Technical specifications and build quality of the Starvie Basalto Osiris Pro 2.0
The Starvie Basalto Osiris Pro 2.0 is the signature padel racket of Coki Nieto, designed for versatility and all-round performance. The reviewer from Padel Review highlights its teardrop shape and advanced materials, which include a double layer of basalt and 3K carbon fiber on the faces. This combination aims to deliver a blend of power and control, while the rough surface enhances spin potential. The core uses EVA Pro 50 foam, a medium-density rubber also found in the Triton Pro model, offering a balanced feel between hardness and responsiveness.
- Shape: Teardrop
- Face material: Double layer basalt + 3K carbon fiber
- Surface: Rough texture for spin
- Core: EVA Pro 50 (medium density)
- Weight range: 350–385g (tested model: 364g)
- Balance: 26.9 cm (medium-high)
- Made in: Spain (handmade near Madrid)
- Retail price: €299 (street price around €135)
The reviewer notes the wide weight range typical of Starvie rackets, which can significantly affect playability. The tested racket sits comfortably in the middle of this range, providing a balanced experience. The build quality reflects Starvie’s handmade standards, but the reviewer points out that the handle and wrist strap are less impressive, describing the handle as short and slippery, and the strap as one of the least comfortable on the market. The racket is delivered without a protector, so the channel recommends adding a lightweight one to avoid altering the balance.
Performance from the baseline: maneuverability and control
On-court testing reveals that the Basalto Osiris Pro 2.0 moves well from the baseline, despite its medium-high balance (26.9 cm). The reviewer finds the racket surprisingly agile for its specs, allowing for quick adjustments even in defensive situations. However, the sweet spot is described as small and positioned high on the face, making precision essential. Off-center hits tend to lose effectiveness, so players need to strike cleanly to maximize performance.
Ball output is considered good, with a slight “trampoline effect” that helps in lobs and defensive shots. While not as effortless as some comfort-focused rackets like the Vertex Comfort, the Basalto Osiris Pro 2.0 still offers enough assistance for intermediate and advanced players. Compared to the Triton Pro, it is less rigid and easier to use, but sacrifices a bit of control for increased versatility. The reviewer consistently refers to the racket as polivalente—a true all-rounder that performs well in most situations without specializing in any one area.
Net play and attacking shots: strengths and limitations
At the net, the Basalto Osiris Pro 2.0 reveals both its strengths and its quirks. The reviewer initially struggles with the small, high sweet spot, especially during fast-paced exchanges. Once accustomed, however, the racket delivers solid power and quick maneuverability, feeling lighter than its measured 364g. Spin potential is a highlight, with the rough face producing excellent effects on volleys and slices.
Despite the medium-high balance, the racket does not fatigue the arm, even during extended net play. Blocking and quick reactions are manageable, but the reviewer notes that mastering the sweet spot is crucial for consistent performance. The Basalto Osiris Pro 2.0 is particularly enjoyable for players who like to mix up their shots, using both power and touch to control the net.
Overhead shots and finishing: spin, power, and handling
In overhead situations—smashes, viboras, and kick shots—the Basalto Osiris Pro 2.0 continues to impress with its spin capabilities. The reviewer finds it especially effective for kick smashes and viboras, where the ball spins and stays low after bouncing. However, the racket is not the most powerful for flat smashes; it lacks the raw, explosive power found in models like the Triton Pro. Players who rely on heavy, flat finishing shots may find it less satisfying in this regard.
For those who prefer to work the ball and construct points, the Basalto Osiris Pro 2.0 offers plenty of options. Its ability to generate spin and maintain control makes it suitable for both left and right-side players, particularly those at an intermediate level or above. The reviewer emphasizes that, while the racket does not excel in any single area, its overall balance and playability make it a strong choice for versatile players.
Comfort, ergonomics, and areas for improvement
While the Basalto Osiris Pro 2.0 scores highly in terms of playability and value, the reviewer is critical of certain ergonomic aspects. The handle is described as short and slippery, which may be uncomfortable for players with larger hands or those who prefer a two-handed backhand. The wrist strap is singled out as a major flaw, coming loose easily and requiring frequent adjustment during play. This issue is significant enough that the reviewer hopes Starvie will address it in future collections.
On the positive side, the racket’s weight and balance do not cause arm fatigue, and its handmade Spanish construction is praised for quality. The absence of a factory protector is a minor inconvenience, but easily remedied with an aftermarket solution.
Value for money and final ratings from the reviewer
One of the standout features of the Starvie Basalto Osiris Pro 2.0 is its price-to-performance ratio. With a street price around €135 for a racket used by a top professional like Coki Nieto, the reviewer considers it an excellent investment for ambitious club players. The combination of advanced materials, Spanish craftsmanship, and versatile performance makes it accessible to a wide range of players.
The reviewer provides clear ratings for key aspects of the racket:
- Power: 8.5
- Control: 8.5
- Maneuverability: 8.5
- Sweet spot: 8
- Ball output: 8.5
These ratings reflect the racket’s strong all-round performance, with the sweet spot being the only notable limitation. The reviewer mentions plans to adopt a more critical approach to ratings in the future, but stands by these scores as a fair assessment of the Basalto Osiris Pro 2.0’s capabilities.
