This week on Tennisnerd2, I had Robert test many different racquets to find his next one. He is a Babolat guy, but does he prefer Babolat Pure Drive or Pure Aero? Watch the video below to find out.
But this post is not only about the video, it is also to talk about the differences between the Babolat Pure Drive and the Pure Aero and which players they might suit.
I am therefore keen to hear in the comments, are you a Babolat Pure Drive or Pure Aero player? Power or Spin? Or are you more into control and precision?
Power or spin? Drive or Aero?
There are of course several other brands with the same kind of categorization. I just use Babolat as an example, since they have become icons in the game. And also because this post coincided with Robert’s switch in the video above.
For tennis racquets, there are mainly three silos or categories of racquets, Power, Spin and Control. Some brands try to create silos that overlap or try to be more balanced, but overall, this is the most common categorization.
POWER RACQUETS
Babolat Pure Drive
Yonex Ezone
Wilson Ultra
HEAD Boom
Dunlop FX
Diadem Nova
SPIN RACQUETS
Babolat Pure Aero
Yonex VCORE
Wilson Shift
HEAD Extreme
Dunlop SX
Diadem Axis
CONTROL RACQUETS
Babolat Pure Strike
Yonex Percept
Wilson Blade
HEAD Radical
Dunlop CX
Diadem Elevate
Solinco Whiteout 305
You can click the links above for more information on each line and model. There are also plenty of racquets which are not easily put into categories. Racquets like the HEAD Speed, Prince Phantom and Nordicdots Model 100 are more versatile and are trying to give you a blend of all these characteristics.
Where do you see yourself among all these racquets? If you don’t know, check out our consultation service or write a question on the racquet advice page. You can also check out our Recommended Racquets and Recommended Strings.
What is the difference and which one should you choose?
Power racquets are focused on a high stiffness, meaning good stability for their weight and a high energy return. Spin racquets are slightly softer and more focused on a higher launch angle and lots of string movement, creating a snapback effect which helps the ball dip in at the last minute. At least that is the idea.
A power racquet tends to be a better fit for the flat hitter who wants a controlled launch from the strings. It’s a confidence thing. There are, of course, many exceptions. But if you look at the WTA Tour, power racquets like Pure Drives or Ezones are more popular than on the men’s circuit. Historically women tends to hit more flat and guys hit with more spin. Swiatek and De Minaur are two obvious exceptions.
Do you have to be a player who hits with massive spin to enjoy a spin racquet? No, you might like the ball to jump a little higher and get more net clearance. We have seen a more varied group of player enjoy racquets like the Babolat Pure Aero 98 and Yonex VCORE 98 recently. Still, racquet tastes are personal so it is tricky to generalize too much.
The way to look at racquets is to ask yourself what you want more of from your game. If you want easy depth and lots of power, a power racquet is likely a good demo.
If you want accentuate your top spin generation and get a higher launch and more kick on your shots, then a spin racquet should be considered.
If you are a player who values precision and control above all, then you will feel most at home with a control racquet.
When you try a racquet, you should always look for that wow-feel. But you also need to aware of the honeymoon period, where you play great for a week and then things can fall off a bit and you start to doubt your switch. This is normal among club players to professional.
Give yourself time and be patient and try to really feel when it’s right. It is tricky to trust your decision in tennis because it is a sport of so many ups and downs.
Summary
If you watched the video, you know which racquet Robert ended up switching to. He might be back to the Aero 98 in six months, who knows? But if you watched the first video I did with him, you might have noticed the strong reaction he had to playing with the previous Pure Drive 98. The Babolat Pure Drive 98 2025 comes in with a reengineered mold and a new string pattern, so it is quite a change. But talking to Robert after a few league matches, he seems happy with his choice for now. Although he did note that the Drive 98 has more weight in the head and plays better with some weight added to the grip.
Why did he choose the Drive over the Aero? Well, he felt like he had better confidence on flat shots with the Drive. The Aero has that addictive kick to it, but it can fly a bit when you don’t commit fully to your shots. Choosing a racquet is always a compromise. You just need to know what you prioritize and what you are willing to sacrifice.
I wish Rob the best of luck with his new racquet and I’m keen to hear which racquet you would go for?
