2026 Babolat Pure Aero Review – 98 sq in & 100 sq in
Carlos Alcaraz & Rafa Nadal’s Spin Weapon Reimagined
The 2026 Babolat Pure Aero line continues its legacy as one of the most iconic spin-focused racquets in tennis history. Known for explosive power, heavy topspin, and modern playability, the new generation brings meaningful upgrades in feel, stability, and control.
Two versions stand out in the lineup:
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Pure Aero 98 – used by Carlos Alcaraz
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Pure Aero 100 – famously used by Rafa Nadal throughout his entire career
This review focuses heavily on the 2026 Pure Aero 98, which I had the chance to playtest for a full week, along with comparisons to the 100 sq in model.
Play test – First Impressions
We were fortunate enough to test 2026 Pure Aero 98 before release. The mold has clearly changed. The throat is noticeably more aerodynamic, and the bumper guard feels thicker and more durable than previous generations.
* Note: We strung both racquets with Babolat RPM Team at 45lbs.
My prototype came in a matte black finish with yellow accents, though Babolat has confirmed the retail version will be dark grey with yellow striping. The new design feels premium and modern while staying true to the Aero identity.
Why the Pure Aero Matters
The Pure Aero line has become legendary thanks to Rafa Nadal, who used the 100 sq in version for the entire duration of his historic career. His heavy topspin forehand defined modern tennis.
Now, Carlos Alcaraz carries the torch, using the Pure Aero 98, a slightly smaller head size designed for elite-level control and precision without sacrificing spin or power.
Whether you’re chasing ultimate spin, crushing forehands, or next-level control, the 2026 Babolat Pure Aero lineupredefines spin-centric performance racquets. With a redesigned aerodynamic frame and updated feel, this generation carries the tradition of tennis’s most iconic spin weapons into a new era.
Two standout versions in the Gen 9 line are:
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2026 Pure Aero 98 – Favored by Carlos Alcaraz
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2026 Pure Aero 100 – The classic headshape used by Rafa Nadal throughout his career
Both racquets share the Aero DNA but serve different player styles — one leaning toward precision and control, the other capitalizing on spin and forgiveness.
2026 Pure Aero 98 – Specs (Gen 9)
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Head Size | 98 sq in (632 cm²) |
| Length | 27.0 in (68.58 cm) |
| Strung Weight | 11.4 oz / 323 g |
| Unstrung Weight | 10.7 oz / 305 g |
| Balance (Strung) | 6 pts Head Light |
| Swingweight | 322 |
| Beam Width | 21 / 23 / 22 mm |
| String Pattern | 16×20 |
| Flex (RA) | ~66 |
| Recommended Tension | 50–59 lbs |
| Grip | Babolat Syntec Pro |
| Technologies | NF2-Tech (flax vibration filtering), Aeromodular 3, FSI Spin |
This is the precision-oriented Aero — smaller head, tighter string pattern, and higher swingweight give it a crisp, controlled response while still retaining spin capability.
2026 Pure Aero 100 – Specs (Gen 9)
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Head Size | 100 sq in (645 cm²) |
| Length | 27.0 in (68.58 cm) |
| Strung Weight | 11.1 oz / 315 g |
| Unstrung Weight | 10.6 oz / 300 g |
| Balance (Strung) | 4 pts Head Light |
| Swingweight | 320 |
| Beam Width | 23 / 26 / 23 mm |
| String Pattern | 16×19 |
| Flex (RA) | ~69 |
| Recommended Tension | 50–59 lbs |
| Grip | Babolat Syntec Pro |
| Technologies | NF2-Tech, Aeromodular 3, FSI Spin |
The 100 sq in Aero delivers a slightly livelier and more forgiving experience. With broader head size and classic Aero pop and spin, it’s the version historically associated with Rafa Nadal’s heavy topspin style.
What Changed for 2026?
Babolat’s Gen 9 update isn’t just a cosmetic refresh — it reshapes the throat and bumper for better aerodynamics and head speed. Early impressions from coaches and playtesters note faster feel and easier spin access than prior Aeros, without compromising stability.
The integration of flax fiber tech (NF2-Tech) also softens impact and improves vibration filtration, giving both 98 and 100 versions a smoother feel on contact.
Racquet Playability – In-Action Insights
Here’s how the Pure Aero 98 performed on-court in my weeklong prototype playtest (with strings at ~52 lbs tension):
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Forehands felt solid and connected, with hardly any twisting and good margin for error — especially flatter, hard-driven strokes.
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Backhands were a standout — incredibly stable with powerful redirection and confident depth.
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Serve performance suffered slightly due to high swingweight in my prototype, though slice serves popped beautifully.
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Volleys and serve returns were excellent — crisp, stable, and reliable.
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Spin generation felt intuitive, though the 98 prefers flatter, penetrating trajectories rather than high loopy spin.
These user impressions align with early feedback from other players testing Gen 9 Aeros on YouTube, where reviewers emphasize the updated spin feel and aerodynamic stability.
Aero 98 vs Aero 100 – When to Pick Which
Pure Aero 98
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Best for advanced players who want precision with spin
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Smaller hitting area, tighter string pattern promotes accuracy
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Higher swingweight suits aggressive baseline hitters
Pure Aero 100
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Great for players wanting playable power and spin
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Slightly larger head = more forgiveness on off-center hits
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Excellent for heavy spin from both wings (think Nadal’s forehand)
Final Take – Is the 2026 Pure Aero Worth It?
Yes — the 2026 Gen 9 Babolat Pure Aero line takes what made the Aero one of the most celebrated racquets in tennis and evolves it with meaningful improvements:
– More aerodynamic design for faster head speed
– Better vibration control and feel
– Stable yet forgiving performance
– Two distinct personalities in 98 and 100 versions
Whether you’re chasing Alcaraz-style aggression or the classic Nadal spin blueprint, the new Pure Aeros deliver elite performance with a modern touch.
