"We're really a tight team now," Jerome said. "We're listening better." That open communication between Prince and players has led them to bring back some classic frames. Debuting this year at the BNP Paribas Open (better known as Indian Wells) are the new iterations of the Prince Warrior. In a 107 headsize, the Warrior sees an increase in flexibility, control and power. Going after the Babolat Pure Drive market, they feature the new TeXtreme technology that optimizes the strength-to-weight ratio in the throat of the frame. Used in other categories like biking and race cars, TeXtreme creates lightness and stability. Jerome called the new Warrior the Pure Drive "on steroids."
Interesting enough to consumers, Prince-sponsored athletes will not be customizing their frames on tour. They'll actually be using the same retail frames available to customers. Speaking of tour, the Prince Tour racquet, made famous by the Bryan brothers who use the Tour 95, provides excellent stability. Jerome calls it the "player's frame," that is also great for juniors. The Tour 100 headsize is replacing the Tour Team as what Jerome calls the "most versatile racquet." He also said that John Isner will be switching to this frame.
More coming from Prince Tennis in April includes new footwear in new, exciting colors. According to Jerome, Prince will be "sticking with our bread and butter, which is the T-22." You can also expect to see the introduction of Warrior tennis shoes that deliver enhanced stability. And in a limited edition package, the Warrior tennis shoes will be tied to the Warrior racquet line with bright corresponding colors.
Check out the new Prince TeXtreme racquets and Prince Warrior TeXtreme tennis shoes!