YMMV

I have here a 3u version of the Astrox 77 Pro, purchased at 220 AUD.

It has been strung with Yonex Exbolt 65 string at 25 lbs. I have additionally placed a thin overgrip on top of the factory grip.

I am swinging this racket with a body that's 185 cm and 94 kg.

Background

This is the revamped version of the original Astrox 77. This release includes three tiers: Pro, Tour, Play. This Pro version is made in Japan and features the full complement of Astrox tech and a namd shaft, being the stiffest of the three versions. Yonex indicates that the 77 Pro is aimed at intermediate to advanced players, with a focus on all-round attacking and steep smashes. Yonex promises 2.9% extra power compared to the previous 77 model.

Handling

My 3u racket feels weighty and stable in the hand. It's does not move very sharply, but it's not clumsy either. Shots feel solid yet cushioned, and the racket is easy on the arm & shoulder despite the hefty weight. The head is very stable on impact and the shaft doesn't wobble much.

Recovery is surprisingly quick for its weight, and chained offense is easy.

A great handling experience overall in the 3u provided you have strong arms. The 4u version will be easier to handle.

Control

I would say the 77Pro is the closest thing in the Astrox line to a softer feeling power-control racket. The head and shaft are very stable even on heavy impact, and thus attacking shots are fairly easy to place accurately. Defense and net play are above average too.

Speed

This 3u version of the 77Pro is not fast at all. Compared to EB and HL rackets, or rackets with an aerodynamic frame, the 77 Pro is slow. It moves though the air smoothly, like a thick liquid, rather than being sharp or crisp.

I will say though, it is faster than most 3u HH rackets. The 4u version is a little faster still.

Power

My 3u racket offers a very good power ceiling and the transmission of power feels direct too. Smashes are steep and fairly heavy. Clears are easy. This is the highlight of the 77Pro outside of it being a well balanced Astrox.

The power of attacking shots is just slightly behind the 88D Pro, which is no easy feat.

Technology

The 77Pro has most of the high end tech of the previous Astrox Pro rackets and also features a new tech called Flex Fuse, which appears to be a new resin introduced at the T-joint of the racket, meant to enhance shock absorption. It also features UltraPE (polyethylene) fibre in the Namd shaft, which further increases the softer hitting feel. The rotational generator system (embedded tungsten particles) and the energy booster (fish mouth) cap have been updated.

Quality of Manufacture

The 77Pro is very well made and represents high-end Japanese manufacturing from Yonex. Nothing to complain about here.

Aesthetics

Well, to each their own I suppose, but I think the 77Pro looks just okay. It's not the most attractive racket but it's not ugly either...just don't expect any complements. The paint job is quite detailed though!

Value

MiJ Yonex rackets are certainly meant for performance and not value! But if a hundred dollars here or there makes no difference to you and you're set on buying Yonex, the Pro series represents some of their best.

Who is it for?

The 77Pro is for an attacking player who is focused on shot variety and a well-rounded approach to play.

The 3u version is certainly a competent singles racket, though larger male players like myself can certainly wield it for doubles too, for that extra fire-power. Most players should probably consider the 4u version for doubles, where the 77Pro lends itself to an well rounded play style and also back-court dominant play.

Who is it not for?

The 77Pro is not for players who rely on speed or mainly play close to the net. Even the 4u version will be somewhat dull/clumsy through the air compared to an elite EB racket, let alone an actual speed stick. If you don't like HH rackets, the 77Pro is not for you.

The 3u version would prove too challenging to use for weaker or newer players. Further, the shaft is not "medium flexible" as advertised by Yonex, it is medium stiff. Most newbies will not be able to move the shaft of the 77Pro effectively - it is not beginner friendly.

Pros:

Well made.

Nicely balanced and stable.

More approachable than other top-end Astrox rackets - more comfortable hitting feel.

4u version has great power, 3u version packs a punch.

Easy recovery after big hits.

Great shaft on this one - comfortable, good stiffness, just the right bounce, softer feel.

Cons:

Not for beginners - consider Play version instead.

Smooth but dull feeling through the air - not very fast, not very crisp.

Not a huge upgrade compared with late 2010's power rackets - the newest technologies here provide only small improvements.

Average looking colour scheme.