Babolat Aero Pro Drive Tennis Racquet Review

May 14th, 2011 by Do It Tennis

Babolat Aero Pro Drive

I had the opportunity to play test the new Babolat Aero Pro Drive racquet, a racquet Babolat describes as an "expert" player racquet. Although a bit anxious about being described an "expert", I decided to give it a go--and the personnel at "Do It Tennis" were very encouraging. The Aero Pro Drive is a relatively light-weight racquet--at 10.6 oz--and is balanced to generate racquet-head speed (7 pts. head-light). It's 100 sq. inch headsize is the same as my regular racquet, but, interestingly, looks a bit smaller. It might just be the aerodynamic shape of the hoop (& throat) that makes it appear different. Or maybe it's the very cool Yellow/Black/White graphics!

When I first held the Babolat Aero Pro Drive it felt as if it were heavier than 10.6 oz.--I even checked the label to verify it's weight. But after a few strokes I realized how easily maneuvered it really is--and how quick it reacts to my wishes due to it's design. While playing I noticed that my ground strokes were deeper and faster. There was very little vibration, and the racquet imparts a "solid" feel. It is a bit on the stiff side--but with the Cortex System and, apparently, the GT Technology, I always felt in control of my shots (no bone-jarring shock or "buzzing"). Volleys were crisp and powerful. It felt as if the racquet was doing all of the work (as long as I hit the sweet spot--more later).

This racquet really shines on serves. My first serve--ever--with this racquet was an ace (who wouldn't like it then?!). Again--it has the power--all I had to do was hit the ball properly and it was going "in"--and FAST! The same applies to overheads--a true great performer!

Now more regarding the sweet spot: My first impression was that if I hit the sweet spot, or close to it, the racquet was sensational.. But I did find that it was rather unforgiving on any substantial "off center" hits. It wanted to twist more than I like--I had to keep a tighter grip on the handle. These off-center hits would cause weaker returns/ground strokes etc. But--after all--this IS an "expert" player's racquet, right? And, after a couple sets, I no longer noticed it as any major issue. It is my opinion that this racquet is a great choice for players in the 4.0+ ability--especially those who are base-liners and have full/long strokes. I think it would also be a good choice for anyone currently using a racquet with a 98"-105" who wish to increase the power of their serve and ground strokes via faster racquet-head speed.