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Shape Diamond
Feel Medium-Soft

Babolat Reflex 2022

Babolat Reflex 2022
5.8

Overall Score

PadelMap Score

Quick Ratings

Power
6.9
Control
5.1
Rebound
7
Maneuverability
5.1
Sweet Spot
5.1

The Babolat Reflex 2022 is a heavy diamond-shaped racket for advanced players who want power and don't mind losing some control.

Technical Specifications

Shape

Diamond

Weight

350 - 370 gr

Touch

Medium-Soft

Core

Low density EVA

Faces

Fiberglass

Frame

Carbon

Performance Ratings

Overall Score
5.8
Power
6.9
Control
5.1
Rebound
7
Maneuverability
5.1
Sweet Spot
5.1

In-Depth Review

Introduction

The Babolat Reflex 2022 is a heavy diamond-shaped racket for advanced players who want power and don't mind losing some control.

Shape & Balance

The diamond shape puts most of the weight toward the head, making it head-heavy. This shifts the balance toward power, giving each swing more momentum.

That also means slower reaction times at the net and a swing that feels heavier in your hand. You'll need good arm strength to keep it under control during long rallies.

Grip

The handle is standard Babolat, with a comfortable grip that feels secure in your hand. Over a long match, the extra weight can cause some fatigue, but the medium-soft feel helps absorb shock, reducing strain.

If you have smaller hands, you might need an overgrip to adjust the size for better comfort.

Power & Control

With a power score of 6.9, you get decent pop on your shots, but it's not top-tier. The low control score (5.1) means you'll sacrifice precision β€” shots may fly long or wide if you're not accurate.

To get the most power, you need to swing fast and hit the sweet spot, which is small. Miss that spot and you'll feel the lack of forgiveness.

Comfort & Speed

The medium-soft feel provides a comfortable response, soaking up vibration well. However, the low maneuverability (5.1/10) makes it feel sluggish when you need quick reactions at the net.

You'll notice the weight in volleys and defensive shots, so it's not ideal for fast exchanges. If you value speed, this racket will slow you down.

Materials & Durability

The frame is carbon, which gives it solid durability and stiffness. The faces are fiberglass, which offers a softer touch and helps with that medium-soft feel.

The low-density EVA core adds to the comfort but may wear quicker than denser cores over time. Overall, build quality seems reliable, but it's not the most armored racket.

Analysis

The Babolat Reflex 2022 is built for power. With a diamond shape and a hefty 350-370g weight, it delivers solid rebound (7/10) but demands good technique. However, it scores low on control (5.1/10) and sweet spot (5.1/10), which means off-center hits will feel unstable.

In practice, this racket suits a player who already generates their own consistency and wants extra punch on smashes. The low control makes it tough for defensive shots or precise placements. If you're a beginner or intermediate, you'll likely struggle with its unforgiving nature.

The low maneuverability (5.1/10) means it feels heavy and slow at the net, so you need strong wrists and quick reactions. It's a specialist tool, not an all-rounder. Most players will find it demanding.

If you rely on control and placement, this is not your racket. Look for a round or teardrop shape with higher control scores instead. But if power is your priority and you have the technique to manage it, it could work.

Verdict

The Babolat Reflex 2022 is for experienced players who prioritize power and can handle a demanding racket. It's not beginner-friendly due to low control and sweet spot. If you have a solid technique and want extra punch, it's worth considering.

But if you value control, forgiveness, or quick handling, look elsewhere. This racket has clear trade-offs, and it may hurt your game if you don't have the skill to match its aggressive profile.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Babolat Reflex 2022 good for beginners?

No, it's not. The low control and small sweet spot make it unforgiving for beginners. You'll find it hard to place shots, and its heavy weight will slow you down. Better to start with a more balanced racket.

Is the Babolat Reflex 2022 a power or control racket?

It's a power racket. With a diamond shape and a power score of 6.9, it aims to boost attack. However, control is low (5.1), so you sacrifice precision. This suits players who want to hit hard, not those who rely on accuracy.

Is the Babolat Reflex 2022 comfortable on the arm?

Yes, moderately so. The medium-soft feel and low-density EVA core absorb shock well, reducing impact. However, the heavy weight can cause fatigue over time, so arm strength matters. No elbow issues reported, but listen to your body.

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