HEAD is gearing up to launch the next generation of its iconic Speed racquet line, the Speed 2026.
Being endorsed by players like Sinner and Djokovic, it has become the most popular all-around frame from HEAD and now they also introduce the new Speed Tour frame. Early details shows significant technological advancements, including the introduction of a material drawn from the high-tech aerospace industry, that will redefine the balance of power, control and feel for intermediate to advanced players.
The most exciting part of this release for the tennis nerds is the introduction of the HEAD Speed Tour 97, a new model that has been heavily requested by racquet lovers for a long time. We are keen to review this model as soon as we get our hands on it. Make sure to subscribe on YouTube and Instagram and we will keep you posted!
Hy-Bor Technology
The main innovation for the 2026 series is Hy-Bor, a state-of-the-art material mix being integrated into the racquet’s shaft. Previously confined mainly to the aerospace sector, Hy-Bor is engineered to enhance the racquet’s perceived stability and deliver the signature solid impact feel that Speed players rely on. Hy-Bor is a blend of boron and carbon fibers, designed to resist tensile forces and absorb compressive forces to stiffen the racquet at impact, boosting stability and control.
This material gives it a slightly stiffer, more direct feel, which some players will like for sure.
The immediate prelude to the 2026 line is the limited-edition Speed Legend series, released in 2025. It was marketed as a preview of the 2026 generation, giving players an early taste of what’s ahead. The Speed Legend models featured a glossy black cosmetic with gold detailing and updated construction technologies.
Get more details for the Speed Pro Legend 2026 in our video below:
These are the specs for the upcoming Pro model:
Beam 23 mm
Headsize 645 cm² / 100 in²
Weight 310 g / 10.9 oz
Balance 310 mm / 1.3 in HL
String pattern 18/20
What to expect from Speed 2026
The Speed series has long positioned itself as a versatile “tour compass,” giving players a blend of power, control, spin and feel suited to many playing styles. The new line of HEAD racquets looks to expand on that identity with improved stability and responsiveness.
Expected improvements include enhanced control and stability thanks to the Hy-Bor shaft, giving the racquet a tighter, more predictable response. Players may also experience improved feel due to Auxetic 2.0, which provides more dynamic feedback even on off-center contact. The familiar balance of power and control remains at the core of the Speed line, but with potential refinements for today’s faster, more spin-oriented game.
Who is it for?
HEAD’s Speed line has been a dependable choice for players who want an all-around racquet that supports aggressive baseline play, all-court versatility and high-level performance. With the 2026 update, HEAD appears to mostly maintain this versatility while modernising the line slightly, not only by how it looks, but also with new materials and enhanced feel.
As with previous generations, the Speed 2026 series is expected to offer a full lineup tailored to different player types, now also offering a Tour model:
- HEAD Speed Pro – For advanced and tournament players.
- HEAD Speed Tour (NEW) – For advanced and tournament players.
- HEAD Speed MP – For intermediate to tournament players.
- HEAD Speed MP L – For intermediate players.
- HEAD Speed MP UL – For beginner and intermediate players.
Overall, this is a very solid control racquet that we can compare to Yonex Percept 100D or the Babolat Pure Strike 100 16/20 just to mention two.
The new line will be available at Tennis Warehouse (USA, Canada), Tennis Warehouse Europe (use code TNERD10 for 10% off your order) and at Tennis Only (AU). US citizens can also buy from the HEAD official website.
Have you tried any of the new HEAD Speed racquets? Let us know your opinions in the comments below.