The Wilson Clash 98 and Yonex Ezone 98 are two of the most popular 98in head-size tennis rackets on the market today!
The Clash 98 is currently in its 2nd version while the Ezone 98 is currently in its 7th generation.
This article will look at the specs of both rackets to see what kind of players and styles these rackets would suit best.
Racket Endorsements
The Yonex Ezone 98 is endorsed by tennis pros including 2022 Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios as well as four-time grand slam singles title winner Naomi Osaka, who has her own bespoke design.
The Wilson Clash 98 isn’t currently endorsed by any tennis professional as it is a tennis racket that is squarely aimed at recreational players.
Wilson Clash 98 vs Yonex Ezone 98 Comparison
For this comparison, we will be using the Wilson Clash 98 V2 (or “C98”) and the Yonex Ezone 98 2022 (7th gen) (or “E98”) versions of the tennis rackets.
Racket Specs Comparison
In terms of specs, both rackets share a lot of similarities including a 98in head size, a racket length of 27in, and a head light balance.
In terms of differences, the Clash 98 is slightly heavier than the Ezone 98 with the Clash 98 being 3g heavier in terms of strung weight and 9g heavier in terms of swing weight.
The C98 (8pts HL) is also more head light than the E98 (6 pts HL) and has a lower stiffness rating (60) when compared with the E98 (65).
The beam width of the C98 is 24mm while due to its square-shaped isometric design, the beam width of the E98 is 23.5mm/24.5mm/19.5mm.
The C98 (16×20) also has a slightly different string pattern to the E98 (16×19) with the extra cross string on the C98 providing added control.
| C98 | VS | E98 |
|---|---|---|
| V2 | Version: | 2022 (7th gen) |
 | Design: |  |
| 98in | Head Size: | 98in |
| 27in | Length: | 27in |
| 326g (11.5oz) | Strung Weight: | 323g (11.4oz) |
| 8 pts HL | Balance: | 6 pts HL |
| 327g | Swingweight: | 318g |
| 60 | Stiffness: | 65 |
| 24mm | Beam Width: | 23.5mm / 24.5mm / 19.5mm |
| Black, Grey, and Red | Colors: | Blue and Black |
| 16 Mains * 20 Crosses | String Pattern: | 16 Mains * 19 Crosses |
| Wilson Pro Performance | Grip Type: | Yonex Synthetic Grip |
Recommendations
If you are still undecided about which of these two rackets will best suit you, I have listed some recommendations below based on different skill levels and playing styles.
Beginners
In my opinion, neither of these two tennis rackets are great options for beginner tennis players as I think they are too heavy and unforgiving for a beginner to play with.
However, if you really want to get one of these tennis rackets then I would recommend the E98 as it is slightly lighter than the C98 and it also is easier to generate power with this frame.
Intermediate Players
I would give the E98 the edge in terms of which of these two rackets are better for intermediate players as I think its lower swing weight and greater power potential make it the better option for most intermediate players.
Advanced Players
If you are an advanced player who has developed a full swing then you will probably prefer the C98 as the additional control you get with the C98 will make it much more enjoyable to play with.
One Handed Backhand Players
As a one handed backhand player myself, I can safely say the C98 is the better option as it has a good balance of control, spin, and power.
In fact, I like it so much, the Wilson Clash 98 is my main tennis racket at the moment.