Official Babolat Strike VS 2022 thread
- Thread starter AceyMan
- Start date
I'm on the PSVS playtest and the Babolat leather grip from my sample (Size 2, 4 1/4) weighed in at 17.8g. I think it's on the lighter side because length is needed to fit around an L2 size pallet.
Since I normally play with a #4 (4 1/2) or #5 (4 5/8), I had to build it up, but didn't want to add too much weight so I removed the leather grip and added two Wilson Feather Thin grips, then a Gamma Supreme overgrip, and might even add another Supreme. With those, it's 4g heavier than stock (leather grip only). Since the racquet came in under-spec at 304.00g, now sits at 308.00g, just 2g shy of 310, so not bad.
Since I normally play with a #4 (4 1/2) or #5 (4 5/8), I had to build it up, but didn't want to add too much weight so I removed the leather grip and added two Wilson Feather Thin grips, then a Gamma Supreme overgrip, and might even add another Supreme. With those, it's 4g heavier than stock (leather grip only). Since the racquet came in under-spec at 304.00g, now sits at 308.00g, just 2g shy of 310, so not bad.
AMGF
Hall of Fame
It does for me (4g 11-1). However I’m coming from the ez98+ with lead at 10-2 so I’m used to a higher sw. The balance I think contributes quite a lot to the manœuvrable feel. As long as you don’t go crazy with lead at 12 you are good.
I'm absolutely loving it at about 342g, with a SW of 335/6 and a balance of 31.5. Just a touch more whip than I had before, but still plenty of plow.
I Just bought and tried out a couple of the PSVS and unfortunately for me, despite my best hopes, the performance has been underwhelming 
For context i normally play with the first gen version of the Prince Textreme Tour 95 strung with RPM blast and I generally enjoy more traditional, plush feeling, control based rackets. No idea what level I am by US standard, but I am decent mid 40 yr old club level player with a one handed backhand whose been playing 30+ years. I bought the PSVS because the specs looked promising, I like the Pure Strike range but find it too stiff so the RA rating of the PSVS looked more playable for my sensitive elbow.
I had the racket strung at 50lbs with RPM blast and played about 3 hrs with it, in mixed matchplay and hitting.
Postives:
Looks Great
Hits flat with decent access to spin
A reasonable level of control when you manage to hit the sweet spot
Negatives:
Very Unstable anywhere outside the relatively
Surprisingly underpowered for its specs
Stiffer than its 63RA rating would suggest - not elbow friendly
Plays a bit like a badly executed hybrid Yonex/Babolat racket
Lacks the plush feeling of the pure Strike Gen 3
I never played with the Pure Control Range, but from the demos ive had, I'd say its most comparable to the Yonex V-Core or Dunlop CX 200 tour, both of which I feel are better.
Just my thoughts though, I have limited experience customising rackets so I can't say whether it could/would be improved with the addition of lead tape, but in stock form it wasn't for me unfortunately.
For context i normally play with the first gen version of the Prince Textreme Tour 95 strung with RPM blast and I generally enjoy more traditional, plush feeling, control based rackets. No idea what level I am by US standard, but I am decent mid 40 yr old club level player with a one handed backhand whose been playing 30+ years. I bought the PSVS because the specs looked promising, I like the Pure Strike range but find it too stiff so the RA rating of the PSVS looked more playable for my sensitive elbow.
I had the racket strung at 50lbs with RPM blast and played about 3 hrs with it, in mixed matchplay and hitting.
Postives:
Looks Great
Hits flat with decent access to spin
A reasonable level of control when you manage to hit the sweet spot
Negatives:
Very Unstable anywhere outside the relatively
Surprisingly underpowered for its specs
Stiffer than its 63RA rating would suggest - not elbow friendly
Plays a bit like a badly executed hybrid Yonex/Babolat racket
Lacks the plush feeling of the pure Strike Gen 3
I never played with the Pure Control Range, but from the demos ive had, I'd say its most comparable to the Yonex V-Core or Dunlop CX 200 tour, both of which I feel are better.
Just my thoughts though, I have limited experience customising rackets so I can't say whether it could/would be improved with the addition of lead tape, but in stock form it wasn't for me unfortunately.
AMGF
Hall of Fame
Textreme Tour 95 is one of the most comfortable racquet out there, I'm not surprised you might find the PSVS stiff by comparison (even if on paper they are similar). The difference is the kevlar braid in the Prince that really does a great job of muting the impact.I Just bought and tried out a couple of the PSVS and unfortunately for me, despite my best hopes, the performance has been underwhelming
For context i normally play with the first gen version of the Prince Textreme Tour 95 strung with RPM blast and I generally enjoy more traditional, plush feeling, control based rackets. No idea what level I am by US standard, but I am decent mid 40 yr old club level player with a one handed backhand whose been playing 30+ years. I bought the PSVS because the specs looked promising, I like the Pure Strike range but find it too stiff so the RA rating of the PSVS looked more playable for my sensitive elbow.
I had the racket strung at 50lbs with RPM blast and played about 3 hrs with it, in mixed matchplay and hitting.
Postives:
Looks Great
Hits flat with decent access to spin
A reasonable level of control when you manage to hit the sweet spot
Negatives:
Very Unstable anywhere outside the relatively
Surprisingly underpowered for its specs
Stiffer than its 63RA rating would suggest - not elbow friendly
Plays a bit like a badly executed hybrid Yonex/Babolat racket
Lacks the plush feeling of the pure Strike Gen 3
I never played with the Pure Control Range, but from the demos ive had, I'd say its most comparable to the Yonex V-Core or Dunlop CX 200 tour, both of which I feel are better.
Just my thoughts though, I have limited experience customising rackets so I can't say whether it could/would be improved with the addition of lead tape, but in stock form it wasn't for me unfortunately.
That being said, maybe the tension are a bit high on the PSVS or something is off in the specs of your frame because the TT95 in stock form is seriously lacking power and plow. I don't think anyone would think the TT95 feels more powerful than just about anything on the market and certainly not the PSVS. Also the TT95 has a low twistweight and it seems weird that you feel the PSVS is unstable. It should feel a lot more stable than the TT95. The sweetspot on the PSVS is also much bigger than the TT95 Maybe you are a victim of bad QC from Babolat.
Something is not right. But for sure just add a little weight to tip of the racquet before you discard it as it positively transforms the racquet. Also you can try to get the strings down to mid-40s range and see how it does.
Have you modified your TT95 or are you playing them stock?
GummiiBear
Semi-Pro
I played/won a doubles match on Tuesday with my PSVS, still without any modifications (aside from the swapped leather grip and overgrip). Oh, I changed the strings too. It's now got Klip Legend 1.30 mains at 55lbs. with Tecnifibre Razor Code (carbon) 1.25 crosses at 51lbs. Of all stokes/whatnot, my serves really shone during that match. Bomber first serves, good spin on second serves. Same thing when I played a practice set of singles later in the week. Solid directional control, short angles.
I want to say that, given the lower feel of power with this stick, it encourages flatter hitting. I guess it took some adjusting to. I'll likely tinker a bit with lead in the hoop soon, but for the time being I'm still getting more familiar with how it plays stock.
I want to say that, given the lower feel of power with this stick, it encourages flatter hitting. I guess it took some adjusting to. I'll likely tinker a bit with lead in the hoop soon, but for the time being I'm still getting more familiar with how it plays stock.
I play with the TT95's in stock form, strung at 50lbs with RPM blast an overgrip and a dampner. I absolutely agree that the TT95 (V1) is/was one of the most comfortable rackets out there, but that comfort did come at the expense of power (the v2 added power but was considerably less comfortable). I have to say i've never felt the TT95 lacked stability and having played most of my life with 95 inch frames my expectations regarding sweet spots aren't large.
This is why I was so surprised that the PSVS felt around 10% less powerful than the TT95e, according to my opponents (and my own feel) my shots lacked weight and depth in comparison. That was a big surprise as on paper the specs are very similar in terms of weight, swing weight, balance etc and I had them strung identically. Its of course wholly possible that i have one which is lighter than the specs suggest and I'll check that if i get a chance. The level of instability on off centre shots was also very noticeable in comparison as was a fair degree of vibration despite the dampner. I did out of interest pass the racket on to a couple of my friends who both play with Bab's (aero & pure drive) and while both gelled better with it then I did, both felt it being very underpowered (granted not a huge surprise in comparison to either of those other frames)
To be honest I would look to see whether I could address some of these problems by adding lead tape, but the main issue i found was that despite the low RA, after an hour of hitting my elbow started feeling noticeably sore, something which no amount of customisation will fully address.
Its certainly not a bad frame, and I think that some people will love it for what it is, but for me personally I was disappointed that in stock form it felt significantly different to what the specs would suggest, but that is probably as much down to my own preferences and style as it is to do with the frame.
AMGF
Hall of Fame
It’s maybe down to the swing mechanics. Hard to tell.
Regarding the comfort, you’ve just been spoiled by the TT95 as the PSVS is rather plush. However, the tip is a bit crisp and if you have a tendency to hit high on the racquet, it might explain why it feels harsh and underpowered. Also why lead at the top (and lower tensions) really seem to open up the performance envelope of that frame.
Classic-TXP-IG MID
Hall of Fame
Just so there's no shortage of pics, and some of you may not be tuning into the playtest thread...
304g and 30.5cm balance UNSTRUNG
326g and 31.4cm balance strung w/OG
Big Banger Original at 48lbs
Excited to try this string in this racquet
Looks fantastic. Keep us posted.
AMGF
Hall of Fame
Played my second PSVS with cyclone at 44lbs (my other is strung with gut/poly at 49lbs) and I’m happy to see it seems the frame is not really string sensitive. It played really well and got no weird launch angle no change in feel or anything unusual. Pretty much the same feeling overall besides the deader feel of the poly. Maybe the 16x20 makes the stringbed feel less temperamental?
I like that, I hate when frame seem to be totally different depending on tensions and string choice.
Next for my third PSVS I’m gonna try PTP at 46lbs and see what kind of response I get and hoping the frame will behave the same.
I like that, I hate when frame seem to be totally different depending on tensions and string choice.
Next for my third PSVS I’m gonna try PTP at 46lbs and see what kind of response I get and hoping the frame will behave the same.
janelgreo
Professional
This is great to hear, it's probably not because of the 16x20, my VCore 95 seems to be pretty string sensitive.
AMGF
Hall of Fame
There goes my theory.
It may not be the pattern, but I agree it does not seem particularly string sensitive. I've played with poly/syngut hybrid and that is nice, and also full poly, which is also nice. If you aren't a string breaker, Cyclone 19 is awesome. I just strung up some Cyclone 18L as I heard good things about that from @Classic-TXP-IG MID and @JOSHL, I believe. Anyway, excited to try that out. The pocketing and bite with Cyclone 19 is really good. I get about 10-12 hours out of it before it breaks.There goes my theory.
janelgreo
Professional
There goes my theory.
Could definitely be a multitude of things (beams, construction, tech, etc...) anyways, I receive mine today and so excited to get it in my hands! I've been looking to find a racquet that has a bit more power than my VC95 but still keeping good control and spin potential, crossing my fingers!
Frame geometry is definitely a rabit hole, string spacing, head shape/size, throat shape, beam width, etc.
You may be a tad disappointed in the power department, I don't find this to be a "powerful" frame. I've never played the VC95 though, so can't compare.
You should enjoy the feel as I have heard/ read the VC95 isn't the softest or most comfortable.
My point of reference is low-powered frames with higher static and SW. So I'm used to what I call "effortless" power.
The VS is flexy enough and lower static and SW that it can feel low-powered.
Despite that, my opponent yesterday was struggling with the deep balls I hit. So the frame is not gutless by any means.
janelgreo
Professional
Stock form from what I have gathered the PSVS is more powerful than the VC95. The VC95 stock is definitely a racquet that is extremely control + spin oriented and requires a lot of RHS to generate power.
I have not had an issue with comfort, I actually found the VC95 to be very comfortable even after the customization.
My VC95's are heavily customized (349g static w/ 4g at 12 o'clock + more in the handle to counter balance and 10pts HL)
Hopefully I have the same reaction from my opponent(s). I'm glad to see you're enjoying it and just makes me even more excited!
janelgreo
Professional
Just so there's no shortage of pics, and some of you may not be tuning into the playtest thread...
304g and 30.5cm balance UNSTRUNG
326g and 31.4cm balance strung w/OG
Big Banger Original at 48lbs
Excited to try this string in this racquet
Wow crazy how different the specs are. Without an overgrip mine stock is at 330g and 32cm balance (7pts HL) w/ Head Lynx Tour. 9-10pts HL is about what I like so I'll have to add some weight in the tail end in order to achieve that but I'll see how I like this stock first!
All I can think is their QC isn't great among different grip sizes.
I got my racquet as part of the playtest, so it is an L2, and several other playtesters also had their racquet come in at 304g unstrung.
Maybe it is just that batch?
Who knows,
Yours does sound overspec though in terms of weight.
AMGF
Hall of Fame
Actually I am currently using cyclone 18l I play until I break it, usually 5-6h. I don’t know in the psvs if it’ll be later or sooner than that. I tried 19g once and broke it in less than an hour. I might have been unlucky, but I do hit quite hard and spiny.
StringStrungStrang
Professional
For a 4 1/4 (2) grip it is large, but thinking this is a new leather grip and over grip so it my compress a smidge. I actually like the grip / shape but I am not overly picky about shape.
janelgreo
Professional
Added a Yonex Supergrap (yellow) overgrip, static weight of mine strung + overgrip is now 336g and 8pts HL. No other customizations.
Will be hitting with it for the first time tonight, weather should be low 80’s temp/humidity. I’ll report my thoughts after!
________________________________
First hitting session last night and WOW! Strung with Head Lynx Tour Champagne 17 @ 50lbs. Have not hit a tennis ball in 1.5 weeks (Alcaraz sabbatical after tournament).
Stats: 30 yrs old, athletic, avid lifter/gymgoer
Playstyle: Counter puncher wanting to transition to an aggressive baseliner
Mini Tennis (Touch/Feel/Control): I start off every session with mini tennis and I was immediately blown away. The weight and balance felt perfect for me and everything just felt so effortless, I felt like I had so much control which I for some reason did not feel with my VCore 95. Obviously mini tennis is a great warm up to gather your touch, feel, and control and all that felt great. I have never felt more confident in a racquet/my strokes in mini tennis.
Forehand: This is where the racquet shined the most for me. I immediately felt how light the racquet was when I took my first full cut at the ball and it felt GREAT! I thought the lesser weight compared to my customized VCore 95 would be an issue but it certainly wasn't, I would say it was more of a benefit. For some reason with my stock VCore 95 I was having issues and needed to customize it, with the PSVS I think stock is perfect for me. Anyways, I was testing trying to add as much top spin as possible, hitting flat, targeting the baseline/corners, hitting angles, short balls (with heavy top spin), slices, etc... when I say I couldn't miss... I literally could not miss unless it was a shank or some difficult forehand out of reach. I have not hit a better and heavier ball, exponentially better than my VC95. I also immediately felt the power increase from the VC95 even though my VC95 is strung at a lower tension. Maybe it was my confidence in hitting the ball but I was able to hit a good amount of winners and passing shots that I was not able to previously with my VC95. My hitting partner noticed as well and the amount of times he said "wow... nice shot" was way more than it was in the past.
Backhand (one handed): This is where I had a lot of trouble, maybe it was because of the weight or the balance (typically used to ~350g Static and 10pts HL) not sure, but in the past my backhand was pretty reliable. I was mistiming shots big time and was hitting flatter than usual for some reason. Could definitely be a technique issue but like I said, in the past I had no issues. This is probably where I just need more hitting time with the racquet, dial in the timing and get used to the weight/whippiness. Nothing really more to say about the backhand here.
Slices: OOOHWEEE does this thing slice the hell out the ball, I sliced a lot especially on my backhand because it wasn't working very well. The slices felt NICE, I was able to hit deep low or high slices, short drop shots, and laser slices with precision. Slicing with this racquet was so fun and I love to do it in the past so this is something that I'm glad was a positive.
Serves: Okay, I was VERY VERY IMPRESSED! Very close to my favorite part along with my forehand with this racquet. From the first ball I hit I immediately had an improvement in my serve. I was hitting heavier whether it was spin (kick or slice) or power (flat). I was able to hit almost every type of serve with ease, however I do have to dial in the timing with the flat serve as I hit a good amount in the net lol. Kick and slice was beautiful though, I caught my hitting partner off guard a few times because I was never able to kick it as high or slice it as wide with the VC95. I just felt a big sense of confidence in serving with this racquet and to echo my forehand, I have not hit a better ball.
Volleys: Didn't get to do much of this since I guess we just really had so much fun rallying, the few times I was at the net I didn't feel anything special per se, not sure if it felt better than my VC95 but I really do enjoy my VC95 at the net. I'll have to give this more time but the maneuverability felt great and had no issues stretching or quickly moving the racquet to get to the balls. I think I felt the racquet was a bit unstable with harder shots though, especially when hit off center.
Maneuverability: This racquet is whippy and nimble at stock. No issues swinging, getting to balls, stretching, etc... some as we've seen in past posts may find it too light and whippy especially if you're used to higher static weight racquets.
Comfort: Felt just as comfortable as my VC95, 1.5 hours and no arm issues (never really had any in the past anyways) but I definitely was less fatigued compared to my weighted up VC95. Also could've been I seemed to just enjoy hitting with this racquet more so I was having a lot more fun.
Overall: I LOVE LOVE LOVE this racquet and I feel like I am going to make this my main stick, if anything for the sole reason that I just enjoyed playing with it more. I do feel it was better than my VC95's in almost all aspects of my game except for my backhand and volleys at the moment. Oh and god this racquet is stunningly beautiful.
I do have a Pure Strike Tour Gen 3 coming in the mail next week (hopefully) so I want to try that before I make the full commitment to the PSVS. The PST spec wise will be right in the middle of my VC95 and PSVS so I'm really excited to try it. I know the stability will be one of the biggest improvements with that racquet.
Oh and if anyone dislikes the racquet and wants to sell me theirs
PM ME! L3 please
Will be hitting with it for the first time tonight, weather should be low 80’s temp/humidity. I’ll report my thoughts after!
________________________________
First hitting session last night and WOW! Strung with Head Lynx Tour Champagne 17 @ 50lbs. Have not hit a tennis ball in 1.5 weeks (Alcaraz sabbatical after tournament).
Stats: 30 yrs old, athletic, avid lifter/gymgoer
Playstyle: Counter puncher wanting to transition to an aggressive baseliner
Mini Tennis (Touch/Feel/Control): I start off every session with mini tennis and I was immediately blown away. The weight and balance felt perfect for me and everything just felt so effortless, I felt like I had so much control which I for some reason did not feel with my VCore 95. Obviously mini tennis is a great warm up to gather your touch, feel, and control and all that felt great. I have never felt more confident in a racquet/my strokes in mini tennis.
Forehand: This is where the racquet shined the most for me. I immediately felt how light the racquet was when I took my first full cut at the ball and it felt GREAT! I thought the lesser weight compared to my customized VCore 95 would be an issue but it certainly wasn't, I would say it was more of a benefit. For some reason with my stock VCore 95 I was having issues and needed to customize it, with the PSVS I think stock is perfect for me. Anyways, I was testing trying to add as much top spin as possible, hitting flat, targeting the baseline/corners, hitting angles, short balls (with heavy top spin), slices, etc... when I say I couldn't miss... I literally could not miss unless it was a shank or some difficult forehand out of reach. I have not hit a better and heavier ball, exponentially better than my VC95. I also immediately felt the power increase from the VC95 even though my VC95 is strung at a lower tension. Maybe it was my confidence in hitting the ball but I was able to hit a good amount of winners and passing shots that I was not able to previously with my VC95. My hitting partner noticed as well and the amount of times he said "wow... nice shot" was way more than it was in the past.
Backhand (one handed): This is where I had a lot of trouble, maybe it was because of the weight or the balance (typically used to ~350g Static and 10pts HL) not sure, but in the past my backhand was pretty reliable. I was mistiming shots big time and was hitting flatter than usual for some reason. Could definitely be a technique issue but like I said, in the past I had no issues. This is probably where I just need more hitting time with the racquet, dial in the timing and get used to the weight/whippiness. Nothing really more to say about the backhand here.
Slices: OOOHWEEE does this thing slice the hell out the ball, I sliced a lot especially on my backhand because it wasn't working very well. The slices felt NICE, I was able to hit deep low or high slices, short drop shots, and laser slices with precision. Slicing with this racquet was so fun and I love to do it in the past so this is something that I'm glad was a positive.
Serves: Okay, I was VERY VERY IMPRESSED! Very close to my favorite part along with my forehand with this racquet. From the first ball I hit I immediately had an improvement in my serve. I was hitting heavier whether it was spin (kick or slice) or power (flat). I was able to hit almost every type of serve with ease, however I do have to dial in the timing with the flat serve as I hit a good amount in the net lol. Kick and slice was beautiful though, I caught my hitting partner off guard a few times because I was never able to kick it as high or slice it as wide with the VC95. I just felt a big sense of confidence in serving with this racquet and to echo my forehand, I have not hit a better ball.
Volleys: Didn't get to do much of this since I guess we just really had so much fun rallying, the few times I was at the net I didn't feel anything special per se, not sure if it felt better than my VC95 but I really do enjoy my VC95 at the net. I'll have to give this more time but the maneuverability felt great and had no issues stretching or quickly moving the racquet to get to the balls. I think I felt the racquet was a bit unstable with harder shots though, especially when hit off center.
Maneuverability: This racquet is whippy and nimble at stock. No issues swinging, getting to balls, stretching, etc... some as we've seen in past posts may find it too light and whippy especially if you're used to higher static weight racquets.
Comfort: Felt just as comfortable as my VC95, 1.5 hours and no arm issues (never really had any in the past anyways) but I definitely was less fatigued compared to my weighted up VC95. Also could've been I seemed to just enjoy hitting with this racquet more so I was having a lot more fun.
Overall: I LOVE LOVE LOVE this racquet and I feel like I am going to make this my main stick, if anything for the sole reason that I just enjoyed playing with it more. I do feel it was better than my VC95's in almost all aspects of my game except for my backhand and volleys at the moment. Oh and god this racquet is stunningly beautiful.
I do have a Pure Strike Tour Gen 3 coming in the mail next week (hopefully) so I want to try that before I make the full commitment to the PSVS. The PST spec wise will be right in the middle of my VC95 and PSVS so I'm really excited to try it. I know the stability will be one of the biggest improvements with that racquet.
Oh and if anyone dislikes the racquet and wants to sell me theirs
PM ME! L3 please
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REELSONREELS
New User
Oh man, the white stripe parts of the frame have tons of chips... but I used white auto paint to cover and it worked out well haha.
I got my first chip yesterday!
Songs For A Dead Pilot
Semi-Pro
Just got the racket from TWE's Demo Program. Can't wait to hit with it. The feel seems fine, I even like it more than Pure Control 98 (2014) or the clones of it released as older editions pf Pure Strike VS.
Even bouncing the ball I can feel the drop of stability and power in upper part of string bed.
Even bouncing the ball I can feel the drop of stability and power in upper part of string bed.
I’m intermediate player and I didn’t like the weight at 12. Tried adding at 9-3 and also throat but the best feeling with weights was at 10-2.
now I’m playing without any weights and is fine as it is I think .
ls206
Hall of Fame
Thanks for the feedback.
I ended up buying one myself for testing. It did take a while to find the best places to add weight. Many mention this being a “great platform racquet” and I would have to disagree.
It’s very headlight and so hard to move the balance point towards 32.5cm (without the swingweight going over 330). Even with swapping out the leather.
In terms of how the racquet plays, “lively” would be the one word I’d use.
The comfort is great, coming from cap grommets I love the extended bumper. I think that’s where my positives end.
The stringbed is incredibly lively. The pattern, despite the 20 crosses is very open and the ball leaves the strings quickly with little work on it. A little trampoline-y.
far more control with the Extreme Tour with the same string and tension. (Same racquet specs too)
GummiiBear
Semi-Pro
I think I settled on my setup. Or I’m too lazy to fiddle with it any further. 2g split between 10 & 2, with 2g under the buttcap; with overgrip I’m at a strung weight of 333g, which is nice. I feel like if I were to modify it further I’d just end up adding more weight, which is contrary to what I wanted when I got the stick. The goal was to feel comfortable with something lighter than my 350g 97HDs. I did try it with 4g spread out from 11 to 1 and ~3-4g under the buttcap but that didn’t feel good at all.
It seems sufficient enough for match play, though I can’t seem to make it work during the intense sessions with my coach (yet?).
It’s got Klip Natural Gut 16ga mains at 55lbs. and Tier One Ghost Wire 17ga at 51lbs., so it’s comfortable. Overall not as spinny-fun as my 97HDs but a good racquet, broadly speaking.
It seems sufficient enough for match play, though I can’t seem to make it work during the intense sessions with my coach (yet?).
It’s got Klip Natural Gut 16ga mains at 55lbs. and Tier One Ghost Wire 17ga at 51lbs., so it’s comfortable. Overall not as spinny-fun as my 97HDs but a good racquet, broadly speaking.
Can't speak for everyone but I think a lot of us are wanting that sweetspot 32cm or lower for more headlight balance strung. I think this racquet is geared more toward attacking/all-court versus baseliners. A lot of your baseliner racquets have that 32.5-33cm balance, generally speaking.
The other part is my playtest racquet came in at 304g as did several others in the playtest, and I think our swingweights were probably in the 310-315 range. So that wouldn't be hard to get the balance you want and keep the SW under 330.
So if you buy more maybe use the TW matching service and find an underspec one.
Songs For A Dead Pilot
Semi-Pro
Quick summary of my last hitting with the following:
Babolat Pure Storm 98 GT
Babolat Pure Control 98 GT
Babolat Pure Strike VS (2022)
I really enjoyed hitting with all of them. Used Pure Storm back in 2013 and Pure Control during my TE recovery in 2014 (by the way – I feel like it was yesterday).
The best feel is in Pure Storm, but the new Pure Strike VS isn't far from it. Pure Control is good too (I guess I had old NXT in it which should cause the drop in feedback).
These are really 'the Forgiving Option' frames for people using Head Prestiges or Dunlop (200 series).
PS. Hit with them also with the new G360+ Radical MP (more powerful than all Babolats), Artengro TR960 Tour (more of H19/UltraPro feel and lack of power) and
Aux Prestige MP (customized to high SW). I could easily pick up Pure Strike VS from all of them and hit with it great matches against Pure Aero and Drive players.
Babolat Pure Storm 98 GT
Babolat Pure Control 98 GT
Babolat Pure Strike VS (2022)
I really enjoyed hitting with all of them. Used Pure Storm back in 2013 and Pure Control during my TE recovery in 2014 (by the way – I feel like it was yesterday).
The best feel is in Pure Storm, but the new Pure Strike VS isn't far from it. Pure Control is good too (I guess I had old NXT in it which should cause the drop in feedback).
These are really 'the Forgiving Option' frames for people using Head Prestiges or Dunlop (200 series).
PS. Hit with them also with the new G360+ Radical MP (more powerful than all Babolats), Artengro TR960 Tour (more of H19/UltraPro feel and lack of power) and
Aux Prestige MP (customized to high SW). I could easily pick up Pure Strike VS from all of them and hit with it great matches against Pure Aero and Drive players.
Was just a matter of time before I picked up this beauty for my own. I'm inclined to replace the leather grip with Syntec Team to bring the static weight down and I don't mind the head light balance as I usually go for around 33cm. I'll probably play a few times in stock form but should be a fun process.
For those who applied lead tape - has anyone noticed the paint peeling off with the lead tape when you take it out? I've had this issue with my APD and I'd prefer to avoid that if I do decide to customize it.
For those who applied lead tape - has anyone noticed the paint peeling off with the lead tape when you take it out? I've had this issue with my APD and I'd prefer to avoid that if I do decide to customize it.
My only issue was my lead tape left sticky residue on the frame. Goo-gone will probably fix that though.
No paint peeling, I think the paintjob seems pretty durable, but I'm not very hard on my frames either.
No paint peeling here - seems quite durable. I have one tiny chip on one of mine, but unrelated to the lead tape, which I have removed and re-applied a few times.
Officially joined the club today!
I got the matched pair racquets and both came in exactly at 304.8g and 30.6cm, literally on point for QC.
Like others have reported, the specs look a bit lower than advertised at 315SW, 327g, 31.5cm strung with Cyclone Tour and an overgip.
Unfortunately I won't be able to hit with it until Saturday but I am definitely looking forward to it. Just from holding the racquet, the feel when I hold the frame is very reminiscent of the ultra tour which is a very good sign.
I got the matched pair racquets and both came in exactly at 304.8g and 30.6cm, literally on point for QC.
Like others have reported, the specs look a bit lower than advertised at 315SW, 327g, 31.5cm strung with Cyclone Tour and an overgip.
Unfortunately I won't be able to hit with it until Saturday but I am definitely looking forward to it. Just from holding the racquet, the feel when I hold the frame is very reminiscent of the ultra tour which is a very good sign.
wow the specs are really off for this one... the SW is already low so if you have one underspecds thats really a lemon...
Had the opposite problem with my last Pure Strike 16x19... with the matching service, had to chose between 5 that were all over specs... finally got one at 308 GR (that was the lightest one!!!), but with the right balance (31.8) and RA...
I would NEVER buy a Babolat without the matching, while Yonex are usually much more accurate...
Really, really liking the racquet! Sure it could be honeymoon phase or placebo effect or whatever, but I don't even care, lol. This racquet is seriously a thing of beauty and it just feels super nice to hold and admire how good it looks in between points. But all that said, I really like the 16x20 pattern on this type of control style of design that the racquet was intended for. I don't feel like I have to work as hard as I did with the 18x20 Ultra Tour and I still get plenty of control while still being spin and power friendly enough. I know there are a few threads that have been around asking for "best racquet for serve and volley" and I would usually say to myself you can S&V with any racquet, but the PSVS feels right up there in terms of being ideal for that game. It's very effective with where I want to place the serve and really great for volleying, and groundstrokes really seems to lend itself to a more placement-oriented first strike tennis rather than the topspin ground and pound style that you can get with something like a Pure Drive or Aero. Takes me back to the days of Martina Hingis style of efficient point play. I'm going to put in natural gut/BBO hybrid next and I feel like I can really settle nicely into this setup since I do prefer to serve and volley on at least half my service points.
Played roughly 10 years with Pure Storm and Pure Control line strung with Xcel for feel and power, than switched to Yonex Ezone DR 98 and poly. Unfortunately, I got TE and change them to the latest VcorePro97 which are extremely plush.I Just bought and tried out a couple of the PSVS and unfortunately for me, despite my best hopes, the performance has been underwhelming
For context i normally play with the first gen version of the Prince Textreme Tour 95 strung with RPM blast and I generally enjoy more traditional, plush feeling, control based rackets. No idea what level I am by US standard, but I am decent mid 40 yr old club level player with a one handed backhand whose been playing 30+ years. I bought the PSVS because the specs looked promising, I like the Pure Strike range but find it too stiff so the RA rating of the PSVS looked more playable for my sensitive elbow.
I had the racket strung at 50lbs with RPM blast and played about 3 hrs with it, in mixed matchplay and hitting.
Postives:
Looks Great
Hits flat with decent access to spin
A reasonable level of control when you manage to hit the sweet spot
Negatives:
Very Unstable anywhere outside the relatively
Surprisingly underpowered for its specs
Stiffer than its 63RA rating would suggest - not elbow friendly
Plays a bit like a badly executed hybrid Yonex/Babolat racket
Lacks the plush feeling of the pure Strike Gen 3
I never played with the Pure Control Range, but from the demos ive had, I'd say its most comparable to the Yonex V-Core or Dunlop CX 200 tour, both of which I feel are better.
Just my thoughts though, I have limited experience customising rackets so I can't say whether it could/would be improved with the addition of lead tape, but in stock form it wasn't for me unfortunately.
Problem is they are soooo muted and underpowered, and dispite accurate static weight they have very low SW (301!).
Demoed the PSVS last week strung with multi from Gosen. It brought in back nice memories and definitely felt like home. Maybe due to 16x20 pattern and the Babolat feel.
It's underspec.regarding weight (-7 grams) but is has better swing weight that VcorePro97, around 318 grams strung. And most importantly, it felt livelier and my shots were more penetrating.
Other than that it seems the ideal frame for me and regret not testing it before buying the VcorePro's.
I might also try the PS 16x19, only that I heard is not the most comfortable racquet...
(4.0 in my forties)
teachingprotx
Legend
The pure control vs 2022 is the best paint job of any racket, from any racket manufacturer in the last 30 years . Period
Took a small break from the PSVS, but came back to it today, and had just a wonderful experience. I'm really impressed with how much extra pop it seems to have, while maintaining good control. I can serve my best with it. Part of that comes down to the weight, which is so ideal for customizing. You can get the SW up to 335-340 with just 5-6 grams of lead, and then make your balance whatever you want without getting too heavy. I'm at 31.5cm and the static is 340g, with a swingweight of 338 or something. Really a lot of fun, strung up with Cyclone 19.
Songs For A Dead Pilot
Semi-Pro
Have you ever played with Babolat Pure Control or Pure Storm. Both seemed similar to PSVS to me – still have both. 8-10 years ago I was using them along with IG Radical MP as my more forgiving frames during long matches (main frame was IG Prestige MP).
BillKid
Hall of Fame
The Pure Storm and Pure Control were looking "more control" and "classic" IMO. I found the throat a bit weird, it seems to belong more to the "VS line" than the "Pure Strike line". I would have expected a more boxy throat.
Yes, I have! In fact, I was taking a break from the PSVS with the Pure Control Tour. Super amazing feel - I would give it a 10/10 there. PSVS is probably an 8/10 in terms of feel. Biggest difference is that it's a bit more muted. For now, I hit a bigger ball with the PSVS, but I think that's just because it's easier to play with. I plan to keep using both - PSVS maybe in competitive matches and when I'm playing "up", and PCT for practicing and playing "down". Biggest challenge for me with the PCT is that I have to get the weight up over 350g to get the balance and SW where I want them to be. I can get to the same place at 340g with the PSVS, which does make a big difference. PSVS also has a slightly more open pattern, and easier access to spin.
Could you give us an update on comparison PSVS and PST?Added a Yonex Supergrap (yellow) overgrip, static weight of mine strung + overgrip is now 336g and 8pts HL. No other customizations.
Will be hitting with it for the first time tonight, weather should be low 80’s temp/humidity. I’ll report my thoughts after!
________________________________
First hitting session last night and WOW! Strung with Head Lynx Tour Champagne 17 @ 50lbs. Have not hit a tennis ball in 1.5 weeks (Alcaraz sabbatical after tournament).
Stats: 30 yrs old, athletic, avid lifter/gymgoer
Playstyle: Counter puncher wanting to transition to an aggressive baseliner
Mini Tennis (Touch/Feel/Control): I start off every session with mini tennis and I was immediately blown away. The weight and balance felt perfect for me and everything just felt so effortless, I felt like I had so much control which I for some reason did not feel with my VCore 95. Obviously mini tennis is a great warm up to gather your touch, feel, and control and all that felt great. I have never felt more confident in a racquet/my strokes in mini tennis.
Forehand: This is where the racquet shined the most for me. I immediately felt how light the racquet was when I took my first full cut at the ball and it felt GREAT! I thought the lesser weight compared to my customized VCore 95 would be an issue but it certainly wasn't, I would say it was more of a benefit. For some reason with my stock VCore 95 I was having issues and needed to customize it, with the PSVS I think stock is perfect for me. Anyways, I was testing trying to add as much top spin as possible, hitting flat, targeting the baseline/corners, hitting angles, short balls (with heavy top spin), slices, etc... when I say I couldn't miss... I literally could not miss unless it was a shank or some difficult forehand out of reach. I have not hit a better and heavier ball, exponentially better than my VC95. I also immediately felt the power increase from the VC95 even though my VC95 is strung at a lower tension. Maybe it was my confidence in hitting the ball but I was able to hit a good amount of winners and passing shots that I was not able to previously with my VC95. My hitting partner noticed as well and the amount of times he said "wow... nice shot" was way more than it was in the past.
Backhand (one handed): This is where I had a lot of trouble, maybe it was because of the weight or the balance (typically used to ~350g Static and 10pts HL) not sure, but in the past my backhand was pretty reliable. I was mistiming shots big time and was hitting flatter than usual for some reason. Could definitely be a technique issue but like I said, in the past I had no issues. This is probably where I just need more hitting time with the racquet, dial in the timing and get used to the weight/whippiness. Nothing really more to say about the backhand here.
Slices: OOOHWEEE does this thing slice the hell out the ball, I sliced a lot especially on my backhand because it wasn't working very well. The slices felt NICE, I was able to hit deep low or high slices, short drop shots, and laser slices with precision. Slicing with this racquet was so fun and I love to do it in the past so this is something that I'm glad was a positive.
Serves: Okay, I was VERY VERY IMPRESSED! Very close to my favorite part along with my forehand with this racquet. From the first ball I hit I immediately had an improvement in my serve. I was hitting heavier whether it was spin (kick or slice) or power (flat). I was able to hit almost every type of serve with ease, however I do have to dial in the timing with the flat serve as I hit a good amount in the net lol. Kick and slice was beautiful though, I caught my hitting partner off guard a few times because I was never able to kick it as high or slice it as wide with the VC95. I just felt a big sense of confidence in serving with this racquet and to echo my forehand, I have not hit a better ball.
Volleys: Didn't get to do much of this since I guess we just really had so much fun rallying, the few times I was at the net I didn't feel anything special per se, not sure if it felt better than my VC95 but I really do enjoy my VC95 at the net. I'll have to give this more time but the maneuverability felt great and had no issues stretching or quickly moving the racquet to get to the balls. I think I felt the racquet was a bit unstable with harder shots though, especially when hit off center.
Maneuverability: This racquet is whippy and nimble at stock. No issues swinging, getting to balls, stretching, etc... some as we've seen in past posts may find it too light and whippy especially if you're used to higher static weight racquets.
Comfort: Felt just as comfortable as my VC95, 1.5 hours and no arm issues (never really had any in the past anyways) but I definitely was less fatigued compared to my weighted up VC95. Also could've been I seemed to just enjoy hitting with this racquet more so I was having a lot more fun.
Overall: I LOVE LOVE LOVE this racquet and I feel like I am going to make this my main stick, if anything for the sole reason that I just enjoyed playing with it more. I do feel it was better than my VC95's in almost all aspects of my game except for my backhand and volleys at the moment. Oh and god this racquet is stunningly beautiful.
I do have a Pure Strike Tour Gen 3 coming in the mail next week (hopefully) so I want to try that before I make the full commitment to the PSVS. The PST spec wise will be right in the middle of my VC95 and PSVS so I'm really excited to try it. I know the stability will be one of the biggest improvements with that racquet.
Oh and if anyone dislikes the racquet and wants to sell me theirs
janelgreo
Professional
Of course!
Power: PST
Control/Feel: PSVS
Spin: PSVS
Forehands: PST
Backhands (OHBH): PSVS
Slice: PSVS
Serves: PST (power) / PSVS (spin/angle)
Maneuverability: PSVS although the PST isn't that bad!
Stability: PST
Basically if you have more of a power/flat game the PST is the way to go, although you can generate some good spin with the PST just not as much as the PSVS imo. The PSVS I feel like is more of a platform racquet, add 1-2g at 12 and 1g each at 3/9 and I found the PSVS to be a closer competitor to the PST. A lot of people seem to be able to be comfortable with the PSVS right away but I needed some modding to have some more stability especially against harder hitters. PST for me is easily a pick up and go racquet, no need for mods and does everything very well but excels in power. It's such a great racquet and I'm really contemplating on making it my main stick.
One thing about the PSVS is god damn it's BEAUTIFUL. I was so sad to let it go because it was so pretty to look at but came to my senses lol.
ClaudTT
Semi-Pro
Got chips also on the orange/red but cannot get the right paint to match
If anyone knows the paints to match, I will appreciate it to know. Thanks.
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