Yonex VCORE 100 Spec-Based Review (2026) [Used by Elena Rybakina]
If you’ve watched Elena Rybakina dominate the court with her effortless power and pinpoint accuracy, you’ve seen the Yonex VCORE 100 in action. While Rybakina herself is known for her flat, piercing strikes, the VCORE 100 is engineered as the ultimate tool for the modern “all-around” player—someone who wants to dictate points with heavy, aerodynamic spin without sacrificing the comfort required for a long three-setter.
In this review, we’re breaking down why this “Ruby Red” beauty is more than just a cosmetic masterpiece. We’ll look at the tech, the specs, and how it actually feels when you’re staring down a break point.
At a Glance: Technical Specifications
Before we get into the “feel,” let’s look at the “math.” The VCORE 100 sits in the “sweet spot” of racket specs, making it accessible for intermediate players yet customizable enough for high-level elites.
| Feature | Specification |
| Head Size | 100 sq.in. |
| Weight (Unstrung) | 300 g / 10.6 oz |
| Balance Point | 320 mm (Head Light) |
| Beam Width | 24 mm – 26 mm – 23 mm |
| String Pattern | 16 x 19 |
| Material | HM Graphite / 2G-Namd™ Flex Force / SERVO FILTER |
The Signature Yonex Shape: ISOMETRIC™
The first thing you’ll notice about any Yonex, including the VCORE 100, is the unique, slightly square-shaped head. This isn’t just for aesthetics. The ISOMETRIC™ design, a staple since 1980, increases the sweet spot by roughly 7%.
By optimizing the intersection of the main and cross strings, Yonex gives you a larger effective hitting area. This is a lifesaver on off-center hits; where a traditional round frame might flutter or “dead-end” the ball, the VCORE 100 remains stable, helping you keep the ball in play even when your footwork isn’t perfect.
Engineering the “Snapback”: Key Technologies
The VCORE 100 is packed with materials usually reserved for aerospace engineering (and, interestingly, high-end snowboards). Here is how they work together to improve your game:
1. 2G-Namd™ Flex Force
Spin is a product of “snapback”—the strings moving and returning to position instantly. Yonex uses a carbon nanotube structure called 2G-Namd™ Flex Force that binds graphite fibers in a way that reduces energy loss. The result? The frame flexes aggressively upon impact and snaps back with frightening speed, launching the ball with heavy rotation.
2. Aero Trench and Liner Tech
To help you swing faster, Yonex developed the Aero Trench. By hiding the grommets at the top of the frame, they’ve reduced air resistance (drag). Combined with Liner Tech—straight hole grommets that allow more string movement—the racket feels “fast” through the air, making it easier to generate that “windshield wiper” finish on your forehand.
3. The Comfort Duo: VDM & SERVO FILTER
Power and spin are useless if the racket hurts your arm. Yonex addresses this with two layers of defense:
- VDM (Vibration Dampening Mesh): A stretchy mesh wrapped around the graphite in the grip that filters out the “sting” of impact.
- SERVO FILTER: A transparent, elastic film from the Mitsubishi Chemical Group placed between graphite layers. It absorbs unwanted vibrations while maintaining the “snapback” characteristics of the frame.
Pro Tip: If you struggle with tennis elbow but don’t want to switch to a “heavy” control racket, the VCORE 100’s combination of VDM and SERVO FILTER provides a remarkably plush feel for a performance frame.
On-Court Performance: What to Expect
Groundstrokes: Spin, Spin, and More Spin
The VCORE 100 lives for the baseline. With its 16 x 19 string pattern, the strings have plenty of room to bite into the ball. You’ll notice your shots have a higher trajectory over the net, dropping sharply inside the baseline. This “heavy” ball is exactly what pushes opponents back and allows you to take control of the rally.
Serves: The Slice Advantage
Because the frame is so aerodynamic, generating head speed on serves feels intuitive. You’ll find extra “kick” on your second serves and a sharper “slice” on the deuce side. While it may not have the raw, flat power of the Yonex EZONE, the VCORE makes up for it with consistency and placement.
Volleys and Touch
Despite being a “spin” racket, the 320mm balance (head light) makes it surprisingly maneuverable at the net. The SERVO FILTER provides excellent sensory feedback, meaning you can actually “feel” the ball on the strings, which is crucial for drop volleys and angled touches.
Customizing Your Ride: String Recommendations
To get the most out of the VCORE 100, your string choice is vital. Yonex recommends three distinct paths:
- For Max Spin:
POLYTOUR REV. This high-performance polyester string has an octagonal shape that grips the ball. - For Durability & Power:
POLYTOUR FORCE. Ideal for big hitters who want a solid feel. - For Ultimate Comfort:
REXIS COMFORT. A multi-filament string that mimics natural gut, perfect for players prioritizing arm health.
Recommended Tension: 45 – 60 lbs. (Many modern players find the “sweet spot” around 48-52 lbs for a blend of control and pop).
Final Verdict: Is it for you?
The Yonex VCORE 100 is a masterpiece of versatility. It’s powerful enough to finish points, spin-friendly enough to keep you consistent, and dampened enough to protect your joints.
Choose this racket if:
- You are an all-court player who likes to move your opponent around with angles.
- You want the “forgiveness” of a 100 sq.in. head but the precision of a professional frame.
- You appreciate Japanese engineering and the unique feel of an Isometric head.
Skip this racket if:
- You prefer a very stiff, traditional “old school” feel.
- You hit the ball extremely flat and want a smaller head size (in which case, look at the VCORE 95 or 98).
The “Ruby Red” VCORE 100 isn’t just a racket; it’s a confidence booster. Whether you’re chasing a club championship or just trying to emulate the clinical brilliance of Elena Rybakina, this frame gives you the tools to succeed.
VCORE 100 vs. EZONE 100
Choosing between the Yonex VCORE 100 and the EZONE 100 is the ultimate “good problem” to have. Both are top-tier, 300g rackets that define the modern game, but they are built with two very different philosophies in mind.
While the VCORE is the “Spin Machine,” the EZONE is widely known as the “Easy One” (or the “Power King”). Here is how they stack up against each other.
Spec Comparison: The Identical Twins (On Paper)
If you just looked at the spec sheet, you’d be forgiven for thinking they were the same racket.
| Feature | Yonex VCORE 100 | Yonex EZONE 100 |
| Head Size | 100 sq.in. | 100 sq.in. |
| Weight | 300 g / 10.6 oz | 300 g / 10.6 oz |
| String Pattern | 16 x 19 | 16 x 19 |
| Balance | 320 mm (Head Light) | 320 mm (Head Light) |
| Beam Width | 24mm – 26mm – 23mm | 23.8mm – 26.5mm – 22.5mm |
The Real Difference: Performance & Feel
The differences come alive the second you swing. Because of the way the frames are shaped and the materials used, they produce two distinct ball flights.
1. Launch Angle: High vs. Low
The VCORE 100 has a higher “launch angle.” This means the ball naturally exits the stringbed at a steeper upward angle. This is perfect for players who hit with heavy topspin, as it gives you massive net clearance and makes the ball dip sharply at the baseline.
The EZONE 100 has a lower, more “linear” launch angle. It’s designed for players who hit a flatter ball. If you like to drive the ball through the court like a missile, the EZONE provides that direct, “point-and-shoot” accuracy.
2. Power vs. Spin
- EZONE (Power): The beam of the EZONE is slightly thicker and stiffer in the throat. This creates a “trampoline effect” that gives you effortless depth. If you’re pushed out wide and just need to block the ball back, the EZONE does more of the work for you.
- VCORE (Spin): The VCORE uses its Aero Trench and Flex Force tech to help the racket move faster through the air. It doesn’t give you as much “free power” as the EZONE, but it allows you to swing harder without the ball flying long because the spin keeps it in.
3. Feel and Vibration
- VCORE: Feels “plush” and “flexy.” The SERVO FILTER and VDM make it feel very dampened and soft on the arm. You feel like the ball “pockets” or sits on the strings for a split second longer.
- EZONE: Feels “crisp” and “lively.” The latest 2025/2026 models use Minolon (a silk-based material) which makes it incredibly stable and comfortable, but it still maintains a more “raw” and powerful sensation than the VCORE.
Pro Endorsements: Who Plays What?
Seeing which pros choose which line can tell you a lot about the racket’s “personality.”
- Team VCORE: Elena Rybakina, Denis Shapovalov, Angelique Kerber.
- Playing Style: Aggressive baseliners who use spin to create angles and margin.
- Team EZONE: Naomi Osaka, Ben Shelton, Nick Kyrgios, Jessica Pegula.
- Playing Style: Power hitters who want to dominate with serves and flat, heavy groundstrokes.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose the VCORE 100 if… > You are a “Grinder” or “All-Courter.” You love to loop the ball high over the net, you play a lot of clay court tennis, or you want the absolute maximum amount of spin potential to keep your big swings inside the lines.
Choose the EZONE 100 if… > You are an “Aggressive Baseliner.” You hit the ball relatively flat, you want a racket that makes serving feel like cheating, and you want “easy” depth even on your off-days.
