Diadem Flash 16L Review by Mike
In February 2018, the innovative American string brand Diadem comes with a new string: the Diadem Flash 16L . Mike tested this new string and was impressed by its durability, crisp playing feel, and especially its excellent tension retention. Here is his full review.
Specifications:
Tested by:
About Diadem
Diadem is best known for its star-shaped strings, such as the Solstice Power and Elite XT series. These strings are known for their ability to generate power and spin with a longer ball-to-string contact time, which also offers more comfort. For 2018, Diadem has expanded its range with new strings, including the Diadem Flash , a round co-polyester string that sits between the Yonex Poly Tour Pro and the Prince Tour XP (Beast) .
Judgement:
Setup and stringing:
Compared to his favorite string, the Solstice Power 17, Mike found the Diadem Flash 16L easier to string. The star-shaped Solstice Power requires more precision when pulling the cross strings, but the round Flash 16L didn’t have that problem and didn’t feel too stiff when stringing.
Review Diadem Flash 16L:
Mike tested the Diadem Flash 16L for 5.5 hours during three indoor sessions on carpet. What struck him was how consistent the string played. The tension retention was good and the string felt consistent throughout the entire playing time.
Power/control and voltage maintenance
The Diadem Flash 16L offers a nice balance between power and control, with a consistent feel thanks to excellent tension retention. Compared to the Yonex Poly Tour Pro , which offers slightly less power, the Flash 16L felt a bit more lively and crisp, but less stiff than the Poly Tour Strike . Ball rotation came in easier than with the Poly Tour Pro and reminded Mike of the Prince Tour XP . After 5.5 hours of play, Mike noticed no significant wear and expects the string to perform well on clay courts as well.
Spin/slice
The Diadem Flash 16L doesn't offer the same extreme spin potential as the star-shaped Solstice Power 17 , but it remains stable and offers reliable control, even after extended playing time. For players looking to generate more spin, the Solstice Power will offer better results, but the Flash 16L scores on stability and control.
Comfort/ball feel
As Mike has had shoulder problems in the past, comfort is important to him. The Flash 16L scored well in this area, with good vibration dampening and a crisp feel. Mike expects the thinner 17/1.20mm version, which will be available soon, to offer even more ball feel and touch.
Conclusion:
The Diadem Flash 16L is an excellent round co-polyester string, which distinguishes itself by durability, tension retention and a consistent playing feel. For players who are looking for a comfortable, lively string with a good balance between power and control, this is a must!
The Diadem Flash strings are now available in 3 different thicknesses in our webshop!
Would you also like to test the Diadem Flash?
Around the release of these new Diadem Flash strings, mid-February, we will raffle 10 sets among our followers. Keep an eye on our social media channels: @mijnracket (Facebook) or @tennis_doctor (Instagram)!
