Babolat has recently launched an updated version of the Pure Aero VS (now called the Pure Aero 98), which has increased in popularity as it is the racket endorsed by the world number Carlos Alcaraz.
In this article, I will look at the racket specs of the new 98 version and compare them to the specs of the old VS version.
Racket Specs Comparison – 98 and VS Versions
Main Differences: The Pure Aero 98 has a heavier strung weight (323g (11.4oz) vs 320g (11.3oz)), a heavier swing weight (327g vs 321g), and a lower frame stiffness rating (65 vs 67).
Similarities: Both rackets have the same head size (98in), racket length (27in), head light balance (6pts HL), beam width (21mm / 23mm / 22mm), and string pattern (16×20).
| Specs: | 98 | VS |
|---|---|---|
| Version: | 2023 | 2020 |
| Design: |  |  |
| Head Size: | 98in | 98in |
| Length: | 27in | 27in |
| Strung Weight: | 323g (11.4oz) | 320g (11.3oz) |
| Balance: | 6pts HL | 6pts HL |
| Swingweight: | 327g | 321g |
| Frame Stiffness: | 65 | 67 |
| Beam Width: | 21mm-23mm | 21mm-23mm |
| Composition: | Graphite | Graphite |
| Colors: | Yellow and Black | Yellow and Black |
| String Pattern: | 16 Mains * 20 Crosses | 16 Mains * 20 Crosses |
As you would expect, there isn’t a huge difference between the 98 and VS versions with the lower stiffness rating being the most significant change to the 98 version.
This is a welcome change as it should make the racket more comfortable to play with.
Release Date
The new 98 version will be released on the 19th of January 2023 on online tennis shops like Tennis-Warehouse.
Pro Player Endorsements
The new 2023 model will be endorsed by Carlos Alcaraz, Felix Auger-Aliassime, and Holger Rune.