The original conception of the One Drop Benchmark series had a few different goals: Document on-going trends in yo-yo shapes, explore multiple different yo-yo shapes with the same specs, and provide high quality Side Effect yo-yos at a great price.  The 2016 Benchmark Series is the 3rd edition of the Benchmark line and we think it's the best one yet!

One Drop kept the same 4 basic shapes (W, H, O, & V) from the previous Benchmark releases in order to refine and improve on the shapes already set in place. Starting at $58, the 2016 Benchmark Series is a great way for any player to join the Side Effect fun!

One Drop describes their latest Benchmark vision:

One of the biggest changes in this years Benchmarks is the addition of the ridge running along the response guts to reduce string to yo-yo friction, similar to the ones featured on the Vanguard, Gradient, Markmont. Classic, and Top Deck. This helps with keeping the yo-yo on plane, assisting you as you work on your most intricate elements and transitions. Take a look into the cup and you'll notice that we've lowered the drop step slightly compared to the previous models and with this set up, you're really going to feel the yo-yos snap as it hits the bottom of the string and soars into your combos. Like the previous Benchmarks, all four of them share the same specs. This year the diameter is the biggest of all of the series coming in at 56.7 mm. The shipping weight is 66.6 grams which is the heaviest of the series but with the addition of Side Effects, you can easily change that to your liking! The width is also the widest at 43.65 mm.

As with 2014,

As with 2014, there will be W, H, O and V.

W: Competition inspired wing shape. Great mix of speed and stability with a wide catch zone that is very confidence inspiring.
H: It's beefy rims give it the most changed profile of the series. Most stable of the series with long spin times and a profile that snuggles right into your hand.
O: Classic smooth organic soul. For lovers of that old school rounded feel with all the modern performance benefits.
V: It handles speed well and with addition of the inner ridge near the response the catch zone is deceptively wide.

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