Babolat Pure Drive S-Lite 2018 Racket Review
The Pure Drive rackets are known for the power they provide, and the S-Lite is no different despite it weighing just about 255g. It offers easy power and excellent spin with maneuverability and a fast feel from anywhere on court.
The racket provides easy access to power. However, the downside to having a super lightweight frame is that the shots lacked stability and the ability to add pace to the shots as compared to the heavier frames in the Pure Drive line. The weakness is especially noted when hitting big shots upon contact.
Babolat's FSI Power technology provided the racket with a good amount of spin and control when I swung at a faster pace, but was a little lacking when I slowed down my swing.
At the net, I found that it was tough to generate enough power and stability to power through my volleys due to its lightweight, especially in a fast-paced game. However, it was stable and solid enough when I was playing at a slower pace, and it was able to provide enough control for directing the volleys.
The 2018 Pure Drive S-Lite is definitely not one of the most comfortable rackets I have played with due to its stiffness and the nature of the rackets in the Pure Drive line. The addition of dampening material (SMAC) in the frame reduced much of the vibration in my shots. If you are accustomed to a racket that provides a more crisp feedback you will probably need some time to get used to the feel that the Pure Drive S-Lite provides.
Overall, the Pure Drive S-Lite plays better in lower intensity games. A racket that is this light is highly suitable for beginners or juniors looking to transition to an adult racket. Personally, I added 10 grams of weight to the Pure Drive S-Lite to improve the racket’s stability, making it slightly easier to make controlled shots and to hit my balls deeper into the court.
Technical Characteristics
Weight unstrung: 9 oz / 255 g
Technology: HTR System/SWX Pure Feel/FSI Power/Elliptic Frame
Composition: Graphite
Head Size: 99.98 in² / 645 cm²
Length: 26.97 in / 68.5 cm
Stiffness: 72 RA
Balance unstrung: 12.99 in / 33 cm
String Pattern: 16x19
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