Tennis Warehouse Playtest: Babolat Pure Strike 2024 (98 16x19 and 100 16x20)

[Cowboy]

My shipping notification originally said that it would be here Friday. I was happy when it was updated to show yesterday by 7:00pm. UPS stopped by at 7:15....after I figured I wasn't going to get it yesterday.

Now to get it strung! Looks like the mains skip 7 and 9. Without seeing it strung (in my hands) it looks like there will be quite a bit of space between the 7th and 8th main on each side.

 

[Cowboy]

You guys with your fancy Bifidi SW machines and such....I'm over here doing it the TWU way.

Tennis Racquet Swingweight Calculator

A tennis racquet customization tool that allows the user to manually measure the swingweight of his own racquet.

twu.tennis-warehouse.com

I don't have a scale to weigh it, so I have to use the advertised weight of 305g.

I measured the distance to top string at 25.5", and the closest marking on the tape measure was 12 3/8" for balance point, so I used 12.375".

Time and associated swing weight:
13.73 - 277
13.70 - 275
13.66 - 275
13.71 - 276
13.71 - 276

Variables:
Weight - I don't have an exact.
Top string was pulled hand tight. Enough to keep the racquet stable/steady.
Distances - Can only get so specific with a tape measure. I went to the nearest marking which could be 1/16th off.

Because of the variables, I don't think this can be used as any indication of QC or how far in (or out of) spec the racquet may be.

Initial thoughts, I like the "feel" of it. It definitely feels like a quality racquet. One thing that I have noticed several times is the gray letters in the throat. In lower light situations, I have thought that there was some sort of smudge in the throat. Such as residue from a previous stringing sticker. I go to rub it off and remember that it is just the graphic in the throat.

 

[Cowboy]

We're ready to go hit!

Decided to string it up with RPM Rough (gray) 17g mains and Xalt 16g crosses. I intended to string it 48M / 53C, but my stringer (me) forgot to adjust the tension for the crosses. The moron (me) figured it out on the last cross. So I'm at 48 lbs. in both the mains and crosses. I hate when I do stupid stuff like that. Simple mistakes, man, I tell you what.

Why those strings? I had them ready to go in my Blade again after the Xalt playtest. In the event that you didn't read my review, I stated that I had the most fun playing tennis with this setup than I've had playing in a long time. So...
1. I like this setup,
2. It keeps with the Babolat brand,
3. How these play in the Blade 100L is relatively fresh in my mind, and
4. I think the color scheme compliments the "Babolat" at the top of the head nicely.

As you can see, the mains were tied off using a WPK at 8H on both sides. The top cross was tied off at 6H, and the bottom cross was tied off at 8T.

I was hesitant, at first, to do a hybrid setup as the TW page clearly states a 1-piece string job for all Pure Strike models. I tested several grommets to make sure that 2 strings could fit through. 8T was about the only one near the throat that would accept 2. Both 8H and 6H accepted 2 strings easily, so Babolat is not ruling out a 2-piece string job.

One note for @SinneGOAT , the grommets are tight. I didn't get any squeaking when pulling mains or crosses. Everything went exactly as expected. That said, these grommets are tighter than any other that I've strung. I'm not sure a 15g string would fit without putting up some resistance.

Last thing: Swing weight. Using the same method as above, but without the extra weights as spacers from the counter.
w/ grip protector in tact (forgot to measure balance point, so using balance point w/o grip protector):
13.89 - 307
13.92 - 309
13.89 - 307
13.91 - 308
13.90 - 308

w/o grip protector:
13.84 - 303
13.77 - 298
13.77 - 298
13.96 - 312
13.87 - 305
13.78 - 299

Balance point was 12.41".
13.78

 

[Cowboy]

@Trip , have you strung yours and remeasured SW?

I got to play for an hour today over my lunch break. I'm thinking mine is under spec. I wish I had access to an actual machine to test, but my experience hitting with it so far is that I would be surprised if I'm over 300 SW.

The people I played with today weren't able to put any pace on the ball, so it wasn't the best representation of how the racquet will play in a match. That said, it felt lighter than a 265g racquet that I picked up (and subsequently sold) recently. I'll get more dialed in and be able to feel the finer details with more play time; however, I'm not sure I want to pull this out for match play at the moment.

There's a guy on my team who plays with the last gen Pure Strike. I plan to put it in his hands and see what he thinks.

 

[naturalexponent]

Got my tracking number from TW staff today: my 100 16x20 (L3) will apparently be here Thursday. They informed me that I'm located the furthest away of all the play testers (western NY) and granted me another week to do my review. Much appreciated. First order of business will be posting the full unstrung spec, calibrated Briffidi SW1 swing weight included.

I got the same response re one of the farthest away (NYC). Got my delivery notification and can't wait to pick up the package tonight. Looking forward to your notes!

 

[racquetlab]

Received mine, and specs were slightly off - 8pt HL, 305.6g Static, 293SW unstrung. 325 SW strung.

Put 4 hours in so far, and it looks like having a slightly less headlight balance is paying off in contrast to the TW Reviews, and I don't feel like I need to add any weight (not that we're allowed to).

It took me a bit of time getting used to the feel, but now I'm very impressed! Whilst it's not all roses and rainbows, it's a very forgiving stick and a significant leap forward from previous generations and, most importantly, a fun racquet that creates results.

I'll put it through the wringer against a variety of opponents/playing styles and write up my thoughts in a couple of weeks.

EDIT: I should mention it's the PS 100 16x20

 

[Nastase]

Received mine, and specs were slightly off - 8pt HL, 305.6g Static, 293SW unstrung. 325 SW strung.

Put 4 hours in so far, and it looks like having a slightly less headlight balance is paying off in contrast to the TW Reviews, and I don't feel like I need to add any weight (not that we're allowed to).

It took me a bit of time getting used to the feel, but now I'm very impressed! Whilst it's not all roses and rainbows, it's a very forgiving stick and a significant leap forward from previous generations and, most importantly, a fun racquet that creates results.

I'll put it through the wringer against a variety of opponents/playing styles and write up my thoughts in a couple of weeks.

I’ve played with mine briefly and, on balance, my initial thoughts would echo @nyc’s. Although I haven’t weighed it the racquet (strung) is not near 330 SW and feels mid 320’s, maybe lower. I do use thin gauge strings which contributes but it feels more maneuverable than Gen 3. This version seems to address my complaints about the Gen 3 because 1) feel seems better (to me) and 2) stiffness is reduced. Very playable. More to come…

 

[Trip]

@Cowboy - Finally got the 100 16x20 (Grip 3) on the stringer (a Tourna CS-300 lockout crank). I decided on full-bed RPM Rough 1.25 in Fluo Red (the included set), as that's likely what many (most?) players would be putting in this frame, and/or want to see tested first (shoutout to @bbmertz). I chose to do 55/53 lbs (which is like ~53/51 on an eCP/dropweight), which may seem high to some, but I hit more eastern/flat and like a firmer string bed, especially with a softer-flexing frame. String bed tension pinged at 50.1 lbs via Tennis Tension Pro on Android (app settings: gauges: 1.25/1.25, strings: RPM Rough/RPM Rough, cell size: "Large", tightness level: "Loose"):

​

Here's the full spec breakdown (@Alcawrath - FWIW, my presumptions pretty much aligned with measured results):

Unstrung: 307g / 31.7cm (~8pts HL) / 304sw / 12.9tw* (* via bi-planar subtraction method, often ~.5 units low versus TWU and Briffidi TW adapter)

Strung: 325g / 32.75cm (~5pts HL) / 337sw / 13.9tw (just the stock frame, no over grip or dampener)

So, RPM Rough 1.25 added ~18 grams and 33 points of swing weight, while twist weight bumped up about 1 kg/cm^2 (about as expected). We'll see if my OHBH can cope with that. While shadow-swinging, twist weight feels manageable, albeit there's a noticeable amount of face weight, so on the next job, if I do go full-bed poly again, I'll swap in a lighter string and possibly also a slightly narrower gauge to further lighten up the face (and lower SW a bit).

Additionally, to make it minimally-playable for me, I had to add two Volkl V-Dry over grips (to get grip size up to acceptable for my somewhat-large paws), making my personal strung spec (minus dampener):
336g / 32.0cm / 337sw / 13.9tw / 174rw / 20.3mgr/i / .51 polarity index. Looking at those numbers, it's probably going to be more cumbersome that I'd ideally want for a winter stick (when I'm not in as good a match fitness versus the warmer months), but I should be able to handle it well it enough to give a decent-enough review. Fingers crossed anyways.

Also, I lined up the Strike among my main sticks, to compare hoop shapes and drill patterns. From left to right: Auxetic 1.0 Prestige MP-L, Strike 100 16x20, 2019 TT100P, VCP 97D. (click to enlarge):

Some interesting observations:
- Center main spacing: the Strike's center-most 4 are about as dense as the 97D (I'd also imagine an EZone 98), a bit tighter than the MP-L, even a bit tighter still than the 100P -- but the gamut here is narrow
- Outbound main spacing: obviously tighter and more consistent on the 18m sticks (Tour and 97D); very similar to the MP-L in how they open up away from centerline
- Center main length: MP-L noticeably longer (due to the more "egg"/snowshoe hoop shape), then Tour, then Strike, then D.
- Cross spacing: similar first and lass cross location as the MP-L, with slight progressive wider spacing moving out of the center.
- Cell shape/sizing: more classic rectangular cells, progressively increasing in size away from center; not as square or as consistent in size over as much of the face as the 100P or 97D.
- Hoop shape is a nice middle-ground between the more square Yonex and more oval Tour and Prestige, offering a bit more lateral "swiping room" between 10 and 2 and 8 and 4, versus the Prince and Head.
- Overall string bed behavior I expect to be a middle-ground of somewhere between the 100P (100" 18x20) and the MP-L (99" 16x19), with maybe a pinch of Radical MP, or something like that.

I should have a first hit in by the weekend, after which I'll report back my initial findings.

 

[Alcawrath]

Thorough specs review @Trip ! I wonder why swing weight is so much higher than it should be when every other spec was pretty close to spec unstrung? 337 is way higher than called for as you predicted.

 

[Trip]

Thorough specs review @Trip ! I wonder why swing weight is so much higher than it should be when every other spec was pretty close to spec unstrung? 337 is way higher than called for as you predicted.

That's a heck of a question, that'd I love to throw @TW Staff's way, and see what they say. I mean, mid-330's and 320-ish will feel noticeably different, to almost anyone... something's off: either TW's average, or Babolat's QC, or a mix of both -- probably a mix, but regardless, something seems awry...

 

[JFrijhoff]

Exciting testing times! Would be interested to hear how the strike 100s compare to the Head Gravity auxetic line if anyone has hit with both.

 

[bbmertz]

@Cowboy - Finally got the 100 16x20 (Grip 3) on the stringer (a Tourna CS-300 lockout crank). I decided on full-bed RPM Rough 1.25 in Fluo Red (the included set), as that's likely what many (most?) players would be putting in this frame, and/or want to see tested first (shoutout to @bbmertz). I chose to do 55/53 lbs (which is like ~53/51 on an eCP/dropweight), which may seem high to some, but I hit more eastern/flat and like a firmer string bed, especially with a softer-flexing frame. String bed tension pinged at 50.1 lbs via Tennis Tension Pro on Android (app settings: gauges: 1.25/1.25, strings: RPM Rough/RPM Rough, cell size: "Large", tightness level: "Loose"):

​

Here's the full spec breakdown (@Alcawrath - FWIW, my presumptions pretty much aligned with measured results):

Unstrung: 307g / 31.7cm (~8pts HL) / 304sw / 12.9tw* (* via bi-planar subtraction method, often ~.5 units low versus TWU and Briffidi TW adapter)

Strung: 325g / 32.75cm (~5pts HL) / 337sw / 13.9tw (just the stock frame, no over grip or dampener)

So, RPM Rough 1.25 added ~18 grams and 33 points of swing weight, while twist weight bumped up about 1 kg/cm^2 (about as expected). We'll see if my OHBH can cope with that. While shadow-swinging, twist weight feels manageable, albeit there's a noticeable amount of face weight, so on the next job, if I do go full-bed poly again, I'll swap in a lighter string and possibly also a slightly narrower gauge to further lighten up the face (and lower SW a bit).

Additionally, to make it minimally-playable for me, I had to add two Volkl V-Dry over grips (to get grip size up to acceptable for my somewhat-large paws), making my personal strung spec (minus dampener):
336g / 32.0cm / 337sw / 13.9tw / 174rw / 20.3mgr/i / .51 polarity index. Looking at those numbers, it's probably going to be more cumbersome that I'd ideally want for a winter stick (when I'm not in as good a match fitness versus the warmer months), but I should be able to handle it well it enough to give a decent-enough review. Fingers crossed anyways.

Also, I lined up the Strike among my main sticks, to compare hoop shapes and drill patterns. From left to right: Auxetic 1.0 Prestige MP-L, Strike 100 16x20, 2019 TT100P, VCP 97D. (click to enlarge):

Some interesting observations:
- Center main spacing: the Strike's center-most 4 are about as dense as the 97D (I'd also imagine an EZone 98), a bit tighter than the MP-L, even a bit tighter still than the 100P -- but the gamut here is narrow
- Outbound main spacing: obviously tighter and more consistent on the 18m sticks (Tour and 97D); very similar to the MP-L in how they open up away from centerline
- Center main length: MP-L noticeably longer (due to the more "egg"/snowshoe hoop shape), then Tour, then Strike, then D.
- Cross spacing: similar first and lass cross location as the MP-L, with slight progressive wider spacing moving out of the center.
- Cell shape/sizing: more classic rectangular cells, progressively increasing in size away from center; not as square or as consistent in size over as much of the face as the 100P or 97D.
- Hoop shape is a nice middle-ground between the more square Yonex and more oval Tour and Prestige, offering a bit more lateral "swiping room" between 10 and 2 and 8 and 4, versus the Prince and Head.
- Overall string bed behavior I expect to be a middle-ground of somewhere between the 100P (100" 18x20) and the MP-L (99" 16x19), with maybe a pinch of Radical MP, or something like that.

I should have a first hit in by the weekend, after which I'll report back my initial findings.

Great update — excited to see the racket strung with the RPM Rough 1.25 red string! Looking forward to your review after playing with it this weekend.

Btw, I just hit with the 98 16x19 which felt pretty good, but still prefer my 2022 Gravity Pro. I’m first on the waitlist at my local shop to demo the 100 16x20 when it arrives.

 

[TennisHound]

I’m interested to see what Babolat has done with the Strike. The new minimal pj is growing on me. The last iteration did not have the best feel (to me) so it’ll be cool to see how it’s improved or not improved. Sounds like they’ve gone for more control on all their frames.

 

[Trip]

So I was able to get a first hit in tonight with the 100 16x20 (with RPM Rough 1.25 Fluo Red @ 55/53 crank, so ~53/51 eCP). Remember, the sample I've got is 304 unstrung SW; 337 strung -- likely a good amount over-spec, and I definitely felt it.

As for playability, though, here are my initial notes:
- Overall: very solid, definitely a level of heft and beefiness that my buddy who plays a G360+ Radical MP (customized to 332SW) noticed when he tried the Strike.
- Power: it definitely has an extra level of crisp pop to it. I can't do any frame-to-frame comparisons quite yet, as I don't really have anything spec'd up to 337sw right now, but I'd say it's noticeably punchier than most of the 23mm beam "pleeners" that I've tried (and I've tried most of them).
- Spin: absolutely solid in the spin department. A notch beyond the Prestige MP-L and Tour 100P. Was definitely able to send big, heavy, spinny balls deep and drove my hitting partner back off the baseline.
- Control: feels about as controlled as a Prestige MP-L, maybe a tad more so from the slightly shorter mains and extra cross.
- Flex: Feels more like 63-64 RA (strung) than the advertised 61, that's for sure. However, it does flex noticeably more than the likes of the 2023 Pure Aero (which I also play tested).
- Feel: Much more direct and raw feel than the Gen 3 Strikes, that's for sure. I think most Strike users hoping for improvement in this department will be pleased.

However, this first session did have a show-stopper: arm discomfort. I'm sure RPM Rough at 55/53 didn't help, but I was feeling some fairly intense vibrations from the frame, which were starting to aggravate the tissue around the TE area very noticeably, by only 3 games into the first set. This was the first time I've experienced this in more than two years and 20+ other frames (Babolats included). So unfortunately I had to put it down after only about 30 minutes of hitting, and went back to my VCP 97D (with BHS7T 1.25 / Co-Focus Aqua 1.23 @ 46/44) for the remainder of the night (which immediately allowed that tissue to relax again, and feel back to normal within a game or two). I'm going to chalk up this experience to a combo of how seemingly over-spec the Strike seems to be, and it plays like it -- pretty cumbersome -- plus the string (not a huge fan of full-bed RPM *anything*, to be honest) and finally my lacking court fitness (I'm simply not playing anywhere near as much over the winter). I intend on giving the setup one more try with a bigger vibration dampener, and seeing how it goes, after which, I may be forced to cut the string job in favor of a softer, gummier poly and/or a hybrid, and will definitely be looking to shed weight from the string bed as well.

Overall, a great, high-potential frame in the 100 16x20. It has tons of promise. I just need to get comfort to adequate levels, and then we'll be good to go. More info to come soon.

 

[Fighting phoenix]

So I was able to get a first hit in tonight with the 100 16x20 (with RPM Rough 1.25 Fluo Red @ 55/53 crank, so ~53/51 eCP). Remember, the sample I've got is 304 unstrung SW; 337 strung -- likely a good amount over-spec, and I definitely felt it.

As for playability, though, here are my initial notes:
- Overall: very solid, definitely a level of heft and beefiness that my buddy who plays a G360+ Radical MP (customized to 332SW) noticed when he tried the Strike.
- Power: it definitely has an extra level of crisp pop to it. I can't do any frame-to-frame comparisons quite yet, as I don't really have anything spec'd up to 337sw right now, but I'd say it's noticeably punchier than most of the 23mm beam "pleeners" that I've tried (and I've tried most of them).
- Spin: absolutely solid in the spin department. A notch beyond the Prestige MP-L and Tour 100P. Was definitely able to send big, heavy, spinny balls deep and drove my hitting partner back off the baseline.
- Control: feels about as controlled as a Prestige MP-L, maybe a tad more so from the slightly shorter mains and extra cross.
- Flex: Feels more like 63-64 RA (strung) than the advertised 61, that's for sure. However, it does flex noticeably more than the likes of the 2023 Pure Aero (which I also play tested).
- Feel: Much more direct and raw feel than the Gen 3 Strikes, that's for sure. I think most Strike users hoping for improvement in this department will be pleased.

However, this first session did have a show-stopper: arm discomfort. I'm sure RPM Rough at 55/53 didn't help, but I was feeling some fairly intense vibrations from the frame, which were starting to aggravate the tissue around the TE area very noticeably, by only 3 games into the first set. This was the first time I've experienced this in more than two years and 20+ other frames (Babolats included). So unfortunately I had to put it down after only about 30 minutes of hitting, and went back to my VCP 97D (with BHS7T 1.25 / Co-Focus Aqua 1.23 @ 46/44) for the remainder of the night (which immediately allowed that tissue to relax again, and feel back to normal within a game or two). I'm going to chalk up this experience to a combo of how seemingly over-spec the Strike seems to be, and it plays like it -- pretty cumbersome -- plus the string (not a huge fan of full-bed RPM *anything*, to be honest) and finally my lacking court fitness (I'm simply not playing anywhere near as much over the winter). I intend on giving the setup one more try with a bigger vibration dampener, and seeing how it goes, after which, I may be forced to cut the string job in favor of a softer, gummier poly and/or a hybrid, and will definitely be looking to shed weight from the string bed as well.

Overall, a great, high-potential frame in the 100 16x20. It has tons of promise. I just need to get comfort to adequate levels, and then we'll be good to go. More info to come soon.

Sorry that's rough! I did get my hands on a second demo of the 16x20, and that swingweight was 331 strung (the other one was 326), so I do think the average sw on these is higher than the sample size TW had when they published their sw specs. W/r to arm issues, I think that it's highly personal, but in general trying out a new racquet with a swingweight different (and higher) than what you usually play with, on top of poly strung in the mid fifties, can for sure be contributing factors. However, it sounds like you usually play at that tension, and the stiffness of the racquet is low, so really it's hard to know what contributes to these things.

 

[netlets]

Yes, you would think stringing RPM Blast at 55 in the mains you’re asking for arm discomfort unfortunately. You just don’t allow the poly to snap back enough because of such high tension. 48-52 feels like the top of the tension range. I would string it at 46 and go from there. I use the 98 strike at 45 lbs with most polys and it plays amazingly well.

 

[AZJ1973]

One thing I miss about my Project One 7 is the grip handle. I love what seems to be to be a rectangular grip. I don’t get that same feeling as I do with my Clash or Speed MP. I picked up a buddy of mines this morning and brought back memories.

Any of you who are currently playing the G4 know if the handle is the same?

 

[Chairman3]

However, this first session did have a show-stopper: arm discomfort.

For conversation sake, do you think it could just be the higher SW and not very headlight balance? Plus, the high tension means you're working harder to get power.

 

[Trip]

@Fighting phoenix, @netlets and @Chairman3 - Yes, I certainly could have overdone the tension, but as far as I could tell, it did actually come off the stringer at right at 50 pounds, per Tennis Tension Pro, which I've found to be pretty darned accurate, across hundreds of readings, including dozens of different frame and string combos. Additionally, I've played countless numbers of full beds of poly with similarly stiff strings (Hawk, Focus Hex, etc) in frames of supposedly similar RA (the Aux 1.0 Prestige MP-L to name one), with no problems whatsoever, so there's likely more going on here than just "Yep. RPM ____ strung too high. Next case."

If I had to offer up a theory, it would be: the string and frame are co-vibrating/overlapping in certain frequencies, creating an amplifying effect on those Hz "peaks" that are reaching the handle. I've experienced this before with certain other frame and string combos. Usually, though, I'm able to alleviate by changing reference tension, the string itself, shock absorber type and/or the frame weighting/balance. Re- weight and balance, per your question @Chairman3, yes, I very much suspect that the 337 swing weight and head-heavier balance than I'm used to are combining to cause me to more aggressively clench my forearm through more the swing than normal, and tissue in such a state is usually more prone to being effected by vibrations. So my general guess overall is that my predicament is a bit of a "perfect storm" of all of the above.

All that said, I don't just want to cut out a more or less brand-new string job without at least giving it a second try, so I'll try a larger shock absorber next time around, which I know will increase swing weight even a little more (not the direction I want to be going in). If that doesn't improve things, I'll be cutting out RPM Rough (no choice) and putting in a much lighter/thinner and gummy-er/softer full bed of poly, or a hybrid with the same qualities, and for session #3 and beyond.

I hope to get my second hit in some time this week. Will have an update by then. In the meantime, thanks for your support!

 

[netlets]

For conversation sake, do you think it could just be the higher SW and not very headlight balance? Plus, the high tension means you're working harder to get power.

Normally the lighter racquets cause arm discomfort, not the heavier sticks, unless it's obvious the player is having a hard time swinging it. The last version of the Strike is fairly stiff and a 330-ish swing weight. I use the 98 16x19 and hadn't had time to restring. My tension dropped from around 46 to probably in the high 30s before I restrung it. I strung it up at 48 because I'm indoors now and thought maybe I should tighten it up a bit - I use Quadro Twist (a soft edgy poly - 16L but it's more like a 17g). I definitely felt some discomfort not having used it at 48 in a while. Going to go back down to 45 where it felt much better. I typically restring every month - I have 3 racquets, one I teach with with a hybrid and the other two that I play with that has poly. BTW, I played well with the racquet until it got too loose - probably once it his the upper 30s. I was roping my BH and hitting pretty hard, heavy strokes on my FH side. Slice at the low tension was crazy. I never felt a lack of control until it got to the upper 30s - just didn't grab the ball enough.

 

[Chairman3]

@netlets i was just making a point that a heavier swingweight and less HL balance can throw off your stroke if it's not what you're used to.
Also pointing at that @Trip's is quite an outlier compared to TW's average on the product page. His is 17 points higher SW and nearly 1cm higher on balance.
Not to discount his arm discomfort but you have to consider all factors.
For example, he may have been playing in sub-optimal conditions (i.e. cold) which makes poly notoriously more stiff and wiry feeling.

 

[Fighting phoenix]

@netlets i was just making a point that a heavier swingweight and less HL balance can throw off your stroke if it's not what you're used to.
Also pointing at that @Trip's is quite an outlier compared to TW's average on the product page. His is 17 points higher SW and nearly 1cm higher on balance.
Not to discount his arm discomfort but you have to consider all factors.
For example, he may have been playing in sub-optimal conditions (i.e. cold) which makes poly notoriously more stiff and wiry feeling.

Yes what @Trip and what you and others are saying all makes sense to me. Random thought/question - I've recently been experimenting with leather grips, primarily to make my racquets more head light, add static weight when I want it, and because I'm a lefty and in general I'm annoyed that base grips come stock set up for righties (although I do put overgrips on lefty-direction). In the case of the Pure Strikes, while they are more flexible than the previous gen 3 and in the case of certain frames (ie the 100 16x20) are more flexible than most retail racquets, they still feel rather firm/solid on impact vs. more muted frames like Yonex. I'm wondering if a switching to a leather grip for these frames might not be the way to go? Like, would a synthetic grip be more comfortable and help with harshness on the arm vs. a leather grip?

 

[Holic]

Come on guys, post a mini review, especially for the 98 16x19 and a comparison between the prev and current gen, days have passed!

 

[ulunxtns]

@netlets i was just making a point that a heavier swingweight and less HL balance can throw off your stroke if it's not what you're used to.
Also pointing at that @Trip's is quite an outlier compared to TW's average on the product page. His is 17 points higher SW and nearly 1cm higher on balance.
Not to discount his arm discomfort but you have to consider all factors.
For example, he may have been playing in sub-optimal conditions (i.e. cold) which makes poly notoriously more stiff and wiry feeling.

I have demo-ed 3 new Pure Strikes, none of them gave me elbow issues, and I have a very sensitive elbow and currently experiencing some pain from other racquets. These three new Pure Strikes didn't aggravate the pain, and I think they are def more comfortable than PA98 my main stick. I even felt the 16x20 was a little bit too soft and not as responsive as others. So far I like the stiffness of the 98 the most. Comfortable but still has enough feedback.

 

[SinneGOAT]

Yes what @Trip and what you and others are saying all makes sense to me. Random thought/question - I've recently been experimenting with leather grips, primarily to make my racquets more head light, add static weight when I want it, and because I'm a lefty and in general I'm annoyed that base grips come stock set up for righties (although I do put overgrips on lefty-direction). In the case of the Pure Strikes, while they are more flexible than the previous gen 3 and in the case of certain frames (ie the 100 16x20) are more flexible than most retail racquets, they still feel rather firm/solid on impact vs. more muted frames like Yonex. I'm wondering if a switching to a leather grip for these frames might not be the way to go? Like, would a synthetic grip be more comfortable and help with harshness on the arm vs. a leather grip?

The Wilson shock shield has as much if not a little more weight than a leather grip, and is very comfortable. You could give that a go, or a standard synthetic grip like syntec pro or hydrosorb pro/tour.

 

[Fighting phoenix]

The Wilson shock shield has as much if not a little more weight than a leather grip, and is very comfortable. You could give that a go, or a standard synthetic grip like syntec pro or hydrosorb pro/tour.

Interesting re the Wilson shock shield, wasn't aware of that product. It does look like it makes the grip slightly larger than a typical replacement grip though.

 

[Chairman3]

Yes what @Trip and what you and others are saying all makes sense to me. Random thought/question - I've recently been experimenting with leather grips, primarily to make my racquets more head light, add static weight when I want it, and because I'm a lefty and in general I'm annoyed that base grips come stock set up for righties (although I do put overgrips on lefty-direction). In the case of the Pure Strikes, while they are more flexible than the previous gen 3 and in the case of certain frames (ie the 100 16x20) are more flexible than most retail racquets, they still feel rather firm/solid on impact vs. more muted frames like Yonex. I'm wondering if a switching to a leather grip for these frames might not be the way to go? Like, would a synthetic grip be more comfortable and help with harshness on the arm vs. a leather grip?

I have heard people say sometimes on certain racquets a leather grip can make it feel worse, never experienced it myself.
Conversely, a leather grip could possibly give a muted racquet a more direct feel because there's one less layer of cushion/dampening.
I'd just try it, it can always be undone

 

[topspn]

Yes what @Trip and what you and others are saying all makes sense to me. Random thought/question - I've recently been experimenting with leather grips, primarily to make my racquets more head light, add static weight when I want it, and because I'm a lefty and in general I'm annoyed that base grips come stock set up for righties (although I do put overgrips on lefty-direction). In the case of the Pure Strikes, while they are more flexible than the previous gen 3 and in the case of certain frames (ie the 100 16x20) are more flexible than most retail racquets, they still feel rather firm/solid on impact vs. more muted frames like Yonex. I'm wondering if a switching to a leather grip for these frames might not be the way to go? Like, would a synthetic grip be more comfortable and help with harshness on the arm vs. a leather grip?

Leather grip will also make the grip size just a fraction smaller being around 1.5 usually. I don’t think leather under OG makes anything less comfortable. It just gives a bit more raw feel and certainly enhances bevel feel. You could find thicker PU style that are also heavier but will be thicker and isolate your feel more. Disclaimer: I am a leather grip fan and love its feel

 

[SinneGOAT]

Interesting re the Wilson shock shield, wasn't aware of that product. It does look like it makes the grip slightly larger than a typical replacement grip though.

Yes, that’s due to the gel pads. It does shrink however, but it is slightly thicker than most other synthetic grips.

 

[kblades]

I have demo-ed 3 new Pure Strikes, none of them gave me elbow issues, and I have a very sensitive elbow and currently experiencing some pain from other racquets. These three new Pure Strikes didn't aggravate the pain, and I think they are def more comfortable than PA98 my main stick. I even felt the 16x20 was a little bit too soft and not as responsive as others. So far I like the stiffness of the 98 the most. Comfortable but still has enough feedback.

Could you please elaborate more on your experience with how the new PS 98 16x19 compares to the PA98? Which do you prefer?

 

[ulunxtns]

Could you please elaborate more on your experience with how the new PS 98 16x19 compares to the PA98? Which do you prefer?

I prefer PS98 16x19, just placed my matching order today. It's more comfortable and stable on contact and I like the linear response of the Pure Strike more. I also think it might fit my play style more than PA98. I hit more flat spin shots, rather than loopy spin.

 

[Fighting phoenix]

I prefer PS98 16x19, just placed my matching order today. It's more comfortable and stable on contact and I like the linear response of the Pure Strike more. I also think it might fit my play style more than PA98. I hit more flat spin shots, rather than loopy spin.

Where did you place your matching order btw? I keep checking and everyone says not till the 25th

 

[ulunxtns]

Where did you place your matching order btw? I keep checking and everyone says not till the 25th

I’ll dm ya.

 

[Cowboy]

Yes what @Trip and what you and others are saying all makes sense to me. Random thought/question - I've recently been experimenting with leather grips, primarily to make my racquets more head light, add static weight when I want it, and because I'm a lefty and in general I'm annoyed that base grips come stock set up for righties (although I do put overgrips on lefty-direction). In the case of the Pure Strikes, while they are more flexible than the previous gen 3 and in the case of certain frames (ie the 100 16x20) are more flexible than most retail racquets, they still feel rather firm/solid on impact vs. more muted frames like Yonex. I'm wondering if a switching to a leather grip for these frames might not be the way to go? Like, would a synthetic grip be more comfortable and help with harshness on the arm vs. a leather grip?

I have heard people say sometimes on certain racquets a leather grip can make it feel worse, never experienced it myself.
Conversely, a leather grip could possibly give a muted racquet a more direct feel because there's one less layer of cushion/dampening.
I'd just try it, it can always be undone

I asked about customizations when I replied to the playtest selection email. Overgrips are fine, but a leather grip would significantly alter the weight distribution. I believe customizations, such as leather grip and lead tape, are allowed once our reviews are complete of the frame in its stock form.

I had to add an overgrip to mine. I didn't like the way the Babolat grip felt.

I plan to get a scale so that I can weigh mine. Any recommendations? I'm thinking one of those kitchen scales at Walmart ought to be sufficient. I'd like to get accurate swing weight measurements, and I think weighing my actual racquet instead of just using the TW provided numbers will be crucial. I still feel like mine is under spec.

 

[Trip]

I asked about customizations when I replied to the playtest selection email. Overgrips are fine, but a leather grip would significantly alter the weight distribution. I believe customizations, such as leather grip and lead tape, are allowed once our reviews are complete of the frame in its stock form.

I had to add an overgrip to mine. I didn't like the way the Babolat grip felt.

I plan to get a scale so that I can weigh mine. Any recommendations? I'm thinking one of those kitchen scales at Walmart ought to be sufficient. I'd like to get accurate swing weight measurements, and I think weighing my actual racquet instead of just using the TW provided numbers will be crucial. I still feel like mine is under spec.

The best way to measure spec is with real tools: a balance board, a kitchen scale whose weight range covers the typical gamut of unstrung and strung racquet weights, and, you guessed it, a Briffidi SW1 plus a good-condition iPhone 7 (or higher) off The Bay to dedicate to that duty alone (way better than using your everyday phone IMHO). I know it's a fair chunk of change, but if you're well healed enough to make an extra trigger pull on a racquet you don't necessarily need, then I'd argue you might be better off buying the tools above and opening up a world of insight and performance that I'm sure anyone who frequents these forums enough would feel justified in doing.

 

[SinneGOAT]

I prefer PS98 16x19, just placed my matching order today. It's more comfortable and stable on contact and I like the linear response of the Pure Strike more. I also think it might fit my play style more than PA98. I hit more flat spin shots, rather than loopy spin.

How did you place an order? Was it a preorder?

 

[Cowboy]

The best way to measure spec is with real tools: a balance board, a kitchen scale whose weight range covers the typical gamut of unstrung and strung racquet weights, and, you guessed it, a Briffidi SW1 plus a good-condition iPhone 7 (or higher) off The Bay to dedicate to that duty alone (way better than using your everyday phone IMHO). I know it's a fair chunk of change, but if you're well healed enough to make an extra trigger pull on a racquet you don't necessarily need, then I'd argue you might be better off buying the tools above and opening up a world of insight and performance that I'm sure anyone who frequents these forums enough would feel justified in doing.

I've watched a few videos on the TWU calculator and I'm convinced that it is an accurate measurement. The missing piece, for me, is the kitchen scale.

I agree that knowing the measurements and how to customize might be better than just buying a new racquet. The Briffidi would be nice, but that and a dedicated phone is not an expense that I want to incur at the moment. I'd rather put that money toward balls, lessons, or strings.

 

[GermanBeast]

Can anybody say something about the feel of the new Pure Strike 98 16/19?
Is it maybe a bit like the auxetic tech from Head (comfy but still responsive)?

 

[SinneGOAT]

Can anybody say something about the feel of the new Pure Strike 98 16/19?
Is it maybe a bit like the auxetic tech from Head (comfy but still responsive)?

I’d say so, but still a little more muted. It’s mainly muted but has a little more feel than the G3.

 

[Trip]

I'd rather put that money toward balls, lessons, or strings.

I can't argue against that.

 

[JFrijhoff]

I played the Gen1 pure strike 98 until ~6months ago, but got some TE, shoulder problems. Softer frame now (PK black ace pro), but still control-oriented. The PS100 16x20 makes we maybe go back to it for somewhat off days to have more real estate…

 

[XFactorer]

Can anybody say something about the feel of the new Pure Strike 98 16/19?
Is it maybe a bit like the auxetic tech from Head (comfy but still responsive)?

Feels better than what I remember of the gen 3, less metallic. The flax fibers help like they do in the Pure Aero line. But I'm a player that wants one response from the stringbed regardless of where it hits (aka I don't want to feel any drastic difference between the sweet spot or the edges). I think that's achieved - but I also get a consistent torsional instability with every shot, sweet spot or otherwise. I'll keep it at that for now.

 

[Trip]

The PS100 16x20 makes we maybe go back to it for somewhat off days to have more real estate…

Indeed, for such a role, the frame looks promising. I would add, though, that if you're at all serious about getting one (or more) on-spec, I would buy via matching service, as several playtest test samples have been a fair amount over (mine included).

 

[SinneGOAT]

I’ve put in a few more hours, and there was a small period I felt the racquet was getting sluggish, but then it went away. Also this racquet has been great for flattening out on the ball, it’s getting better and better.

 

[Ryebread]

Great update — excited to see the racket strung with the RPM Rough 1.25 red string! Looking forward to your review after playing with it this weekend.

Btw, I just hit with the 98 16x19 which felt pretty good, but still prefer my 2022 Gravity Pro. I’m first on the waitlist at my local shop to demo the 100 16x20 when it arrives.

how do you compare the 16x19 98 vs. the GPA?

 

[Ashton20]

I find the blade v7 98 a bit demanding/underpowered. I play much better with the speed mp but can be tough to control at times especially on OHBH. Is the Strike 100 16x20 the logical choice for me out of the strike lineup?

 

[Trip]

Is the Strike 100 16x20 the logical choice for me out of the strike lineup?

I wish my playtest frame was on-spec enough to say, but it very well could be. I'd say it at least warrants a demo, if not a trigger pull (via matching service only). The amount of controllable power cannot be ignored.

 

[SinneGOAT]

I find the blade v7 98 a bit demanding/underpowered. I play much better with the speed mp but can be tough to control at times especially on OHBH. Is the Strike 100 16x20 the logical choice for me out of the strike lineup?

It does seem to be a good in between. Not as powerful as the speed and more powerful than the blade. Happy hitting!

 

[taydbear7]

I got to hit an hour with this yesterday. The playing condition wasn't the greatest as it was a little windy but my impression is that it gets good depth, spin was good and some nice pop. On the other hand I think control wasn't as great as other racquet and there's some discomfort in the elbow/shoulder. The way the ball pops of the racquet sounds different to me. I'm going to hit a few more times with RPM and then might have to cut it out.

 

[Holic]

I got to hit an hour with this yesterday. The playing condition wasn't the greatest as it was a little windy but my impression is that it gets good depth, spin was good and some nice pop. On the other hand I think control wasn't as great as other racquet and there's some discomfort in the elbow/shoulder. The way the ball pops of the racquet sounds different to me. I'm going to hit a few more times with RPM and then might have to cut it out.

Hello! Racquet? And what was the other racquet? Thanks!