Head Radical S

Head Radical S Review – Lightweight Power and Easy Playability

The Head Radical S is the most accessible member of the Radical family, designed for players who want the performance DNA of the Radical line in a lighter, more forgiving package. With a larger head size and reduced weight, the Radical S provides easy power, generous forgiveness, and outstanding maneuverability. It’s the perfect entry point for beginners progressing into intermediate levels, or recreational players who value comfort and user-friendliness without giving up modern racquet technology.

Quick Specs Snapshot

Specification Details
Head Size 102 sq. in / 660 cm²
Length 27 in / 68.5 cm
Unstrung Weight 280 g / 9.9 oz
Strung Weight ~295 g / 10.4 oz
Balance 320 mm / ~7 pts HL
Beam Width 22 / 25 / 23 mm
String Pattern 16×19
Stiffness (RA) 61
Swingweight ~310
Recommended Tension 48 – 57 lbs

Design & Build Quality

The Radical S carries the same modern cosmetic as its MP and Pro siblings, featuring bold orange and graphite tones. While it shares the Radical line’s Graphene 360+ construction for stability and optimized energy transfer, the S version is engineered with a larger 102 sq. in head size and lighter weight for maximum forgiveness and ease of swing. Its thicker beam design adds stability and power, making it beginner-friendly while still maintaining the Radical family’s versatility.


On-Court Performance

🔹 Power

The Radical S offers easy, effortless power thanks to its lighter weight and larger head. Even shorter or slower swings can generate depth, making it ideal for players who don’t want to work too hard for pace.

🔹 Control & Precision

Compared to heavier Radical models, the Radical S trades some precision for forgiveness. However, the 16×19 string pattern still provides solid directional control, particularly for players developing consistent strokes.

🔹 Spin Potential

The open 16×19 pattern gives the Radical S reliable spin access. Topspin is easy to produce, and slices feel consistent, adding variety for intermediate players expanding their game.

🔹 Maneuverability

At just 280 g unstrung, the Radical S is exceptionally light and maneuverable, making it perfect for players who value quick handling at the net and easy reaction speed on defense.

🔹 Comfort & Feel

With an RA stiffness of 61 and Graphene 360+ SpiralFibers, the racquet delivers a smooth, arm-friendly feel. The larger sweet spot helps reduce harsh vibrations on off-center hits, keeping comfort high during long sessions.

🔹 Stability

While stable for its weight, the Radical S will not match the solidity of heavier frames like the Radical MP or Pro. Against heavy hitters, it may flutter slightly, but for recreational play, stability is more than adequate.


Who Should Use This Racquet?

  • 🎾 Beginners to intermediates looking for easy power and forgiveness

  • 🏃‍♂️ Club and recreational players who want a lightweight, user-friendly racquet

  • 💪 Players who prioritize maneuverability and comfort over heavy stability

  • 🧭 All-around learners who want Radical performance in a more accessible form


Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

  • Lightweight and very maneuverable

  • Forgiving 102 sq. in head with large sweet spot

  • Easy access to power and spin

  • Comfortable, arm-friendly stiffness rating

  • Modern Radical cosmetic and tech

❌ Cons

  • Less stable against heavy hitters

  • Reduced precision compared to Radical MP or Pro

  • Advanced players may find it too light


Comparison With Alternatives

  • Head Radical MP – More control and stability, heavier and suited for intermediates/advanced

  • Head Gravity S – Larger sweet spot and even more forgiveness, slightly less control

  • Wilson Clash 100L – Extremely arm-friendly and flexible, but less crisp than Radical S

  • Babolat Pure Drive Lite – More raw power, stiffer feel, less controlled


Price & Value for Money

The Radical S is priced around USD $199 / AUD $280, making it more affordable than most premium models. For players starting out or seeking a lightweight, forgiving racquet, it offers great value and a comfortable introduction to performance-level frames.


Final Verdict

The Head Radical S is the most approachable racquet in the Radical line. With its light weight, large head size, and forgiving response, it’s perfect for beginners and intermediates who want easy playability, comfort, and modern design. While it lacks the precision and stability of its heavier siblings, it excels as a confidence-building racquet for developing players.

Overall Rating

  • Power ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  • Control ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  • Spin ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  • Comfort ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • Maneuverability ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • Stability ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

  • Overall: 4.5 / 5

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