Best Open String Pattern Tennis Rackets: Top Picks Compared

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An open string pattern leaves more space between the strings than a dense pattern, which can help you add spin and power. The trade-off is that string choice, tension, and durability may matter more to your results. The rackets below include three options with an open pattern confirmed in the supplied specifications and two Wilson models whose pattern details are not provided. Check the current product listing before buying if an open pattern is a must-have.

Quick Comparison

Our Picks: Best Open String Pattern Tennis Rackets reviews

Volkl V-Cell 5: A Versatile 16×18 Option

The V-Cell 5 is the clearest fit for this roundup if you want a racket with a specified open pattern. Its listed 16-main, 18-cross layout gives you a more open string bed than a denser pattern, which may help with spin and power. The 100-square-inch head is a middle-ground size, rather than an oversized frame focused mainly on forgiveness.

The listed length is standard, and the product details give a strung weight of 9.8 ounces. However, the title says the racket is unstrung, so plan to arrange stringing before you play and confirm the weight and setup with the current listing. The listing also names REVA technology, but does not provide enough detail to draw a firm conclusion about its effect on feel or performance.

This is a sensible option for players who want an open pattern without moving to an especially large head. Its main drawback is the extra setup step: it is not ready for immediate play as sold unstrung. Compared with the pre-strung HEAD and Wilson models here, it offers clearer pattern information but less convenience out of the box.

Pros:

• Specified 16×18 open string pattern
• 100-square-inch head offers a versatile size
• Standard 27-inch length

Cons:

• Sold unstrung, so you need to arrange strings and installation
• Listing gives a strung weight despite the unstrung description

Verdict: Choose the V-Cell 5 if a confirmed 16×18 pattern matters more to you than getting a racket that is ready to play immediately.

Wilson US Open BLX 100: A Pre-Strung Recreational Racket

The Wilson US Open BLX 100 is described as an adult recreational racket with a graphite frame and a midsized head. It comes pre-strung, which makes setup simpler than with the unstrung Volkl. The listing presents it as a choice for aggressive players looking for feel, but does not provide the string pattern or enough frame specifications to confirm how open its string bed is.

That missing detail is important if you are shopping specifically for an open pattern. The name and tournament-inspired styling do not tell you the string layout. Treat this as a convenient recreational option, not a confirmed open-pattern pick, unless the current listing or seller confirms the pattern.

The supplied option is a 4 1/4-inch grip size. That may suit players who prefer that handle size, but grip fit is personal, so check the measurement against your hand and preferred overgrip setup. Compared with the Hyper Hammer and HEAD Ti.S6, this racket has less listed information about power-focused features and forgiveness.

Pros:

• Comes pre-strung for easier setup
• Graphite frame is listed as lightweight
• Designed for recreational play

Cons:

• String pattern is not specified in the supplied details
• Grip size may not fit every player

Verdict: Consider this Wilson if you want a pre-strung recreational racket, but verify its string pattern before buying it for open-pattern performance.

Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3: Oversize Power for Compact Swings

The Hyper Hammer 5.3 is the most explicitly power-focused racket in this group. Its description says the open string pattern is intended to generate more power and spin. The oversize head and Hammer Technology are also described as creating a larger sweet spot, while the head-heavy balance adds stability and momentum in a lighter frame.

Those features point toward players with short, compact swings who want help generating depth and making solid contact. The trade-off is that a power-oriented, head-heavy design may not feel as quick or controlled as a racket built around a more even balance. The supplied details do not list the exact string layout, head size, or weight, so compare the current listing carefully if those measurements guide your choice.

Unlike the Volkl and HEAD, the Hyper Hammer does not provide a specific pattern count in the supplied description. It does, however, directly identify the pattern as open. That makes it a more relevant option than models where the pattern is not stated, while its oversize and power-focused design sets it apart from the more balanced-looking V-Cell 5.

Pros:

• Open pattern is specifically identified
• Oversize head is designed to add power and forgiveness
• Head-heavy balance is intended to add stability and momentum
• Suited to players with short, compact swings

Cons:

• Power-focused design may not suit players seeking a more controlled response
• Exact pattern layout and key measurements are not provided here

Verdict: Pick the Hyper Hammer 5.3 if you want an explicitly open pattern and extra help with power, especially with a compact swing.

Wilson Roland-Garros Equipe HP: A Stability-Focused Design

The Roland-Garros Equipe HP is presented as a racket for competitive court play. Its listed features include a perimeter weighting system intended to add stability and a Cushion-Aire grip designed to absorb moisture. These are practical features for players who value a steadier feel and a grip that can help manage sweaty hands.

The supplied details do not state the racket’s string pattern, weight, or construction material. Its tournament-inspired design and competitive positioning do not confirm that it has an open pattern. If that is your main reason for shopping, check the current listing for a string-layout specification before choosing it.

The Equipe HP may still interest players comparing general-purpose court rackets, but it is less straightforward to assess than the V-Cell 5 or HEAD Ti.S6, which have stated patterns. Its grip and perimeter-weighting details offer useful context, but they are not a substitute for knowing the pattern or overall weight.

Pros:

• Perimeter weighting is designed to support frame stability
• Moisture-absorbing grip is a practical feature for sweaty hands
• Positioned for competitive court play

Cons:

• String pattern is not specified in the supplied details
• Weight and construction material are also not listed here

Verdict: Consider the Equipe HP for its grip and stability features, but confirm the string pattern first if an open bed is essential.

HEAD Ti.S6: Forgiving Power with a 16×19 Pattern

The HEAD Ti.S6 combines a 16×19 pattern with a large 115-square-inch head. Its description connects the open pattern with easier topspin and slice, while the oversized head is designed to offer a forgiving sweet spot. It arrives pre-strung with synthetic gut, so it is ready for the court without the extra stringing step required by the Volkl.

The listing gives a strung weight of 8.6 ounces and an extended length of 27.7 inches. It also describes a titanium and graphite composite frame. The lightweight, extended design may appeal to recreational players who want maneuverability and added reach, though a larger head and extended length may feel different from a standard-length racket.

This is the most explicitly beginner-friendly option in the group, based on the supplied description, which names beginner, recreational, and intermediate players. Its 16×19 pattern offers a useful open-pattern match, but players who prefer a more compact frame or are particular about racket length should compare those measurements before choosing it.

Pros:

• Specified 16×19 open string pattern
• Oversize head is designed for a forgiving sweet spot
• Pre-strung and ready to play
• Lightweight design and extended length add maneuverability and reach

Cons:

• Oversize head may not suit players who prefer a more compact feel
• Extended length differs from a standard 27-inch frame

Verdict: Choose the Ti.S6 if you want a pre-strung 16×19 racket with a large sweet spot and beginner-friendly features.

How to Choose an Open String Pattern Tennis Racket

Confirm the pattern, not just the product name

Look for the number of main strings and cross strings in the product specifications. A pattern such as 16×19 or 16×18 is commonly described as open compared with a denser layout, but the supplied information should be your guide. In this roundup, the Volkl and HEAD list exact layouts, while the Hyper Hammer identifies an open pattern without giving its count. The two other Wilson models do not list a pattern here.

Match head size to your priorities

A larger head can offer a bigger contact area and more forgiveness, which may help if you are still building consistency. The HEAD Ti.S6 has a 115-square-inch head, while the Volkl V-Cell 5 lists a 100-square-inch head. The Hyper Hammer is described as oversize. Consider whether you want a more forgiving, power-focused feel or a more moderate head size.

Think about power, spin, and control together

An open pattern can help you produce spin and power, but those benefits do not make every racket feel the same. Head size, balance, weight, length, and your swing all play a part. The Hyper Hammer is specifically designed around power and compact swings, while the Ti.S6 pairs an open pattern with a large head. If you want a more measured setup, compare the full specifications and consider getting advice from a racquet stringer or tennis coach.

Check weight, balance, and length

These details affect how a racket moves through your swing and feels at contact. The supplied information lists the Ti.S6 at 8.6 ounces strung and 27.7 inches long, and gives the V-Cell 5 a 27-inch length with a listed strung weight of 9.8 ounces. The V-Cell title also says it is unstrung, so confirm the current specifications and what is included before ordering. The other models have limited measurement details here.

Decide whether you want it pre-strung

A pre-strung racket can be convenient if you want to start playing without arranging a separate stringing job. The Wilson US Open BLX 100 and HEAD Ti.S6 are listed as pre-strung, and the Hyper Hammer is described as strung. The Volkl is specifically marked unstrung. If you buy an unstrung frame, you can select strings and tension with help from a stringer, but you will need to account for that setup step.

Choose a grip size that fits

A suitable grip size can make the racket easier to hold and control. The Wilson US Open BLX listing specifies a 4 1/4-inch grip, the Hyper Hammer listing shown is also 4 1/4 inches, and the Roland-Garros option is listed as grip size 2. Other listings describe a range or may offer different sizes. Check the exact size in the listing and compare it with a racket that already feels comfortable in your hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an open string pattern?

An open pattern has more space between strings than a denser pattern. It is often chosen by players looking for help with spin and power. Pattern alone does not determine how a racket plays; head size, frame design, strings, tension, and swing style matter too.

Which rackets in this roundup have a confirmed open pattern?

The Volkl V-Cell 5 lists a 16×18 pattern, the HEAD Ti.S6 lists a 16×19 pattern, and the Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 explicitly describes its pattern as open. The supplied details do not confirm the pattern for the Wilson US Open BLX 100 or Roland-Garros Equipe HP.

Does an open pattern always create more spin?

No racket can guarantee more spin on its own. An open pattern may help, but technique, contact, strings, and tension also affect the result. If you are comparing rackets, consider the whole setup rather than pattern count alone.

Which option is easiest to use right away?

The HEAD Ti.S6 and Wilson US Open BLX 100 are listed as pre-strung, so they require less setup than the unstrung Volkl. Check the current listing to confirm what is included with any racket before ordering.

Is the HEAD Ti.S6 a good choice for a beginner?

The supplied description identifies beginners, recreational players, and intermediate players as suitable users. Its oversized head, lightweight design, and pre-strung setup may appeal to players seeking convenience and forgiveness. Its 27.7-inch length is extended, so make sure that frame style feels comfortable for you.

Should I buy the Wilson US Open BLX 100 for its open pattern?

Not based on the supplied specifications alone. The pattern is not stated, so confirm it in the current listing or with the seller before purchasing if an open string bed is a priority.

Do I need to restring an open-pattern racket more often?

String wear depends on your strings, tension, playing frequency, and style. An open pattern may affect how strings move and wear, but the supplied product details do not give durability estimates. Ask a stringer to help choose a setup based on how often you play and what you want from the racket.

Final Recommendation

For a clearly specified open pattern in a versatile head size, the Volkl V-Cell 5 is a strong option, provided you are comfortable arranging stringing. The HEAD Ti.S6 is the most convenient pick for players who want a pre-strung 16×19 racket with a large, forgiving head. Choose the Wilson Hyper Hammer 5.3 if power and an oversize design suit your compact swing. For the Wilson US Open BLX 100 and Roland-Garros Equipe HP, verify the pattern before buying if an open string bed is non-negotiable.