Tennis Warehouse

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Please include any relevant information such as string type and tension, skill level and style of play.

Comments:I've been hitting with this racquet for 4 years and it is one of the best racquets I have ever played with. I prefer playing with a lighter racquet (Pure Storm at 10.4oz) and the racquet head speed is great. My groundstrokes are a lot faster while still being consistent. My volleys are also a lot crisper too. The only problem I've had with the Pure Storm is that the head has cracked on two of my racquets already, one from a low volley and one from shanking a ball off an overhead. Also, the grip seems to squeak and become a little loose after playing with the same racquet after a couple of months. Other than that, I would definitely recommend this racquet.
From: Chris, Milwaukee, WI, USA, 02/11
String type and tension: Luxilon Big Banger/Prince Synthetic Gut Hybrid
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: Amazing stick, the new versions aren't great; mine cracked very randomly and didn't have a solid feel. The original pure storm has an amazing feel around that sweet spot, really lets you put some meat on your shots.
From: Armin, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, 02/11

Comments: Amazing racket, I had it for 2 months, hit my hardest forehands and back hands with this one, little tough to serve with. I will probably buy this racket again now that I am playing again 11/10 best of Babolat.
From: Daniel, Aliso Viejo, CA, USA, 02/11
String type and tension: Luxilon big bangers low tension
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: I demoed this racket first and it was head heavy but some lead tape fixed the problem.
Likes: It's a very good racket, good 16x20 string pattern. Good spin, power, control. I could hit freely and it would be deep and well controlled. I could hit flat and with spin with this racket well.
Dislikes: When I demoed it, the inside of the handle shifts and you can feel it when you swing and it moves a small "pluck" noise. I felt it was because a lot of people have used it and it was getting old. Because of the great playability I mentioned, I bought one and a week later the handle starts shifting and it's really annoying, it feels if the handle will snap. It also gives you a small nudge on your palm while making noise. I haven't played with it for a while now.
Another minor thing is that maybe because I use Wilson k factor Six.One.Tour, the racket feels quite big. Something to get use to.
From: Ken, Hong Kong, 12/10
String type and tension: Babolat RPM Blast 16, 55
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: I had recently obtained this racquet as a demo and I was impressed. My swing speed is almost always moderate but when I hit with the Pure Storm, I was able to constantly hit the ball with a really fast swing. I never knew I could hit that fast, and make it in! I also saw an improvement in my two-handed backhands as well as my volleys. I wouldn't say that my serves weren't too hot with this racquet, because I still haven't found a comfortable and effective serve yet. But they were consistent and I rarely double faulted. I highly recommend this stick.
From: Phillip, Fort Hood, Texas, USA. 11/10
String type and tension: Don't remember-Was a hybrid and at 85lbs.
Headsize: 98 sq. in.
NTRP Rating: 3.0-3.5

Comments: I switched from K Blade Tour 93. I like the Blades however their stiffness killed my elbow. This PS seem to solve the problem. Besides, volleys and slice got better two. Despite the bigger head, the string pattern some how looks the same as on closed patterned Blade. The bad: well, sorta bad is the serve. Blades served effortlessly. With PS, you need to make perfect serve to make it weapon. No shortcuts. Everything including the legs, shoulder, and coil in wrist should be all in one package to make good serve happen, or else it's liability and holds are tough.
From: Eugene, Maple, 10/10
String type and tension: Technifibre SPL 305, 19 gauge, 52lbs
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: I have tried several racquets (including the Pure Storm GT) but I keep coming back to this one, it has the best overall feeling and a great combination of power and control. The trick is swing fast and with some topspin (the faster you swing the more control you get). My only dissatisfaction is with my two-handed backhand, it is steady but lacks power sometimes, it seem to work better with other racquets. But there is no contest when comparing the other strokes.
From: Armando, Costa Rica, 09/10
String type and tension: Syn Gut 58
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: This racket made me hit the ball in the court way more than my old pure drive. I hit my first under spin ball with racket, which led me to victory in my game.
From: Alex, Hartford, CT, USA, 07/10
String type and tension: Babolat Revenge @ 58 lbs
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 2.0

Comments: My previous stick was the Pure Drive and I switched to the Storm seeking for more control. They are two very different types of sticks. So it took time getting used to and getting the vibe of it. It's not the very best serving stick compared to the Pure Drive, for the storm you really have to try harder for those fast serves. For the forehands, the Storm offers a nice line of flight, with spin. For the Pure Drive it was more of a pace and not so much with spin. For the backhand I found the Storm easy to hit with, and I was able to hit fluid nice backhands. The Pure Drive was way to rigid in my opinion and too stiff. Storm has a lot more control than the Pure Drive, and you should ONLY get this stick if you are experienced and you have a nice connection with the ball. And since the storm lacks power adding lead tape helps, and for the shots you want to rip you really have to provide the power yourself. Hope this helps to other players...
From: Si, Texas. 6/10
String type and tension: Babolat Pro hurricane 16, 58
NTRP Rating: 4

Comments: I recently switched to this stick from the Pure Storm Limited. I went through three of the limited frames in a year because of the faulty butt cap design and got sick of fixing them. At first, I loved the feel of this stick, especially the swing speed, but after a few times playing against big hitters I began to feel its lack of weight and stability, especially against heavy topspin. I stuck quite a bit of lead tape at 12 o'clock and this thing plays like a dream. I now have the stability of the limited with the more forgiving head size and open string pattern of the regular pure storm. With a little added weight, this thing is a machine.
From: John, Monson, MA, USA. 5/10
String type and tension: Tecnifibre black code @ 57 lbs
NTRP Rating: 4.5 rating

Comments: Love this racquet has great ball feel, better than getting used to the aero pro drive. I think it's way better than so people think overall: great racquet!
From: Kevin, Sy, CA, USA. 03/10
String type and tension: Luxilon adrenaline
Headsize: 95
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: Tried this model for the third day. 10.4oz, 64 RA, 6pts HL, 16x20 string pattern unstrung. Coming from head light(8pts HL)and heavy(12oz)frame, I noticed the high swingweight straight away. PS does not cut through the air like others. PS requires some muscle to wield. Power is medium. (Wilson ncode 6.1 offer greater power). Good bite on the ball. Muted feel, forgiving, comfortable and ball pocketing as the woofer is at work. No scalpel feel. Ball hits at the upper hood loses pop, you can feel the bending of this frame. Slice is adequate, not great. PS is a great serving frame. The mass works for me to deliver strong heavy serve. Kick serve is ok. Volley can be a little sluggish, but very stable. I'd recommend this to all court and baseliner type player. BTW, PS gives an assuring "thwap".
From: CH, 02/10
String type and tension: Tecnifibre syn gut @ 55lbs

Comments: I tried out the AeroPro Drive and it took me a few days of playing with it but I really learned to like it. I am very interested in this racquet and am this () close to buying it. I have been using the Wilson nTour nCode for the past 3 years, it's definitely time for an upgrade. Can any one compare the playability of the two, or even to the AeroPro Drive? Also, any updates on this stick breaking? That is a major concern of mine, even though I am just a 3.5 player.
From: Sri, Sacramento, CA 01/10
String type and tension: Wilson NXT
Headsize: 95
NTRP Rating: 3.5

Comments: This racquet is great!! I've been using is for a year now. I play competitively and this racquet gives me great feel and control. I prefer this racquet to the aeropro.
From: Richard, KS, USA, 01/10
String type and tension: Luxilon Rough 60-61 lbs
Headsize: 98

Comments: This is a great racquet. I love it. It offers great spin and slice, and is really controlled. I think it's way better than a k-factor or any other racquet. Hands down the best I've used.
From: Riley, Anehiem, California, USA 01/10
tring type and tension: Babolat pro hurricane 65
Headsize:98
NTRP Rating:6.0

Comments: WOW. This racquet is incredible. I'm glad I gave up on the Wilson K6.1 Tour & Aeropro Drive for this. K6.1 tour has impeccable control but low topspin, Aeropro drive has incredible topspin but was weak for flat fast forehand winners. Now I have the 90% of topspin that the aeropro drive can deliver, 90% of the control the K6.1 tour had, but I could also smash flat offensive shot winners like my old Radical MP could but with more power. If you're looking for a racquet with all the good traits the Aeropro, K6.1 tour and Head Radical MP delivers, this is your beast. For more topspin, go low tension with a full poly or hybrid, for more controlled flat fast shot winners but maintain excellent playability, go full multi or hybrid at ~60lb tension. The racquet is soft and arm friendly already!!
From: Nick, Brisbane, QLD, Australia, 12/09
String type and tension: Wilson NXT Tour @ 60lb
Headsize: 98"
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: I've demo'ed/owned about over 10 player's racquets in the last 6 months (Speedport black & Red, Aeropro drive, pure drive, K6.1 tour, k6.1 95, pro staff 6.1 classic 95, Head MG extreme, dunlop AG200 and Head Radical MP - Flexpoint, twin tube and LM versions) and this racquet wins my vote (Followed closely by Head LM Radical MP98). It's not as forgiving as the aeropro drive but it doesn't have similar spin potential and has much better control. I rate the K6.1 tour, Prince POG 93 & Head LM Radical as the ultimate control racquets, but this pure storm isn't far off.. For anyone looking for pinpoint control, but stills wants to swing as hard as you can and use topspin to keep the ball in the court, this should be your weapon too.
From: Anon, Sydney, NSW, Australia 12/09
String type and tension: Luxilon Ace 18 @ 54lb & X-One Biphase 17 @ 56lb
Headsize: 98"
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: This is the best racquet I have ever played with.... This racquet has great power and control and feel.. the only problem I realized with the racquet is how soft the frame is. The cosmetic paint peels like a orange so be careful to not bang it around so much. Other than that... This is a AWESOME racquet.
From: anon. 11/09
String type and tension: Wilson NXT 17 53; Luxilon Big Banger 58
Headsize: 98 sq. in.
NTRP Rating: 5.5

Comments: This racket is a control racket. I really liked the controls on the racket but I didn't like it because you have to create your own power. I like rackets that already has power. People who are looking for a nice control and a spin racket get this.
From: Anon, CA, USA, 10/09
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane tour 16 string
Headsize: 98 sq. in
NTRP Rating: 2.5

Comments: Awesome racket!!! Tried it as a demo with the pure storm tour +, Head youtek speed mp 16x19, the Becker pro, and the exo3 graphite 100 and didn't even use the others for more than 10 min. Excellent feel and control and just enough power. I'm a loyal Babolat player who used the pure drive plus with cortex and the gt version but this is head and shoulders above them. Good job babolat!
From: Jon,Irvine, KY, USA 09/09
String type and tension: Tecnifibre Polyspin 16g 58lbs
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0-4.5

Comments: I like this racquet but I've had some early elbow problems with it. Not sure if it was because I was coming back to the game and over did it while fine tuning my form again, or due to stiffness. Lately, been playing with it and my elbow has been better but I did put lead tape on the head to give it more mass. I've been hitting some guys that hit decently hard (4-4.5 as I regard myself). This is a good counter punchers racquet with the ability to generate pace and power when you get the right shot if you have generally good mechanics (hip rotation, hitting through, etc). I hit with an eastern to semi-western and can hit either flat or add spin as I want, whereas Federer's racquet is flatter/heavier. This racquet is much more forgiving that Federer's racquet KFactor K6x1 Tour 90, but much lighter. I'm going to try the Pure Storm Limited next. The 2009 version seems to have dropped the stiffness to 59 on the Ltd from the pre-2009 63 stiffness. That may help with elbow and the .8 additional oz may also be a nice balance between the counter punchiness/control of this racquet and heavier mass for more accessible power.
From: Horacio, New York, NY, USA, 08/09
String type and tension: 60lbs, synthetic gut
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4 - 4.5

Comments: Soft muted feel. Easy to generate racquet speed due to light weight. Still fairly low powered. Tried new GT version as well. GT feels a bit more solid due to added stiffness(?) But I can't stand the new paint job so will try a stiffer string on the older model. Lead tape at 3 & 9 helped with stability. also liked the feel with lead at 12. with overgrip, dampener and lead tape my racquet weighed on at 11.5 oz.
From: Jeff, Brooklyn NY 08/09
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: Used to play with the Prince Diablo Tour 93, but realized that it was too difficult to move around. This Babolat is by far my favorite racquet yet. Its is very very comfortable and very easy to maneuver. Its weight allows me to generate quite a bit of racket speed, so hitting aggressive shots has NEVER been easier. Love it, just hoping it won't break, as I've heard that they sometimes do after a few months. Although it is slightly annoying that I'm breaking my strings every 2-3 weeks.
From: Markdavin, Seattle, WA, USA 08/09
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: I only have the 2006 model, but still plays like a charm, although I have to admit that I don't find it as good as the old Pure Control. While it is indeed lighter, it lacks the zip of the Pure Drive and the control and stability of the Pure Control. A little lead in the hoop does wonder, though. Would I buy it again? Perhaps, but I might look for one that is slightly stiffer. Other than that, great racquet! As for George, Dallas, TX, USA, 06/09: I'm sorry to hear that. My Pure Control cracked in the throat after 2 years of use on a forehand and it was replaced free of charge (with the Pure Storm though as the PC was discontinued, but I could pick any Babolat at the time). Make sure you speak to a Babolat rep, not to the shop owner!
From: Mark, NL. 7/09
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane/Conquest
Headsize: 98

Comments: This stick has ample power for someone who can actually swing. I agree with Ernie that it is great at serve and volley and needs the help of a masterful hand from the baseline. I must say that I have hit some ridiculous single backhand winners on passing shots with this stick. One of the cross-court shots actually stuck in the fence after hitting six inches inside the lines. This is something I do a lot on serves, but never on a groundstroke.
Serve: 8.0
Penetrating volleys: 8.0 (more weight would make it a 9)
Touch volleys: 8.5
Slice: 8.5
Forehand topspin: 8.0
Forehand flat: 7.0
Drop shots: 7.5 (based on string here)
Lobs: 7.5
Overheads: 8.0
Serve return: 7.0 (great below 110 mph)
From: Rich, Boulder, CO. 7/09
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: OK racquet, at best. Too head light for my taste, but then again, I normally play with a Pure Drive Team +, so I'm used to something a little heavier with more power. If you like plenty of spin and control, then this is a good Babolat racquet for you to try. But if you like something with more zip and "beefier" serve, then try something else in the Babolat lineup. I suggest to not demo this stick but rather buy it and keep it in the bag; otherwise you might be like me and not give it the play time it deserves so as to get a good feel for it. Be warned: Head Light, No Power!
From: Kenny, Chatsworth, GA 07/09
String type and tension: Poly / Synthetic Hybrid: 57 Mains, 53 Crosses
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: I have had the Pure Storm for over a year now and I love the racquet. It's got a great weight and it suits my game really well. It's not made for power every shot but is made for that control in the rally and when you get a short ball you hit a power shot.
From: josh, Waikato. Nz. 6/09

Comments: I have been hitting with the old Pure Control MP for over six years and was considering a lighter racquet choice. I really wanted to like the Pure Storm since it would be an easier transition, but it was just too light and unstable. After a week of demo-ing (5 to 6 1-2 hours each), my elbow started to feel a strain. On one hand I liked how this racquet was SLIGHTLY more maneuverable (it is not as headlight as the vintage model), but my buddies all commented that pace fell off as I lost mass behind my strokes. It will probably come down to going with the Pure Storm Tour (my understanding is this the old Pure Control equivalent) or just staying put with the old sticks.
From: Kevin, SF, CA, USA. 06/09
String type and tension: Gamma LiveWire XP 17
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: I have been hitting with the old Pure Control MP for over six years and was considering a lighter racquet choice. I really wanted to like the Pure Storm since it would be an easier transition, but it was just too light and unstable. After a week of demoing (5 to 6 1-2 hours each), my elbow started to feel a strain. On one hand I liked how this racquet was SLIGHTLY more maneuverable (it is not as headlight as the vintage model), but my buddies all commented that pace fell off as I lost mass behind my strokes. It will probably come down to going with the Pure Storm Tour (my understanding is this the old Pure Control equivalent) or just staying put with the old sticks.
From: Kevin, SF, CA USA 06/09
String type and tension: Gamma LiveWire XP 17
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: Very comfortable with enough power to hit winners without swinging too hard. Great for serves and groundstrokes. Finesse shots will be way more effective with this racquet. A bit light though. BEST racquet made by BABOLAT.
From: John. 6/09

Comments: Racquet broke after 7 months Babolat wouldn't replace so customer service is not a Babolat trait so Wilson will have mine and my sons business from here on out plus will tell all about Babolat service after the sale.
From: George, Dallas, TX, USA, 06/09
String type and tension: Wilson NXT
NTRP Rating: 3.5

Comments: Great racket. This is one of the best I have ever played with. Serving and volleys are exceptional and baseline shots are precise. It is better than the aero pro and the pure drive.
From: Paul, Orlando, FL, USA, 05/09
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour 17g @ 58lbs
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: Hi, I demoed this racket as part of the batch of four including apart from Pure Storm: Pure Storm Tour, Wilson K Blade 98 and Head Radical Pro MP. Their idea was to get racket swinging and weighing lighter then my current Prince Diablo Mid and Dunlop 200g MuscleWeave. I only measured the weight after I had a demo to avoid prejudging the actual demo and the weight was spot on at 313g strung. The swingweight felt like 312 as listed on Tennis Warehouse website. It had typical excellent Babolat spin but was well below (weight and swingweight) of what I was looking for. The stringbed felt quite inconsistent i.e. lower down, just at or below centre it produced great accuracy on both my one handed backhand and forehand, but it had this annoying catapult effect higher up the frame (which, I know, contradicts what we should expect i.e. loss of power on of centre shots). This was exactly what I experienced with the previous version of Pure Storm and it was reported by other players in my tennis club. I experienced the same squeaky noise coming from the butt of the racket as reported by other reviewers on this forum. I NEVER heard this sort of sound from about 50 other rackets I played with or demoed in my life (including about 6 other Babolats rackets). It is annoying during the match, regardless of any other reliability and/or quality control issues it may indicate. If you can overcome this problem, it is still good racket for many players, but not quite suited to my game. I could not quite handle the weight and swingweight of Pure Storm Tour (although, to be fair, it measured at 350g strung weight and felt like more then 340 swingweight on my demo, which is way above Tennis Warehouse measurements), so I decided to demo Aero Storm racket as well. I only swung it at the shop and home at the moment, but it feels much better then both Pure Storm rackets I tried. If you need something heavier but with (much) more power then so-called "tour rackets" try Head Radical Pro. Please note this PRO in the name (and open 16*19 string pattern).
From: Andrew, London, UK, 05/09
String type and tension: demo, so no idea but felt low
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: I changed from Prince to Babolat a couple of years ago and haven't looked back. This is just such a comfortable racquet to play with. I too have found it performs better with the lead tape on at 12 o'clock. I did find I had to play around with the grip to get the feel right with an overgrip being the answer. I've also found that I had it restrung at a low tension (51 lbs) with thinner strings and now that the tension have slackened after a bit of playing it feels much better. I do think it might be better with a thicker string. I tried the Wilson K Factor and just found that the Babolat had more power and spin and with as much control. I love this beast!
From: Martin, Kent, UK. 4/09
String type and tension: Wilson, 51 lbs

Comments: I just got that racquet yesterday and played it for 3hrs. Amazing amount of control while producing lots of spin and pop on the ball. He soft touch and low vibration thanks to the low stiffness help as well. Love it!
From: RFM, San Francisco, CA, USA. 05/09
String type and tension: Turbo Hurricane Pro 17 / 54lbs
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 3.5

Comments: I don't know how some guys break this racquet in less than 6 months..or even in 6 months. I had used many types of racquets before I played with Pure Storm. I used Wilson for 6 years, Head for 5 years and finally I met Pure Storm...it was the first time I bought a racquet without demoing it. I really liked it from the very first moment I hit some groundstrokes. Lots of control, nice touch, great feel, lightweight, very stable..deep serves without losing control. This is my first racquet by Babolat, and I must say I'm really happy with my choice. Even my 8-year-old son switched from Head Extreme to Pure Drive after my personal experience with Babolat. try it.
From: Marcos, Brasilia-DF, Brazil. 4/09
String type and tension: Babolat Pro hurricane, 58 lbs.
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: This racket was great. It gives very easy access to spin while being very powerful. It also offers a crazy good serve with good control. I just love it.
From: Jill, GA, USA. 3/09
String type and tension: 57
Headsize: 98

Comments: I am sold after a set: forehand is awesome (especially down the line or at midcourt), transition game incredible, great feel at net, good juice in serves and overheads. Having a smooth two-handed backhand I had difficulties keeping the ball deep on high balls, so I had to adjust the swing or slice a bit more often (I imagine one-handed backhand would be easier with this racquet).
From: Guss, Vienna, VA, US. 3/09
NTRP Rating: 4.0-4.5

Comments: A very good racquet. I play at an academy and the racquet has lasted forever. it gives me tons of spin and control. If you have decent racquet head speed you will get enough power. I like it because the harder you hit the ball the more control you get. Best racquet ever. TRY IT.
From: Sam, bradenton, florida, usa. 3/09
String type and tension: Luxilon alu power with spin@ 50
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: Really great racquet, with plenty of pop and lots of control. Recently purchased two. Lots of spin available, and great on serve. Solid feel and the best racquet available at net.
From: Blake, AL, USA. 2/09
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane 16g @59
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: Very disappointed with the racquet and with Babolat. Purchased 2 Pure Storms and both have broken in the span of just 6 months. The first broke within 60 days, barely had a scratch on it, and Babolat refused replacement. The racquet hits well, has great control and feel, but is fragile at best and won't last long. There's a reason some pro shops won't carry Babolat and unfortunately I've learned the hard way. Buyer beware.
From: Mac, GA, USA. 2/09
String type and tension: Gamma Livewire @ 54
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: First time when take this racket I thought what kind of nonsense is this, but after few times hitting I realize that this is the best racket I have ever had. Lots of power and control, serves become huge. Great product from Babolat.
From: Charles, Lithuania, 02/09
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane
Headsize: 98.sq inches
NTRP Rating: 6.0

Comments: Great racket. Lots of control, and plenty of power if you have decent swing speed. Really comfortable and accurate from all areas of the court, also really maneuverable. Easy to add a little tape to if you want a little more weight. Love it!
From: BO, CA, USA, 12/08
String type and tension: Gosen nanocubic 16 @ 62 lbs/Tecnifibre Code Red 17 @ 58lbs
Headsize: 98

Comments: I thought I would comment a bit on string selection for this racquet as I've tried 3 types since purchasing it earlier this year. I recommend Babolat VS Team/Pro Hurricane 17 @ 55 lbs on the mains (pro hurricane) and 57 lbs on the cross strings (gut). A second and more reasonable choice is Tecnifibre X1 Biphase 17 @ 55lbs. I love both of these strings and they make the racquet feel very alive and responsive. I do not recommend Babolat XCel. I tried this string and it seemed to deaden the racquet, shrink the sweetspot, and basically make it no fun to play with.
From: Stephen, Lexington, KY, USA. 11/08
String type and tension: Tecnifibre X1 Biphase 17 @ 55lbs
Headsize: 98 in^2
NTRP Rating: 3.0

Comments: Awesome stick. Does pro hurricane tour feel good on this stick?
From: Trent, Pierre part, LA, USA. 11/08
String type and tension: Luxilon alu rough 58
Headsize:98

Comments: Reply to Tony From Fontana, CA and and Sam from Monroe, CT, USA - I strung a racquet for a customer and heard the squeaky sound in the handle. Take off the grip, take out the staples from the butt cap, super glue the butt cap in place, refit the staples, refit the grip - voila - HAPPY CUSTOMER!
From: Blokey McBloke, The land down under. 11/08
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: Nice but demanding players frame. Plays similar to the Limited, but more open string pattern. Spin and control were good. Has a nice "scalpel" feel in your hands. Great grip shape and length. Plays lighter than the advertised 11.8 oz. Full-swinging players will like groundies and volley accuracy, but it still takes plenty of work and endurance to make this thing sing. If you're 4.0 or below, I would suggest looking elsewhere. You'll love it during the first playtest, but you'll find it too demanding during the course of a real match. Accuracy, feel, and control are the three key words here. Free service points and clean winners from 10 feet behind the baseline don't come easy with this one. 4.5/5.0+ players will generally find the Tour to be a good racquet, but at these levels it all usually comes down to personal feel and individual preferences anyway.
From: Andrew, Edina, MN, USA, 10/08
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: Pretty awesome racquet. It gives you lots of pop, spin and controlled power. The serves & volleys are truly phenomenal and groundstrokes are good too. I would have bought it if it weren't for the serve returns. No matter what I did, I just couldn't seem to get the hang of playing defensively with this stick; it just wouldn't work. Great for an outright attacker, but if you're an all around player (like me) better off going for something more...maneuverable.
From: Daniel, East Meadow, NY, USA, 10/08
String type and tension: M: Babolat Pro Hurricane 16, X: Wilson Sensation
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: This racquet is dirt mcskirt. Solid feel, good spins, a lot of pop, and solid control. Great frame at net, very maneuverable.
From: Lyndon, Fairfield, CT, USA . 9/08
String type and tension: Luxilon ALU (Mains) Babolat Excel 16 (Crosses)
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating:5.0

Comments: Reply to Tony From Fontana, CA Yes, I got the same problem with my rackets too. The sound bothered the heck out of me! I switched to Aero Storm Tour and I am Loving It! Cheers, Sam
From: Sam, Monroe, CT, USA, 09/08
String type and tension: 57/mains 59/cross
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: This is an awesome racket, and I love it to death. I've had it since April '08 and my serves have kicked it up a notch as well as everything else. But one thing has been worrying me though- whenever I hit with my one-handed backhand, a squeaky sound comes out from the butt of the handle. Is there something wrong with this or is it just how it was made? it looks perfectly fine to me, but I'm really curious. Replys will be much appreciated! please and thank you!
From: Tony, Fontana, Ca, USA. 8/08
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane, 56
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: Mine broke after 6+ mos. The frame cracked while serving. Never had this experience with any other racquet. Otherwise felt good, a lot of pop and spin.
From: Jay, NH, USA. 8/08
String type and tension: Tecnifibre 60lb
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: A great racquet but I don't think my game is up for it. I have had a hard time with consistency on this frame as it does not forgive any shots off center. I absolutely love the forehand, if hit spot on, as it generates loads of winners. Serves were an issue and I found it difficult to develop confidence in my service game in this area. Volleys were great, though I had some issues getting the racquet into place and experienced a lot of framed shots. Bottom line, my game is not up to this entry-level players stick but I think it's a great product.
From: Faruqe, Atlanta, GA, USA, 08/08
String type and tension: Tecnifibre Bi-Phase 16 @ 58
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 3.0

Comments: WELL DONE, BABOLAT. This is 1 off the best rackets I have ever played with. I had the Pure Drive and that was amazing. You cannot beat this racket. I can really feel the Carbon Extreme. I have played with a Head Flexpoint and it reminds me of it because when I am in tight angles the Carbon Extreme really kicks in and does it' job so WELL DONE, BABOLAT!
From: Tom, England, Birmingham, Wolverhampton. 8/08
String type and tension: Babolat xcel
Rating: 8.0

Comments: I find that this racquet has way too much power although it is advertised as a player's stick. It is very forgiving and the easiest "player's" stick I have ever hit with. Babolats in general have quite a bit of power, however. The spin and pop from this frame is quite good. Serving was also very easy due to the lightness of the racquet in comparison to say, a KSix One Tour 90. I would say that this frame is a must try for those who are starting to get into player's frames. One of the easiest playing "player" frames out there, although I wouldn't consider it one.
From: Anon. 8/08

Comments: Not my racket at all. Had good control but I had to generate most of the power which playing 5 hours of tennis will wear you out. It felt like I had to force the topspin into it. But this racquet is good for volleys. Very stable at the net for me.
From: Neil, bellflower, Ca. 8/08
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: Amazing racket. I have been hitting with it since January, and it has never let me down. It has a little too much power, but I just hit a little less hard and it is perfect. Balls never go into the net and always go where you want to go just don't use Babolat XCel on it.
From: Alex, Austin, Texas, USA. 7/08
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane/XCel 58 lbs
Headsize: 98 sq. inches

Comments: This is the best racket ever! I play with a lot of spin and place the ball in the corners. I love to use people's power against them, and this is the best racket for this. It has great power when you need it and it always has control. I have a big serve and is it perfect for it. I can make a lot of spin with my kick serve and plenty of power for my flat serve.
From: sam, springfield, il. 7/08
String type and tension:hybrid: Tecnifibre Pro Red Code 16, Tecnifibre synthetic gut 16

Comments: Great spin potential with this racquet, but I can still flatten my shots out when I want and they won't go sailing long like they would with more powerful frames. Kick serves are especially improved. Power is OK, not the deadest racquet on the market, but not the most powerful, either.
From: AT, Vail, CO, USA. 7/08
String type and tension: poly mains 16L or 17, syn gut cross 17 gauge, 58lbs
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: I love this racquet! I've been using this stick for 3 months now and it really performs well. I have great control on groundstrokes and great touch and power at the net. Serves have been awesome, very powerful 1st serves and good kick on 2nds. I've used a Wilson Hyper Pro Staff for years and have to say this racquet has improved my game. Give this racquet a demo!
From: Mark, Central, Fl. 7/08
String type and tension: M=Tecnifibre Pro Redcode 17g 58lbs / C=Tecnifibre NRG2 16g 56lbs
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: Great all court racket. Very stable at the net and also when returning big serves. Control is second to none. Ordering two more next week.
From: Glen, Florida. 5/08
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour 17/VS Team Gut 17 56 lbs.
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: I played with this racquet's team version for a season and liked it a lot. I played with new one and it's much more headlight so I did not like it as much until I noticed on the tip of racquet says place lead tape here So I did and now it's even balanced and feels great. Highly recommended to play lead as per Babolat's instruction.
From: moe, mpls, mn. 5/08
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4+

Comments: SO soft and comfortable through the contact zone! I use a loopy, topspin forehand with a flat two-hand backhand, and this stick is perfect for me. However, the best part of the racquet is actually the SERVE. I've never had a racquet that has been so stable, not only with the flat serve, but also the hard kicking slice. I am very confident with really putting a hard kick on my second serve and know it'll land in. I wouldn't change a thing. Please give this a swing.
From: Jared, Wenatchee, WA, USA, 05/08
String type and tension: Hybrid: Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour/XCel Premium
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: Really a good racket, I've been searching long (Dunlop, Head, Wilson) for a solid racket like this...no vibrations at all, good power and great control; very good on the serve.
From: Marco, Vicenza, Italy, 04/08
String type and tension: Luxilon big banger alu power 23 kg
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 3.5

Comments: I just bought Pure Storm 2 months ago. It has nice power, but not too much, and is heavier than AeroPro Drive before cortex. I could hit flatter and deep into the baseline. I'm very happy with it. Only problem is that it seems to cause tennis elbow. I am so happy that I bought this one. Many people recommend that I buy the Aero Pro Drive Cortex, but I like this one more than the AeroPro.
From: Montri, Pattaya, Banglamung, Chonburi, Thailand. 4/08
String type and tension: Pacific Synthetic String 52
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: This such a great racket! I used to use the Babolat Pure Drive Plus with cortex, and that was a good racket. The power was just not the right thing for me. I also used the Microgel Radical, which is about similar to the Pure Storm. The Pure Storm provides massive amounts of spin and has enough power to keep the ball in. It's for fast swingers and gives satisfactory pace. Volleys are ehh, but it could just be my sub-par net play. Serves feel nice and pinpoint, and the feel is just great. It has less feel than the Microgel because of its stiff frame. Both rackets are great, but it boils down to a matter of preferences. If you want control with a tight string pattern, a tad less of spin, a "confident swing sensation" and a slightly better feel get the Microgel. If you want more spin, a semi open string pattern (16x20), a smidgen heavier racket, and something with a little more power than the Microgel, get the Pure Storm. I have also tried all the Babolat rackets, and I have liked this the best. I might string with Babolat Hurricane Pro Tours as mains and Babolat Xcel on crosses for more comfort. Luxilon strings start to feel dead after a while, and don't provide as much spin as the Hurricane. Overall, Babolat has made a winner, and I will not change to any other racket for years to come.
From: Tony, Fontana, California, USA. 4/08
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour 16, 56
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: This stick is sick! I get so much power with this and I hit deep hard cutting serves. Whenever my serves come into the box in the corner they just completely sink so opponents get nothing but court. Believe me you will hit crafty forehands in the corner, slice backhands to get your opponent moving, and best smooth shots and great feel, without too much vibration
From: Arun, Cleveland, OH, USA, 04/08
String type and tension: Babolat Attraction Power 17
Headsize: 98 sq. inches
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: This is definitely an improvement over the previous version, the Storm Team. The racket is very maneuverable and more responsive than the Storm Team. I think Babolat tweaked with the frame to make it more flexy and easy to maneuver, which accounts for the better feel and comfort, without sacrificing much on power. I strung mine with a poly and synthetic gut hybrid for spin potential and comfort, and I was rewarded amply for this. From the baseline I had a blast with it hitting consistently, topspin forehands and backhands. Kick serves jumped off the court with excellent spin. The only con I can speak of, and this was minor, was a relative lack of feel in the upper part of the head. I added just a tad bit of lead at 12 o'clock to enhance the swingweight some, and voila, the racket became perfect! In fact, Babolat seemed to have guessed that some of us will feel the need for this, and clearly marked the 12 o'clock region with a "lead tape location" marker. Look no further for a player's racket that is lightweight, control-oriented, comfortable and stable. Comparable demo candidates are the Dunlop Aerogel 3Hundred and Yonex RDS 002.
From: Nik, NC. 4/08
String type and tension: M: 57 lbs Babolat Pro Hurricane 17g; C: 54 Tecnifibre NRG2 17g
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: This racquet is awesome! I found it felt very stable on the groundstrokes and it offered a lot of power. Also very nice on the serve. The best racquet out!
From: Rob, England, Essex. 3/08
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane 60 lbs
Headsize: 98 sq. inches

Comments: This plays very similar to the Dunlop 300g. It also appears to be constructed almost the same with the braided graphite on the 3 and 9 o'clock positions. Since I could not get anymore 300Gs I thought this would be the closest choice. So far so good.
From: Ben, South Carolina. 3/08
String type and tension: Signum Pro Poly Plasma 16 mains and Gosen OG Sheep Micro 16 crosses (53/55)
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.0

Comments: Nice control racquet, not too much power, easy to volley and serve. The grip is really comfortable. A bit too light for me, though, and I've never gotten THE feeling for Babolat racquets, they just don't fit my style of playing.
From: Stein, Oslo, Norway. 3/08
String type and tension: Luxilon Big Banger ALU Power, 62 Ibs
Headsize: 98

Comments: Best racket ever! I get lots of spin, plenty of racket head speed, and the racquet still has enough control to keep the ball in play. The racket also has an incredible feel off the string bed. This is a must try racket if you're looking for a light control oriented racket filled with power.
From: Grayson, West Palm Beach, FL, USA. 03/08
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane 17g, 58 lbs
Headsize: 98 sq. inches
NTRP Rating: 6.0

Comments: I have had 3 of the new version for a few months. It is definitely more stable than the old frame, and it seems a bit heavier at first. It still has the same great control, spin, and feel for players like me who like to swing hard and fast. I think this racquet performs much better with polys (stiff strings), and the flexibility of the frame will make the polys tolerable to your arm. Great Frame!
From: Jon, West Chicago, IL, USA. 3/08
String type and tension: Luxilon TiMo 57 lbs.
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: This racquet is sick! I previously played with the last Storm and decided to switch to the new one and love the improvements that were made. I am a baseline player (4.0-4.5) and can hit wicked forehands and backhands with it. I switched from Luxilon to Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour and can put a lot more spin on the ball. Good job, Babolat!
From: Jordan, Escondido, CA. 1/08
String type and tension: Babolat Hurricane Tours @ 57lbs

Comments: I wasn't looking for a new racquet, but I have just made the switch to this racquet and have not even thought of looking back. When I hit a clean ball it really just seems to have some extra stick on it. It is a light racquet, but is also stable enough to be a solid players racquet. If you are a big-hitting, all-court player give this one a try and I would recommend giving it a little tighter string job.
From: John, Memphis, TN, USA, 01/08
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour 16 @ 62lbs
Headsize: 98 in.
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: This racquet is great! I had to get a new one because of the fact my old racquet, the Dunlop 300 M-Fil, isn't being made anymore. They feel the exactly the same except that this one doesn't have as much pop. If you string it a little looser than you usually do, it will feel great!
From: Kate, Minnesota. 1/08
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane, 50 lbs.
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: I am able to hit some of the sickest slice serves in both courts. I can even put a kicker all the way down to the T. I am a serve and net player, and when this racket is paired with a killer string like Luxilon Big Banger, get out of the way! Bottom line: Buy this if you want to hit like a madman and keep it in play.
From: Chris, Ohio. 1/08
String type and tension: Luxilon Big Banger, 62lbs
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 6.0

Comments: I upgraded from the old version (Pure Storm Team). Much better stability and better feel. I strung it @ 53 lbs with 16 Babolat Conquest crosses and 16 Babolat Polymono mains (stiff string) and still got lots of feel. It hit solid, was great at net and on serves. Overall, racquet gives awesome performance. Do yourself a favor and give it a try.
From: Max, Temuco. 12/07
String type and tension: Babolat 16 conquest crosses and 16 babolat polymono mains @ 53 lbs
Headsize: 98"

Comments: Very nice racket. I had the HEAD MicroGEL Radical and I had problems with comfort in it. This racket provides the ultimate control and is easy to use in the feel. I think this is the racket needed to give you the new level of control and comfort. It can be a little snappy in the head so make sure you hit the sweetspot, but it is quite forgiving! Definitely worth a try!
From: Frank, Paris, France. 11/07
String type and tension: Babolat pro hurricane 17 g
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 7.0

Comments: To be frank, I don't know why there are bad comments about this racket. In my opinion, it is one of the lesser vibration racket in the market. It provides me very solid and comfortable feeling with "no vibration." When I try this racket in the first time, the swingweight was uncomfortable to me just like the others originally using heavy racket. I found difficulties in swinging especially with my powerful topspin forehand. I must be totally relaxed to feel the weight. However, after adding grams of lead on the head, it becomes my winning weapon. Its lightweight is an advantage for customization. advantage: Good spin, good control, solid feel, less vibration, big room for customization disadvantage: may be too light for baseline players
From: Cheung, Hong Kong, 10/07
String type and tension: Gosen Polylon Polybreak 17/ 57lbs
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: Just demo'd this racquet and have to say it is very stable compared to heads new Microgel 98 11.0 ounce racquet. Doesn't have the feel and control of the micro but control is good and it has far more power on serves and groundstrokes. Hit some great serves with this stick! The micro was a lot of work to hit big serves and groundies with if your playing 4.5 or higher. I say demo, you will not be disappointed if your looking for a light, powerful and controlled players racquet. note; I didn't think it was too stiff as others have said. There was a noticeable flex on big swings.
From: Nate, Dallas, TX, USA, 10/07
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 4.5

Comments: This is a great racquet. I've owned almost every racquet on the market, and this simply is the best for my game. I was trying to find a similar version of the Head MicroGEL Radical but with an open string pattern, and this was it. It has a good balance and is lightweight to get more spin and power. Good for baseliners, but I would recommend serve and volleyers use a head light racquet.
From: Lenny, Toronto, Canada. 10/07
String type and tension: Gamma Professsional Mains 62, Babolat Hurricane Crosses 57
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments:This racket is truly one of the best rackets I have ever played with. First off, it never gave me tennis elbow. I used to worry about my tennis elbow every time I switch! It's very solid with a great feel to the racket. I can totally understand why they came out with these rackets. If I were you I would definitely give this racket a try. It is an excellent racket!
From: Yung, Bellevue, WA, USA, 09/07
String type and tension: Babolat Pro hurricane tour, 56 lbs
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: Wow. This racket is simply amazing. It is the most stable racket I have ever hit with. Great access to spin and a good amount of power. The racket is very maneuverable at the net and is easy to find the right angles with. Serving is just amazing, whether you want to hit the hard kicker out wide or bring the heat down the middle there is no better serving racket around. Overall amazing racket, an improvement from the last model. Good job, Babolat, you have a winner in this one!
From: Anon, Canada, 08/07
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour 17g @ 58lbs
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: Very stiff to the general public. If you are a beginner, avoid this racket because it can cause problems for your rhythm and game. This racket was good for me, but I could tell there was no way it was a pick-up-and-go racket. The vast majority will find this nearly unplayable, but if you think you can be one of the few to master it, this racket can be a beast
From: Jared, Houston, TX, USA, 08/07
String type and tension: Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 5.0

Comments: I used to use a Head Liquidmetal Radical and was looking for a technology upgrade, fearing my Radicals would soon be discontinued. After a bit of customization, I had this stick playing not only as good as, but better than my Liquidmetal. The two sticks are very similar, but the Pure Storm feels more solid. Groundstrokes feel incredible; my backhands attack the baseline, and I get more than enough topspin on the forehand side. Because the racquet is head-light, it's very easy to generate spin on serves, and the racquet is very maneuverable at the net without sacrificing stability.
From: Jason, Ontario, Canada. 8/07
String type and tension: Luxilion Alu Power @ 60 lbs
Headsize: 98
NTRP Rating: 5.0

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