Babolat Jet Mach 4

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Jet Mach 4 will be released in three days, on January 22.

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Babolat’s best-selling tennis shoe model launches in a fourth version on Jan. 22. The Babolat Jet Mach 4, the brand’s focus on a lightweight speed, offers a fresh perspective with a redeveloped forefoot for an even quicker first step.

“At Babolat, all of our footwear innovation is built around explosiveness on the court,” Wanda Beguelin, a soft products manager at Babolat, tells me. “Every movement a tennis player makes starts with a split step—a jump from the forefoot. That’s why we decided to focus our development efforts on the forefoot area, integrating a true starting block under the foot.”

The Jet Mach 4 features a new rigid plate inside the midsole, inspired by track and field starting blocks, “ensuring optimal foot positioning for explosive starts toward the ball.”

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Beguelin says the design helps players generate faster, more efficient first steps while maintaining stability and control. New reinforced sidewalls are designed to enhance stability, allowing players to fully engage their power while maintaining complete control during lateral movements.

Assisting that first-step movement is a new EVA foam mixed with Pebax. Babolat says the foam creation efficiently absorbs and returns energy, delivering rebound properties that are 55% superior to standard EVA. The brand says testing shows the shoe 3% faster than the previous model, thanks to that first-step quickness.


Under the new midfoot, Babolat continues its partnership with Michelin on the outsole. The two French brands have collaborated on footwear rubber and traction patterns since 2002.

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The upper provides a fresh perspective on the brands Matryx textile weave. Beguelin says the new generation of Matryx enables Babolat to build a textile upper with maximum support and durability functions. “A new double-layer Matryx construction enhances lateral support and provides exceptional lockdown while retaining a lightweight textile upper,” she says.

The Babolat Jet Mach silhouette fits within the brand’s footwear lineup as the lightweight agility shoe, next to the Propulse durability and stability line and the SFX line focused on comfort.

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The new Jet Mach 4 comes with a fresh aesthetic meant to accentuate the new elements of the silhouette. “We really wanted to highlight the forefoot and visually recreate the idea of a starting block,” Beguelin says. “That’s why, across all colorways of the Jet Mach 4, this new technology is always emphasized. The forefoot design draws attention to the performance core of the shoe: an EVA foam combined with Pebax and a rigid plate for lateral support. This visual signature makes the technology immediately identifiable and reinforces what the shoe is built for—explosive starts, stability and control.”

The women’s shoe launches in a cream and lavender version and a lavender and white colorway. The men’s shoe launches in red with black, white with blue and black with yellow.

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Looks good. Nothing on the Babolat website yet about them, but oddly they do appear on the Decathlon website despite the release date still being 3 days away.

Would like to see the clay version, and would love Runrepeat to do their tear down, as they do proper shock absorption measurements, rather than Zac just saying this is comfy.
 
Not great looking but good to hear they perform well.

edit. Nvm. I wrote that I'd want to see them on people's feet to get a better idea, and then I tried to look up some photos of the rest of the colorways (they were mentioned in that Forbes article) and came across some IG post that purported to show the new Jet Mach 4s. But on further inspection they were clearly fake so I removed the link. Here's so far the only (!) IG post with the #jetmach4 tag:

 
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edit. Nvm. I wrote that I'd want to see them on people's feet to get a better idea, and then I tried to look up some photos of the rest of the colorways (they were mentioned in that Forbes article) and came across some IG post that purported to show the new Jet Mach 4s. But on further inspection they were clearly fake so I removed the link. Here's so far the only (!) IG post with the #jetmach4 tag:


Thanks for the pics. Good to see some new stuff from Babolat.
 
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I hope they improved the durability of the uppers, in the toe/sewed area. To me the 3s always fell apart after 50-60 hours (clay version).
 
edit. Nvm. I wrote that I'd want to see them on people's feet to get a better idea, and then I tried to look up some photos of the rest of the colorways (they were mentioned in that Forbes article) and came across some IG post that purported to show the new Jet Mach 4s. But on further inspection they were clearly fake so I removed the link. Here's so far the only (!) IG post with the #jetmach4 tag:

translated by google:
✨Babolat New Tennis Shoes✨
JET MACH 4 All Court

The excitement of using new products never changes, no matter how old you are!

Thank you Babolat VS Japan for your continued support!

Regarding the sizing, if you've worn the previous MACH3 model, the sizing should be the same. I wear a 27.5cm.
I've worn them for 3 hours now, and there's no tightness or pressure from the laces that you sometimes get with new shoes; they were very comfortable right from the start.
Compared to the previous model, the internal fit of the shoe is improved, and the stability of the outsole around the heel, ball of the foot, and outer edge of the little toe is significantly increased. Shoes with heavily reinforced outsoles increase stability, but they can feel heavy or cause fatigue after wearing them for a long time. However, this model has amazing stability while being incredibly lightweight! ✨

The way it gently wraps around the inside and outside of the foot creates an arch in the sole, allowing for more power in the toes. This is the point I felt was the best.
If the shoe is too wide, the sole of the foot feels flat, giving a flat-footed feeling, which makes you very tired and causes pain, and this fatigue significantly slows down your footwork. I prefer shoes where the forefoot area is moderately streamlined, as it creates an arch and allows for more power in the toes.

Even though it's not a one-piece tongue design, it has a comparable fit. The central part of the tongue is indented, and its shape cradles the ankle very well.
It doesn't slip, so it's very easy to wear.

I'll post another review if I notice anything else.

I think it can be used by a wide range of players of various levels.

Please give it a try!

Also, please tie the shoelaces twice as shown in the picture! This is to prevent them from coming undone. They are made longer for this purpose.

#Babolat #TennisShoes #JETMACH4 #Tennis #EbaraShonanSportsCenter
 
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is cushioing thicker now ?? always felt previous versions were too close to the ground and felt cushioning was too thin
 
FDZ seems to be praising the cushioning, but he does stuff like that "best shoe ever..top 5 shoe etc.." then the next guide he doesn't even mention them.

We don't know the cushioning unless we get proper testing like at Runrepeat.
 
Aesthetically I preferred the previous version due to the more subtle branding. Not a fan of the big "Babolat" text in the new one.

Jet Mach 3:
Jet%20Mach%203%20AC%20miesten%20tenniskeng%C3%A4t%20%28Strike%20Red%20%20White%29%20%284%29.png

Jet Mach 4:
30S26629B-5050.jpg

Performance-wise it seems they've made improvements though, but let's see when more reviews start to come out.
 
Anyone can share how this Jet Mach 3 did in regards to the durability of the outsole? Especially around the big toe area, for toe draggers like myself?
I like the look of this shoe in most colorways (especially the white & blue) and FDZ seems very positive about them.
 
Anyone can share how this Jet Mach 3 did in regards to the durability of the outsole? Especially around the big toe area, for toe draggers like myself?
I like the look of this shoe in most colorways (especially the white & blue) and FDZ seems very positive about them.

i don't think it was that great, that's why i never got a pair of these. too light and not comparable to some other offerings that were around (GR9, US3, Barricades, etc.). Looks like they've beefed this version up some, so would be curious to hear/read real-life experiences.
 
I have been a big fan of Babolat shoes especially the Jet, Porpulse Fury among others. Generally well-made well thought out and good looking. It seems to me the latest Jet shoe is another winner.
It's nice to have so many good shoes available that it's a tough decision on which one to buy!!
 
Anyone can share how this Jet Mach 3 did in regards to the durability of the outsole? Especially around the big toe area, for toe draggers like myself?
I like the look of this shoe in most colorways (especially the white & blue) and FDZ seems very positive about them.
FDZ said Durometer (hardness of the rubber) was higher on this one ( 22 compared to 16.5) usually harder rubber means you it lasts a bit longer and you need less of it on the shoe. also the harder the rubber better for sliding. Combined with the extra cushion & armor im optimistic.
 
FDZ said Durometer (hardness of the rubber) was higher on this one ( 22 compared to 16.5) usually harder rubber means you it lasts a bit longer and you need less of it on the shoe. also the harder the rubber better for sliding. Combined with the extra cushion & armor im optimistic.
True, but what we have seen in a few shoes over the last few years is that even when they make the rubber harder, they cut down the total amount of rubber in order to make it lighter. So if they ended up doing that, it will still not be durable enough for some.

So I guess we just have to wait till it gets released.
 
i don't think it was that great, that's why i never got a pair of these. too light and not comparable to some other offerings that were around (GR9, US3, Barricades, etc.). Looks like they've beefed this version up some, so would be curious to hear/read real-life experiences.
I’m curious if that’ll affect the weight profile. Does anyone know how the new one weighs in compared to the old. The Mach 3 always felt like one of if not was the lightest shoe on the market. The durability did suffer but it was a decent trade off especially when you could get an older colorway on sale. New model does look really nice as for as the graphics and design to me. I like the Babolat flag by the outside toe.
 
I’ve worn both the Jet Mach 3 and recently picked up the 4. For my feet, the 3 actually fits better overall. The 4 feels slightly clunkier, though still a good fit. The forefoot foam on the 4 is an improvement, it’s a bit more bouncy and responsive.

That said, my biggest issue with the Jet Mach line is joint pain after play. Ankles are the worst, followed by knees. I’ve never had this kind of problem with other shoe brands, only with the Jet Machs. I really wanted to like them because the fit is excellent, but the foam quality or shock absorption is a question mark for me.

This could just be a “me” issue though. If you’ve had no problems with the Jet Mach 3, you’ll probably be fine with the 4 as well.
 
Isn't the breathability abysmal for a performance tennis shoe? FDZ seemed to hint at that.

One the best features of the Lacoste AGLT Ultra is the massive breathability.
 
Isn't the breathability abysmal for a performance tennis shoe? FDZ seemed to hint at that.

One the best features of the Lacoste AGLT Ultra is the massive breathability.
He seemed to say it was ok despite the fog test suggesting otherwise. Apparently his fog test doesn't somehow convey the actual breathability of the shoe, or specifically the Matrix mesh upper. This is from 1:35 onwards in the video. What he says there is that the Matrix mesh upper "is incredibly lightweight and handles moisture and heat very well... so it kind of radiates heat out" and that so "the breathability test is maybe a little bit not representative of how good the fabric is [in handling heat and moisture]". And he concludes that "having them on... the shoe doesn't feel bad when you start to heat up." Who knows. Need more reviews to see what the consensus is.
 
He seemed to say it was ok despite the fog test suggesting otherwise. Apparently his fog test doesn't somehow convey the actual breathability of the shoe, or specifically the Matrix mesh upper. This is from 1:35 onwards in the video. What he says there is that the Matrix mesh upper "is incredibly lightweight and handles moisture and heat very well... so it kind of radiates heat out" and that so "the breathability test is maybe a little bit not representative of how good the fabric is [in handling heat and moisture]". And he concludes that "having them on... the shoe doesn't feel bad when you start to heat up." Who knows. Need more reviews to see what the consensus is.
he said this is Top 5 shoes of this year already, not knowing what's to still come out. probably the Best shoe from babolat to date. i am just wondering how the cushioing is, i haven't bought it yet. it looks thick from doctor's cut open measurement but not sure how good of cushioning and energy give back?? :unsure:
 
Anyone know if Babolat keeps colors in stock for most of the year? Or is it like Asics where a color is released then sold out in a month and no restock until the next new color?
 
Review: Jet Mach 4, white and blue.

Last pair of shoes: Asics gel res 9.

Wanted a cushioned shoe that felt agile and stable, I dont like low profile shoes that are too thin, did try the new asics solution speed FF4 but they felt hard on the ball of my feet and the toe box was weirdly triangular so I thats why I ordered some Jet mach 4s.

Anyway: The shoes are really comfortable, they are as comfortable as my broken-in gel res 9s, well cushioned and the forefoot cushioning is weirdly good, it cushioned but not bouncy and felt absorptive more than anything.

I always use the runners-knot holes as regular lace/holes as my ankle and upper foot are quite narrow which gives me a very locked in ride.

It had good grip, I played hardcourt and I dont slide on HC so cant comment on sliding but it felt grippy when changing directions and therefore quite quick.

My one caviat is this: since I use the runners-knot holes and want a locked in ride, the top of the tongue got scrunged up where the tongue ends, also the lace holes are very small, even tho the laces have a flatbeamed plastic casing on the ends I found it incredibly hard to thread the holes? Took me honestly like 45 minutes lacing them up the first time.

Anyway, good shoe, felt stable and quick to change directions in. Will keep!

Sizing: I went down one size (half size or whatever, from UK 9->8.5) from my asics gel res 9s and the jet mach 4s did therefore fit a little smaller.




 
Review: Jet Mach 4, white and blue.

Last pair of shoes: Asics gel res 9.

Wanted a cushioned shoe that felt agile and stable, I dont like low profile shoes that are too thin, did try the new asics solution speed FF4 but they felt hard on the ball of my feet and the toe box was weirdly triangular so I thats why I ordered some Jet mach 4s.

Anyway: The shoes are really comfortable, they are as comfortable as my broken-in gel res 9s, well cushioned and the forefoot cushioning is weirdly good, it cushioned but not bouncy and felt absorptive more than anything.

I always use the runners-knot holes as regular lace/holes as my ankle and upper foot are quite narrow which gives me a very locked in ride.

It had good grip, I played hardcourt and I dont slide on HC so cant comment on sliding but it felt grippy when changing directions and therefore quite quick.

My one caviat is this: since I use the runners-knot holes and want a locked in ride, the top of the tongue got scrunged up where the tongue ends, also the lace holes are very small, even tho the laces have a flatbeamed plastic casing on the ends I found it incredibly hard to thread the holes? Took me honestly like 45 minutes lacing them up the first time.

Anyway, good shoe, felt stable and quick to change directions in. Will keep!

Sizing: I went down one size (half size or whatever, from UK 9->8.5) from my asics gel res 9s and the jet mach 4s did therefore fit a little smaller.




does it have as good of cushioning as Gel 9 ? i like bouncy cushioning but if it is thick cushioing,, i will try it
 
does it have as good of cushioning as Gel 9 ? i like bouncy cushioning but if it is thick cushioing,, i will try it

Yeah Id say so, its well cushioned. Ive put many hours on my gel res 9s and I assume that impacts how the cushioning feels so cant really compare but the JM4 is very comfortable.
 
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