Kombat Arenal 2.5 by Manu Martin 2026

Introduction

The Kombat Arenal 2.5 is a heavy, diamond-shaped racket for advanced players who want power without giving up control.

Shape & Balance

The diamond shape puts the balance towards the head. This makes the racket feel heavier on the swing and gives you extra power on smashes.

You'll notice it when you volley—it's less nimble than a teardrop. But the weight helps you block hard shots with stability.

Grip

The handle is standard, nothing fancy. The grip feels comfortable, and the weight is manageable at the start.

But after two hours, your forearm might start to ache. The heavy head requires effort to keep it in position, so fatigue can set in if you're not used to it.

Power & Control

With power at 8.7, this racket lets you hit aggressive shots without too much effort. The high weight does the job—you just need to time it right.

Control is also 8.7, which is rare. The 18K carbon face gives a firm response, so the ball doesn't stay on the racket long. This helps with precise placement.

Comfort & Speed

Comfort is decent for a heavy racket. The Black EVA core absorbs some vibration, so your arm won't feel jarred on off-center hits.

Maneuverability is rated 8.7, which surprised me. It's not fast, but the balance is such that you can get it ready in time for volleys. Still, don't expect quick reaction shots—it's a power racket, not a finesse one.

Materials & Durability

The frame is carbon fiber, which is solid and should hold up well. The faces are 18K carbon, which is a high-quality material that adds stiffness and durability.

The core is high-recovery Black EVA, which gives good rebound and helps with comfort. These materials are built to last, but the high weight means you'll be putting more stress on the frame over time.

Analysis

This racket is a blunt instrument in the best way. You swing it, and the ball goes deep. The 350-360g weight gives it real mass, so you need a solid technique to get it moving fast. But once you do, the power is there, rated 8.7, and it feels like the racket does the work for you.

Control is also high at 8.7, which is unusual for a diamond shape. The sweet spot is 8.1, so it's not huge, but when you hit it, the ball goes where you aim. The rebound at 8.3 means the ball comes off the face quickly, which helps with aggressive shots.

What does this mean in practice? You need good footwork and a steady swing. If you're a beginner or have a slow arm, this racket will feel like a log and may cause errors. It rewards players who can meet the ball early and generate their own pace.

Trade-off: it's demanding. The weight and balance will tire you out in a three-set match if you're not used to it. But for an advanced player who wants a weapon, it's a solid choice.