Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

INFORMATION ABOUT TENNIS RACKETS

Many discussions about what racket is the best take place but not much is really understood. Simply taking a racket in the hand and relying on your feeling is definately not enough. It makes more sense to also consider the comments and information supplied by the manufacturers, which are backed up by the so called swing index. Almost all manufacturers use the swing index to catergorize their rackets. A higher swing index says that a racket is more powerfull as it produces more energy during the swing and ball contact. The lower the swing index the more the player must produce their own energy through better and faster stroke technique. Generally it can be said that tournament rackets have a lower frame profile and comfort rackets a higher frame profile.

Swing Index - Classification of the racket property in depend of player type

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Main racket characteristics

Frame materials There are many materials being used today to give the racket its characteristics for eg. weight, stiffnes damping etc. With each line of models the racket manufacturers change the combination of these materials. The customer is presented the newest of racket technology, however the latest technology must not automatically be the best but those who want to stay up to date then go ahead.

Total weight and balance Every player prefers a different weight (240gr - 340gr) as well as a differently balanced racket. Base line players mostly prefer a head heavy racket ie. the weight is found at the top area or racket head. Serve and volley players usually take an evenly balanced racket which means the centre of balance is around the middle of the racket and towards the grip. This achieves better handling.

Shock absorbtion The shoch absorbtion qualities of the racket are next to weight and balance very important. Here we are not talking about the vibrastop or grommet that is placed between the strings rather about the internal absorbtion qualities of the racket. This characteristic is achieved using certain materials within the frames construction. These qualities are also influenced by the grip, strings and/or stringing tension. Those who have a sensitive arm and elbow should allways purchase models with good shoch absorbing qualities.

Size of the racket head The head size is the surface area of the rackets hitting zone ie the strings. There is no standard sized racket head but the majority of models range between 600 and 720 cm². It is not allways an advantage to choose a larger racket head as the ideal racket balance is achieved through a higher total weight. Smaller head sizes are usually recommended only to very good players. In addition the larger racket head produces more wind resistance. A further term used is the sweet spot. That is the perfect hitting zone in the rackets head for a clean contact. Every manufacturer tries to produce a larger sweet spot. Sometimes unusual head shapes are used.

Grip size The importance of the rackets grip size is not to be over looked. There is no general rule but the grip should be held comfortably and secure. The grip should be large enough so that the finger tips are not touching the hand. Grip sizes range from 1 to 5. When choosing please consider if the racket will be played with an additional overgrip or with the original leather grip.

Chart of grip sizes

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Stringing The stringing of the racket plays equally a big part in the choice of racket. It makes sense to try a few different strings when having purchased a racket to find the best combination for your individual needs. The recommended stringing tension is marked on each racket.

Help with hand or shoulder problems Generally players with hand or shoulder problems should stay away from head heavy rackets and a harder stringing tension. The racket should have good shock absorbing qualities within the frame and/or grip. Also lighter balls with a quality felt help with injury prevention.

Are you looking for a new tennis racket but unsure which one to buy? Look at my recommendations on finding the best tennis racket and some frames I think are the best on the market.

This buying guide is for you if:

  • you require a new tennis racket and want to make sure it’s the right one for you
  • you want to change racket spec, but you don’t know what to change
  • you have a racket in mind but want someone to provide a second opinion

Who this guide is not for:

  • you play tennis once in a blue moon and want to pick up a cheap beginner racket quickly
  • you are buying a tennis racket for a young child. Read my guide on kid’s tennis rackets instead

Let’s begin.

Why There is No Such Thing as the Best Tennis Racket

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

If you were hoping for this blog post to provide a list of the Top 10 rackets available right now, then I have some bad news for you 😆 this guide is more orientated around finding the best racket for your game, not giving a single frame a moniker of best.

While I will make some specific racket recommendations further down the page, the first point I need to stress is that there is no such thing as the ‘best tennis racket’.

It is easy to give products in specific categories the ‘best’ tag, like a paper shredder or even a tennis ball machine, but this is not the case for tennis rackets.

You’ll probably have stumbled across a few tennis racket reviews and the best of guides that tell you X is the best racket, but this is not the case.

Different racket specifications suit different game styles. Why? Because what works brilliantly for one player will not work for another.

Giving any racket ‘best’ status is misleading, resulting in consumers parting with their hard-earned cash on a racket that might not be suited to their game.

Now we’ve got that out of the way, I recommend you read this guide in full to understand tennis rackets better, which will put you well on the way to finding the best tennis racket for your game.

How To Choose The Best Tennis Racket

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Hop on any tennis forum, and you’ll quickly realise that buying a new racket is tricky and challenging for most players. Hundreds of posts ask questions like “Which racket should I buy?” and “What is the best tennis racket brand?” “What tennis racket is best for me?” ‘is the Wilson RF97 Pro Staff a good buy?’ and many more.

Read any further, and you’ll see many replies from well-meaning users who often share anecdotal evidence, which further confuses the process.

In reality, when it comes to choosing a new racket, it’s relatively simple. The best tennis racket for you is always the heaviest racket you can handle for the type of tennis you play and the duration you are on the court.

That’s it; it isn’t the one with the newest gimmicky technology. It isn’t the Pure Aero 98 because Alcarazuses it, nor is it the most modern and shiniest racket on the market.

If you can find a tennis racket that you can accelerate on all shots/contact points quickly without tiring, then you have found the best tennis racket for your game.

So, how do we get to that point?

Do Not Buy Into Marketing Gimmicks and Brand Hype

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Step one in finding the perfect tennis racket is: do not believe the hype.

All the marketing material from the racket brands focuses on the sweet spot’s size, the racket’s power, and various other buzzwords that don’t mean much. They’re just throwaway terms that hopefully lure you in.

Despite what the manufacturers might write in their press releases, there have been very few, if any, advancements in racket technology in the last 20 or 30 years.

Like smartphone upgrade cycles, tennis racket manufacturers’ business model relies heavily on convincing people to buy new tennis rackets more frequently than needed.

A well-made tennis racket will last for years if you’re not hitting thousands of balls a week with the same fury as Rafael Nadal. Manufacturers know this and will do anything to sell you the latest and greatest technology.

Use Simple Physics To Determine Which Rackets Work For You

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Hitting a tennis ball with a racket is an example of an unbalanced force acting upon an object in motion. We are taking a heavy thing (the racket), striking a lighter object (a tennis ball) and hopefully watching it sail over the net deep into the opponent’s half of the court.

You can put your physics hat on and go much deeper. Still, that momentum transfer process means only five characteristics of a tennis racket govern how it achieves that kinetic energy transfer and how it feels to the person using it. They are:

  • The weight of the racket
  • The balance of the racket
  • The stiffness of the racket
  • The string pattern of the racket
  • The head size of the racket

That’s it! The job is to match each factor to a specification that suits your strengths, goals and game style.

Don’t Get Tied To One Single Manufacturer

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

While we all have our preferences in design, colours or which brand racket our favourite players use, the truth is that pretty much every mainstream tennis brand out there makes good quality tennis rackets.

This often means rackets of virtually identical specs are entirely interchangeable. If they were just one solid colour, you probably wouldn’t notice any difference between two competing rackets when playing with them. In reality, the only difference is the shape of the grip and the paint job’s colour.

I recommend you forget terms like ‘FortyFive’, ‘Auxetic; ‘Countervail’ or ‘IsoFlex’. How a racket plays is determined solely by the five factors above.

Choosing a Tennis Racket Based on Those Five Characteristics

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

All rackets have differing weights, swing weights, stiffness ratings, string patterns and head sizes. When you combine those characteristics in specific ways, you end up with rackets that fall into different categories. The categories are as follows:

  • Beginner Rackets: light rackets with large head sizes and head-heavy balances
  • Intermediate rackets: slightly heavier than beginner rackets with moderately large head sizes and neutral or somewhat head-light balances
  • Advanced rackets: heavy rackets with medium head sizes and head-light balances

The key to picking up the ideal racket for your game is to tinker with these five characteristics and find something to generate a deep ball with good speed and spin from your normal swing.

You should not feel that you must swing harder nor hold back your normal swing to get the ball to go where you want it.

You should not be thinking about the racket when you play with it, and like the pros often say, it should be an extension of your arm. Let’s take a look at how we arrived at that point.

What Weight Tennis Racket is Best?

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Weight is the number one factor in determining the power of the racket. The equation is simple: the heavier the racket, the more power it has.

Unfortunately, an old wives tale has spread for some reason, meaning many players think the opposite is true. I received this email recently highlighting the point:

Many people I talk to from my club say I should get a heavier racquet. They say the greater mass will bring me more power. Whereas others in the club say lighter is better. However when I look at rackets and their specs online it always seem to be the lightest ones that have the higher power ratings. I sort of now do not know what to believe. Do heavier or lighter rackets give more power?

To see why heavier rackets have more power, take this example: if you have racket Wilson, 400g and racket Head, which is 200g, and swing both at 150mph, then racket Wilson will hit the ball with twice as much power as racket Head.

That’s the textbook explanation, but the caveat is how fast you can swing both rackets. If you’re strong, then you might be able to swing both rackets at an equal speed. However, most people can swing the 200g racket faster than the 400g racket, but not twice as fast, resulting in the 400g racket still producing more power. As a result, the trick lies in finding the right balance between your swing speed and racket weight.

With that in mind, I recommend playing with the heaviest racket you can play well with. This weight differs for different people and does not depend on your skill level. It is based on your body weight and physical conditioning.

To find the right weight racket, demo several rackets and see if you can swing them easily on all contact planes without quickly fatiguing. That is why I recommend testing rackets against players you usually have a hard time against.

Out of all the people you play with currently, intend to play, or want to play against shortly, you must be able to get to their balls in time and be ready to hit a full normal swing.

Anyone can crush hand-fed balls no matter how heavy the racket is, and anyone can convince themself that a racket is brilliant when they test it out for 20 minutes against Auntie Annie and her chipped forehand.

The acid test is when you play a competitive match and are on the run. Can you get the racket around on the ball and hit it on time? Or are you always late? Your racket is probably too heavy if you are late on the ball too often.

If you can hit deep when you have time to set the shot up, but it shortens up when you are under pressure or on the run, your racket is probably too heavy.

The reason here is when we hit on the run or higher bouncing balls, our major muscle groups become less involved, and the smaller muscles have to take over and swing that same weight instead.

What are some common errors to look out for when selecting racket weight?

New players to the game often buy very light rackets. Light rackets are extremely easy to wield but prevent you from learning better strokes.

Heavier rackets encourage longer, fuller swings at the ball that require better technique and use more of the body.

On the other hand, more advanced players tend to add weight to their rackets, making them overly heavy. It will feel great to smoke balls in the warm-up, but they are late at contact when a match begins because they try to pull too much weight through too quickly and can’t handle it.

What is the right weight tennis racket?

For a typical adult male who plays a lot or has ambitious plans to play a lot, I recommend a weight in the following ranges regardless of skill level: 290-320g (10.5-11.3 oz).

The weight should fall slightly lower for a typical adult female: 280-310g (10.2-11oz).

The weights quoted are for an unstrung racquet.

Is it ok to buy a heavier racket than I can handle right now?

It is okay to buy a racket with a bit of extra heft if you like it and intend to build up some endurance/strength to use it.

But make sure the goals are realistic. Are you going to put in the effort? Don’t buy a heavier racket to grow into it if you are not prepared to do the work.

What Balance of Racket is Best?

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

The balance of a racket is how the weight is distributed. The balance point would come halfway up the frame on an evenly balanced racquet.

The balance essentially controls one thing: the ‘swing weight’ of the racquet. When reading production descriptions or reviews, you will see the terms head-heavy and head-light.

Head heavy is when more mass is further out from the centre of rotation towards the racket’s hoop. It makes the racket’s effective weight when it makes contact with the ball than it is. This adds more power to the frame at the price of making the racket harder to swing and manoeuvre.

In theory, head-heavy sounds like a good deal, a lighter racket but plenty of power. But there is a trade-off here, and a big one. The head of the frame’s weight puts extra torque on the wrist, elbow, and shoulder during the swing.

This extra strain means head-heavy rackets significantly cause ‘tennis elbow’ and other tennis-related injuries. This is why I advise you to avoid ‘beginner’ tennis rackets. All you get is a racket that hinders stroke development and increases your chances of suffering tennis-related injuries.

Instead, it would be best if you always went for a head-light frame, which means more weight in the handle.

The manufacturer gives these in points exactly how head light depends on the weight of a racket. Generally speaking, the heavier the racket, the more head-light it should become.

My recommendations:

  • 280g-300g: 3-5 points head light
  • 305-310g: 5-8 points head light
  • 315-320g: 8-12 points head light

What Stiffness of Racket is Best?

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

The stiffness of a racket contributes to power and comfort. A stiffer racket will give you more power. A softer frame will absorb more energy from the ball and take power away from the shot. The more rigid the frame, the less it deflects or bends on impact, and the more power is kept within the ball.

But is softer always better? But how does that relate to comfort? This is a tricky one and often boils down to personal preference. When a racket strikes a tennis ball, it vibrates. On stiffer frames, the vibrations are harsher but shorter. On softer frames, they’re less severe but last longer.

Generally speaking, most people find softer frames are more comfortable to play with and less likely to cause tennis elbow. But other players might find the exact opposite. When you combine stiffness with the string type, grip size, string pattern, etc., a stiffer-rated frame can feel just as, if not more, comfortable than a lower-stiffness racquet.

In my experience, the type of tennis string you have will affect the comfort far more than the racket stiffness, so it is never my most significant consideration.

I find stiffer rackets, with softer strings at low tension, far more arm-friendly than softer rackets.

On the specs list, a lower RA number rating indicates a more flexible racket; a higher number means a stiffer racket, with the vast majority carrying between a 55 and 75 RA rating.

What String Pattern Should You Choose?

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

The string pattern relates to the number of the cross and main strings on the racket, e.g. 16 main strings x 19 crosses. The pattern affects string bed stiffness and spin potential regarding how the racket plays.

The stiffer the string bed, the less variation you will get when you hit the ball. A higher string density pattern, such as an 18 x 20, produces a stiffer string bed as it deflects less on ball contact. A lower-density bed, like 16 x 19, means a less rigid string bed.

Perhaps the more significant factor, though, is spin. A looser string pattern will generate more spin than a tighter string pattern as there is more space between the strings; this creates more movement between them.

I recommend a looser 16 x 19 pattern for most players, as access to spin is a massive part of the modern game.

The exception will be if you are a very flat hitter who uses little spin, in which case a tighter pattern might give you a more consistent response.

Or if you hit with oodles of topspin and would prefer a tighter string pattern to maintain depth and power on the ball, a la Dominic Thiem.

What Head Size Should You Get?

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Like stiffness, head size is another tricky area to say one is better. With a larger head size, you’ll see a slight increase in the power you can generate. But this is negligible, and saying a 98sq” frame is more powerful than a 95sq” while all other specs are the same isn’t always true.

A more oversized head-size racket increases rotational stability as strings have a broader surface area. The further from the centre of the stringbed the frame’s weight is distributed, the more force is required to twist the racket in your hand.

As a result, the racket can resist twisting more when you hit a ball off-centre, reducing the miss-hits and balls flying where you don’t want them. You will see the term ‘ forgiving ‘ in many racket reviews of larger head-size frames.

Like weight, there is a trade-off here: the wider the head becomes, the more difficult it is for the player to twist the racket when they want to. For example, to add more spin on an angled volley or when trying to close the face.

For most players. I recommend a head size between 98 and 100 sq inches.

The Best Racket Specification For Most Players

Now we’ve pieced those five things together with some recommendations, the final recommended racket specs you should be looking for are as follows:

For a typical adult male:

280-320g, 5-12 points head-light, 16×19 string pattern, 98-100 sq” head size. Stiffness to personal preference after demoing.

For a typical adult female:

270-310g, 3-8 points head-light, 16×19 string pattern, 98-105 sq” head size. Stiffness to personal preference after demoing.

Tennis Racket Finder Tool

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Are you looking for a new racket? Use our easy-to-use racket finder tool that lets you filter every racket on the market by specs, price, and playing style. TRY RACKET FINDER

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Based on the recommended specs above, below are my favourite 10 rackets on the market.

Please read this guide thoroughly before you rush out and buy a racket in this recommended list. While our team members have playtested all of them, and we regularly update this list with new rackets we have tested, it does not mean a racket is ideal for your game or ‘the best’.

Ideally, you should pick 3 or 4 and demo them before deciding. And also, read our full racket reviews, which we link to in each section.

You can see a quick comparison table below, with more detail on each racket further down the page.

Dunlop FX 500 2023

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

100 in2 / 645.16 cm2

Strung Weight:

11.3 oz / 320 g

Beam Width:

23 / 26 / 23 mm

String Pattern:

16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Composition:

Sonic Core Infinergy/Graphite

Babolat Pure Aero 2023

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

100 in2 / 645.16 cm2

Strung Weight:

11.2 oz / 322 g

Beam Width:

23 / 26 / 23 mm

String Pattern:

16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Yonex EZONE 100 2022

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

100 in2 / 645.16 cm2

Strung Weight:

11.2 oz / 318 g

Beam Width:

23.8 / 26.5 / 22.5 mm

String Pattern:

16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Composition:

2G-NAMD/HM Graphire

Head Boom MP 2022

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

100 in2 / 645.16 cm2

Strung Weight:

11.1 oz / 315 g

Beam Width:

24 / 24 / 24 mm

String Pattern:

16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Composition:

Graphene Inside/Graphite

Yonex VCORE 100 2023

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

100 in2 / 645.16 cm2

Strung Weight:

11.3 oz / 320 g

Beam Width:

25.3 / 25.3 / 22 mm

String Pattern:

16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Composition:

2G-Namd FlexForce/H.M. Graphite

Artengo TR960 Control Tour

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

97.6 in2 / 630 cm2

Strung Weight:

11.4 oz / 323 g

Beam Width:

22 / 22 / 22 mm

String Pattern:

16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Composition:

High Modulus Carbon

Babolat Pure Drive 2021

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

100 in2 / 645.16 cm2

Strung Weight:

11.2 oz / 318 g

Beam Width:

23 / 26 / 23 mm

String Pattern:

16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Wilson Blade 98 18x20 v8

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

98 in2 / 632.26 cm2

Strung Weight:

11.4 oz / 323 g

Beam Width:

21 / 21 / 21 mm

String Pattern:

18 Mains / 20 Crosses

Composition:

Braided Graphite

Babolat Pure Strike 16x19 3rd Gen

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

98 in2 / 632.26 cm2

Strung Weight:

11.4 oz / 323 g

Beam Width:

21 / 23 / 21 mm

String Pattern:

16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Yonex EZONE 98 2022

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

98 in2 / 632.26 cm2

Strung Weight:

11.4 oz / 323 g

Beam Width:

23.5 / 24.5 / 19.5 mm

String Pattern:

16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Composition:

2G-NAMD/HM Graphire

Wilson Clash 100 v2

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

100 in2 / 645.16 cm2

Strung Weight:

11 oz / 312 g

Beam Width:

24.5 / 24.5 / 24.5 mm

String Pattern:

16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Yonex Percept 100D

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

100 in2 / 645.16 cm2

Strung Weight:

11.3 oz / 320 g

Beam Width:

23 / 23 / 23 mm

String Pattern:

18 Mains / 19 Crosses

Composition:

NAMD-2G/H.M.Graphite

ProKennex Ki Q+ 15

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Head Size:

105 in2 / 677.42 cm2

Length:

27.5 in / 69.85 cm

Strung Weight:

10.6 oz / 301 g

Beam Width:

26 / 26 / 26 mm

String Pattern:

16 Mains / 19 Crosses

Composition:

High Modulus Graphite/SpiralTech Carbon


Dunlop FX 500

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

The FX 500 is one of my favourite rackets for dynamic players who want to enhance their game with powerful, spin-heavy shots.

With a strung weight of 11.3 ounces, this racket caters to intermediate players while also appealing to advanced players looking for a quick and responsive option.

More advanced players could also look into the FX 500 Tour, but I prefer the standard FX 500 because it has a slightly larger head size and a thicker beam, providing more power without sacrificing precision.

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

In its 2023 version, the FX 500 introduced a more flexible beam construction, resulting in a softer feel and reducing strain on the arm, which we found improved over the previous model.

Dunlop’s grommet system enhances the string bed’s ability to return more energy to the ball, thus increasing power. Like its predecessor, this model features Sonic Core w/Infinergy in the upper part of the frame, which softens the impact feel.

The FX 500 is a formidable choice for modern players, offering a rock-solid combination of speed, spin, and power. The added comfort in the 2023 update is a significant bonus, making it even more appealing.

My favourite aspect of the racket is that the stability of this racket is exceptionally good for its weight. It has a high twistweight compared to rackets with similar-ish specs. so it stands up well to heavier incoming shots.

Dunlop FX 500 Specifications

Dunlop FX 500 Head Size 100 in² / 645.16 cm² Length 27in / 68.58cm Strung Weight 11.3oz / 320g Balance 13in / 33.02cm / 4 pts HL Swingweight 321 Stiffness 69 Beam Width 23mm / 26mm / 23mm Composition Sonic Core Infinergy/Graphite Power Level Low-Medium Stroke Style Medium-Full Swing Speed Medium-Fast Racquet Colors Blue/Black Grip Type Dunlop Synthetic String Pattern 16 Mains / 19 Crosses Mains skip 7T,9T,7H,9H String Tension 45-65 pounds

Pros

  • Stable and Solid: The racket offers excellent stability and solidity, even with its lightweight, making it suitable for various playing styles.
  • Good Manoeuvrability: It is easy to swing and handle, balancing spin and precision.
  • Stiff Frame: The racket returns a lot of energy to the ball, which is beneficial for aggressive strokes and powerful shots from the baseline.

Cons

  • Lacks ‘Putaway’ Power: Can feel a bit underpowered on easy balls, making it challenging for players who rely on big serves and fast forehands.
  • Erratic on Volleys: The racket occasionally feels erratic off the string bed, especially when hitting multiple volleys at the same point.
  • High Stiffness: Although beneficial in many aspects, the high stiffness might not suit some players

The Dunlop FX 500 is a well-balanced, stable, and solid tennis racket suitable for intermediate to advanced players. It offers good manoeuvrability and a stiff frame for energy return and is one of my favourite ‘power’ marketed rackets

Read our full Dunlop FX 500 playtest and review.

Babolat Pure Aero

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

The Pure Aero has been one of the best-selling rackets of the last 20 years, primarily due to Rafa Nadal but also because it excels in speed, spin, and power, making it one of the most sought-after and adaptable rackets available.

With a strung weight of 11.2 ounces and a swift sub-325 swing weight, the Pure Aero 100 ensures effortless acceleration from the baseline and nimble handling at the net. It’s especially effective in the hands of aggressive players, offering spin-friendly precision and robust power.

In the latest version, the Pure Aero enhances arm comfort with more flex in the frame. Babolat has also integrated NF² Technology, which uses flax inserts in both the handle and upper hoop to diminish the harshness of ball impact.

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Furthermore, Babolat has refined its FSI Spin technology by adjusting the string spacing for tighter control. Compared to previous Pure Aero’s, I found the string pattern much tighter, which suited my playstyle of flattening groundstrokes.

Intermediate and advanced players searching for a racket that excels in generating spin and provides precise shot control will find the updated Pure Aero an ideal match.

Babolat Pure Aero Specifications

Babolat Pure Aero Head Size 100 in² / 645.16 cm² Length 27in / 68.58cm Strung Weight 11.2oz / 318g Balance 12.99in / 32.99cm / 4 pts HL Swingweight 322 Stiffness 65 Beam Width 23mm / 26mm / 23mm Composition Graphite Power Level Low-Medium Stroke Style Medium-Full Swing Speed Medium-Fast Racquet Colors Yellow/Black Grip Type Babolat Syntec Pro String Pattern 16 Mains / 19 Crosses Mains skip 8T,8H String Tension 50-59 Pounds

Pros

  • Great Blend of Power, Spin, and Control: The racket offers a well-balanced combination of these key features, suitable for aggressive play and topspin shots.
  • Very Maneuverable: Enhanced aerodynamics allow the racket to move swiftly, aiding in groundstrokes and net play.
  • User-Friendly and Versatile: Suitable for many playing styles and can be used by players across all skill levels.

Cons

  • Less Stability in Volleys: Compared to heavier frames, it might lack stability, especially when countering fast shots at the net.

The Babolat Pure Aero 2023 is a user-friendly and versatile tennis racket offering a superb mix of power, spin, and control. Its aerodynamic design ensures excellent manoeuvrability. However, its relative stiffness may affect arm-sensitive players, and it might lack some stability during volleys compared to heavier frames.

If you want a more comprehensive look at the racket, our full Pure Aero playtest looks at all aspects of the racket.

Yonex EZONE 100

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

With its impressive history, the EZONE 100 is a top choice for a versatile and user-friendly player’s racket.

It offers a more accommodating and powerful experience than my favourite racket, the EZONE 98. It perfectly rewards quick swings with precision and provides that unique Yonex feel characterised by plushness and accuracy.

In this latest version, Yonex introduces the 2G NAMD SPEED into the graphite composition of the racket’s shaft. This addition enhances the racket’s power and improves ball feedback.

The beam construction has also been refined, featuring a thicker and more curved cross-section in the shaft for increased stability and a thinner frame face to provide a softer response.

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Another critical feature is Yonex’s proven ISOMETRIC head shape, a signature design that offers a more forgiving and generous feel compared to traditionally shaped rackets. This update not only continues the EZONE 100’s legacy of excellence but also recaptures the remarkable feel of its predecessors.

Intermediate and advanced players seeking a fast and versatile player’s racket should consider the EZONE 100. It’s an excellent choice for those aiming to enhance their performance with a racket that balances speed, versatility, and user-friendly features.

Yonex EZONE 100 Specs

Yonex EZONE 100 Head Size 100 in² / 645.16 cm² Length 27in / 68.58cm Strung Weight 11.2oz / 318g Balance 13in / 33.02cm / 4 pts HL Swingweight 317 Stiffness 67 Beam Width 23.8mm / 26.5mm / 22.5mm Composition 2G-NAMD SPEED/HM Graphite Power Level Low-Medium Stroke Style Medium-Full Swing Speed Medium-Fast Racquet Colors Blue Grip Type Yonex Synthetic String Pattern 16 Mains / 19 Crosses Mains skip 7T,9T,8H String Tension 45-60 pounds

Pros

  • Power: The racket delivers substantial power, making it suitable for players who want to hit with force.
  • Manoeuvrability: Its design allows for easy movement through the air, aiding in quick and responsive shots.
  • Steadiness: Despite its lightweight, the racket offers a stable and reliable performance, even under pressure.

Cons

  • Reduced Feel on Touch Shots: The racket might not provide as much tactile feedback on delicate shots, which could affect precision.
  • High Cost: As a high-end racket, the EZONE 100 is more expensive than other options, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious players.

The Yonex EZONE 100 excels in power, manoeuvrability, and steadiness, making it ideal for intermediate to advanced players. It offers substantial energy return and stability against heavy shots.

Read our Yonex EZONE 100 playtest and review.

Head Boom MP

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

The Head Boom MP racket is part of the Boom series, designed to give players more power and comfort.

Compared to other rackets on this list, the Head Boom MP tennis racket is aimed more at the intermediate market. But you still need good swing speeds to make the most of it.

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I reviewed the Head Boom MP in full, and it’s been one of the rackets I tend to pick up and play with when I’m looking for something easy to play with.

The thinner box beam in the shaft gives it a player-like feel, but the thicker, more angular cross-section in the head adds some free power.

It packs a mid-plus head size of 100 square inches, making it suitable for players seeking a blend of power, control and forgiveness.

The Boom MP has a string pattern of 16 mains and 19 crosses, so there is plenty of spin potential and its teardrop shape, not too dissimilar to Yonex’s isometric rackets, gives a larger hitting area in the upper part of the frame.

The Head Boom MP tennis racket also introduced Head’s Auxetic technology, which has made its way into the Extreme, Prestige and Gravity rackets; the auxetic is said to make the racket flex differently depending on the ball impact. I’m unsure what difference it makes, but it’s a comfortable frame.

Head Boom MP Specification

Head Boom MP Head Size 100 in² / 645 cm² Length 27in / 68.58cm Unstrung Weight 10.4oz / 295g Strung Weight 11.1oz / 315g Balance 12.87in / 32.69cm / 5 pts HL Swingweight 318 Stiffness 64 Beam Width 23.5mm / 24.5mm / 23.5mm Composition Graphene Inside/Graphite Power Level Low-Medium Stroke Style Medium-Full Swing Speed Medium-Fast Racquet Colors Black / Coral Grip Type Head Hyrdosorb Pro String Pattern 16 Mains / 19 Crosses String Tension 48-57 pounds

Pros

  • A great blend of power and control
  • Cool cosmetics
  • Perfect racket for the modern intermediate tennis player

Cons

  • Can feel a bit unstable
  • It is not a racket that offers free power despite the name Boom

Overall, the Head Boom MP tennis racket is an excellent choice for intermediate players who seek more power and comfort from their racket. Advanced players can also use this frame, but they want to customise it slightly with a leather grip and some lead tape in the hoop.

Read our HEAD Boom MP playtest and review.

Yonex VCORE 100 2023 (Great for Spin)

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The Yonex VCORE tennis racket line was introduced in 2012 and, over the years, has seen several design and technology updates.

None are more noticeable than the 2023 version of the VCORE 100, which has a new cosmetic, a new head shape and some new tech in the layup.

The VCORE 100 is designed for intermediate to advanced players who want spin and control; it uses Yonex’s Isometric head shape, which they claim increases the sweet spot and reduces vibrations upon contact with the ball.

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The VCORE 100 is a natural spin machine, but it has enough versatility to make it fit several game styles as it’s manoeuvrable, cuts through the air quickly (performs well for one-handed backhand) and has enough feel in there for touch shots.

If you demo it, you’ll need to get used to that slightly higher launch angle, but once you get used to the racket’s characteristics, you’ll be rewarded with RPMs that land deep and heavy in the court.

Yonex VCORE 100 2023 Specification

Yonex VCORE 100 Head Size 100 in² / 645.16 cm² Length 27in / 68.58cm Unstrung Weight 10.6oz / 300g Strung Weight 11.3oz / 320g Balance 13in / 33.02cm / 4 pts HL Swingweight 322 Stiffness 65 Beam Width 25.3mm / 25.3mm / 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 16 Mains / 19 Crosses String Tension 45-60 pounds

Pros

  • Very spin-friendly
  • Easy to swing
  • Yonex have the best quality control/manufacturing

Cons

  • Can lack some control
  • Not the nicest cosmetic this year

Higher intermediate to advanced level players who look for heavy rotations and consistent power will find the Yonex VCORE 100 to be just what they need to step up their game.

\> Read the full Yonex VCORE 100 Playtest and Review

Artengo TR960 Control Tour 16 x 19

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Gael Monfils endorses the Artengo TR960 Control Tour, a racket designed for intermediate to advanced players looking for control and precision in their shots.

It’s a thin beamed frame with a classic look and has a head size of 97.6 square inches, slightly smaller than the typical 98 and 100 square inches you see dominate the market today.

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The first stand-out feature of the TR960 Control Tour is the price. You can pick them up for around £100 / $100, almost a third of the cost of similar rackets from other brands.

On that basis alone, the TR960 is a complete game-changer and hard to beat. Despite the price, the racket is equal in quality and performance to most other offerings.

The paint quality is slightly less good than some other rackets, but other than that, it plays great and has a weight and swingweight many players can use.

It is also easy to customise to bump up the stability; more advanced players will undoubtedly want to do this.

Artengo TR90 Control Tour Specification

Artengo TR960 Control Tour Head Size 97.6in² / 630 cm² Length 27in / 68.58cm Unstrung Weight 10.8oz / 305g Strung Weight 11.4oz / 323g Balance 12.79in / 32.49cm / 6 pts HL Swingweight 315 Stiffness 65 Beam Width 22mm / 22mm / 22mm Composition High Modulus Carbon Power Level Low-Medium Stroke Style Medium-Full Swing Speed Medium-Fast Racquet Colors Grey / Black Grip Type Artengo Synthetic String Pattern 16 Mains / 19 Crosses String Tension 45-60 pounds

Pros

  • Superb price
  • Easy to manoeuvre
  • Plenty of control

Cons

  • Low twist weight so that it can be unstable against heavier balls

If you are on a budget or just like savvy shopping, I advise getting the Artengo TR960 Control Tour. It cannot be beaten on price: performance.

\> Read the full Artengo TR960 Control Tour Review.

Babolat Pure Drive (2021)

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One of the best-selling rackets since the start of this millennium, the Babolat Pure Drive, received a revamp for 2021.

Known for its power and ease of use, Babolat has kept those features while adding an HTR system and a different layup to give more power. Secondly, to aid comfort, Babolat’s SWX Pure Feel is a viscoelastic rubber between the carbon layers of the racquet.

This frame uses the same mould as the 2018 version, but Babolat has improved the frame’s feel, edging it closer in playability to the original Pure Drive from the early 1990s.

The Pure Drive is a power and spin frame through and through, so if that’s what you are looking for, this is a racket for the shortlist.

It plays just how you would expect a Pure Drive to be very manoeuvrable, light feeling, powerful, and a real weapon from the baseline.

It’s not the most stable frame out there, so for players who want feel, like blocking returns, half volleying etc., it probably won’t be to their taste.

Cosmetically, Babolat has done an outstanding job with the new Pure Drive, and it’s one of the best-looking frames on the market today.

Looks aside, the reason the frame makes my list is that no matter what level of player you are, this racket will suit you. You can put it in the hands of any player, and they’ll be able to play with it.

If you’re a beginner, demo this racquet. If you’re an intermediate, demo this racket or if you’re an advanced player, demo this racquet. You get the gist 🙂

Babolat Pure Drive Specification

Babolat Pure Drive Head Size 100in² / 645.16cm² Length 27in / 68.58cm Unstrung Weight 10.6oz / 300g Strung Weight 11.2oz / 318g Balance 32.99cm / 4 pts HL Swingweight 320 Stiffness 71 Beam Width 23mm / 26mm / 23mm Power Level Medium Composition Graphite Stroke Style Medium-Full Swing Speed Medium Racquet Colour Blue Grip Type Babolat Syntec Pro String Pattern 16 Mains / 19 Crosses String Tension 50-59 pounds

Pros

  • Great all-rounder – suits all levels
  • Looks great
  • Power and spin galore

Cons

  • Stiff frame, so it is not arm-friendly
  • Launch angle can be tricky to master
  • It will be difficult to control the ball for players who hit big

The Pure Drive is one of the most popular rackets for a reason, and it’s probably the one racket I would blindly recommend to any player without knowing anything about their game.

The only real thing to be careful of is that it’s a stiff frame so that it can cause arm issues, and if you’re a player that naturally hits a big ball, you might struggle for consistency, but other than that, it’s a solid buy for all levels.

Wilson Blade 98 18 x 20 V8

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The Blade 98 is one of the most widely used frames at the higher recreational, college, and pro levels, thanks to the level of feel, flexibility, and control the frame offers.

The latest version of the Blade line is the 2021 version called Wilson Blade 98 V8, and it comes with something Wilson calls FortyFive technology, which is a renaming of the FlexFeel and similar to the tech used in the much-talked-about Wilson Clash range.

On last year’s list of what I considered the best rackets on the market, I included the Blade 98 V7, but in my opinion, the updated V8 is an improvement and will suit more players.

Before we get onto the nuts and bolts of this frame and why I like it, I think the Blade 98 V8 design is top-notch. The chameleon paint looks excellent. Of course, that shouldn’t influence a purchase decision (we all know it does, though 😆 ), but the slick looks of this frame make it easy to see why it sells well. So, how does it play?

I playtested the Wilson Blade 98 in both the 18 x 20 and 16 x 19 string patterns and had a great time with both frames.

While I did like the V7, it was never my racket of choice, but the V8 is a bit stiffer, easier to swing and more manoeuvrable than the previous version so that I could play better tennis with it.

If you are a player who prefers the greater mass, plushness and plough-through of the Blade v7, then you probably won’t like the v8 as much.

But if you want something quicker through the air, more reactive, and easier to swing than the v7 while still keeping some of the qualities we’ve seen on the Blade line in the last decade, then the Blade v8 will fit the bill.

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The biggest plus of the Blade 98 V8 is comfort and feel. Up at the net, the 305g weight offers excellent control, and you can finish points with punchy volleys. I preferred the 18 x 20 pattern, but players should also consider the 16 x 19 if they want more access to spin.

Overall, this is a solid racket and another step forward for the Blade series, which has continued to grow in popularity since it was first launched with the nBlade. Simply a good blend of control and feel while offering access to spin and power.

If you are a more control-oriented player who likes to mix it up with a lot of variation, then the Blade 98 v8 could be your new weapon of choice. Other rackets are better suited to your game if you want to spank topspin balls like Nadal from the baseline.

Wilson Blade 98 18 x 20 V8 Specifications

Blade 98 V8 18 x 20 Head Size 98in² / 632.26cm² Length 27in / 68.58cm Unstrung Weight 10.8oz / 305g Strung Weight 11.4oz / 323g Balance 13in / 33.02cm / 4 pts HL Swingweight 327 Stiffness 60 Beam Width 21mm / 21mm / 21mm Composition Braided Graphite Power Level Low Stroke Style Full Swing Speed Fast Racquet Colors Green Grip Type Wilson Pro Performance String Pattern 18 Mains / 20 Crosses String Tension 50-60 pounds

Pros

  • Smooth feeling and controllable power
  • Very stable at net
  • Fast through the air

Cons

  • It is not the best racket if you struggle to generate your power on serve

There’s also an 16 x 19 version of the Blade 98 V8 racquet. Although I chose the 18 x 20 for this list, I recommend you demo the 16 x 19 string pattern – you’ll get more access to power and spin.

Babolat Pure Strike 16 x 19 4th Gen

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

If you’re a member of a tennis club, then you’ll no doubt have seen a good chunk of players using Babolat rackets. A good reason is that they make extremely playable frames that suit many different game styles. My favourite racket from the French firm is the Pure Strike 16×19, the racquet of choice for Dominic Thiem.

Babolat has produced a top-quality modern player’s racket with the Pure Strike. Compared with earlier models (I played with a Roddick Pure Drive for a while), it is a more controlled racket that offers an excellent feel and quick handling around the net and off the ground; it feels like you have the ball on a piece of string.

It packs a square & elliptical Hybrid Frame Construction and comes with, according to Babolat’ FSI Power’ technology. Now we know that’s just marketing bullshit. But it does seem to translate to more spin, thanks to the wider spacing between the upper cross strings.

The Pure Strike features amount to a firm, lively, and precise response on the court. I also like how Babolat have thickened up the beam for added stability, and you’ll have no trouble generating plenty of power & spin from this frame. It’s also brought some effortless power on serve, so it is ideal if you want extra pop on your first serve.

Having used a K Factor Pro Staff for a while, I have always enjoyed the classic player frame-style rackets that offer much control. While the Pure Strike offers those aspects, it is nicely blended with a modern player’s racket’s best attributes.

I prefer the 16 x 19 variant due to spin potential compared to the 18 x 20, and while it’s not as manoeuvrable or fast as the Pure Drive, I don’t think many players will have trouble swinging this 305g frame around.

I don’t think I’ve seen any reviews on the Pure Strike that err on the side of negativity, and I agree: Babolat has produced a top-quality racquet.

The Pure Strike 16 x 19 has brilliant control and a great feel, giving you easy access to power and spin. It is very stable for its weight, and from my testing, you get the manoeuvrability associated with a lightweight racket yet the stability of a much heavier racket.

The Pure Strike 16 x 19 has everything: ample control, feel, spin, stability, and power, all in a lightweight 305g frame that’s pretty easy to swing.

Like most mass manufacturers, quality control can vary, so if you are buying a matching pair, ask the retailer to try to get them as close as possible on the spec sheet, as there are reports of some frames being quite a bit off the quoted specs.

Babolat Pure Strike 16 x 19 Specifications

Babolat Pure Strike 16 x 19 Head Size 98in² / 632.26 cm² Length 27in / 68.58cm Unstrung Weight 10.8oz / 305g Balance 13in / 33.02cm / 4 pts HL Swingweight 327 Stiffness 66 Beam Width 21.3mm / 23.3mm / 21.3mm / Composition Graphite Power Level Low-Medium Stroke Style Medium-Full Swing Speed Medium-Fast Racquet Colors White w/Orange & Anthracite Grip Type Babolat Syntec Team String Pattern 16 Mains / 19 Crosses String Tension 50-59 pounds

Pros

  • Extremely playable racquet
  • Easy to swing
  • Offers plenty of power from the back of the court

Cons

  • Some players report that the Pure Strike is not the most arm-friendly of frames.
  • Variable quality control (often an issue with Wilson also)

The Babolat Pure Strike has effortless racket head acceleration and ticks all the right boxes for advanced and intermediate players. It’s the perfect racket for any player who wants a zippy, great-feeling player’s racket that offers a nice blend of power, control and spin.

Yonex EZONE 98 2022 – My Favourite Racket

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The latest EZONE 98 from Yonex was launched in 2022, and it’s the racket endorsed by Nick Kyrgios. Of course, his specs are slightly different from the retail version, but it’s certainly the type of frame that suits his game, as it has lots of manoeuvrability, plenty of power, a large sweet spot, and a great feel.

For me, the EZONE 98 7th Generation is one of the most user-friendly player rackets out there, and it’s my top pick for 2024 because it suits many different game styles.

I know it’s not a stereotypical ‘players’ frame, as it’s reasonably light and does need the correct string setup to ensure you get control.

However, the EZONE 98 is a good all-rounder for the modern type of game, and for intermediate and advanced players, it’s one you should demo.

When I hit with it, I felt like I could play well with it almost immediately, which is not the case with a lot of rackets and somewhat unexpected as even though I was a massive fan of the DR 98 and the 2020 6th gen model, I tend to gravitate towards to heavier, control type frames as I play quite a flat game.

But with the Yonex EZONE 98 2022, I got good power from the word go. My serves were landing in with good pop, and up at the net, it offered a solid feel and stability while keeping the excellent playability and performance from the previous DR and AI models.

Any negatives? It is slightly stiffer than the previous version, which might put some players who prefer the softer, plusher-feeling rackets.

Some players also say they struggled with control; I didn’t have that issue, as it was strung with a full bed of Solinco Confidential, which seemed to suit the frame nicely. So, I’d go with a control-orientated string where possible.

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Yonex has also launched the Ezone Tour version of this frame for those looking for a slightly heavier frame alongside the 100, 100L and + (longer racquet) versions in the lineup.

As you’d expect, the Tour model comes in heavier on the scales and has a slightly different balance, giving some more stability. I found the Tour a bit trickier to play with and think the standard 98 is a better choice for most players, but if you like the weight in the head, then the Tour is worth demoing. It’s also worth noting I’ve read a few players find the Tour model quite harsh on the arm, so that is one final thing to be aware of.

Yonex Ezone EZONE 98 2022 Specification

Yonex EZONE 98 Head Size 98 in² / 632.26 cm² Length 27in / 68.58cm Unstrung Weight 10.8oz / 305g Strung Weight 11.4oz / 323g Balance 12.79in / 32.49cm / 6 pts HL Swingweight 318 Stiffness 65 Beam Width 23.5mm / 24.5mm / 19.5mm Composition 2G-NAMD/HM Graphite Power Level Low-Medium Stroke Style Medium-Full Swing Speed Medium-Fast Racquet Colors Blue Grip Type Yonex Synthetic String Pattern 16 Mains / 19 Crosses String Tension 45-60 pounds

Pros

  • A great blend of power and precision
  • Yonex offer good quality control on all their rackets
  • It feels very stable at the net
  • Perfect racket for the modern tennis player

Cons

  • Some players find the EZONE line, not the arm friendliest.
  • Potentially more suited to a two-handed backhand due to weight distribution

In my opinion, the EZONE EZONE 98 is a racket that all intermediate and experienced players should demo. This racket is worthy if you want a blend of modern power and forgiveness with traditional precision and feel.

\> Full Yonex EZONE 98 Review

Wilson Clash 100 Version 2

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Wilson spent five years developing the Clash to produce a racket designed to try and kill the notion that stiffer rackets are always more powerful.

They achieved this by introducing two new ‘innovations’. I’ve put that in quotation marks because I find throwing that word around regarding rackets difficult, but I will say that Wilson has produced something unique.

The two new manufacturing processes are called FORTYFIVE and Stablesmart. These concepts are designed to allow the racket to bend differently and are achieved by laying the carbon fibre at different angles to produce new flex points.

We expect a stable racket to offer power, spin, and control. However, a racket is usually heavier, stiffer, or combines the two to achieve stability.

For 2022, the Clash received an update to the v2 model with a few minor changes to bump the stability compared to the original model.

The Wilson Clash 100 V2 comes in at 295g unstrung and has an RA stiffness rating of 57, yet despite its thick beam, it is super flexible, which offers comfort and feel.

So, does the Wilson marketing live up to the hype and provide excellent power performance with great comfort?

I would say sort of. Out of all the rackets I’ve recommended in this guide, this one is perhaps the most unique, and I’m not sure what other rackets it plays, like maybe a Babolat Pure Drive or maybe one of the ProKennex lines, which I recommend for senior players.

When I first hit with a Clash, it took a bit of getting used to, and I found being able to judge where precisely the ball would land after contact tricky, but after 15 minutes of steady baseline hitting, you get somewhat used to it.

I am a reasonably flat hitter on both wings, and it’s clear that the Clash line is not designed for that style of play. This is a big spin players racket for those who like to sit behind the baseline and have that modern Khachanov, Kyrgios style next-gen modern forehand.

I moved my hand around the grip to a more semi-western, hit with a more windshield wiper style and quickly found that is where the Clash 100 v2 does its best work so for players who are looking for effortless power, spin, more flex and comfort than the Clash 100 v2 is a solid choice.

It’s also the most arm-friendly on my list while still stable. This is probably due to the thick beam’s design, so I’d recommend giving the Clash 100 a demo if that’s something you want.

While it’s not the racket for me, I like the Wilson Clash Pro because it suits many modern game styles, and with many players seeking comfort, this racket is a solid choice.

It has an excellent design and exciting specs, and I think many players will find they can hit with more spin and find more angles with this racquet.

The Wilson Clash resembles a Babolat Pure Drive, with a much-improved comfort level. If you like that style of racket and the Clash works for your type of groundstrokes, you might well be on to a winner.

The Wilson Clash 100 v2 is not for everyone, but it is viable for many players, especially those worried about developing niggling arm injuries.

Wilson Clash 100 V2 Specifications

Wilson Clash 100 V2 Head Size 100in² / 645.16cm² Length 27in / 68.58cm Unstrung Weight 10.4oz / 295g Strung Weight 11oz / 312g Balance 12.59in / 31.98cm / 7 pts HL Swingweight 313 Stiffness 57 Beam Width 24.5mm / 24.5mm / 24.5mm Composition Graphite Power Level Low-Medium Stroke Style Medium-Full Swing Speed Medium-Fast Racquet Colors Red Grip Type Wilson Pro Performance String Pattern 16 Mains / 19 Crosses String Tension 50-60 pounds

Pros

  • Good blend of spin, power and comfort
  • Arm-friendly yet still stable

Cons

  • It can be a little erratic / less precise than some player’s frames
  • Not the most powerful of rackets

The Wilson Clash 100 v2 is a fairly unique frame and manages to have great stability and a low flex rating. Big swings are rewarded with this racket, and if you want something arm-friendly, you should demo the Clash.

Yonex Percept 100D – Great All Rounder

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With the new Percept line, Yonex expanded its renowned control series with this new addition – The Percept 100D.

Offering slightly more free power and forgiveness than the Percept 97s, the 100D features a dense 18×19 string pattern, ensuring exceptionally precise and predictable ball trajectories, especially during full swings. Additionally, its sub-320 swing weight enhances racket head speed from the baseline and allows for quick responses at the net.

Key attributes of this racket include an extended shaft, which improves ball pocketing, flexibility, and control, as well as a stiffer racket face for increased stability and power.

Yonex introduces a Servo Filter in the shaft to boost comfort, employing a slender, elastic layer to absorb harsh vibrations. Furthermore, the racket’s graphite composition is augmented with 2G-NAMD Flex Force technology. This innovation allows the frame to flex optimally on impact, enhancing the overall feel.

With the Percept 100D, Yonex combines speed, precision, and a pleasing feel, making it a standout option for intermediate and advanced players. This racket is a testament to Yonex’s commitment to delivering high-performance equipment tailored to the nuanced needs of serious players.

In our playtest, the 100D is an excellent option for intermediate players searching for a lighter frame that still packs a good dose of precision on full swings.

The lighter weight makes this racket pretty good for doubles, too, as it is very manoeuvrable. While it lacks the mass and plough through the heavier Percept 97 models, the combination of speed, control and spin produces a stable racket and given I’m a big fan of Yonex rackets due to their quality control, this one gets a thumbs up from me.

I found generating racket head speed with this racket a cinch, and for a 300g racket, it has decent levels of power from the baseline.

Up at the net, players approaching on a wing and a prayer might prefer a racket with a bit more weight behind it as it doesn’t have the best rotational stability, but it offers plenty of feel for touch players thanks to the thin-ish beam.

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Serve-wise, this racket is more geared towards spin and precision rather than being an out-and-out sledgehammer, but I was able to get a decent pace on serves, and for some reason, I always seem to serve better with Yonex rackets. Psychological or anecdotal, I’m not sure, but this racket worked well for my serve as it felt like I could add some whip to crank up the MPH.

It’s also comfortable to play with; this may be because Yonex has added their Vibration Dampening Mesh into the handle to help reduce unwanted vibrations. Whether it works as advertised is debatable, but I found it arm-friendly.

The best descriptor of the Percept 100D would be versatile, as it does many things well. For anyone who used the previous Vcore 100, you won’t have any issues moving to this model, and for me, it’s a significant improvement.

Yonex Percept 100D Specifications

Yonex Percept 100D Head Size 100 in / 645.16 cm Length 27in / 68.58cm Strung Weight 11.3oz / 320g Balance 12.79in / 32.49cm / 6 pts HL Swingweight 318 Stiffness 66 Beam Width 23mm / 23mm / 23mm Composition NAMD-2G/H.M.Graphite Power Level Low-Medium Stroke Style Medium-Full Swing Speed Medium-Fast Racquet Colors Mint Grip Type Yonex Synthetic String Pattern 18 Mains / 19 Crosses Mains skip 8T,10T,8H,10H String Tension 45-60 pounds

Pros

  • Manoeuvrability: The racket’s exceptional balance and lightweight design make it highly manoeuvrable and ideal for extended rallies and quick exchanges.
  • Control and Spin: Its dense 18×19 string pattern ensures a controlled and predictable trajectory, allowing for precise shot-making and decent spin generation.
  • Stability and Comfort: It offers good stability for countering powerful shots, and its construction reduces vibrations for enhanced comfort.

Cons

  • Lack of Power: Some players might find the racket lacking in power, especially during aggressive plays or when needing extra punch for serves.
  • Touch Shots Lacking: The racket may not perform as well on drop shots and volleys, lacking the desired feel and response for finesse shots.
  • Feel: While stable and dampened, this might translate to a less connected feel for the ball, which could be unsatisfactory for players who prefer a more traditional response from their racket.

The Yonex Percept 100D is tailored for advanced players, offering excellent manoeuvrability, control, and spin. While stable and comfortable, it may lack the power and touch desired for aggressive plays and finesse shots. Ideal for those valuing precision and quick returns, it’s less suited for players relying on power serves.

Read our full Yonex Percept 100D playtest and review.

Wildcard Pick: ProKennex Ki Q+ 15 Pro

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Pro Kennex is one of the lesser-known racket brands, but they make some high-quality frames, and my favourite is the Ki Q+15 Pro.

Whereas most of the rackets on my best-of list are more traditional ‘players’ type rackets, this Ki Q+15 Pro is a more forgiving frame that offers a ton of stability and power.

This frame has a hefty 335 swing weight and feels very stable on contact. It’s an extended racket at 27.5 inches, so it’s a bit more challenging to swing than the other rackets on this list, but this frame is second to none when it comes to redirecting pace and generating power.

I’m not a player who suffers from arm issues, but the Ki Q+ 15 is super comfortable to hit with, and the vibration is minimal.

I particularly enjoyed serving with this racket. It provided a ton of free power, and it’s surprising the difference a 27.5-inch racket can make on serve; you get some extra leverage, and with this racket’s swing weight power-friendly specs, you can bomb down the first serve.

Whenever I’ve picked up a Pro Kennex racket, I’ve enjoyed it. The entire lineup feels good to play with.

The consensus is that more flexible rackets are arm-friendlier, but Pro Kennex bucks the trend by producing some of the stiffest frames on the market that are super comfortable to play with.

This is thanks to their Kinetic Quadfocus Technology, and this is due to a movable mass in the racquet’s head that protects against vibration, shock, and racket torque.

ProKennex Ki Q+ 15 Specification

ProKennex Ki Q+ 15 Head Size 105in² / 677.42 m² Length 27.5in / 69.85cm Unstrung Weight 10.8oz / 305g Strung Weight 11.3oz / 320g Balance 12.9in / 32.77cm / 7 pts HL Swingweight 335 Stiffness 72 Beam Width 26mm / 26mm / 26mm Composition High Modulus Graphite/SpiralTech Carbon Power Level Medium Stroke Style Medium Swing Speed Medium Racket Colors Sky Blue/Black Grip Type ProKennex Synthetic String Pattern 16 Mains / 19 Crosses String Tension 50-65 pounds

Pros

  • Arm Friendly
  • Extremely stable
  • Easy Power

Cons

  • Too powerful for some players

If you have any arm problems, then Pro Kennex Ki Q +15 is a brand you should give a try. They make the arm friendliest rackets on the market, bar none and have helped countless players play pain-free.


Final Thoughts

Tennis Racket Finder Tool

Babolat pure drive lite 2023 review năm 2024

Are you looking for a new racket? Use our easy-to-use racket finder tool that lets you filter every racket on the market by specs, price, and playing style.

So there you have it, a rather in-depth guide on how to find the best tennis racket for your game.

Remember, the above is based on my experience buying, testing and helping others choose a tennis racket. Your personal experiences may differ.

Everything I have written aside, the most important thing about buying a new racket is that you like it, how it feels to you, how it plays, and how it looks.

If a racket feels too stiff, flimsy, muted, light, or heavy, the grip doesn’t feel right, you hate the colour, or it hurts in any way when you are hitting, it isn’t the right racket for you.

If you have to think about the equipment in your hand, you will not play to your full potential. You should be able to pick up your racket and play with it without a second thought. Hopefully, this guide helps you on your way to finding the right one 🙂

Have you got a question about a racket? Do you recommend a racket I should add to my list? Need some advice? Leave a comment below or contact me, and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

What is the best tennis racket in 2023?

**Babolat Pure Aero ($259)** If you're part of the “spin to win” crowd, there's arguably no racquet better-suited to the task than the Pure Aero. ... .

**Babolat Pure Strike 98 (16x19) ($159)** The Pure Strike is Babolat's more control-oriented family of racquets. ... .

**Head Speed MP Black 2023 ($259)**.

Is there a pure drive 2023?

BABOLAT Pure Drive Team 2023 Tennis Racquet Specifications: Playability: The Pure Drive Team 2023 is a great option for the Advanced tournament players looking for control-oriented racquet.

What is the difference between pure Aero and 2023?

The 2019 Pure Aero was very stiff. At 70 RA, it was sometimes uncomfortable but also returned loads of the energy generated through the swing, giving it an extra powerful response. With the 2023 edition (according to our diagnostic machine), Babolat has lowered the stiffness by a whopping 4 points, to 66 RA.

Do any pros use the Babolat Pure Drive?

In 2021, The 10th generation of the Babolat Pure Drive was launched and several professional players have endorsed the legendary racket. Sofia Kenin is a young tennis player who won the 2020 Australian Open and finished as a runner up at the 2020 French Open.