This plush and spin-friendly weapon gets a more powerful beam for 2026.
Introducing the VCORE 98 8th Gen! Like the previous generation, this racquet combines a 98 square inch head with an open string pattern and Yonex's modified ("Energized") Isometric head shape, which includes an enlarged frame top for a wider spin window and easier access to power. On the court, the VCORE 98 moves surprisingly fast, which makes it great for chasing down balls, whipping up heavy spin, or reacting quickly at net. Compared to the VCORE 100, this stick offers a more precise and predictable response, making it easier to hit your targets with pace or pull the trigger at the end of a long rally. For 2026, Yonex redesigns the beam, giving it a faster, more aerodynamic shape while also thickening it in key locations for added stability and power. Additional 2026 updates include widening the grommet holes for increased string movement and greater snapback, as well as lengthening the inner trench at the tip for added flex and pocketing. To help with comfort, this racquet integrates a thin, elastic film (Servo Filter) within the layers of NAMD FlexForce Graphite, allowing the frame to flex optimally while also filtering out the harshest vibrations. This effect is complemented by a Vibration Dampening Mesh integrated into the handle, which further softens impact. Ultimately, Yonex has delivered an impressive update to the VCORE 98. Intermediate and advanced players looking for a spin-friendly weapon with a plush and lively feel should love this update.
Specifications
| Head Size: 98 in² / 632.26 cm² | ||||
| Length: 27in / 68.58cm | ||||
| Strung Weight: 11.4oz / 323g | ||||
| Balance: 12.79in / 32.49cm / 6 pts HL | ||||
| Swingweight: 321 | ||||
| Stiffness: 63 | ||||
| Beam Width: 23mm / 23.5mm / 22mm | ||||
| Composition: 2G-Namd FlexForce/H.M. Graphite | ||||
| Power Level: Low-Medium | ||||
| Stroke Style: Medium-Full | ||||
| Swing Speed: Medium-Fast | ||||
| Racquet Colors: Red | ||||
| Grip Type: Yonex Synthetic | ||||
String Pattern:
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| String Tension: 45-60 pounds |
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Customer Reviews
Chasing fuzzy yellow ball98 is great
Too wobblyFeel is nice and plush and gives a lot of spin but it felt too unstable and wobbly. The head bends a lot towards the tip especially when hitting against hard hitters.
an Excellent Frame by YonexI currently use the V CORE Version 7 and I have to say this 8th version is so much better its more aerodynamic and the snapback is much better Overall a great frame by Yonex
Amazing racquetReally good racquet, amazing playability and no arm pain at all
Bought Two and Made the SwitchI've been on a racquet odyssey for the last couple years having played with a Yonex Vcore 100 v7, a Head Prestige MP 2023, a Solinco Whiteout 18x20 v1, a Wilson Ultra Pro v4 16x19, and then finally this Yonex Vcore 98 v8 (also demoed some other racquets). What I've found to be the difference between the Vcore 98 and the rest listed above is my consistency on serve which has lead to more confidence in going big on my serves. Besides that, I feel this racquet is more forgiving on mishits, handles pace/defensive shotmaking well, and can absolutely thump the ball while generating a lot of spin when your timing is right. The control can be a little erratic but less so than the VCore 100 and the added power/spin difference generally makes up for this deficiency to me at least. Probably the biggest drawback that I've noticed is that the feel of this frame is a bit more muted than I'd like it to be and that can negatively affect my touch. This has been my observation when playing it side by side with my Wilson Ultra Pro and Head Prestige MP more notably, however, I believe the muted feel likely is what makes the Vcore 98 more forgiving than the other two racquets. I've currently got one with just an overgrip and 3g of tape at 10 & 2, while the other has a leather grip with 3g of tape at 12. I tend to serve better with the second setup but feel more maneuverable with the first setup in rallies. I'm glad to have finally committed to a racquet and now can just focus more on string setups, improving my game, and adjusting weight as needed. Big shoutout to Yonex on this one!
Great Update to v7 Vcore 98Compared to the previous generation, I found this update to provide a more connected feel and easier depth. The v7 had a softer and more flexible profile, whereas this frame feels stiffer through contact in the hoop and way less flex in the throat.
I find it easier to flatten out my groundstrokes with this version, and the free power and depth often save me in situations where I need to play defense and rely on shorter backswings. The ability to whip through the ball and create sharp angles with spin is still very much present, and maneuverability has not changed at all in my opinion. Serves and volleys feel about equal to the v7, as well.
Given the stiffer layup, I've lowered my standard tension to 48/46lbs and have been enjoying softer strings than I did in my preferred setup with the v7 (Lynx Tour 52/50lbs). I think it is quite string sensitive, however, and I really disliked stiffer setups as it made the frame feel boardy and less controllable. I also tried a leather grip for a while, which I used on the v7, but I didn't feel as though the added weight was worth it, and I appreciated the extra dampening from the synthetic.
Overall, I'm very pleased with the update although I'm still dialing in my perfect spec. Both the v7 and v8 are great racquets, and I'm not surprised that some v7 owners prefer the previous version, but in general I think a broader range of players will gel with the v8 more.
SlowThis racquet feels sluggish and launchy…
Power is amazing but I don’t think most people can control it
Solid update with a twist-weight..Yonex continues to impress with the v8 VCore lineup. Their willingness to push their R&D and not simply rest on their laurels, Yonex seems to have listened to player feedback while sticking to their guns.
The V7 VC98, widely heralded as a major breakthrough as evidenced by it’s popularity on tour as well as collegiate, HS, and enthusiast levels alike. For all the accolades there were a few minor hiccups. The crazy launch angle is truly an “a ha” moment for us when first hitting it. Eventually however you come to find it being a bit erratic and hard to trust when flattening the ball. The other criticism was that for as plush and comfortable the v7 VC98 is, it was a bit too muted. Combined with a noticeable flex in the shaft, one easily felt disconnected at times due to its reduced feedback.
Yonex took note and produced a focused response in this v8 VC98. The launch angle has significantly lowered to where many felt it now negated its core attribute, spin generation. I would argue that it’s there Allright. It simply requires some time with it to find its optimal contact points. This is not a direct carryover from the V7, though one would easily assume this given its overall makeup. Once better acquainted, spin can certainly be had. Now, you have the added benefit of being able to confidently hit flatter when needed.
The widened lower shaft and changes in the frames geometry along with a bump up of 1 RA stiffness point makes this V8 a more formidable frame. Gone is the varying levels of flexing associated with V7. The V8 is now more direct, assertive, and ultimately more reliable and consistent. This was most evident to me up at net. The V8 feels a lot more capable, producing a crisp, sharp response thats a direct result of one’s effort. The V7 feels less stable and more ambiguous. Most higher level players most likely customized theirs by adding weight in the hoop to address this. With the V8, this is less likely as its improved torsional stability through increased twist weight directly addresses this and proves itself when playing. Where this hurt the V8 somewhat is its quickness or speed through the stroke. Personally I didn’t find this to be as significant. Again, allow some time to acclimate oneself to it.
All in all, this is a case where the benefits far outweigh the negatives. Though not a direct 1:1 transition from V7, there’s enough elements incorporated into the V8 that it’s simply a matter of taking the time to get to know it better. You’ll come to find this V8 VC98 is a formidable, all around weapon that’s now competent in all areas of the court. A must try and certainly worthy of upgrading if currently using the V7 or earlier.
String sensitiveUTR 7.5 Coming from PA and Ezone 100s, this racquet is phenomenal with the right string. At 52 lbs full poly it was harsh. 44 lbs with 17g soft poly it was awesome - power, control, spin as good or better than others.
Had waited a year for this, what a letdownI have been waiting for one year for this racquet to come out. I’d end up using the sand beige 100 inch head and liked it but honestly, I got mesmerized by the red color and the look and the hype. What a letdown. The racquet feels to me exactly like my old pure drives. Stiff, harsh, heavy, hurt my arm immediately especially my elbow, and it was so bad. I returned it to Tennis Warehouse. Luckily they gave me a credit as a gift card and I’m now back to the previous generation only in the red color and I love them. This is not an evolution, it is a whole new ballgame.
