YMMV

What I have here is a 3u g5 version of the Nanoflare 1000z, from the first consumer batch. Bought at 300 AUD with free string and grip package. It was tested with Exbolt 65 string at 28 lbs.

Background & Tech

The NF1000z is the latest in Yonex's range of 'Z' rackets which offer their best-in-generation technologies as well as being fairly demanding of skill and power. The last such racket is, of course, the Astrox 100zz.

While the 1000z doesn't introduce any dramatically new materials, Yonex has combined well known Toray carbon technologies into a head design that is rather radical.

Starting with the upgraded Sonic Flare System, it features M40X carbon at the base of the head (4 to 8 o'clock), ExHyperMG at the top, and Nanometric DR presumably at 2 and 10 o'clock positions. So basically, the carbon layout is broadly similar to NF700, but with upgrade in resilience and repulsion.

The new head is also truly compact, being rather small but thick (along the sagittal plane), leading to a concentrated version of Yonex's isometric design.

The shaft doesn't appear to feature any new tech, with the Ultra PE fibre already making an appearance in previous rackets such as the 77Pro.

Handling

This 3u 1000z is easy to manoeuvre and feels fairly light in the hand. The g5 grip is thin and changing grip is easy. The frame glides through the air in a sharp manner and produces quite a loud 'whoosh' sound on faster swings.

The feeling of the swing is concentrated in the shaft, and strangely, it is difficult to 'feel' the head in motion. Stability in the hand is average.

The hitting feel is very crisp and repulsive. The sweetspot is small and concentrated, and if you don't find it, the 1000z will punish you. The sound on big hits is satisfying - loud, coarse crackling explosions.

Defence is easy but backhand returns are more effortful compared with head heavy rackets.

The shaft is medium stiff, but fairly rigid in comparison to its light head and lower balance point. Intermediate players and above can move this shaft.

Control

Stability and control are average for the 1000z, as far as top-tier rackets are considered. It is definitely not a 'power-control' racket like the Axforce 100 and Thruster K Falcon Claw I have already reviewed. If your hits are off the sweetspot, the birdie won't fly as intended. If your swing lacks accuracy, the head is too repulsive with no shuttle hold, and so the birdie will go wild. It was not easy to guide the birdie around with pinpoint accuracy, with my own skill level as a casual social player.

It is not easy to achieve steep angles outside of a full smash, as there is very little 'head nod' affect to assist with angling. You need to use arm power and body positioning to achieve this.

Speed

The 1000z is fast. The movement through the air is sharp. Yet, compared to other top-tier speedsticks it is not the fastest. My previous doubles stick, the Victor JS12ii, for example, is faster with a similar balance point and weight. I think Yonex has sacrificed some speed to up the power ceiling and increase the repulsion. It is not any faster than other Nanoflare rackets.

Flat play and fast drives are sharp and intimidating with the 1000z.

Power

This 3u 1000z has a very high power ceiling relative to its headlight/even-balanced balance point and speed. I would say it can rival many high end head-heavy racks!

However, it is not easy to generate power. While the 1000z is very repulsive, to truly transmit power for heavy hits requires actual strength and good technique. The shaft is not flexible enough and the head is not heavy enough to help novice players generate power.

Clears, full smashes and stick & backhand smashes can all pack great power and tail speed, but requires consistent and accurate power input by the user.

Who is it for?

The 1000z would be of interest to skilled, well-rounded doubles players. It excels in fast paced back and front court play styles, having enough speed and power for both. I would suggest 3u for male players, as the 4u feels much too floaty and insubstantial in the hand.

Who is it not for?

Singles players will want to look elsewhere. Players who prioritise stability and control will not like the 1000z. This racket is not beginner friendly.

For:

• Fast, agile headlight handling combined with high power ceiling

• Very repulsive head

• Excellent hitting sound

• Will reward skill and arm power

Against:

• Not an easy or fun racket

• If you have poor accuracy or technique, 1000z will punish you

• Have to generate your own power to climb the power ceiling - if you are weak, your 1000z is also weak

• Average hitting stability for expensive price

Final thoughts:

Yonex has created a loud and aggressive racket that has Even Balanced speed but also Head-Heavy power ceiling. The 1000z requires both good skill and strong arms to use well, and it is definitely not a relaxing or fun racket. But if you can meet its requirements and master the peculiarities of its repulsive, small head, the 1000z is quite the menacing stick for doubles play.

P.S. I've added some photos comparing the small head on the TKFC with the extra small head on the 1000z, and also how the 1000z head can fit inside the 77Pro head!