Dear BC, Ashaway just sent Panda some information and samples of their new line of string coming out in early 2015. ZyMax XS (ZMXS) is a new and improved variant of the current ZyMax string. XS stands for Xtra Strong, XStreme performance, Xtra Special. The key component in ZMXS is a new revolutionary raw material, "beta polymer fibre". Ashaway says: ZyMax XS strings incorporate BETA fibres with ZyWeaVe technology to provide: ·Incredible knot and loop strength resulting in optimum toughness and durability ·Superior elasticity and dynamic stiffness resulting in excellent feel and repulsion ·Maximum tension stability resulting in consistent, reliable performance Ashaway will be introducing two models of ZyMax XS string in early 2015. ZyMax 66 XS is a 0.66 mm string designed for players at the high performance end of player spectrum. ZyMax 66 XS has the explosive response of a micro gauge string combined with the toughness and durability of a heavier gauge string. ZyMax 69 XS is a 0.69 mm string designed specifically for players who are more concerned about durability and string life. ZyMax 69 XS is suited to players at all levels and is recommended for use with extreme tensions and under the most demanding playing conditions. Further, for the first time each ZyMax XS model will be offered in two performance designs: Control is a stiffer string designed for high performance players that generate sufficient power and want to increase their level of control off the string bed. Power is a more elastic string designed for players in search of more power from their string bed. Panda's initial findings, having tested ZM66XS in both Power and Control, Panda must say both these strings have raised the bar, across the board in terms of feel, durability, response, and power. Panda will do more testing this weekend and give ya'll more detailed feedback.
Rackets: Panda Power Precision Pro v2 (Prototype) String: ZM66XS at 31lbs. vs. ZM62 at 31lbs. Yep, tried it some more this weekend and ZM66XS plays and feels like the current ZM62 but has the power of ZM65 at 31lbs.! ZM66XS is extremely impressive. As for durability, need more play time to determine but ZM66XS but should be at least on par to more durable than ZM65.
So, what would be the proper successor for the current Z62 for a fellow who is not particularly mighty in the arm department? 66XS Power?
Oh... I have misunderstood. I thought there will be 4 different strings released by Ashaway. Sounds like I will like Power as it's gentler on my shoulders.
Interesting. I am not a fan of their current zymax line mainly because I find it too stiff and doesn't have the feel I like. If it comes in a softer "power" version but retaining good feel, I may be tempted to give this a go. But I guess if it's coming out in early 2015, it probably won't be widely available in the UK until 2016! lol
This is so exciting! I can't wait for an Ashaway string that is hard- these shared and blocked holes are killing me with ZM67 :crying: