These racquets are designed for players who hit with enough pace and placement to want good control, but don't mind some modest power contribution from the racquet. Racquet models often remain available for a few years after they are discontinued, and their prices are usually an excellent bargain.
1) Head Intelligence i.Tour
The Head i.Tour offers comfort, manueverability, and good control for advanced intermediates who still appreciate a large sweet spot. At 11.2 ounces, balanced head-light, its mass and swingweight are lighter than most more advanced racquets, but it still has enough mass to resist shock.
2) Prince More Performance Approach
With its 105-square-inch head and open stringing patttern, the Approach has a bit more power than most advanced players want, making it a good choice for the stonger intermediate. At 10.3 ounces and slightly head-light, it's better suited for net attackers than grinding baseliners, and its great maneuverability, big serving power, and good spin potential should encourage a forward-moving style.
3) Wilson Triad 5 MidPlus
The Triad 5 MidPlus minimizes shock better than its 9.8 ounces would suggest, but its weight still confines its suitability to intermediates who play infrequently or mostly doubles. Head-heavy balance lends stability and boosts the power from an open stringing pattern that also favors spin. For a fairly lively racquet, it has a nice, quiet feel.
