The Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 is a precision racquet for control, stability, and feel. This racquet is perfect for beginner to expert players who want to dominate with precision groundstrokes due to its thick 18×20 string arrangement and 98squareinch head size. The Pure Strike 98 18×20, part of Babolat’s famous Pure Strike line, delivers great performance for players who value power, feel, and accuracy.
In this Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 Review, we’ll discuss the Pure Strike 98 18×20’s features, performance, pros, disadvantages, and comparisons with comparable racquets.
- CONTROL & FEEL: The Babolat Pure Strike 98 18x20 Tennis Racquet (4th Gen) is perfect for the...
- TECHNOLOGY: Control Frame Technology for maximum control, combines the stability of a square-section...
- SPECIFICATIONS: Head Size: 98 sq.in.; Strung Weight: 11.4 oz: Length: 27 in.; Balance: 320mm;...
- STRING OPTIONS: Choose the string that meets your needs. Syn Gut is ideal for recreational players...
- OPTIONAL TENNIS BAGS: Add a matching bold & dynamic Pure Strike tennis bag. The Backpack offers a...
Last update on 2025-02-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 Review – Key Features
The Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 is ideal for players who desire a hard, accurate racquet due to its technology that improves control, stability, and feel.
18×20 String Pattern
Maximum control and uniformity are achieved with the 18×20 string pattern. A tighter string pattern reduces string movement and stiffens contact, making flat, penetrating strokes simpler to strike accurately. The accuracy of the 18×20 pattern is ideal for low-topspin drivers.
98-square-inch head
The 98squareinch head size is less than the 100squareinch norm in many current racquets, giving better control and accuracy. This head size improves directional accuracy, making shots simpler to place. Smaller heads provide less offcenter forgiveness, but strong technique makes up for it.
Control Frame Tech
In the Pure Strike 98 18×20, Control Frame Technology uses a square beam and elliptical framework for stability and control. This shape gives great contact stability, enabling players retain control during quick rallies or aggressive striking. The rigid frame provides a sharp, clean feel on impact, giving players confidence in their strokes.
Pure Feel
The racquet has C² Pure Feel technology for improved comfort and vibration dampening. On offcenter strikes, this frame material lowers unpleasant vibrations, smoothing the sensation without compromising responsiveness. Players who want a firm, connected feel will find C² Pure Feel comfortable and responsive.
Stabilizer Technology
Stabiliser Technology adds high-density carbon fibres to crucial frame locations to increase torsional stability. The racquet seems more stable with offcenter strokes since it doesn’t twist. Keeping the racquet stable during high-speed rallies or strong strokes is very helpful.
Weight and Balance
The Pure Strike 98 18×20 balances stability and manoeuvrability at 305 grammes (unstrung). The racquet’s headlight balance (320 mm) makes it easier to swing and manoeuvre during quick net exchanges. The weight powers groundstrokes and serves, while the headlamp balance guarantees rapid reflexes.
Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 Racquet Court performance
Control
Control is excellent with the Pure Strike 98 18×20’s thick string design and Control Frame Technology. The tighter string pattern allows for pinpoint accuracy in shot placement. The racquet’s control-oriented design lets you dominate rallies with flat, powerful groundstrokes or sharp angles. Players that favour precision over power and spin should use this racquet.
Power
Its main emphasis is control, although the Pure Strike 98 18×20 gives considerable power for anyone who can create it. The heavy racquet and sturdy frame push the ball deep into the court. Though less powerful than openstringed racquets like the Pure Drive, quick, full swingers may nevertheless hit penetrating strokes. It works well for players who like to generate power rather than use the racquet.
Spin
Rotation is less favourable with 18×20 strings than with 16×19. Good technique allows players to produce topspin, but it takes more work. The racquet suits flat hitters who value accuracy over spin. The Pure Strike 16×19 makes string movement simpler and generates more spin, making it a better choice for topspin players.
Stability
Pure Strike 98 18×20 steadiness is excellent. Control Frame Technology and Stabiliser Technology keep the racquet stable during quick rallies and offcenter shots. This solidity offers players confidence when returning powerful blows or exchanging quickly. Its strong construction makes it a durable racquet for those who choose stability over suppleness.
Moveability
Due to its headlamp balance, the Pure Strike 98 18×20 is comfortable to drive despite its control and stability emphasis. Fast baseline swings and net reflexes are possible with the racquet’s quickness. Players who prefer to assault the net or play rapid rallies without losing control will love it.
Comfort and Feel
The C² Pure Feel technology reduces vibrations for a more pleasant striking experience. The racquet’s touch and control provide players a connected, responsive experience. Players with arm pain may find the racquet stiff, but the solid frame gives a sharp feel on impact.
Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 Pros, Cons
Pros:
The 18×20 string design and Control Frame Technology provide exact shot placement and directional control, making it perfect for accurate players.
Stability: The racquet’s robust feel gives confidence when returning big blows or playing aggressively during quick rallies.
Players who want a connected, crisp feel will love the racquet’s reactivity on impact, owing to C² Pure Feel and the sturdy frame.
Manoeuvrable: The headlamp balance makes the racquet comfortable to swing for rapid net reflexes and baseline groundstrokes.
Comfortable: C² Pure Feel technology reduces vibrations, enhancing racquet comfort throughout extended matches.
Cons:
Limited Spin Potential: Heavy topspin players may find the 18×20 string pattern less spinfriendly than open string patterns.
Moderate Power: Players who can set their own speed will benefit from the racquet’s power. Players seeking simple power may select the Babolat Pure Drive.
Stiff Frame: The racquet’s stiff frame may be too stiff for players with arm or shoulder pain.
Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 Comparison to Similar Racquets
Babolat Pure Strike 98 16×19
The more spinfriendly Babolat Pure Strike 98 16×19 has an open string layout for easier string movement and spin creation. While the 16×19 has more spin and power, the 18×20 is more controllable and excellent for flat, crisp strokes.
Wilson Blade 98 18×20
Like the Wilson Blade 98 18×20, it emphasises control and feel. The Pure Strike 98 is firmer, while the Blade 98 has a more flexible frame, making contact gentler. The Blade 98 is best for touch and sensation, while the Pure Strike 98 is more stable and responsive.
Prestige MP Head Graphene 360+
As another control-focused racquet, the Head Graphene 360+ Prestige MP has a thick string pattern (18×20) and a smaller head (95 square inches). The Prestige MP features a smaller sweet spot and is less forgiving than the Pure Strike 98 18×20, but it has better control and accuracy. The Pure Strike 98’s control and forgiving make it more flexible for more players.
Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 Racquet Review – FAQ
Is the Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 beginner-friendly?
The Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 is for intermediate and advanced players with good technique, control, and accuracy. Since it needs excellent technique, beginners may find the racquet too difficult.
maximise potential. Beginners should choose the Babolat Pure Drive or Pure Strike 100, which are more forgiving.
What string tension is suggested for Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20?
Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 string tension should be 5059 lbs. Players wanting power and a softer feel may thread the racquet at 5053 lbs, while those seeking control and a stronger reaction can string it at 5659 lbs.
How do the Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 and 100 compare?
The Pure Strike 98 18×20’s smaller head (98 square inches) and denser string arrangement provide better control and accuracy. The Pure Strike 100’s 100-square-inch head is more forgiving and powerful. For control and accuracy, the Pure Strike 98 is superior, but the 100 is more flexible and forgiving.
Does the Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 spin well?
Players with strong technique may create topspin with the 18×20 string pattern, which is less spinfriendly than 16×19. Players who depend on spin may choose the Pure Strike 16×19, which has higher string movement and spin potential.
Does the Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 feel comfortable?
The C² Pure Feel technology reduces vibrations, ensuring comfort throughout extended bouts. Players with arm or shoulder difficulties may find the racquet’s rigid construction uncomfortable.
Conclusion
Players that need accuracy, control, and stability choose the Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20. Intermediate to expert players who dominate rallies with precise, powerful groundstrokes will love this racquet’s thick string pattern and smaller head size. While not as powerful as openpattern racquets, the Pure Strike 98 18×20 has a firm, responsive feel and excellent control. The Babolat Pure Strike 98 18×20 is ideal for players who favour accuracy and stability above power and spin.