Building upon its aggressive growth strategy in the tennis market, Asics America announced the introduction of the BZ 100, a new performance tennis racquet. Asics first performance tennis racquet, the BZ100 gives competitive players a controllable power option in a manner that allows them to increase the speed on the ball with some shock reduction as an additional bonus.
“With the launch of the BZ 100, our first ever performance tennis racquet, we are introducing to the market racquet technology options that have never been available, and we strongly believe it will positively impact players performance,” commented Kevin Wulff, President and CEO, Asics America Corporation. “The tennis category is a key focus for Asics globally as we move into 2015. Weve seen great success with our tennis footwear offerings and expect this innovative racquet will follow in the same footsteps.”
When developing the BZ 100, Asics set out to provide groundbreaking innovations in performance tennis racquets that go beyond simply new materials. The racquet features Asics new patent pending Bending Zone technology, which strategically adjusts the flex distribution in the frame, giving players the ability to better control the ball without sacrificing power. Through meticulous research, expert insight and a series of on-court testing, Asics created this unique racquet by reducing the height of the throat by 30% compared to an average player racquet resulting in substantial reduction in the stiffness of the frame. The lowered throat height also yields a larger “sweet spot” for players. Additionally, with optimized flex, players will feel a reduction of negative vibrations as well as less drag in the head.
The BZ 100 measures 27 inches, 11.2 ounces strung with a more rounded 100-square inch head shape. Throughout the product development phase, the brand worked through three different prototypes with in-depth play testing and expert advice. Every detail of the racquet, including the cosmetic strategy, was meticulously considered before introducing the final product. Asics tested five different combinations before giving the racquet its final neon-inspired design, made popular by the Asics line of performance athletic footwear. The design was specifically crafted to visibly highlight the Bending Zone technology.
Asics is currently number 2 for tennis footwear sales at specialty tennis stores, thanks to its award winning Gel-Solution® Speed 2, a Tennis Magazine Editor’s Choice for Best Game Day Shoe, and its award-winning GEL-Resolution®, now entering its sixth edition. In addition, Asics currently sponsors and supports some of the most athletic and successful professionals in the game of tennis, including 2008 French Open Semifinalist Gael Monfils, 2011 US Open Singles Champion Sam Stosur, and the #3 American, Steve Johnson.
The BZ 100 will be available in December 2014 in specialty tennis and pro shops as well as online retailers. The suggested retail price for this racquet will be $189.
