This review dives into the Babolat Xalt tennis string, a unique multifilament boasting a poly-like firmness and a glass bead-enhanced outer layer. Initial impressions were positive, highlighting a surprisingly stiff feel for a multifilament, suggesting potential power and control. The stringing process further confirmed this unusual texture, hinting at a performance unlike traditional options. We explore whether this innovative design translates to on-court success, examining its power, control, spin generation, and most critically, its durability. Does the Xalt deliver on its promises of enhanced response and longevity, or does it fall short of expectations?This in-depth analysis covers the Xalt's performance across various shots, from serves and volleys to groundstrokes. We evaluate its power and comfort levels, exploring the trade-offs between aggressive play and shot control. Particular attention is paid to its spin potential and its ultimately surprising lack of durability. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the Babolat Xalt, helping players decide if its unique properties warrant its price point and if it's the right choice for their game style.
Pros And Cons
- Easy power and court penetration
- Good control when hitting down the line backhands
- Comfortable even at 55 lbs tension in a stiffer racket
- Durable; doesn't fray easily
- Good for low volleys, providing decent power
- Lack of spin and control on aggressive full swings
- Depth control is difficult, resulting in many shots going long
- Little movement on serves; opponent easily returns serves
- Snapped during the second play session
Read more: Best 5 Spin Tennis Strings for Powerful Serves
First Impressions and String Specifications
Upon first handling the Babolat Xalt, I was struck by its unique feel. Unlike typical multifilament strings, it possessed a surprising firmness, almost reminiscent of a poly string. This initial impression was further confirmed during the stringing process; while soft to the touch, the coating felt more akin to a poly.
The Xalt string boasts a polyamide multifilament core with an outer layer embedded with glass beads for enhanced response and durability. This innovative construction is unlike anything I’ve encountered before. A silicone coating further contributes to the string’s slick feel, promising improved snapback and spin potential.
On-Court Performance: Pros
The Xalt delivered effortless power and court penetration, particularly evident in my flat serves and backhands. This is a significant advantage for players, like myself, who struggle to generate power naturally.
Control was surprisingly good, especially on down-the-line backhands. The firmer feel provided confidence to hit aggressively and change directions effectively, while maintaining accuracy. The string also performed well on volleys, offering a comfortable and powerful response.
On-Court Performance: Cons
Despite the initial positives, the Xalt's shortcomings became apparent during aggressive play. I encountered significant difficulties controlling depth on full forehand swings, resulting in frequent shots flying long. This lack of control greatly impacted my confidence during fast-paced rallies.
The advertised spin potential fell short of expectations. Even with the slick coating, I struggled to generate topspin, particularly on my forehand. The lack of noticeable snapback further compounded this issue. My serves also lacked the movement I usually achieve, rendering them easier to return.
Durability and Overall Assessment
The Babolat Xalt’s durability proved to be a major concern. The string unexpectedly snapped during my second play session, which is highly disappointing considering its price point. While it didn't exhibit the typical fraying of multifilaments, the sudden breakage raises serious questions about its long-term viability.
Overall, the Babolat Xalt is a mixed bag. It provides good power and comfort on less aggressive shots, but its lack of control and spin on full swings, coupled with its poor durability, make it a hard sell, especially at its price. I would hesitate to recommend this string for aggressive players.
