Adidas Metalbone 2025: key changes in design and construction
The reviewer highlights that the Adidas Metalbone 2025 marks a significant departure from its predecessors, both in aesthetics and technical features. The new model drops the “3.4” designation, presenting itself simply as Metalbone, and features a clean, minimalist look. The racket’s shape has evolved into a narrower, more elongated diamond profile, with the “Oversize Diamond” label removed. This change, while subtle in appearance, has a substantial impact on the racket’s dynamics and playability.
Material-wise, the Metalbone 2025 is constructed with a 16K carbon fiber face and the familiar EVA soft performance core from Adidas. The Spin Blade technology remains, providing reliable spin potential. However, the most notable innovation is the new weight and balance system, which allows players to customize the racket’s feel by moving small weights between the handle and the head. This system is more advanced than previous iterations, offering tangible differences in balance and swing dynamics.
- Weight (declared): 374g (including cord)
- Balance: 26.9 cm (can be adjusted up to 27.5 cm with weights)
- Face material: 16K carbon fiber
- Core: EVA soft performance
- Grip length: 13 cm
Impact of the new weight and balance system on playability
The channel emphasizes that the revamped weight and balance system is a game-changer for the Metalbone 2025. The system consists of three elements per side: a 1.8g base, a 0.6g bolt, and a 1.3g closing screw. These can be moved from the handle to the head, shifting the balance point from 26.9 cm up to 27.5 cm. This adjustment creates a noticeable difference in how the racket feels and performs, especially for players who prefer a head-heavy or more evenly balanced setup.
When all weights are positioned at the head, the racket becomes significantly more top-heavy, resulting in a “brick-like” feel that demands more from the player’s arm and technique. Conversely, removing the weights or keeping them at the handle makes the racket lighter and slightly more manageable, though the overall sensation remains that of a serious, mass-forward racket. The reviewer notes that the difference is most pronounced when the weights are moved to the head, fundamentally altering the racket’s behavior during play.
Performance analysis: handling, control, and power
On court, the Metalbone 2025 distinguishes itself with its increased mass and higher balance, which translates to a more solid and stable feel. The reviewer points out that the racket is less maneuverable than previous versions, especially from the baseline. The smaller face and sweet spot require greater precision, and the added mass in the head can make quick defensive movements more challenging. Players who favor agility and wristy play may find the racket tiring over long sessions.
However, this added mass brings benefits in terms of control and solidity. The impact is more direct and connected, offering a genuine sensation with each shot. The ball exit is described as “full,” with the racket delivering substance rather than effortless power. Compared to the Metalbone 3.3, the 2025 version is less forgiving but more rewarding for advanced players seeking a technical, pro-level experience.
In comparison to other rackets, the reviewer mentions that the Metalbone 2025 feels almost as heavy in hand as the Extreme Pro, although the latter is better balanced and delivers more power. Another unnamed white-and-red competitor is cited as being easier to maneuver despite similar weight and even higher balance, indicating that the Metalbone’s mass distribution has truly changed.
Shot-by-shot evaluation: baseline, volley, and smash
From the baseline, the Metalbone 2025’s higher balance and mass make it less agile but more stable. The reviewer notes that it excels in delivering a controlled, confident ball exit, but requires compact, timely movements to avoid being late on shots. The smaller sweet spot and medium hardness core demand technical precision, making the racket less suitable for players who rely on easy handling or quick recovery shots.
At the net, the racket’s solidity shines. Volleys feel powerful and stable, with good spin and touch, though the heavy head can sometimes leave the racket lagging behind if not managed carefully. The reviewer appreciates the improved touch and sensation over the previous model, but again notes the need for compact technique to maximize performance.
For smashes, the Metalbone 2025 offers mixed results. The soft core combined with the heavy head provides excellent performance on kick smashes, generating strong spin and ball exit. However, flat smashes are less impressive; the reviewer expected more aggression and power given the mass, but found the core a bit too soft for truly explosive shots. The racket “eats the ball” slightly, similar to the Triton Soft, favoring ball exit over raw power.
Comfort, user profile, and overall impressions
Comfort is a mixed bag for the Metalbone 2025. While the racket is not harsh or overly stiff, its forward balance and substantial mass can cause fatigue, especially over extended play. The reviewer suggests that players who value maneuverability or have a preference for lighter rackets may find the 2025 version demanding. In contrast, those seeking a solid, pro-style racket with excellent control and a genuine feel will appreciate the changes.
The reviewer observes that the Metalbone 2025 is less accessible to a broad range of players than previous versions. Its technical demands and heavier feel make it best suited for advanced or physically strong players who can handle and benefit from its characteristics. The shift from the more user-friendly 3.2 and 3.3 models to a “serious,” pro-oriented racket is clear.
Reviewer’s ratings for the Adidas Metalbone 2025
- Ball release: 7.5 (full, less easy than last year)
- Sweet spot: 7 (shrunk a bit, but still decent)
- Control: 8 (definitely improved)
- Power: 7.5 (improved, but could be more aggressive)
- Handling: 6.5 (disappointing, feels heavy)
- Comfort: 6.5–7 (not bad, but weighs on the head)
- Feeling: 7.5–8 (better than last year, more sincere)
- Stability: 8 (very stable, not easy to handle)
- Game from the bottom: 7.5 (plays well, but technical and tiring)
- Volley: 7.5 (solid, but not very light)
- Flat smash: 7 (could be more powerful)
- Kick smash: 8.5 (very good, strong spin and exit)
Final thoughts: who should consider the Metalbone 2025?
The reviewer concludes that the Adidas Metalbone 2025 is a bold evolution, prioritizing solidity, control, and a pro-level feel over ease of use and maneuverability. While it retains the Metalbone’s signature ball exit and spin, it demands more from the player in terms of technique and physicality. Those seeking a technical, stable, and serious racket will find much to appreciate, but players who enjoyed the lighter, more accessible feel of previous Metalbone models may need to look elsewhere or consider the HRD version for a different balance of power and comfort.
