I have been playing with these PXT Exposed rackets for about 6 months and love them, very head light, super maneuverable and no issues with durability so far. I play 3 times a week, probably a solid city level B player and constantly looking to improve. I used the regular PXT Incognito before this racket and the PXT 115’s and 110’s before that.
The numbers on the Xamsa website are 100% accurate, my Exposed rackets (I have 3 – I sweat a lot and have to rotate between games) weigh in at 143 grams with a regular grip and an over grip. My regular PXT Incognito racket is 154 grams so 11 grams less in the head of the racket which makes a big difference in swing weight and general feel of the racket. The only number I disagree with is the durability rating of 5, my rackets get a good amount of contact with the side wall, it takes the paint off the racket but no damage to the frame or strings, these are very durable rackets.
Firstly the 100% Toray Japan carbon fiber construction of the Incognito rackets gives them a slightly softer hit compared to the other PXT rackets, this is good as I have suffered from some pretty bad tennis elbow and forearm pain which has slowly gone away using these rackets. So, for me the zero vibration in the frame is good and important for reducing general wear and tear on the racket arm.
Pros: Maneuverability, 11 grams less in the head of the racket means you can make micro adjustments as you swing the racket, I noticed my volleys (especially reaction volleys) improved straight away and are still improving. I can also hold for longer and flick the racket at the last second often sending my opponent the wrong way. As I look to step forwards and volley more, I think this racket gives you a big advantage.
Cons: Less power and smaller sweet spot. So, I think this is Newtons second law ‘Force = Mass x Acceleration’ to get the same power with a lighter racket you have to swing it faster which means you need good swing mechanics with good racket head speed. I have worked on this for a few years and can get good power from this racket, it does take more effort to swing and at first, I found my arm would get tired fairly quickly. Also, the sweet spot on the PXT Exposed seems smaller than on the regular Incognito, if you don’t hit the smaller sweet spot the racket seems less stable and less forgiving.
Recommendations: If you like teardrops try this racket, get Xamsa to string it for you with your favorite strings and give it 30 days to adjust to swinging a head light racket. Order the regular grommet strips with your racket so if you really don’t like it convert back to a regular PXT Incognito (good all-around racket, great power with larger sweet spot).
Finally, can’t say enough about Xamsa, amazing company that is doing so much for the squash community, I have had many great email conversations with Tim who is always willing to take the time and advise on all things squash. For squash players, by squash players – spread the word :)
