Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Babolat Pure Storm GT Review


The 2011 Babolat Pure Storm GT
Newer players looking to move up in the game will not be disappointed with the Pure Storm GT.
    With a light weight of 11oz (strung) it makes for a very maneuverable stick for those just coming out of the beginner phase yet with its almost neutral balance, which sometimes feels slightly head-heavy, offers a solid strike of the ball not too far off many players sticks weighing  significantly more.
    The 98 sq inch head size offers a comfortable sweet-spot without the having to lose maneuverability as is often the case when using oversized rackets which many beginners use as an entry point to the sport.
    Groundstrokes hit with decent backswing are nice and crisp with spin being available in more than satisfactory amounts. Sliced backhands are nice and solid thanks to the rackets neutral balance. Volleys are also nice and solid on the stick which also makes it an excellent choice for doubles enthusiasts looking for a lighter racket to play with for long hours.
   For players used to Babolat's most familiar offering, the Pure Drive, many will certainly find the Pure Storm a different kettle of fish.   
     With a more traditional 21mm straight beam, power is not a strength of the racket but the moderate levels it offers compared to the Pure Drive allows for more accurate serves and groundstrokes, which are important if a player is progress in the game.    
2009 Babolat Pure Storm GT
      The power levels, however, can be tweaked significantly by string type and string tension selection. I usually use Ashaway hybrid kevlar but loss a lot of power on my serves but one i switched to poly strings became a non-issue.
    If your are wondering what the GT in the rackets name stands for it is actually the short form for Graphite Tungsten, a material that is a combination of graphite and tungsten filaments that gives the Pure Storm more control and feel.
       Despite is status as tweener racket the Pure storm is also the choice of WTA and ATP Tour pro's Fernando Gonzalez and Samantha Stosur which stands testament to the pedigree of the stick and is certainly worth a try for those looking to progress in the game.


Pro's: Healthy sweetspot, lightweight, offers good control on all shots.
Con's: Slightly underpowered but can be tweaked with string type/settings or lead tape.
Tips: If you are looking to save money get 2009 version which is exactly the same racket with only a different (older) paintjob.


See what others have to say about the Babolat Pure Storm GT

Get great deals on the Babolat Pure Storm GT here  and here.

    Racquet Specifications
  • Headsize:98 sq. in.
  • Length:27.00 in.
  • Weight (strung):11.20 oz.
  • Stiffness (Babolat RDC):63
  • Balance:1pt headlight
  • Cross Section:21mm Straight Beam
  • Swingweight:327
  • String Pattern:16x20
  • Grip:Babolat Skin Feel