Racket review: Babolat AeroPro Drive

 

Originally published on: 27/03/13 00:00

The fifth generation AeroPro Drive, used by Rafael Nadal and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, is guaranteed to further Babolat’s reputation. 

Baseliners who like to play with heavy spin will love this updated frame, which offers easy access to power and spin. 

The open string pattern, big sweetspot and relatively low weight allow players to take big cuts at the ball and offers more bite off slice and volleys than its predecessors.

BEST FOR POWER:
A racket can have all the power in the world but if it isn’t accompanied by control then the back fence will be your best friend. At 300g, the Babolat AeroPro Drive is one of the lightest frames we tested but it has both power and control in abundance. The racket of choice for many top pros is stiffer than most but if you can handle that then the rewards will come in the form of power and explosive response. The light frame allows you to let rip at the ball while the Active Cortex technology offers comfort and feel to accompany the power. The 100 square-inch head, forgiving open string pattern and easy maneuverability make this racket extremely playable.

Specs — Babolat Aeropro Drive
RRP: £190
Head size: 100 sq.in
Unstrung Weight: 300g
Length: 27 inches
String Pattern: 16×19
Balance: 32cm
Beam: 23-26mm

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