Note to the video editors - can we please have video footage of Michelle striking a one handed backhand, when she is emphasising her striking a one handed backhand!! :D
Hey Michelle! Can you speak to the stability a little more? Did you feel this was more stable toward the tip than the VS was? Is it similar in stability and feel to the Pro Staff? I hit a one-hander and like a very solid and whippy player’s frame. Thanks 😊
Great question! I would say similar to the Pro Staff yes, but not the RF 97. And yes, stable toward the tip as I think that is where I personally crave stability and notice it the most. I remember just not loving the VS for a few reasons, and I enjoyed this update! Michelle, TW
@@tenniswarehouseAwesome!! Thank you so much for the extra info :) I’m gonna give this one a try for sure! The VS does feel a little less stable toward the tip so I hope this update feels more stable in that area and doesn’t require as much weight to be added to the hoop!
I actually think this paint job looks cool I also thought the Michelles smile was funny since she kept it throughout the slice despite it going in the net 😅
Oh well. It happens. Turns out I miss...A LOT more than what the reviews show! Pretty sure that's fairly normal though in our sport though so I'm in good company!! 🤣 Michelle, TW
Wow... Babolat managed to go from what was arguably the best paint job of any stick on the market in the previous Pure Strike VS.... to this. Wow. Amazingly awful.
@@outcometechnologyNot so much… he’s right! The VS is known amongst ‘the masses’ to be the best looking stick available. There isn’t even a comparison with the new update..
Do you know if Babolat changed the mold at all in case I still have grommets for the outgoing VS model? Would I still be able to use my old grommets on this new version?
I would say likely a bit less than the Pure Drive 2021, however it was definitely improved over the previous version Pure Strike VS, and felt pretty forgiving for a 97 headsize. Definitely more control and precision compared to the Pure Drive. Troy, TW
In terms of feel I would say maybe a slightly more flexible feel with the Pure Strike 97, although both have pretty good comfort. For power maybe the slight edge to the TF40 305 16x19, but it is hard to say with 100% certainty as I felt like I could hit a pretty heavy ball with the Strike 97. This might just be my perception, but even though the Strike 97 is heavier, I really enjoyed how easy it maneuvered; I think due to the head light feel of the racquet and possible the leather grip on the handle. Troy, TW
Both are 97 headsize racquets, that are primarily designed for control and feel. The Pure Strike 97 is closer in weight to the Percept 97, where the Percept 97L will be lighter in weight and more maneuverable (faster feeling). The Pure Strike 97 and Percept 97 are both 310 grams unstrung so a bit more stability and plow through. Besides that I would say that the Pure Strike 97 gives the feeling of more energy return, or a bit easier power, whereas the Percept 97 feels slightly more controlled (a little less energy return). Troy, TW
Two thumbs 👎👎down to Babolat for losing what maybe was the best paint job on the market (w/the previous Strike VS) for this ugly (same as other Strike's) mostly white version imo. Thanks Babolat (Womp, Womp....)!!! Oh well at least Troy (says he) prefers the new cosmetic🙃🙃🙃but apparently he also prefers the shorts he's wearing in this video so there's that.....
I always watch all your reviews. Thank you. - will you review the new Dunlop CX range? By when? I see many reviews on RUclips last few weeks- but all in Japanese in Japan - lol -
Transparent-white-ish full-cap grommet system (like some Head Radicals of old) and looking it from above looks like a Tecnifibre ISO. First, Head releases the new Speed with the new paint-finish I'm a straight-out hater and now Babolat releases the Pure Strike VS subtitute that has the same cosmetics as the regular new Pure Strikes... 2024 hits like crazy! * Previous silver Pure Strike VS was the Ford Shelby Mustang aka Eleanor and has me gone in less than 60 seconds from this clip...
No longer a Tour version, however we found the 98 16x19 to have a relatively high swingweight, so you could get a pretty similar feel or specs by adding some weight to the handle. Troy, TW
@@tenniswarehouse thanks - maybe a leather grip would be enough. Although many reviews suggest a weighted up 100 16x20 to be possibly the best of the new frames.
It been a while since I have hit with an older Pure Control Tour. Mark, Chris, and I reviewed the Pure Control Tour back in 2014, ruclips.net/video/wjTiNVGhH5k/видео.html. We also tested (Michelle, Chris, and I) the Pure Strike VS Tour back in 2017, ruclips.net/video/d3ZPBRNt2tA/видео.html. I would say from what I recall, the Pure Control Tour had a great feel, very soft and plush, but not a lot of energy return. So with this Strike 97 I think it is a bit easier to use, a bit more power, while still feeling pretty comfortable and smooth, and also a bigger sweet-spot with this update. I would say pretty hard to beat the feel for the ball with that Pure Control Tour, but not a lot else coming from it in terms of power and ease of use, so maybe more versatile now with the Strike 97. Troy, TW
3rd generation VS97 is a little bit Shorter than anyother 27inch racket ,,, Maybe It's Look Like 26.85 ???? Or 26.9inch ...... what about 4th generation ??????????????????????
The response from the upper hoop is improved in this update. I either added weight or used a multi to help out the VS version, but the 97 has a much better response there. I would still likely add some head weight to increase pop on serves. Cheers, Chris, TW
@@tenniswarehouse Thanks for the reply, Chris! I will surely give it a test as well then. I am playing with the 98 16x19 so I can't wait to see the review for that one too. Cheers, Minko
I wasn't too fond of the 4th gen design as it seems a bit plain compared to the exuberant styling of the 3rd gen, but upon seeing the full-white pure strike 97 with the trademark orange accents and leather grip, I'm smitten. It takes the design in the complete opposite direction, making it look classy instead.
It does not make any sence ! I am a bit confused , how does it replace the 2019 version . The gunmetal grey version is the most updated , based on the storm . There seems to be the same confusion , because Tennis Warehouse and others are ignoring the fact that the the racquet just came out last year . Just because a company ignores it and reviewers follow , does not mean it did and does not exist . Both are 97's ! It seems like mass confusion and illusion . Personally stating , that the gun metal grey edition is far more attractive and yes I am American. Perhaps others have a less aesthetic taste . Too confusing to even infer this as an update .
Sorry if there is confusion, however this Strike 97 is a replacement to the Strike VS (gunmetal grey version). Yes, both are 97's so it is more of a name change, to fall in line with how they name the Aero and Pure Drive 98, no longer called VS. The Pure Strike VS hasn't been based off of the Pure Storm and Pure Control frames since the Pure Strike VS and VS Tour, that launched January 2017: www.tennis-warehouse.com/learning_center/racquet_reviews/PSVSreview.html?from=tenrec. Troy, TW
@@tenniswarehouse it is strange ! You hear reviewers mention the "vs " as an update to those mentioned lines . Why then would they update the racquet formally known as the "VS" in the grey , just to come out with it so soon in the white ? Any added technology should be in the grey model and call it a limited edition . It just seems like their trying to make people completely forget , it ever existed . How very Mesmer and a slight of hand that takes a cue from Head .
@@tenniswarehouse I see ! the VS was updated in 2022 and reviewed in europe , while it was reviewed by TW in 2023 . The whole line could have updated all together . A limited edition , once again would had made more sence . Updating the racquets every 3 years , with 3 seperate lines would makes sence too . 2022 to 2024 with it in the U.S in 2023 , does not .
I love Mark B. He always try to mention everything he has experienced. Concise and informational. Good work
I prefer the strive VS cosmetic with the gloss and all
I like the Granville mention :)
I hoped they go back to a more darker paintjob... :(
Note to the video editors - can we please have video footage of Michelle striking a one handed backhand, when she is emphasising her striking a one handed backhand!! :D
Hey Michelle! Can you speak to the stability a little more? Did you feel this was more stable toward the tip than the VS was? Is it similar in stability and feel to the Pro Staff? I hit a one-hander and like a very solid and whippy player’s frame. Thanks 😊
Great question! I would say similar to the Pro Staff yes, but not the RF 97. And yes, stable toward the tip as I think that is where I personally crave stability and notice it the most. I remember just not loving the VS for a few reasons, and I enjoyed this update!
Michelle, TW
@@tenniswarehouseAwesome!! Thank you so much for the extra info :) I’m gonna give this one a try for sure! The VS does feel a little less stable toward the tip so I hope this update feels more stable in that area and doesn’t require as much weight to be added to the hoop!
I actually think this paint job looks cool
I also thought the Michelles smile was funny since she kept it throughout the slice despite it going in the net 😅
I smile more when I miss 😉
(I think that slice might have found its way in!)
Michelle, TW
@@tenniswarehouseabsolutely not😬
Yes I lol'd too
Oh well. It happens. Turns out I miss...A LOT more than what the reviews show! Pretty sure that's fairly normal though in our sport though so I'm in good company!! 🤣
Michelle, TW
Wow... Babolat managed to go from what was arguably the best paint job of any stick on the market in the previous Pure Strike VS.... to this. Wow. Amazingly awful.
Disagree 100%. The 2017 was one of the most beautiful and this is a nod to that. Screw that red and black horrorshow
@@Uygkuyfkutfkytfkutfv To each their own, but I think you'll find that the masses are against you on this one.🤷
@@outcometechnology “the masses”. A mass of American tennis enthusiasts will never be a masses I’m seeking to align with.
@@UygkuyfkutfkytfkutfvWow....
@@outcometechnologyNot so much… he’s right! The VS is known amongst ‘the masses’ to be the best looking stick available. There isn’t even a comparison with the new update..
0:50 she has a huge smile while dumping a slice into the net lmao
😂😂😂
Do you know if Babolat changed the mold at all in case I still have grommets for the outgoing VS model? Would I still be able to use my old grommets on this new version?
New Strike 97? You guys are killing me (in a good way)......lol
How is the sweet spot like I use a Babolat pure drive 2021 and want little bit more control
I would say likely a bit less than the Pure Drive 2021, however it was definitely improved over the previous version Pure Strike VS, and felt pretty forgiving for a 97 headsize. Definitely more control and precision compared to the Pure Drive. Troy, TW
@@tenniswarehouse and what do you think about the 100 inch 16x19 and 16x20
@@Jaiszeditz517 , we will have video reviews soon, stay tuned. Troy, TW
Hello,
Is the string pattern tighter for the other pure strikes compared to the 3rd gen?
Hello, how does this racquet compare to the tf40 305 16x19 in terms of feel, power and maneuvrability ? Thank you
In terms of feel I would say maybe a slightly more flexible feel with the Pure Strike 97, although both have pretty good comfort. For power maybe the slight edge to the TF40 305 16x19, but it is hard to say with 100% certainty as I felt like I could hit a pretty heavy ball with the Strike 97. This might just be my perception, but even though the Strike 97 is heavier, I really enjoyed how easy it maneuvered; I think due to the head light feel of the racquet and possible the leather grip on the handle. Troy, TW
@@tenniswarehouse I might give it a try then... thank u
How does this Pure Strike 97 compare with the Yonex Percept 97L? I reckon they are pretty similar rackets, specs wise?
Both are 97 headsize racquets, that are primarily designed for control and feel. The Pure Strike 97 is closer in weight to the Percept 97, where the Percept 97L will be lighter in weight and more maneuverable (faster feeling). The Pure Strike 97 and Percept 97 are both 310 grams unstrung so a bit more stability and plow through. Besides that I would say that the Pure Strike 97 gives the feeling of more energy return, or a bit easier power, whereas the Percept 97 feels slightly more controlled (a little less energy return). Troy, TW
Two thumbs 👎👎down to Babolat for losing what maybe was the best paint job on the market (w/the previous Strike VS) for this ugly (same as other Strike's) mostly white version imo. Thanks Babolat (Womp, Womp....)!!! Oh well at least Troy (says he) prefers the new cosmetic🙃🙃🙃but apparently he also prefers the shorts he's wearing in this video so there's that.....
Savage 😂
Love the cosmetic , can’t wait for a review on the other new strikes 💯💥😉
Stay tuned...!
I always watch all your reviews. Thank you. - will you review the new Dunlop CX range? By when? I see many reviews on RUclips last few weeks- but all in Japanese in Japan - lol -
Transparent-white-ish full-cap grommet system (like some Head Radicals of old) and looking it from above looks like a Tecnifibre ISO.
First, Head releases the new Speed with the new paint-finish I'm a straight-out hater and now Babolat releases the Pure Strike VS subtitute that has the same cosmetics as the regular new Pure Strikes...
2024 hits like crazy!
* Previous silver Pure Strike VS was the Ford Shelby Mustang aka Eleanor and has me gone in less than 60 seconds from this clip...
Is there going to be a new version of the PS Tour?
No longer a Tour version, however we found the 98 16x19 to have a relatively high swingweight, so you could get a pretty similar feel or specs by adding some weight to the handle. Troy, TW
@@tenniswarehouse thanks - maybe a leather grip would be enough. Although many reviews suggest a weighted up 100 16x20 to be possibly the best of the new frames.
Want the vidw of the 16x19 98 tbh.
Coming soon, stay tuned...
Does it feel similar to the old pure control tour?
It been a while since I have hit with an older Pure Control Tour. Mark, Chris, and I reviewed the Pure Control Tour back in 2014, ruclips.net/video/wjTiNVGhH5k/видео.html. We also tested (Michelle, Chris, and I) the Pure Strike VS Tour back in 2017, ruclips.net/video/d3ZPBRNt2tA/видео.html. I would say from what I recall, the Pure Control Tour had a great feel, very soft and plush, but not a lot of energy return. So with this Strike 97 I think it is a bit easier to use, a bit more power, while still feeling pretty comfortable and smooth, and also a bigger sweet-spot with this update. I would say pretty hard to beat the feel for the ball with that Pure Control Tour, but not a lot else coming from it in terms of power and ease of use, so maybe more versatile now with the Strike 97. Troy, TW
Babolat pro staff. I hereby name thee Le Bâton Professionnel.
How does it compare to the Pro Staff 97? Is the feel as good?
The RA is low at 63 so it'll feel more flexible but the 16x20 string pattern will absorb a bit more energy
The Wilson Pro Staff will be more powerful
3rd generation VS97 is a little bit Shorter than anyother 27inch racket ,,, Maybe It's Look Like 26.85 ???? Or 26.9inch ...... what about 4th generation ??????????????????????
I noticed that too
New video of 98?
More Pure Strike reviews coming soon, stay tuned...
The previous model was too HL, even the testers confirmed it. They didn't mention this issue with the new model, but I bet it's the same.
The response from the upper hoop is improved in this update. I either added weight or used a multi to help out the VS version, but the 97 has a much better response there. I would still likely add some head weight to increase pop on serves. Cheers, Chris, TW
@@tenniswarehouse Thanks for the reply, Chris! I will surely give it a test as well then. I am playing with the 98 16x19 so I can't wait to see the review for that one too.
Cheers,
Minko
Vs was much much more beatiful 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️
I wasn't too fond of the 4th gen design as it seems a bit plain compared to the exuberant styling of the 3rd gen, but upon seeing the full-white pure strike 97 with the trademark orange accents and leather grip, I'm smitten. It takes the design in the complete opposite direction, making it look classy instead.
It does not make any sence ! I am a bit confused , how does it replace the 2019 version . The gunmetal grey version is the most updated , based on the storm . There seems to be the same confusion , because Tennis Warehouse and others are ignoring the fact that the the racquet just came out last year .
Just because a company ignores it and reviewers follow , does not mean it did and does not exist . Both are 97's ! It seems like mass confusion and illusion .
Personally stating , that the gun metal grey edition is far more attractive and yes I am American. Perhaps others have a less aesthetic taste . Too confusing to even infer this as an update .
Sorry if there is confusion, however this Strike 97 is a replacement to the Strike VS (gunmetal grey version). Yes, both are 97's so it is more of a name change, to fall in line with how they name the Aero and Pure Drive 98, no longer called VS. The Pure Strike VS hasn't been based off of the Pure Storm and Pure Control frames since the Pure Strike VS and VS Tour, that launched January 2017: www.tennis-warehouse.com/learning_center/racquet_reviews/PSVSreview.html?from=tenrec. Troy, TW
@@tenniswarehouse it is strange ! You hear reviewers mention the "vs " as an update to those mentioned lines . Why then would they update the racquet formally known as the "VS" in the grey , just to come out with it so soon in the white ?
Any added technology should be in the grey model and call it a limited edition . It just seems like their trying to make people completely forget , it ever existed . How very Mesmer and a slight of hand that takes a cue from Head .
@@tenniswarehouse I see ! the VS was updated in 2022 and reviewed in europe , while it was reviewed by TW in 2023 . The whole line could have updated all together . A limited edition , once again would had made more sence . Updating the racquets every 3 years , with 3 seperate lines would makes sence too . 2022 to 2024 with it in the U.S in 2023 , does not .
Babolat has mental issues for this cosmetic change
skipped this cosmetcs bueee
Lower swingweight, flex the same, boring paintjob. Go buy the VS while you can