New Mantis PS III the evolution... September 3, 2018 21:00


MANTIS 300 PS-III - 285 PS-III

two weights, two racquets, two personalities...

At first glance, the new MANTIS 100" PS-III series racquets appear entirely similar in shape. Were it not for the different livery color and different lettering, they might seem like two chromatic versions of the same racquet.

But let's look in detail at the common elements and the differences, thanks to the analysis carried out with the help of the pro-t-one racquet-lab and pro-t-one swing-lab.

          

Mantis 300PS III

          

Mantis 285 PS III

Very similar in general shape to the previous version, the MANTIS 100" 300g as well as the 285g are clearly distinguished by new, very aggressive and extremely attractive graphic designs that reinterpret the colors of the previous series with a new "verve," introducing blue for the lighter series and clearly distinguishing the smaller from its older sister by the choice of electric blue.

The quality of construction and assembly is absolutely remarkable, as is the level of painting, the application of decals, and the general quality of the frames.

One of the differences that can be appreciated from the frame's finish is the type of carbon used for the frame's surface finish.

In the case of the heavier frame, the use of a "braided carbon 2K" fabric is evident, while for the 285g, the visible carbon is unidirectional.

The choice of using a "carbon braided" fabric for the heavier model is absolutely aimed at better vibration absorption, a softer impact feel, as well as a progressive and full response typical of this type of material. In contrast, the use of a drier, livelier, and more reactive material for the "little one" at 285g is motivated by the desire to give vitality to a lighter and more accessible basic frame that should not be underestimated and can rightly be considered an excellent basis for customization.

 

MANTIS 100" 300g

MANTIS 100" 285g

Weight

328g (300g)

315g (285g) 

Balance

327mm (320mm)

330mm (325mm)

Measured Stiffness

64 (65.5)

75 (76) 

Dynamic Stiffness

63.5 - 140Hz

66RA - 145Hz

Profile

22-24-22mm

24-26-23mm

Head Size

100"

100"

Pattern

16x19

16x19

Swingweight

324kgcmq

306kgcmq

Spinweight

340kgcmq

323kgcmq

Twistweight

16kgcmq

17kgcmq 

data recorded with strung racquet and "match-ready" with overgrip and dampener - data in brackets recorded with bare racquet

pro-t-one sweetspot analysis

MANTIS 100 300g-285g

static stiffness analysis of MANTIS 300 stringbed - 2018

static stiffness analysis of MANTIS 285 stringbed - 2018

From the analysis of the static stiffness data of the stringbed, both models show a VERY WIDE AND HOMOGENEOUS RESPONSE, suggesting EXCELLENT TOLERANCE FOR OFF-CENTER HITS, good stability, and spin generation.

The performance differences between the two models are minimal and highlight a truly very wide optimal impact zone that allows maximum tolerance in all playing conditions, as well as top-level power and spin generation.

With this type of data, it is possible to emphasize the versatility in string choices and combinations, which leaves all avenues open for using multifilament and hybrid combinations, especially recommended for the lighter model, as well as stiffer or softer polyesters, depending on one's playing level for the 300g model.

The rounded and very regular shape, the string spacing, and the grommet design help to find an excellent combination of sensitivity, feel, spin generation, and power in a very balanced combination, as is MANTIS tradition.

pro-t-one flexpoint analysis

 

MANTIS 300 static flexural analysis - 2018

 

Although the two racquets have the same shape, they are distinguished by nuances and general attitudes, also from a structural point of view, during the mass lamination phase.

They are NOT simply the same frame with added weight in the handle, a solution used by many manufacturers, but are in fact two different racquets with a flexural behavior that reflects the placement and position of the carbon layers.

The MANTIS 300 PS-III is stiffer at the head and more flexible at the base, unlike the MANTIS 285 PS-III which, on the contrary, is stiffer at the bottom and then allows for greater flexibility in the upper part of the oval.

The difference in perception is subtle but appreciable and results in two different playing feelings that, in both cases, guarantee excellent ball connection.

MANTIS 285 static flexural analysis - 2018

 

The different position of the carbon layers and the type of material used have been studied and optimized to guarantee maximum performance and feel according to the weight characteristics of the two frames.

Not a single project, not a single frame, but rather two different projects based on two personalities with different nuances and aspects.

in summary......

Two sisters then, with different characteristics, more than the single weight data would suggest.

The 300g, already an excellent competition racket, can accompany competitive players of any level but also appeals to casual enthusiasts given its remarkably high level of comfort and enjoyable impact.

The 285g is an ideal racket for enthusiasts, intended for junior players in development as well as competitive female players looking for a performing and lightweight racket.

For both, don't forget the possibility of more or less heavy customization for those seeking a tailor-made tool that maximizes playability, spin generation, or rather a cannonball that blasts through the tarpaulin!

As mentioned, the MANTIS PS-III pairs well with various solutions even from the point of view of possible string setups, always ensuring high-quality material and the highest quality stringing service.

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