What To Look For
Tennis racquets made by Babolat are categorized as expert, advanced, intermediate and junior racquets. Advanced players should look for Babolat's Aero or Pure Drive line. These racquets are designed for players who have an aggressive style of play, fast strokes and hit with power and lots of spin. High-level experienced club players who are looking for powerful lightweight racquets should look for Babolat's Y Series or Drive Z series. These racquets are designed for players who have a slower, more compact stroke. Intermediate tennis players who are looking for a forgiving racquet should consider Babolat's XS series. These racquets are made with Babolat's Xtra Sweetspot technology. This helps players maintain control when balls are hit off-center. Junior tennis players should look for a racquet that matches to their height and skill level. Babolat junior racquets range in length from 19 to 26 inches.
Common Pitfalls
Tennis players sometimes think the best Babolat racquets are those used by the professionals on tour. This may be true for the pros, however, these racquets may not be the best for recreational players. Racquets used by the pros are generally heavier, have a smaller racquet head and require them to generate the power behind their shots. Beginners and entry-level tennis players find it harder to learn to play tennis using heavy racquets. Junior tennis players who use adult-size racquets tend to be "wristy" and also find it harder to learn the sport.
Where To Buy
Tennis Express, an online retailer, is a good source for Babolat racquets and accessories. Its selection includes models for all skill levels, playing styles and juniors. Local tennis clubs with a pro shop may be authorized dealers and carry a small inventory of Babolat racquets.
Cost
Racquets designed for expert and advanced players cost between $179 and $199, as of 2010. Intermediate players can buy a quality racquet with a price of $119 to $179. Recreational players can expect to pay $89 to $99. Racquets designed for competitive juniors range in price from $70 to $104. Other junior racquets cost $25 to $70. Most new racquets come with a one-year manufacturer's warranty. The lower-end models typically come pre-strung, saving you the additional expense of stringing. Performance racquets do not come with strings, however, some retailers may offer free stringing with the purchase of the new racquet.
Accessories
Babolat makes many styles of racquet bags to complement the different lines of racquets. They come in all shapes and sizes, and many are insulated to protect the racquets from extreme extreme heat and cold. The price range is $30 to $90.
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