Babolat Pure Drive Tour 2021
Spin, Stability
Modern spin-power profile: the string pattern and frame structure help accelerate the ball with extra rotation. The higher swingweight adds ball weight, but rewards earlier preparation.
This racket weighs 315g unstrung, with a 100in² head, a 16x19 string pattern and 70 RA stiffness. Suited for intermediate players with consistent strokes who want a balance of power, control and comfort. Pairs well with a spin-heavy game style, leaning on the more open string pattern for extra rotation.
- The open string pattern makes it easier to generate spin.
- Higher stiffness and beam construction add extra power straight from the frame.
- Higher mass and swingweight help drive through heavy pace.
- The higher stiffness can be demanding on sensitive arms or a history of tendinitis.
- The higher weight/swingweight ask for earlier preparation and some physical conditioning.
In context: At 315g, this racket's weight sits above our database average (288g) — noticeably more presence in hand.
Compared to the previous model: Compared to the 2018 version, this model keeps the same overall platform, with minor spec tweaks.
In our database, these models have a closely matching spec profile:
Specs and analysis generated algorithmically by the Racket Compare Data Lab, based on data from manufacturers and industry reference sources.
Glossary of Terms
The hitting surface area of the racket, measured in square inches (in²) or cm². Larger heads (100+ in²) offer more contact area, generating power and a larger sweet spot — ideal for developing players. Smaller heads (95 in² or below) provide more precision and control, preferred by advanced players.
Unstrung frame weight in grams (g). Heavier rackets (300g+) provide more stability and plow-through at contact. Lighter rackets are more maneuverable and less fatiguing, but require more physical effort from the player to generate pace.
Indicates where the racket's center of gravity is located. Head Light (HL): weight concentrated in the handle, providing greater maneuverability and swing speed. Head Heavy (HH): weight in the head, generating more passive power. Even (EV): exact balance at the midpoint of the frame.
The RA index measures frame flex. High RA (65+) = stiff frame, transfers more energy to the ball, more power. Low RA (below 60) = flexible frame, absorbs more shock, more comfort and feel. Directly affects ball feel and arm comfort at impact.
Number of main (vertical) × cross (horizontal) strings. Open patterns (e.g., 16×19) create more string movement, generating more spin and power. Closed patterns (e.g., 18×20) offer more control, predictability, and longer string life — ideal for players seeking consistency.
Measures the racket's resistance to the swing motion, regardless of static weight. Two frames with the same weight can have different swingweights depending on mass distribution. High swingweight (330+) = more stability and power at impact, but requires more effort to accelerate.
The thickness of the racket frame in millimeters. Wide beams (23mm+) are stiffer and more powerful, as the larger cross-section reduces frame deflection on impact. Thin beams (below 20mm) are more flexible and offer more feel — typical of advanced player frames that prioritize control.