Key specifications and materials of the Nox LA10 Future 2024
The Nox LA10 Future 2024 is a highly anticipated padel racket, closely associated with Leo Augsburger. The reviewer highlights that this model stands out for its aggressive performance and accessible price point, diverging from the typical premium pricing of Nox. The racket’s technical features are central to its character and playability:
- Weight: 355g (measured), with a declared weight of 367g
- Balance: High, approximately 26 cm
- Frame: Carbon
- Face material: 12K aluminized carbon fiber
- Core: EVA 50 (Nox’s stiffest core)
- Surface texture: 3D, providing moderate spin
- Shape: Diamond, with a sober color palette
The reviewer notes that the use of EVA 50 foam, the hardest in the Nox lineup, is a significant shift from the originally expected HR3 core. This change, combined with the 12K aluminized carbon face, creates a unique feel that divides opinion.
First impressions and design choices
Visually, the LA10 Future is described as understated, with gray, black, and brown tones that the reviewer finds a bit dull for a racket aimed at energetic, young players. The new heart design, shared with other models in the Future line, is seen as a positive update, giving the racket a modern look.
The handle, a frequent point of contention with Nox rackets, has seen minor improvements. The reviewer finds it less bothersome than in previous models, though it still lacks a pronounced bottom flare and remains relatively unchanged in core design. The addition of the Smart Grip is noted, but the reviewer prefers to remove it for a more traditional feel.
On-court performance: baseline and defensive play
From the baseline, the LA10 Future presents some challenges. The combination of the stiff EVA 50 core and the thin, rigid 12K aluminized face results in a racket that feels uncommunicative at low to medium speeds. The reviewer reports a lack of ball output and feedback, requiring the player to actively generate power and precision with their arm. The sweet spot is described as medium-small, and while not punishing, it doesn’t offer the forgiving touch found in some other rackets.
Handling is a strong point, thanks to the racket’s relatively light weight and high balance, making it maneuverable and quick through the air. However, the reviewer feels that the lack of mass in the head makes it harder to counter powerful shots from opponents, and the overall sensation is somewhat disconnected until the pace of play increases.
Transition to net and volley performance
The reviewer observes a marked improvement in the LA10 Future’s performance at the net. On volleys, the racket becomes more communicative and responsive, offering good ball exit and control at medium to high speeds. The sweet spot, while not large, is sufficient for advanced intermediate players, and the racket’s maneuverability allows for quick adjustments and wrist action.
Touch shots require a more mechanical approach, and the reviewer notes that a bit of extra force is needed to achieve optimal results. Despite this, the LA10 Future delivers substance and energy on volleys, making it a solid choice for aggressive net play.
Spin, smash, and special shots
Spin generation is described as more than adequate, with the 3D surface texture and stiff core working together to produce effective topspin and slice. The reviewer particularly enjoys the racket’s performance on vibora and smash and kick shots, where the LA10 Future’s quick movement and responsive core shine.
While the racket is not a “hammer” due to its lighter head and lack of mass, it excels when the player can supply the necessary arm speed. The smash and kick is highlighted as a standout feature, with the ball jumping off the face and the core providing ample power at higher swing speeds. However, the reviewer cautions that the racket is less effective for flat smashes, where more mass and rigidity would be beneficial.
Target player profile and usability
The LA10 Future is best suited for advanced intermediate to advanced players who can generate their own power and appreciate a technical, aggressive racket. Beginners or lower intermediates may struggle with the lack of easy ball output and the need for precise timing and technique. The reviewer emphasizes that the racket rewards active, energetic play and is particularly appealing to left-handed or attacking players seeking maneuverability and spin.
Despite its strengths, the reviewer feels that the LA10 Future lacks the “completeness” found in some other Nox models, particularly in terms of tactile feedback and mass distribution. It is a racket of compromises, excelling in certain areas while leaving room for improvement in others.
Reviewer’s ratings for the Nox LA10 Future 2024
The channel provides clear ratings for each aspect of the racket’s performance. These scores offer a concise summary of the LA10 Future’s strengths and weaknesses:
- Ball release: 5.5/10 (requires encouragement, improves at higher pace)
- Sweet spot: 6.5/10 (medium-small, not punishing)
- Control: 8/10 (good, especially at the net)
- Power: 8.5/10 (accessible power, not overly stiff)
- Maneuverability: 7.5/10 (moves well, easy to handle)
- Comfort: 8/10 (surprisingly comfortable for a stiff racket)
- Feeling: 6.5/10 (lacks feedback at low pace, improves with speed)
- Spin: 8/10 (good spin generation)
- Stability: 7/10 (more maneuverable than stable)
- Defensive play (from the bottom): 6/10 (requires skill and effort)
- Wall exit: 8/10 (good at higher pace)
- Volley: 8.5/10 (excellent at the net)
- Flat smash: 7.5/10 (lacks head mass for maximum power)
- Smash and kick: 8.5/10 (standout shot, great spin and power)
Final thoughts on the Nox LA10 Future 2024 padel racket
The reviewer concludes that the Nox LA10 Future 2024 is an intriguing, aggressive racket with a competitive price and clear appeal for advanced players seeking maneuverability, spin, and power at higher speeds. Its main drawbacks are a lack of tactile feedback at lower intensities and a somewhat uninspiring design. For players who can exploit its strengths, especially on volleys and smashes, it offers a rewarding experience, but it may not be the best fit for those seeking easy ball output or a more forgiving touch from the baseline.
