The Dunlop SX Series tennis rackets are receiving a significant overhaul for their January 10, 2025, launch, focusing on enhanced spin, power, and stability. The cornerstone of this upgrade is the innovative Spin Boost Frame Geometry, a redesigned racket frame that optimizes stiffness and shape for improved performance. Increased stiffness in the throat (3%) and face (7%) of the frame minimizes deformation upon ball impact, translating to more power behind every shot. Furthermore, the frame’s width at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions has been increased by 8%, boosting rotational inertia by 6%. This added stability prevents unwanted racket rotation during contact, resulting in more consistent ball striking and greater control. These advancements address the evolving demands of modern tennis, influenced by the prevalence of polyester strings and slower playing surfaces.
The rise of polyester strings, particularly thinner gauges with shaped profiles used at lower tensions, has revolutionized spin generation. Players can now impart greater spin without sacrificing control, a trend further amplified by the slower pace of many modern courts. These courts encourage longer rallies and favor players with heavy topspin. The new SX Series aims to capitalize on these trends, maximizing spin potential while maintaining crucial elements like stability, control, and comfort. This is achieved through a combination of technologies: Spin Boost XT Grommets, Spin Boost String Tech, the stabilizing V-Energy Shaft, the vibration-dampening Sonic Core, and the newly introduced Vibroshield.
Vibroshield, a strategically placed elastic material, addresses the increased vibration resulting from the stiffer frame. Positioned at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions and in the throat area, Vibroshield enhances dampening by 30%, significantly improving playing comfort. This complements the existing Sonic Core technology, featuring Infinergy foam at the 2 and 10 o’clock positions, which further contributes to vibration dampening and ball rebound. These technologies work in concert to create a racket that offers both power and comfort, crucial for sustained performance.
Dunlop has also refined its Spin Boost XT Grommets, initially introduced in 2022. These grommets facilitate string movement for enhanced spin and a larger sweet spot. The 2025 update features a 58% enlargement of the six main throat grommets, allowing for even greater main string movement and thus higher spin potential. Coupled with Spin Boost String Tech, which ensures even power distribution across the string bed, the SX Series maximizes spin generation without sacrificing control or feel.
The 2025 SX Series retains the familiar lineup of four performance-oriented rackets: the SX 300, SX 300 Tour, SX 300 LS, and SX 300 Lite. A mid-range SX Team 105 is also available. The SX 300, endorsed by professionals like Michael Mmoh, Miomir Kecmanovic, Dalma Galfi, and Patrick Mouratoglou, features a 100-square-inch head and weighs 300 grams. The Tour version increases the weight to 305 grams with a smaller 98-square-inch head, catering to players seeking more control and stability. The LS (Light Swingweight) model offers a lighter 285-gram option with the standard 100-square-inch head, while the Lite version further reduces weight to 270 grams for enhanced maneuverability.
Visually, the 2025 SX Series showcases Dunlop’s third-generation aesthetic. Building upon the previous design language, which utilized a black base with a colored “flying D” logo, the new design introduces a third color element. The hoop remains black, the flying D logo retains the silo’s signature color – a brighter, more modern yellow for the SX Series – and a new teal accent appears in the throat area. This tri-color scheme not only highlights the iconic flying D logo but also creates a vibrant and eye-catching on-court presence. While the cosmetic updates are noticeable, the core specifications of the rackets remain largely consistent with the 2022 models, ensuring a familiar feel for existing SX users while incorporating substantial technological advancements. The updates across the SX series demonstrate Dunlop’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of racket technology, addressing the evolving needs of modern tennis players and the demands of the game.
