 300 V2? What are your thoughts? Please comment below,