This review dives into Babolat RPM Blast, a popular polyester tennis string known for its exceptional spin and control. Released in 2010, this octagonal-shaped monofilament string incorporates copolyester additives for enhanced performance. We'll explore its performance characteristics across various aspects of the game, including power, feel, and durability, based on a playtest using a Babolat Pure Drive 2021 racket. We'll analyze its tension recommendations, gauge options, and overall suitability for different playing styles and skill levels. Expect a detailed assessment of its strengths and weaknesses, helping you decide if RPM Blast is the right string for your game.This in-depth analysis will cover key areas such as groundstrokes, serves, and net play, examining how the string's properties translate to on-court performance. We'll consider its comfort level, string movement, and longevity, ultimately weighing its advantages against potential drawbacks like price and the need for more frequent restringing. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of Babolat RPM Blast's capabilities and limitations, enabling informed decision-making for players considering adding it to their equipment arsenal.
Pros And Cons
- Excellent spin
- Above-average feel/touch for a poly string
- Good control
- Allows for bigger swings without the ball sailing long
- Resilient; snaps back into place after ball contact, minimizing the need for constant string adjustments
- Solid durability (16 gauge lasts 8-12 hours of hitting over 2-3 weeks before substantial decline)
- Lower end of the power spectrum
- Lower comfort; stiff string
- Pricey
- More frequent restringing needed compared to other strings
- Performance can drop off relatively quickly
Read more: Best 5 Spin Tennis Strings for Powerful Serves
String Specifications and Details
Babolat RPM Blast is a polyester monofilament tennis string initially released in 2010. Its octagonal shape enhances grip and spin, while the slick outer surface contributes to a snappy feel. The string incorporates copolyester additives for improved performance. It's available in gauges 15, 16, 17, and 18.
The recommended tension ranges from 48 to 66 pounds (22 to 30 kilograms). Many players transitioning from other string types might reduce tension by 5-10% to compensate for the polyester's stiffness. The color is consistently black.
Playtest and Performance Review
The playtest utilized a Babolat Pure Drive 2021 racket strung with 16-gauge RPM Blast at 52 pounds. While stiff, the string strung relatively easily. Power is moderate compared to other polys, falling more towards the middle of the power spectrum.
Groundstrokes felt controlled, and serves maintained good power. The string excels in topspin generation, although its spin performance isn't dramatically superior to other high-quality polys; a player's technique and racket head speed are still crucial.
Feel, Control, and Comfort
Surprisingly, RPM Blast provides above-average feel and ball pocketing for a polyester string. This translates to better confidence and control during baseline strokes. The feel extends to net play, where many polys fall short.
Control is excellent; its low power, exceptional spin, and good feel combine to give impressive control. While overhitting is possible, it's easier to swing bigger without sacrificing accuracy. However, comfort is low; it's stiff, and players with arm injuries should consider alternatives.
Durability and String Movement
Durability is a trade-off; RPM Blast's performance degrades more quickly than some other strings, requiring more frequent restringing (every 8-12 hours or 2-3 weeks of play). The string tends to wear out rather than break unexpectedly, but it is more expensive than many alternatives.
String movement is minimal; its resilience allows the strings to maintain their position effectively, reducing the need for constant adjustments. Minor tweaks might be needed occasionally, but the strings generally remain stable.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Babolat RPM Blast is a top-tier polyester string, particularly excelling in spin, durability, and control. Its superior feel sets it apart. However, its higher price and the need for more frequent restringing are drawbacks.
Players seeking a comfortable string, beginners, or those on a budget might prefer other options. RPM Blast is a fantastic choice for those prioritizing spin and control, even with the trade-offs in comfort and cost. It's a solid all-around string, but not a perfect option for everyone.