Prince Introduces Recoil String - EXCLUSIVE
We sat in on a great conference cell yesterday held by Prince product managers, in which they walked us through their latest innovative product, Recoil String.
This comes at a time when polyester string is the only product innovation in recent memory, and the only string type that's been showing any noticeable growth. But in their words, this is "evolution not revolution." Recoil aims to bring revolution.
They have partnered with WL Gore, a leader in product innovations across many industries. Recoil uses Gore's Microweb technology, which is patent-pending. They expected that to move forward in about two weeks.
Recoil, at its essence, enables perpetual realignment w/ every shot, by producing 30% less friction on the strings. Think about that...with every shot the strings return to where they are supposed to be. If this works, which is apparently does, this could make a big difference, especially for competitive players. So far, WTA and ATP players gave positive feedback at the US Open.
So when can we get our hands on this? It starts shipping to retailers on 1/18/08. It is a 16 gauge string for the time being, and is completely manufactured in the US. Right now they are only going to sell sets, no reels yet.
One tip they gave...when you're using Recoil, lower your string weight by 10%
What's All the Racquet is trying to get the actual presentation, which will have tons more data, information and details about the technology. Stay tuned.
Here is the official press release:
RECOIL®: The Future of String is Here
Prince Partners with Gore™ to Offer String That Provides Precise String Re-Alignment After Every Shot
Bordentown, NJ – November 20, 2007 – Imagine being able to strike every ball, on every point, of every match with the exact same, perfect string alignment, time, after time. Proper string alignment is something all serious players want and the reason they fix their strings after each point. Now, after three years of careful laboratory development and extensive playtesting, Prince, in partnership with W.L Gore and Associates (creators of GoreTex®) is proud to officially unveil RECOIL®, a premier string that delivers precise string realignment after every shot, ultimate control, superior playability and long-lasting performance.
With the introduction of RECOIL, Prince redefines a product category the way it did with the introduction of O3 technology in racquets, Precision Tube Technology in footwear and Aerotech Performance Technology in apparel.
“Without question, Recoil is one of the most impressive and important string advancements in recent years and poised to generate an immediate following on Tour and among frequent, serious players at all levels,” said Craig Brotman, owner of Pro Circuit Stringing and personal customization consultant for many top touring pros. “It takes the premium string category to an entirely new level, providing a host of never-before-seen benefits to players. Not only does it deliver precise string realignment after each shot, but it is one of the most comfortable, playable and durable strings available.”
The Science Behind RECOIL:
RECOIL utilizes a revolutionary coating called Gore MicroWeb Technology, a material made from a proprietary formulation of expanded polyTetraflourothylene (ePTFE). This coating provides an ultra-low friction surface, creating a combination of benefits never before achieved in string playability and design, including precise string realignment and drastically reduced string notching for increased durability. In addition, RECOIL’s advanced thermoplastic core and multi-layered construction with new high tenacity filaments provide the extra comfort and better feel players want from their string.
“The launch of Recoil is a testament to a dedicated team focused on creating, refining, and perfecting products that will take players to the next level,” said Doug Fonte, President of Prince Americas. “As with O3 technology in racquets, Precision Tube Technology in footwear and Aerotech in apparel, Recoil is poised to redefine a category and make an immediate impact on the sport.”
Prince has long been the industry leader in the string category. Not only did the company invent synthetic gut but Prince Synthetic Gut with Duraflex is currently tennis’ #1 best selling string, a position it has held for 23 straight quarters. RECOIL has already been playtested by a number of ATP and WTA and junior players and will be available to consumers worldwide beginning January 2008.
Players can find additional information, videos and facts regarding RECOIL on www.princetennis.com beginning January 2, 2008.
Read More in: News | Prince Products | Strings
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Posted by Bob Wallace at November 20, 2007 2:08 PM
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