There are few players on the planet as decisive as Javi Garrido. The Cordoba-born player has a very distinctive game, which stands out for his great attack and spectacular finishing. Following these qualities, Wilson has launched a new range of rackets that reflect the spirit of the Andalusian player on court, the Defy range, the most radical of the American brand.
‘Califa’ was one of Wilson’s latest signings last season and, following the retirement of Fernando Belasteguín, is the firm’s flagship player on the professional circuit. For that reason, they wanted to give him a product that is a true reflection of his style on the court.
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After using diamond-shaped rackets with a clear offensive intention, Javi surprised with his choice when he arrived at Wilson. He first started with the Blade V2, which is more versatile thanks to its teardrop shape. Then he moved on to the Blade V3, which is more offensive, but again stands out for its balance. However, he is now returning to a racket centred on attack with an aggressive style, such as this Defy.
‘I love the design and I am especially excited to be the ambassador for the new range, with the aim of accompanying me in my best years as a professional,’ said the player himself.
This is Wilson Defy Pro V1, Javi Garrido’s racket
At first glance, the design is spectacular. A mixture of elegance and aggressiveness that leaves no one indifferent. The completely diamond-shaped form is clearly an offensive racket that seeks to facilitate shots that aim to win the point. The predominant colour is black, but the gold details give it that distinctive touch that stands out at first glance. In addition, the work can be seen in every detail, with a development that has taken more than two years.
If only one word could be used to sum up this product, it would be power. Its shape, its balance and its materials speak for themselves, although it also has several features that give it an advantage in all areas of the court. However, we must start with those differential qualities such as 15K carbon and Power FOAM rubber, which give it a hard feel and a very fast response to fast play. A racket that makes the ball fly when hit correctly.
On the other hand, it has a weight of 370 grams, ideal for imparting great force to each stroke. It is not the lightest, but it is not heavy either. A middle ground to make it comfortable and still a rocket at the finish. In addition, its balance of 26.5 centimetres, together with the aerodynamic design in the bridge area, make it quite manageable and easy to move.
Finally, it also features a combination of sandy rough and 3D that is ideal for giving the ball effect. Its hole pattern, larger at the top and smaller at the bottom, makes for a good sweet spot. In terms of roughness and power, it is right at the top of the market and this Wilson Defy Pro V1 is a real cannon.
Wilson Defy V1, a lighter version
The American brand has not only offered fans the racket that Javi Garrido will be playing with, but has also released some versions that adapt to the needs of each individual. The Pro is the best in terms of power, but it is also the most technical and the most difficult for lower-level players to handle. In the end, it is still a model designed to bring out the best in a professional player like ‘Metralleta’. For that reason, this Defy V1 offers some different characteristics.
Despite everything, it is still a Wilson Defy, in other words, it is still a racket centred on attack and seeking maximum power. Its shape is the same, with a balance towards the tip and a dry feel that offers an almost immediate response to the impact of the ball. However, it uses 3K carbon instead of 15K, so it is somewhat softer than its sister racket.
Its technologies, its incredible roughness, its balance and its hole pattern are exactly the same, but there is another difference that also slightly changes the way it behaves. It weighs a little less, at 365 grams. This makes it a little less powerful and a little more manageable to suit the player who does not like such a hard feel and such a high weight.
Wilson Defy LS V1, the lightest of all
The Pro V1 and the V1 are two very similar rackets. The LS V1 is also similar, but it is the most different of all. It follows the philosophy of the range by focusing on power, but adding lightness and manageability to its main characteristics, also being the most adaptable to all audiences.
At first glance it is also the most different, being the one with the most presence of the colour gold. However, its mould remains the same, with that characteristic diamond shape with the aerodynamic design of the bridge. Therefore, the balance does not vary. In addition, the hole pattern and the double rough for effects are maintained (although somewhat less accentuated). The big change is the material of the faces, which becomes Comfort Flex. Combined with Power FOAM rubber, it provides great ball output and a lighter feel than the previous two versions.
Despite this small change, its main distinction is the weight, which is now only 355 grams. A very light racket which, despite being attack-focused, moves very well at the back of the court and at the net.
Who is each model for?
The type of player this range is aimed at is clear. In fact, the brand itself recognises this in the words of Iñaki Cabrera: ‘We are very happy to be launching the Defy range for players who play at a very high and aggressive pace’.
The Defy is for those looking for maximum power. For more versatile or defensive alternatives, there are better options, such as the Wilson Pro Staff or the Accent. So, based on this, it’s clear which style of player will enjoy these models the most.
From there, there are three options. The Pro V1 is for those who want the most powerful, best-made and most advanced version. It should also be borne in mind that it is the most complicated, so it will be difficult for those of a lower level. The V1, while also quite tough, is somewhat lighter and is a little better suited to a wider group. Finally, there is the LS V1, which can be used by almost all players and which still offers great power, but with a softer feel and being lighter than the other models.
Price and where to buy
All these rackets are available on the official Wilson website and in specialist shops. The Wilson LS V1 is priced at 230 euros, while the V1 is available from 280 euros. The PRO V1, being the most advanced, is also the most expensive at 330 euros.
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