Design and technical specifications of the Wilson Defy Pro
The reviewer from El chini consejo introduces the Wilson Defy Pro as one of the most power-oriented padel rackets currently available. The first impressions focus on its diamond shape, which is a classic choice for players seeking extra power in their shots. The face of the racket stands out for its pronounced 3D sandpaper-like roughness, providing enhanced grip for spin and a unique tactile sensation. This roughness is described as both sandy and three-dimensional, a combination rarely seen outside of custom or limited-edition rackets.
- Weight: 377g (with two overgrips and a thin protector, original grip removed)
- Balance: 26.1 cm (head-heavy)
- Core: Power Foam (referred to as “power fan” in the review)
- Grip length: 13 cm (longer than average)
- Face finish: 3D sandpaper roughness
The reviewer notes that the original grip was removed to allow for a thinner handle feel, with two overgrips added for personal comfort. This adjustment makes the handle slightly less thick than a Babolat, but still not among the thinnest on the market. The reviewer highlights that the factory weight of the racket is typically around 370g, with a margin of plus or minus 10 grams, and the tested units were very consistent in this range.
First impressions and comfort on court
Despite its reputation as a power racket, the Wilson Defy Pro surprises the reviewer with its comfort and maneuverability. The expectation was for a much stiffer and less manageable racket due to its head-heavy balance and diamond shape. However, both the reviewer and the owner (who has played with the racket extensively, up to three times a day) agree that it feels more comfortable than anticipated.
The racket’s balance is high but not excessively so, allowing for good handling from the back of the court. The reviewer compares its feel to the Babolat Viper, noting that the Viper is slightly stiffer and drier, while the Defy Pro offers a medium-hard touch that is firm but not uncomfortable. The ball output is described as controlled rather than explosive, requiring the player to contribute more to the shot, but still providing enough assistance for effective play.
Performance from the back of the court
On defensive shots and lobs, the Wilson Defy Pro demonstrates a balance between power and control. The reviewer observes that while the racket is not the most reactive in terms of ball exit, it does not feel dead or overly demanding. Players need to extend their swing slightly more on lobs, but the overall comfort and predictability make it manageable for regular play.
The owner mentions that, compared to the standard Defy (referred to as “V1” or “Pro”), the Pro version offers less tactile feedback on lobs, making it harder to control the depth and height. The difference is attributed to the carbon fiber quality: the Pro uses 15K carbon, while the standard version uses 3K, resulting in a stiffer and more powerful response but less sensation on touch shots.
Comparison with other high-end rackets
Throughout the review, the Wilson Defy Pro is compared to several other popular rackets:
- Babolat Viper: Slightly stiffer and drier than the Defy Pro, with a more pronounced ball exit.
- Bullpadel Vertex: Considered even harder and less comfortable for the reviewer, with more power but less feel.
- Adidas Metalbone HRD 2024: Similar in touch and comfort, though the Metalbone has a shorter handle and a slightly different balance. The sound and feel are described as very close.
- Kombat: More reactive and lively than the Defy Pro, with a quicker ball release.
These comparisons help position the Defy Pro as a racket that offers a strong blend of power and control, without being as extreme in stiffness or explosiveness as some of its direct competitors.
Net play, volleys, and spin potential
At the net, the Wilson Defy Pro continues to impress. The reviewer highlights its ability to generate heavy, fast volleys when accelerating through the ball. The 3D roughness on the face is particularly effective for producing spin, with the reviewer noting that the grip on the ball is superior to many other rackets tested. The roughness is not only tactile but also visually graduated, with smaller star-shaped patterns near the throat and larger ones toward the tip, enhancing spin consistency across the face.
When hitting volleys with extra force, the ball leaves the racket with significant weight and speed, confirming its offensive pedigree. The reviewer appreciates that the racket remains manageable and does not feel unwieldy, even during aggressive net exchanges.
Player feedback and overall ratings
Both the reviewer and the owner offer clear feedback on the Wilson Defy Pro’s playability. While it is undeniably a power-oriented racket, it does not sacrifice comfort or maneuverability. The owner, who has tested multiple rackets including the Adidas Metalbone, Bullpadel Vertex, and Kombat, finds the Defy Pro to be a good compromise between power and control, with a medium-hard feel that is not excessively rigid.
- Comfort: High, especially for a power racket
- Power: Very high, particularly on volleys and smashes
- Control: Good, though lobs require more adjustment
- Spin: Excellent, thanks to the pronounced 3D roughness
- Maneuverability: Above average for a diamond-shaped, head-heavy racket
The reviewer concludes that the Wilson Defy Pro is a strong choice for players seeking power without compromising too much on comfort or handling. Its unique roughness, balanced feel, and consistent build quality make it a standout option in the current market of high-performance padel rackets.
