First impressions of the Addon Airlift Power Pro padel racket
The reviewer introduces the Addon Airlift Power Pro as a notable new entry in the padel market. Addon is described as a fresh brand, with this model designed in Italy and manufactured in Spain. The racket immediately stands out for its diamond shape and high balance, which the reviewer notes is clearly felt in hand. Despite its substantial feel, the Airlift Power Pro is not overly taxing to maneuver, especially for players with a solid physical presence.
Key specifications highlighted by the reviewer include:
- Shape: Diamond
- Balance: High
- Face: 20 mm aluminized Teex Stream
- Surface: Smooth, no 3D texture or sand finish
- Sweet spot: Wide, not too high on the face
This combination of features positions the Airlift Power Pro as a racket aimed at players seeking both power and a degree of comfort, rather than a purely aggressive or demanding experience.
Performance from the baseline: comfort and control in defense
On-court testing begins from the baseline, where the reviewer is pleasantly surprised by the racket’s manageability. Despite the high balance, the Airlift Power Pro does not feel unwieldy or excessively heavy during defensive play. The reviewer mentions that the racket’s weight and balance are more noticeable for smaller players, but for those with a larger build, it remains comfortable and easy to control.
The sweet spot is described as “quite comfortable,” helping to compensate for the higher balance and making defensive shots, especially lobs, easier to execute. The reviewer notes that the racket offers a good ball exit—not overly powerful, but reliable and consistent. This makes it suitable for players who want to maintain control without sacrificing too much power on defensive shots.
The smooth surface does not hinder spin generation thanks to the specific hole pattern, which allows for some grip on the ball even without a textured finish. Overall, the Airlift Power Pro performs well from the back of the court, offering a blend of comfort and stability that is not always typical for diamond-shaped rackets.
Net play: surprising versatility and spin potential
Moving to the net, the reviewer finds the Airlift Power Pro unexpectedly versatile. The racket excels at keeping volleys low and controlled, and the reviewer is particularly impressed by its ability to generate spin. This is again attributed to the hole design, which seems to play a more significant role in spin production than the surface texture itself.
Despite initial concerns about the high balance making net play challenging, the reviewer finds the racket manageable and even enjoyable for softer, more controlled shots. The Airlift Power Pro is described as “less demanding” than its specs might suggest, offering a good mix of power and touch at the net. This makes it suitable for players who want a powerful racket without sacrificing finesse during fast exchanges or delicate volleys.
Overhead shots: power and stability in smashes and viboras
Testing overhead shots, the reviewer increases the pace and puts the Airlift Power Pro through its paces with smashes and viboras. The high balance proves advantageous here, providing extra momentum and “whip” for powerful overheads. The reviewer is particularly enthusiastic about the racket’s performance on viboras, describing the shots as “spectacular” and highlighting the racket’s ability to deliver heavy, penetrating balls.
While the reviewer admits to struggling with some advanced smash techniques (like the “per three” and “chic”), the Airlift Power Pro still delivers solid power and stability. The racket does not cause excessive fatigue, even when playing at a higher tempo, which is a testament to its well-balanced design. Players looking for a racket that can handle aggressive overheads without being too punishing on the arm will find the Airlift Power Pro a strong contender.
Summary of ratings and final impressions from the reviewer
The reviewer does not provide a formal rating system, but their feedback throughout the test highlights several key strengths and minor drawbacks:
- Comfort: High, especially for a diamond-shaped, high-balance racket
- Power: Strong, particularly on overheads and smashes
- Control: Good, with a wide sweet spot aiding defensive play
- Spin: Above average, thanks to the hole pattern despite a smooth surface
- Fatigue: Moderate, with some effort required on smashes but manageable overall
In summary, the Addon Airlift Power Pro stands out as a well-rounded, innovative option for players seeking a blend of power and comfort. Its unique combination of high balance, diamond shape, and thoughtful design details make it accessible to a wide range of players, not just those seeking maximum aggression. The reviewer encourages interested players to explore Addon’s growing range, hinting at further reviews to come.
