The YONEX NANOFLARE 1000 Z, which is in the upper price segment, was developed and produced in Japan for experienced players. The concept behind it: A combination of an extra stiff shaft, a light head and a small, aerodynamic racket head ensures maximum reaction speed and maneuverability. We had our test rackets in the specification 4U/G5 (83-85g) strung with the YONEX AEROBITE (control) and for comparison also with the YONEX EXBOLT 65 (power) - each with 24 lbs.

First impression: The color design of our test racquet in matt yellow with shiny gold decorations on the shaft and shiny black elements on the racquet head is sporty. It corresponds a little to the Asian preference for yellow tones. The specially color-coordinated grip tape in “Lightning Yellow” is striking.

After the first shots it is immediately clear: This is not a slight modification of one of the existing NANOFLARE racquets, but a completely new high-end racquet that maneuvers the shuttlecock into any corner of the court with incredible precision and high speed . In contrast to its predecessors, the NANOFLARE 1000 Z feels much more grippy and robust. In contrast to the NANOFLARE 700 (medium shaft) and the NANOFLARE 800 (stiff shaft), the shaft of the new NANOFLARE 1000 Z is designated as "super stiff".

Good to know: The "Z" of the YONEX NANOFLARE 1000 Z, as with all YONEX models, stands for an absolute high-end product with the "Made in Japan" seal of approval. The DNA of the YONEX NANOFLARE series is maneuverability and speed. This is primarily based on the lightness of the head - this is also the case with the new YONEX NANOFLARE 1000 Z. The additional Speed-Assist bumper at the lower end of the frame head improves the repulsion. The extremely profiled but in the other direction thinnest frame of all YONEX racket series in combination with the NANOFLARE technology significantly reduces the frame bending and thus transfers the swing speed considerably more directly. We are curious to see whether this is also reflected in our practical test. Here we go!

Practical test: The rating was again in the categories "handling", "feel/ball control", "power" and "forgives inaccurate hits", all on a scale from 1 star (hardly applies) to 5 stars (fully applies ).

Contrary to the assumptions of the BADLAB “test team” that the YONEX NANOFLARE 1000 Z does not do well in the category “forgive inaccurate hits” with its extremely small head shape, it scored above average in this category. Our testers attribute this to the very narrow frame and the associated agility, as it is faster on the ball than expected: 3.75 stars

In the practical test, it quickly became clear that the YONEX NANOFLARE 1000 Z has its prime discipline in the "Handling" category. Especially in the fast defense with good return power, he didn't let anything burn and also far exceeded the expectations of our testers at net. Rarely has the highest rating been given in this discipline, but here with full conviction: 5 stars

The "Power for long clears and hard smashes" category was rated more differentiated by the BADLAB test team. While everyone agreed that the power for Clears was there with a certain ease from every position, our hard hitters lacked the last few centimeters for offensive pressure despite the very stiff shaft - thus just short of the maximum rating: 4.5 stars

The aerodynamic frame construction and the extended grip of the YONEX NANOFLARE 1000 Z proved to be a great advantage when it came to “feeling and ball control”. After a short period of getting used to it, our testers raved about the perfect feel, very good control and good damping properties (on clean hits). There were no compromises here either: 5 stars.

Overall assessment of the BADLAB racket team: The expertise of the pro players (photo), who start with the YONEX NANOFLARE 1000 Z, suggests that you shouldn't be a beginner to play this noble instrument properly can. Our test team agreed, a racquet that leaves nothing to be desired. No racquet in the entire YONEX racquet series stands for more speed performance and tremendous recoil power than the YONEX NANOFLARE 1000 Z. Anyone who can afford this not so cheap racquet and also uses it correctly will be more than satisfied - YONEX has a real miracle weapon brought to market with it. For everyone else who wants to get a feel for it, YONEX has launched the NANOFLARE 1000 Z in the Tour, Game and Play series. We recommend a stringing tension of 22-25 lbs.

The promise of the "Fastest Smash ever" could be confirmed. The speed record from 2013 over 493 km/h with the YONEX NANORAY Z SPEED was broken in 2023 with the YONEX NANOFLARE 1000 Z and is now going down in YONEX badminton history as the fastest smash at 565 km/h.