Tennis Warehouse: Babolat Pure Aero 98

[codonnell]

It appears Hugo Dellien is at least entertaining a switch to the PA98. 20 crosses and lead at 3 and 9 looking at his Instagram

Based off the pictures it looks like he is still using the 2016 pure aero vs (flat Box beam hoop) . Same one as Felix . However based off what i here the new vs sounds like a good fit for him with some extra pop more tweeter style for someone more undersized for the pro circuit!

 

[FrankyRelax]

Finally got my racquet after Icepocolypse here in Texas. Some Unstrung specs:

Weight with plastic on handle: 310.5g
Weight without plastic on handle: 308.1g

Haven't hit with Babs in a while so noticed that it comes with the rubber grip band at the top of the handle: 2.1g (I may or may not keep it on there depending on strung specs)

Unstrung swingweight with that rubber grip band and no plastic on handle: 302

 

[TennisManiac]

Finally got my racquet after Icepocolypse here in Texas. Some Unstrung specs:

Weight with plastic on handle: 310.5g
Weight without plastic on handle: 308.1g

Haven't hit with Babs in a while so noticed that it comes with the rubber grip band at the top of the handle: 2.1g (I may or may not keep it on there depending on strung specs)

Unstrung swingweight with that rubber grip band and no plastic on handle: 302g

You got a good one.

 

[GimmeBackMyDog]

I just got home and opened my 98.

Won't be able to hit with it for a day or two.

But I talked about the VS feeling hollow a few posts ago.

I just picked up the 98.

Unfortunately, I don't have any fancy equipment to check the specs.

But I swung it around a few times and immediately I noticed that it feels a little heftier and less hollow than my VS.

Not sure how that will translate to playing on the court.

 

[J B]

That’s the problem with a lot of these tests. Horrible trash string is used. …. I know you are all 5.0s but it should be a requirement to use a mainstream string or the manufacture recommended or competitor.

 

[Soundbyte]

That’s the problem with a lot of these tests. Horrible trash string is used. …. I know you are all 5.0s but it should be a requirement to use a mainstream string or the manufacture recommended or competitor.

They shipped the frame new with a set of RPM Blast and Xcel.
But what's wrong with players using whatever string they please? The point of this to get various opinion from various play levels. The target demographic is just as much the "once a week rec player" as it is a High school/college/league player playing multiple times a week.

I feel like its a tough ask to say "These reviewers should be forced to use strings that I use and like at the tension I prefer." If someone posts their review and they say they used Kelver at 70lbs, I'd ignore the review for me personally. If someone says they strung it up with Tier 1 Black Knight at 44 lbs, I'd pay more attention - as those are strings and tensions that I use.

Playtests are different from demos when people receive a frame with unknown strings of unknown duration of unknown tension.

 

[TennisManiac]

Getting ready for tomorrow

Done. Two piece string job. Alu Power 44/44

Dog approved

 

[J D]

Nice shepherd mix, beautiful dog. How’s his forehand (or is it forepaw)?

 

[SlowTiger]

That’s the problem with a lot of these tests. Horrible trash string is used. …. I know you are all 5.0s but it should be a requirement to use a mainstream string or the manufacture recommended or competitor.

These Playtest aren't demos. They come unstrung with free sets of a premium poly or multi for the people to choose or they can use their own preferred set is even better

 

[TennisManiac]

Nice shepherd mix, beautiful dog. How’s his forehand (or is it forepaw)?

Thanks! He's actually a pure bred. That was a bad picture of him. He's a "long haired" Showline German Shepherd.

Here's some better pics.

 

[Power Player]

That’s the problem with a lot of these tests. Horrible trash string is used. …. I know you are all 5.0s but it should be a requirement to use a mainstream string or the manufacture recommended or competitor.

Who is using trash strings? Just curious since I think someone using their typical string of choice helps identify the characteristics of the frame.

I think we all know RPM Blast is recommended since it is a Babolat frame. We all got sent a set of that too. If the frame doesn't feel nice with my strings I will try the RPM Blast and see how I like it.

 

[mad dog1]

@lidoazndiabloboi was kind enough to let me try his PA98 this morning. I was pleasantly surprised how easy it swung through the air despite the SW specs being substantially higher than I typically prefer. Very comfortable and solid feeling as I would expect based on the SW. The PAVS in stock form feels more hollow in comparison for sure. The 3 PAVS I own all have strung SW in the 305-315 range strung with 1.25 poly which is considerably lower than the new PA98. As a result, the PAVS absolutely needs some customization imo. While my PAVSs at around 320SW strung don’t feel hollow, they still feel brassier than the PA98. The PA98 is a very nice update to the PAVS although I would have preferred that Babolat retained the specs of a platform frame so those who like to customize frames to their own specs could still do so.

 

[J D]

Sorry. My BIL raises and trains shepherds as service dogs for vets. When I saw the long mane, I incorrectly assumed it was a mix. Gorgeous animal.

 

[Seth]

Getting ready for tomorrow

Done. Two piece string job. Alu Power 44/44

Dog approved

 

[GimmeBackMyDog]

 

[TennisManiac]

I'm looking at the speakers!

 

[SlowTiger]

Something about those look off. You should send them to me to try out for you

 

[J B]

They shipped the frame new with a set of RPM Blast and Xcel.
But what's wrong with players using whatever string they please? The point of this to get various opinion from various play levels. The target demographic is just as much the "once a week rec player" as it is a High school/college/league player playing multiple times a week.

I feel like its a tough ask to say "These reviewers should be forced to use strings that I use and like at the tension I prefer." If someone posts their review and they say they used Kelver at 70lbs, I'd ignore the review for me personally. If someone says they strung it up with Tier 1 Black Knight at 44 lbs, I'd pay more attention - as those are strings and tensions that I use.

Playtests are different from demos when people receive a frame with unknown strings of unknown duration of unknown tension.

Because almost no one uses that string. It’s a great personal review but it rarely helps unless you use a string that very few use. At least using a string more people use… actually helps more people in deciding if they want the racquet. It’s useless to the masses. It’s like testing a car with drag radials when it’s an off road car that’s great for the small % that would use it like you but it’s not a helpful review for everyone else that knows how a well known and used string performs and can relate to it.

 

[SlowTiger]

Because almost no one uses that string. It’s a great personal review but it rarely helps unless you use a string that very few use. At least using a string more people use… actually helps more people in deciding if they want the racquet. It’s useless to the masses. It’s like testing a car with drag radials when it’s an off road car that’s great for the small % that would use it like you but it’s not a helpful review for everyone else that knows how a well known and used string performs and can relate to it.

Actually a lot of people use that string. I think one of the playtesters here actually uses that string as their own personal string but the strings are also the same brand so I'm assuming the strings are provided by the manufacturer. It's also up to them if they want to use it or not.

Now if I choose a string I know, doesn't matter if you know it because i'm testing the racquet and comparing the racquet to my other racquets that I've used the same string in. There are now thousands of strings to choose from. If they give me natural gut, how many people actually use natural gut? A lot of people, esp younger players have never tried natural gut. If it's solinco tour bite, there are players that are going to be die hard alu fans or people who can't play with it because it gives them TE. Also, if you tell me I now have to use this string I hate.... This racquet review is going down the toilet and it's because you wanted me to use your string. Testing with 1 changed variable is going to me more consistent and efficient then changing 2

 

[Soundbyte]

Actually a lot of people use that string. I think one of the playtesters here actually uses that string as their own personal string but the strings are also the same brand so I'm assuming the strings are provided by the manufacturer. It's also up to them if they want to use it or not.

Now if I choose a string I know, doesn't matter if you know it because i'm testing the racquet and comparing the racquet to my other racquets that I've used the same string in. There are now thousands of strings to choose from. If they give me natural gut, how many people actually use natural gut? A lot of people, esp younger players have never tried natural gut. If it's solinco tour bite, there are players that are going to be die hard alu fans or people who can't play with it because it gives them TE. Also, if you tell me I now have to use this string I hate.... This racquet review is going down the toilet and it's because you wanted me to use your string. Testing with 1 changed variable is going to me more consistent and efficient then changing 2

I agree with this. Having me compare this frame (with my preferred string setup) to other frames (with the same string setup) is far more useful "to the masses" than picking a random "mainstream" string and tension.

Otherwise you're effectively discounting all reviews that don't use some string that you determined to be popular enough.

There's hundreds of strings with infinitesimal tension possibilities and hybrid setups. You're never going to be able to control for every variable in a review.

 

[A_Instead]

I was lucky to have a brief hit over the weekend and it's not my cup of tea..
It's good if you take the ball early and brush and lift the ball..
My game is more of a strike and drive stroke/game..
I will focus my energy on the new Radical..

 

[cmkim88]

Wow I missed this opportunity! Good luck to all that got selected and have fun! I did test this racquet and it was very fun to play with!

 

[DariaGT]

beaut pooch!

 

[TennisHound]

Getting ready for tomorrow

Done. Two piece string job. Alu Power 44/44

Dog approved

I like that Eagnas stringer. Mine looks exactly like that except for the table and clamps

 

[DariaGT]

Its a hard call atm as a friend is testing this stick side by side with his usual pure storm and pure control frames
all 16x20 and strung with hyper-g soft 1.25 @ 52lbs. He found the feel of the other older sticks more pleasant specially
hitting out and for deft touch shots. Serves, overheads and put away volleys seem to have more velocity using PA98.
He has weighed the PA98 to suit his usual 336sw and 348gsm static weight and still testing.
Does anyone feel it is softer at the RA65 than previous VS?

 

[iceman_dl6]

Its a hard call atm as a friend is testing this stick side by side with his usual pure storm and pure control frames
all 16x20 and strung with hyper-g soft 1.25 @ 52lbs. He found the feel of the other older sticks more pleasant specially
hitting out and for deft touch shots. Serves, overheads and put away volleys seem to have more velocity using PA98.
He has weighed the PA98 to suit his usual 336sw and 348gsm static weight and still testing.
Does anyone feel it is softer at the RA65 than previous VS?

Compared to the VS, the new 98 feels softer but still has that firm feel though. Another thing I noticed is the stringbed has a little less trampoline than the old VS. Probably due to: (From Tennisnerd’s PA98 review)
“Another update is FSI Spin technology with slightly tighter string spacing”
I do notice a very slightly denser stringbed on the new one vs the old one. The other reason is the omission of the spin grommets on the new one.

 

[TennisManiac]

O.k. I've played with the racket and know all that I need to know about it. Here's my review.

String and tension used for test: Luxilon Alu Power 1.25 - Two piece string job 44/44
Tennis experience/background: 4.5 Singles Player - USTA League and Open Middle States Tournament Player for 19 years
Describe your playing style: Aggressive Baseliner who doesn't hesitate to move forward and end points when given the opportunity
Current racket/string setups: 2015 Wilson Pro Staff 97 "Heavily Customized" - Full Bed of Alu Power at 44 pounds
How many hours did you play with the racket? 2.5 hours of singles

Comments on racquet performance for each stroke (each section should be 3-5 sentences minimum):

-Groundstrokes: On groundstrokes the racket felt a bit clumsy and slow through the air to me compared to the types of frames that I'm used to playing with. The forehand side was o.k. Nothing special. Decent power and control. I didn't like it on my one handed backhand side at all. It was very slow through the air. I suspect that the thick Aero beam design in the throat is preventing it from cutting through the air when trying to drive the ball. If you have a two hander it probably wouldn't be such an issue. So all in all this racket "imo" is no good for the player who likes to close their stance, step in, and drive the ball through the court. It is however decent for the player who likes to hit with an open stance and whip up the back of the ball. That's what the Aero beam design is meant to do.
-Serves: On serve I felt that the racket was again slow through the air and clunky compared to what I'm used to. It was hard to generate lots of racket head speed. The control was decent. I could hit my spots. But lost mph's on serve with this one.
-Volleys: At net it was stable and seemed to have a decent twist weight. But imo a bit clunky. I wouldn't want to spend much time up there with this one as I feel like it would end up spraining my wrist trying to quickly change from forehand to backhand position.
-Serve returns: In regards to returns. I thought it was decent on the forehand side. I had no problem getting it into position from neutral. It felt stable and had enough mass to redirect heavy serves. But I didn't like on my backhand side at all. I couldn't get it into position quick enough and create a backswing to drive through the ball. Remember... I have a one hander. I felt like the racket again was just to chunky and slow to maneuver. But like I said before. A two hander probably wouldn't have any issues and I'm sure it would be just fine.

Comments on racquet performance in each area (should be 2-3 sentences minimum)

Power/Control- I was actually expecting more power than I was getting from this racket. It was average to me. There are a lot of frames that produce more. And a lot that produce less. I'd place this in the middle. The Regular Pure Aero for example has much more power. As for control. I was surprised at the level it offered. It was above average. Probably due to the 16x20 pattern. I had no problem hitting my spots on forehand and serve.
Top Spin/Slice- I could generate decent top spin with this racket. Nothing special though. I find that I can generate more top spin with thinner beam rackets that allow me to generate more racket head speed. Plus I don't think that the 16x20 pattern is really going to give you tons of spin. It's more about control. Slice was decent. But after a while of slicing it kind of hurt my wrist. I felt like if I would play with this racket all of the time it would end up spraining my wrist if I sliced a lot. Again... it was just really clunky feeling to me.
Comfort- The comfort was fine. I didn't feel any harshness at all on groundstrokes or on serve. But the racket I was given for this playtest had silicone in the one side of the handle. I guess Babolat used it to achieve the specification goals at the factory which was kind of nice. Rackets without silicone in the handle may not feel as nice.
Feel- I'm not much of a touch and feel kind of player. So take this with a grain of salt. The feel was fine. lol!
Maneuverability- As I've been saying through this entire review. Imo... the maneuverability was not so good. This racket felt slow and clunky to me on groundstrokes, volleys and serves. I personally prefer thinner beamed frames that cut through the air faster than this one did.
Stability- The stability was good. It seemed to have decent mass in the head. Twist weight seemed pretty high too. I feel like all thicker beam frames have decent stability and twist weight. And this was one of them.

General reaction/comments on overall performance:

All in all I feel like this racket was made for the player who likes to camp out behind the baseline and slug all day. It's thicker beam in the head and Aero beam design in the throat imo was made for the player who likes to hit with an open stance and brush up the back of the ball. It has a very nice level of control for being a part of the Pure Aero family. For the players who like the Pure Aero but was always wanting a bit more precision in their shots. This racket is for you. You're going to love this racket.

Update:

I realized last night that I now have golfers elbow. If I had to guess, I'd say it was from the grip shape. I never did like Babolat grip shapes.

 

[iceman_dl6]

O.k. I've played with the racket and know all that I need to know about it. Here's my review.

String and tension used for test: Luxilon Alu Power 1.25 - Two piece string job 44/44
Tennis experience/background: 4.5 Singles Player - USTA League and Open Middle States Tournament Player for 19 years
Describe your playing style: Aggressive Baseliner who doesn't hesitate to move forward and end points when given the opportunity
Current racket/string setups: 2015 Wilson Pro Staff 97 "Heavily Customized" - Full Bed of Alu Power at 44 pounds
How many hours did you play with the racket? 2.5 hours of singles

Comments on racquet performance for each stroke (each section should be 3-5 sentences minimum):

-Groundstrokes: On groundstrokes the racket felt a bit clumsy and slow through the air to me compared to the types of frames that I'm used to playing with. The forehand side was o.k. Nothing special. Decent power and control. I didn't like it on my one handed backhand side at all. It was very slow through the air. I suspect that the thick Aero beam design in the throat is preventing it from cutting through the air when trying to drive the ball. If you have a two hander it probably wouldn't be such an issue. So all in all this racket "imo" is no good for the player who likes to close their stance, step in, and drive the ball through the court. It is however decent for the player who likes to hit with an open stance and whip up the back of the ball. That's what the Aero beam design is meant to do.
-Serves: On serve I felt that the racket was again slow through the air and clunky compared to what I'm used to. It was hard to generate lots of racket head speed. The control was decent. I could hit my spots. But lost mph's on serve with this one.
-Volleyss: At net it was stable and seemed to have a decent twist weight. But imo a bit clunky. I wouldn't want to spend much time up there with this one as I feel like it would end up spraining my wrist trying to quickly change from forehand to backhand position.
-Serve returns: In regards to returns. I thought it was decent on the forehand side. I had no problem getting it into position from neutral. It felt stable and had enough mass to redirect heavy serves. But I didn't like on my backhand side at all. I couldn't get it into position quick enough and create a backswing to drive through the ball. Remember... I have a one hander. I felt like the racket again was just to chunky and slow to maneuver. But like I said before. A two hander probably wouldn't have any issues and I'm sure it would be just fine.

Comments on racquet performance in each area (should be 2-3 sentences minimum)

Power/Control- I was actually expecting more power than I was getting from this racket. It was average to me. There are a lot of frames that produce more. And a lot that produce less. I'd place this in the middle. The Regular Pure Aero for example has much more power. As for control. I was surprised at the level it offered. It was above average. Probably due to the 16x20 pattern. I had no problem hitting my spots on forehand and serve.
Top Spin/Slice- I could generate decent top spin with this racket. Nothing special though. I find that I can generate more top spin with thinner beam rackets that allow me to generate more racket head speed. Plus I don't think that the 16x20 pattern is really going to give you tons of spin. It's more about control. Slice was decent. But after a while of slicing it kind of hurt my wrist. I felt like if I would play with this racket all of the time it would end up spraining my wrist if I sliced a lot. Again... it was just really clunky feeling to me.
Comfort- The comfort was fine. I didn't feel any harshness at all on groundstrokes or on serve. But the racket I was given for this playtest had silicone in the one side of the handle. I guess Babolat used it to achieve the specification goals at the factory which was kind of nice. Rackets without silicone in the handle may not feel as nice.
Feel- I'm not much of a touch and feel kind of player. So take this with a grain of salt. The feel was fine. lol!
Maneuverability- As I've been saying through this entire review. Imo... the maneuverability was not so good. This racket felt slow and clunky to me on groundstrokes, volleys and serves. I personally prefer thinner beamed frames that cut through the air faster than this was did.
Stability- The stability was good. It seemed to have decent mass in the head. Twist weight seemed pretty high too. I feel like all thicker beam frames have decent stability and twist weight. And this was one of them.

General reaction/comments on overall performance:

All in all I feel like this racket was made for the player who likes to camp out behind the baseline and slug all day. It's thicker beam in the head and Aero beam design in the throat imo was made for the player who likes to hit with an open stance and brush up the back of the ball. It has a very nice level of control for being a part of the Pure Aero family. For the players who like the Pure Aero but was always wanting a bit more precision in their shots. This racket is for you. You're going to love this racket.

Thanks for your in-depth review! From what I read, that is exactly why I load up the handle to tail weight it up to 12 oz strung, otherwise, I have the same issues as you, as there is plenty of mass already in the hoop. Power wise, I too notice it isn’t a very powerful racquet (less than the old VS), which is a good thing for me, as I often launch my balls a bit too often with the old VS model.

 

[A_Instead]

I was able to meet up with TM and hit with his PA98 a little bit.
It's similar to the PAvs yet different enough for those looking for more mass in the head..as most of you know the PAvs needed some weight in the head...they fixed that with PA98..
While I hitting with the PA98 I was comparing its performance to my Ezone 98 Boom 98..and Pure Strike 98.
I still prefer the Ezone 98 and a close second the Boom Pro and then the Pure Strike..
I do prefer the PA98 over the most recent PA100..
I do hope to try the new VCore 98 and the new Shift line to assess those as well..

 

[Blade_X]

I was able to meet up with TM and hit with his PA98 a little bit.
It's similar to the PAvs yet different enough for those looking for more mass in the head..as most of you know the PAvs needed some weight in the head...they fixed that with PA98..
While I hitting with the PA98 I was comparing its performance to my Ezone 98 Boom 98..and Pure Strike 98.
I still prefer the Ezone 98 and a close second the Boom Pro and then the Pure Strike..
I do prefer the PA98 over the most recent PA100..
I do hope to try the new VCore 98 and the new Shift line to assess those as well..

Is the one hand backhand better on aero 98 compared to VS ? Does the ball still sails when you block it or when on you don’t brush it enough ?

 

[A_Instead]

I really didn't see that much difference between the two..I didn't have any issues with the ball flying..
Is not a lively racket.. basically you get out what you put in...
But a stroke with spin helps with it's performance..
I prefer a racket with a flexible throat..to get that snap/whip.
PA in any form have a rigid feeling throat..at least to me..

 

[Blade_X]

I really didn't see that much difference between the two..I didn't have any issues with the ball flying..
Is not a lively racket.. basically you get out what you put in...
But a stroke with spin helps with it's performance..
I prefer a racket with a flexible throat..to get that snap/whip.
PA in any form have a rigid feeling throat..at least to me..

Did you try drive 98 too ?

 

[A_Instead]

No..no interest in the PD98.. IMO Babolat already has a decent 98 frame in the Pure Strike..
All they need to do with the Pure Strike is open up the sweet spot a little and make it more arm friendly..

 

[mad dog1]

Did you try drive 98 too ?

Based on what Babolat has done to the new Pure Aero 100 and 98, I would expect they did the same to the new Pure Drive 98. Think it will be more dampened, comfortable and come with a higher swingweight (based on the specs). The PDVS like the PAVS generally had very low swingweights and required a decent amount of lead in the hoop to make it playable.

 

[Blade_X]

No..no interest in the PD98.. IMO Babolat already has a decent 98 frame in the Pure Strike..
All they need to do with the Pure Strike is open up the sweet spot a little and make it more arm friendly..

After power less blade v8 all my hopes now are at gen 4 strike. Come on babs. Bring that baby.

 

[Moveforwardalways]

O.k. I've played with the racket and know all that I need to know about it. Here's my review.

String and tension used for test: Luxilon Alu Power 1.25 - Two piece string job 44/44
Tennis experience/background: 4.5 Singles Player - USTA League and Open Middle States Tournament Player for 19 years
Describe your playing style: Aggressive Baseliner who doesn't hesitate to move forward and end points when given the opportunity
Current racket/string setups: 2015 Wilson Pro Staff 97 "Heavily Customized" - Full Bed of Alu Power at 44 pounds
How many hours did you play with the racket? 2.5 hours of singles

Comments on racquet performance for each stroke (each section should be 3-5 sentences minimum):

-Groundstrokes: On groundstrokes the racket felt a bit clumsy and slow through the air to me compared to the types of frames that I'm used to playing with. The forehand side was o.k. Nothing special. Decent power and control. I didn't like it on my one handed backhand side at all. It was very slow through the air. I suspect that the thick Aero beam design in the throat is preventing it from cutting through the air when trying to drive the ball. If you have a two hander it probably wouldn't be such an issue. So all in all this racket "imo" is no good for the player who likes to close their stance, step in, and drive the ball through the court. It is however decent for the player who likes to hit with an open stance and whip up the back of the ball. That's what the Aero beam design is meant to do.
-Serves: On serve I felt that the racket was again slow through the air and clunky compared to what I'm used to. It was hard to generate lots of racket head speed. The control was decent. I could hit my spots. But lost mph's on serve with this one.
-Volleys: At net it was stable and seemed to have a decent twist weight. But imo a bit clunky. I wouldn't want to spend much time up there with this one as I feel like it would end up spraining my wrist trying to quickly change from forehand to backhand position.
-Serve returns: In regards to returns. I thought it was decent on the forehand side. I had no problem getting it into position from neutral. It felt stable and had enough mass to redirect heavy serves. But I didn't like on my backhand side at all. I couldn't get it into position quick enough and create a backswing to drive through the ball. Remember... I have a one hander. I felt like the racket again was just to chunky and slow to maneuver. But like I said before. A two hander probably wouldn't have any issues and I'm sure it would be just fine.

Comments on racquet performance in each area (should be 2-3 sentences minimum)

Power/Control- I was actually expecting more power than I was getting from this racket. It was average to me. There are a lot of frames that produce more. And a lot that produce less. I'd place this in the middle. The Regular Pure Aero for example has much more power. As for control. I was surprised at the level it offered. It was above average. Probably due to the 16x20 pattern. I had no problem hitting my spots on forehand and serve.
Top Spin/Slice- I could generate decent top spin with this racket. Nothing special though. I find that I can generate more top spin with thinner beam rackets that allow me to generate more racket head speed. Plus I don't think that the 16x20 pattern is really going to give you tons of spin. It's more about control. Slice was decent. But after a while of slicing it kind of hurt my wrist. I felt like if I would play with this racket all of the time it would end up spraining my wrist if I sliced a lot. Again... it was just really clunky feeling to me.
Comfort- The comfort was fine. I didn't feel any harshness at all on groundstrokes or on serve. But the racket I was given for this playtest had silicone in the one side of the handle. I guess Babolat used it to achieve the specification goals at the factory which was kind of nice. Rackets without silicone in the handle may not feel as nice.
Feel- I'm not much of a touch and feel kind of player. So take this with a grain of salt. The feel was fine. lol!
Maneuverability- As I've been saying through this entire review. Imo... the maneuverability was not so good. This racket felt slow and clunky to me on groundstrokes, volleys and serves. I personally prefer thinner beamed frames that cut through the air faster than this one did.
Stability- The stability was good. It seemed to have decent mass in the head. Twist weight seemed pretty high too. I feel like all thicker beam frames have decent stability and twist weight. And this was one of them.

General reaction/comments on overall performance:

All in all I feel like this racket was made for the player who likes to camp out behind the baseline and slug all day. It's thicker beam in the head and Aero beam design in the throat imo was made for the player who likes to hit with an open stance and brush up the back of the ball. It has a very nice level of control for being a part of the Pure Aero family. For the players who like the Pure Aero but was always wanting a bit more precision in their shots. This racket is for you. You're going to love this racket.

You are coming from a ProStaff that is likely 7 pts headlight or more. While the PA98 is listed as 6 pts headlight on the website, a number of the frames that have gone out are 3-4 pts headlight. So it’s not surprising that it feels slow through the air to you. The TW website should really consider updating the published specs.

 

[tennisandtennis]

I kindly disagree with you disagreeing

I disagree with both of you

 

[Power Player]

You are coming from a ProStaff that is likely 7 pts headlight or more. While the PA98 is listed as 6 pts headlight on the website, a number of the frames that have gone out are 3-4 pts headlight. So it’s not surprising that it feels slow through the air to you. The TW website should really consider updating the published specs.

Hes not wrong. My specs are more in line with the TW websites. The impressions he posted were the first I had as well. I'm going to log at least 5-6 hours more with it before I review but I agree with most of his review.

 

[TennisManiac]

You are coming from a ProStaff that is likely 7 pts headlight or more. While the PA98 is listed as 6 pts headlight on the website, a number of the frames that have gone out are 3-4 pts headlight. So it’s not surprising that it feels slow through the air to you. The TW website should really consider updating the published specs.

The PS97's that I use are all modified to the following specs. 340 gms static weight, 5.5 pts. hl., 345 SW

The PA98 feels slow through the air because of the thick chunky aero beam design and the thick beam head. Plus the one I was sent was 3.5 pts. hl. strung. So yeah... way out of spec as well.

 

[n80aoag]

String and tension used for test: Head Lynx Tour 17 gauge Black @ 50 lbs
Tennis experience/background: Been playing for 30+ years, consistently 4.5 and a stretch at 5.0 level briefly
Describe your playing style (i.e. serve & volley): baseline bashing 90% of the time; recently discovered the value of counterpunching and hitting high percentage (boring) shots in order to win. I do enjoy volleying when I play doubles on occasion. I love long rallies and hitting winners rather than forcing errors.
Current racquet/string setups: 2023 VCore 98 with Head Lynx Tour @ 52 lbs
How many hours did you play with the racquet? 8 hours; 4.5 singles match, some clinic time and hitting with my 5.0 friend

Comments on racquet performance for each stroke (each section should be 3-5 sentences minimum):
-Groundstrokes: Very easy power and spin. I favor my 2hbh over my inconsistent eastern forehand. Trying to undo years of bad form with my FH. Once I got used to the location of the sweet spot (which is much smaller and lower than the 2023 VC98), I could hit with a lot of spin, play deep, and my flat-hitting opponents struggled to keep the ball in their strike zone. Easily pushed people back and kept them from being aggressive due to heavy, spinny balls. Not so much penetrating, deep shots as you can hit say with a VC95 or Blade 18x20. I'd rate it 8 out of 10.
-Serves: struggled big time with my flat 1st serve. Love hitting bombs with my VC98 and the adjustment period was minimal with that model. But even after 8 hours and especially during my singles match, my 1st serve percentage was likely 30%. Balls would land about a foot long and it was difficult to feel exactly where I was placing my spin or kick serve. Just aim for big targets and you'll be fine until you can really get used to this frame. 4 out of 10.
-Volleys: only hit volleys consistently during clinic drills. no complaints with the PA98, more control/precision than the 100 sq in PA and it was satisfying to hit the sweet spot when volleying. lacked touch when picking up low, short balls, and not as maneuverable as a pro staff or prestige obviously, but it'll get the job done with easy put away power. 7 out of 10.
-Serve returns: big serves pushed the frame around. and the small sweetspot made it more challenging to return deep. most returns landed well inside the service box until I hit enough returns with it. You really have to swing fast and through the ball to get it to land deep, not so much brushing up which is hard to do anyway with returns in general. couldn't block back the ball so much with the PA98, perhaps due to it being softer and the feeling of plushness, dwelling on the stringbed with the lynx tour. 6 out of 10.

Comments on racquet performance in each area (should be 2-3 sentences minimum)
Power/Control- More power than the 2023 VC98, less power than the 2022 EZone 98. MUCH more power than Speed MP Auxetic, Blade 98 V8 16x19. Control comes via how much spin this PA98 can generate. Once you get used to the frame, you can do some real damage with aggressive shots if you like hitting with power and spin. 9/10
Top Spin/Slice- HUGE top spin. Loved Lynx Tour in this as its shaped but also smooth, a perfect combo to me. Slices were low but I never felt totally comfortable with my BH slice due to the thicker beam feeling chunkier than it looks. I caught the frame with this more than I hit satisfying BH slices. Similar to how I felt with the EZ98. I feel much more comfortable and produce more flat, low, laser like BH slices with my VC98. 10/10 top spin, 6/10 slice (not my forte to be honest though)
Comfort- sorry to report that I did have some elbow tenderness even after the first 2 hour hit with it on day one. not immediately after, but later that evening I felt some tenderness in my elbow, some tightness in my shoulder from serving. 1 week playing with it exclusively and I have some persistent soreness in my right elbow, but nothing close the sharp stinging pain that I got with the PAVS with RPM blast. Much improved over the PAVS which I loved but couldn't stand the TE I got from it. The PA98 feels a bit softer, plusher, and higher in SW than the PSVS which felt brassy and hollow for me. personally rate this 5/10 comfort, but then again so many people have zero issues with Babolats. So far this is the most comfortable Babolat I've hit with, followed by the current gen pure strike 98 16x19 (which also gave me bad TE)
Feel-if you felt the 2022 EZ 98 lacked feel, the PA98 has even less. Drop shots were hard to really feel confident hitting, and I can't hit corners like I do with my VC98. But this is all something you'd have to play with the PA98 for months to really develop, but its just not as ready "out of the box" to have pinpoint placement as most tweener frames are. 5/10
Maneuverability- no issues here. could swing easily, freely, and felt like it cut through the air swiftly much like my VC98 (although not as whippy as the Yonex). PA98 felt a big more solid, a little more heavier in SW, and a little more head heavy than the PAVS I briefly owned. 8/10
Stability- felt great in stock form without any need for customization EXCEPT with returning serves. I love how maneuverable it is in stock form, and I feel there is plenty of room to customize for those who desire adding lead tape for more stability. Especially with trading heavy groundstrokes I never felt like I got pushed around, only with serves. 7/10

General reaction/comments on overall performance:
Thank you TW and Babolat for the opportunity to play test the Pure Aero 98. I definitely recommend slippery, shaped polys to maximize bite and spin. A round slick poly would work great too especially the softer offerings out there for elbow sensitive folks out there. I definitely appreciate this frame as a baseline basher and a real weapon for all court players with the feel and skill to get the most out of its potential. For now, I'm sticking with the 2023 VCore 98 just because its easier to play with and I gelled with it right away. I've shied away from Babolats in the past due to flaring up of TE, but many will love the controllable power of this frame and especially for competition. While its enjoyable to play with frames like prestiges and Blade Pros, it's EASIER to compete with frames like the Pure Aero 98. I'd highly recommend the PA 98 for the competitive 4.0+ baseliner who loves to hit winners from the baseline. Once you spend enough time with it and dial in your serve, it can really do some damage with easy power and spin

 

[DariaGT]

From what I felt is the tighter string pattern along with lower RA is closer to a Pure Strike v3 even Ezone DR
I liked the spin of the PAV but was hoping the shaft could get more flex and some foam to eliminate the hollow feel.

Compared to the VS, the new 98 feels softer but still has that firm feel though. Another thing I noticed is the stringbed has a little less trampoline than the old VS. Probably due to: (From Tennisnerd’s PA98 review)
“Another update is FSI Spin technology with slightly tighter string spacing”
I do notice a very slightly denser stringbed on the new one vs the old one. The other reason is the omission of the spin grommets on the new one.

Would you say the PStrike v3 has more control and feel? as that is where it scored way better in the TW testing
apart from the V3 piping it on every other department

Babolat Pure Strike 16x19 3rd Gen Racquet Review - Tennis Warehouse

www.tennis-warehouse.com

versus

Babolat Pure Aero 98 2023 Racquet Review - Tennis Warehouse

www.tennis-warehouse.com

shame the OHBH doesnt feel as solid as it does with a PStrike v3, as I was hoping the narrower neck and softer effort would be a winner there

 

[Soundbyte]

From what I felt is the tighter string pattern along with lower RA is closer to a Pure Strike v3 even Ezone DR
I liked the spin of the PAV but was hoping the shaft could get more flex and some foam to eliminate the hollow feel.


Would you say the PStrike v3 has more control and feel? as that is where it scored way better in the TW testing
apart from the V3 piping it on every other department

Babolat Pure Strike 16x19 3rd Gen Racquet Review - Tennis Warehouse

www.tennis-warehouse.com

versus

Babolat Pure Aero 98 2023 Racquet Review - Tennis Warehouse

www.tennis-warehouse.com

shame the OHBH doesnt feel as solid as it does with a PStrike v3, as I was hoping the narrower neck and softer effort would be a winner there

The Pure Strike has little feel IMO. They frame is crazy muted. It's not harsh feeling, just zero feedback. The Pure Strike V3 has been the most muted frame I'm ever used. It's worse than the modern muted Yonex feeling that many don't appreciate. The PA98 has better feeling that the Strike

My review is still in progress. I have it mostly written up but am tweaking it as I get to 10+ hours with the frame.

 

[Seth]

Has the review due date been announced? I don’t see it in the OP.

 

[Soundbyte]

Has the review due date been announced? I don’t see it in the OP.

Feb 24

 

[Soundbyte]

Here we go! First and foremost, thank you to TW for allowing me to participate in the playtest. I've been a member of this board for almost 17 years, and this is the first playtest I got to participate in. It's been a blast! I hope you continue to do this in the future!
I plan on updating this if my prolonged playing changes my opinion. As such, you'll see for most sections I have a "after first hit" and "after more hitting" sections.
Without further ado:

String and tension used for test: Tier One BlackKnight 17 @ 44lbs
Tennis experience/background: 20+ years, former 4.5-5.0 USTA player. Former president of a BigTen University Tennis Club
Describe your playing style (i.e. serve & volley): All court game, more of a "5-6 shot guy" and less "1-2 punch"
Current racquet/string setups: Wilson Ultra Pro 18x20 - Tier One Black Knight and Durafluxx. Tensions between 44-48 lbs
How many hours did you play with the racquet? 24 hours

-Groundstrokes:
Powerful. Compared to the players frames I normally use, this thing has some punch. But it swings fast and easy. I'd place it squarely in the middle in terms of feel. Crisp, not muted. But if you want old fashioned 'feel', you won't find it here. I enjoyed my backhand here. The extra power made finding depth easy. This racket makes it easy to want to be on the offensive. Biggest knock - not for flat hitters. You have to swing and spin to use this racket. It also lacks some "plow." It's by no means unstable. But it doesn't feel like its plowing through the ball like a RF97, Elevate V3, Blade Pro, Yonex 97H, etc

The more I hit with it: The "less powerful" I find it, but its definitely packs a punch, but less so than say a Pure Drive, Pure Aero 2023, Solinco Blackout, etc. I was able to find some angles that I don't usually succeed at, thanks mostly to the easy access to spin

-Serves:
After 1st hit: Need more time to hone my serve in. Like all Babolats, this is fairly easy to serve with. Didn't wow me in any category. But didn't disappoint either.

The more I hit with it: This thing is just easy to serve with. Good power, easy to generate RHS for the serve. Kick serves are easy. One of my more favorite serving sticks I've used in the past year.

-Volleys:
After 1st hit: Clean clean and more clean. Crisp sharp volleys. Touch is on par modern 'tweener'/'pleener' frames. Good maneuverability. Drop shots are doable, but if you're use to a flexy frame, you probably won't like the fit here.

The more I hit with it: No change in opinion.

-Serve returns:
After 1st hit: The extra power really shines here. The fact that a shorter swing gets me similar depth to my usual frames is a good thing. However, it did require some adjustment as to not overhit. But on reach returns, if I made contact
there's a good chance the ball is returning with depth and in play.

The more I hit with it: Great stability on stab-reach returns.

Comments on racquet performance in each area:
Power/Control- This baby is a rocket launcher. Its good plenty of power, perhaps too much. But if you have a semi-western
or western grip, the spin potential will give you good control. But I think players who live a few feet behind the baseline
will enjoy this frame the most. IMO, you gotta go full poly in this bad boy.

Top Spin/Slice- Top spin is great. Top spin lobs are easy. But slice is middle of the road, perhaps slightly above average. It simply doesn't have the plow compared to frames like the RF97/Blade Pro/Elevate V3 which I feel are some of the better slice frames.

Comfort- No discomfort here. Like I said, feel is middle of the road. Its not overly stiff nor soft. I'd wouldn't string this any higher than 48 lbs with poly. And I think if you put gut/multi/syn gut in this frame you'd never be able to keep
a ball in play.

Feel- I like that this frame is crisp and not muted. You can play this with a soft or crisp poly. I don't think the feel is that far off from 80% of the modern frames available. It doesn't compare with the Wilson Pro Labs, Head PT2.0, Pro Kennex frames. But it's not soulness (e.g - so muted it feels dead) like the Pure Strike or Elevate V2. Better than the Vcores.

Maneuverability- Very easy to swing from the baseline. Swings easier than the Pure Aero 2023 in my opinion. I think the balance is good. I wonder if adding some tailweight would improve manueverability, but I'm not convinced it needs it

Stability - Stability in this frame comes from racket head speed. It doesn't have the plow of heavier frame, but is still quite stable. Holds its own on off-center hits. Flex feels uniform. I don't get the impression that it's flexing more at the throat compared to the hoop. Where as in frames like the Ultra Pro, Blade Pro, White Out, Pro Kennex you can feel the flex in the throat.

General reaction/comments on overall performance:
After 1st hit: I'd say this racket falls somewhere in the realm of the Solinco Black Out/ Whiteout range. I'd rate it about the standard Blade. The Vcores are more muted. It actually reminded me of a more controlled Pure Drive Circa 2005. Compared to the Pure Aero 2023, I prefer this one. But, the Pure Aero 2023 has easier access to spin. This has better feel, swings 'easier' to me. Overall, I think its closest to the Solinco White Out. This one feels stiffer, but not necessarily in a bad way.

The More I hit with it: This is a solid frame. I think most people who play with a different Babolat, Blade, or Yonex Vcore/VCP line would be able to pick this up and do fine with it. Ultimately its up personal opinion on the subtle differences. Ultimately, I'd say this is my favorite Babolat since the Pure Control 95+.

I have to say I am impressed with the latest generation of the Babolat Frames. The 2023 models I've used have all been big upgrades from previous generations. I suspect this will become a top selling frame. Especially with FAA and Alcatraz likely to have fantastic seasons ahead.

 

[GimmeBackMyDog]

I was playing with a VS so I already pretty knew I would like this frame.

But I feel the above post by Soundbyte is a really accurate review of the 98.

 

[GimmeBackMyDog]

I'm going to put out a negative for the 98.

In my opinion, the VS is noticeably more arm friendly.

My one handed backhand has been fantastic with the PA98.

Forehand, I'm not so sure.

Despite the 98 having more swingweight and feel, after four sessions I'm almost thinking I liked the VS better hitting the forehand.

I like the 98 but am a little worried as it appears to be causing elbow pain.

When I pick both up to do a few practice swings, I'm notice considerable less aggravation when swinging the VS.

 

[Jst21121]

I'm going to put out a negative for the 98.

In my opinion, the VS is noticeably more arm friendly.

My one handed backhand has been fantastic with the PA98.

Forehand, I'm not so sure.

Despite the 98 having more swingweight and feel, after four sessions I'm almost thinking I liked the VS better hitting the forehand.

I like the 98 but am a little worried as it appears to be causing elbow pain.

When I pick both up to do a few practice swings, I'm notice considerable less aggravation when swinging the VS.

sad to hear that… the only racket that has given me elbow pain is the rf97a. So far the p98 no elbow pain for me.

 

[Soundbyte]

sad to hear that… the only racket that has given me elbow pain is the rf97a. So far the p98 no elbow pain for me.

No issues for me either. The original Pure Aero Tour is the only frame that gave me elbow issues, though.

 

[GimmeBackMyDog]

Yeah, I don't know what's going with this racket.

I stubbornly tried using it again today and my arm almost died.

I have two regular Pure Aeros. A Pure Strike. A Head Extreme Tour. And a Pure Aero VS.

I've never experienced that kind of pain with any of them.