I do like the way Yonex has “segmented” the various racket categories, which is useful for someone who is choosing their next purchase based on the kind of racket “feel” desired. I think the categories of head heavy, head light, repulsion, and hold are quite generic enough in terms of how they map to actual player preferences and playing habits (it also helps that Yonex has been in the business far longer than most everyone else). Someone who prefers head light rackets from Carlton, for instance, will not likely waste too much time testing out head heavy offerings based on information in the chart if he or she were to switch to Yonex. Of course, as Paul mentioned, there is no substitute for testing in real life, but such a chart puts everything in the proper perspective. Granted the various racket lines such as Voltric, Arcsaber, Nanospeed, etc have different design philosophies, but it is something that other manufacturers can also emulate. In fact it may even be to their own advantage; Victor, for instance, could come up with their own similar chart with the proper product “placement” within the four quadrants. Li Ning would be another. These two have extensive product lines but I tend to get confused reading the various reviews and am not sure how they map to the Yonex “equivalent” (for better or for worst).

It'd be interesting to hear your views on why the VT80 isn't suitable for your playing style, Simon. What do you play with at the moment?

I read recently that Carlton is transitioning to Dunlop Sports as a brand name, but am not sure what the future of the product line is going to be. Seems to me somewhat short sighted since the Carlton name is synonymous (or at least used to be) with quality badminton rackets and equipment. Now that it's a subsidiary of Dunlop Slazenger, I hope they don't lose too much of their badminton focus. At least back in the 80s when I was starting to play the game, one was either in the Yonex or Carlton “camp.”

I think my problem with the VT80 is I can't seem to move the racket as fast as I can with my VT70.

It feels superb when I practise with it but there's something that isn't quite right for me when I'm playing properly.

I play mostly doubles so I don't know if that makes a difference.

I'm gonna give it one more week and then flog it off cheap.