Technical specifications and build quality of the Kombat Vesubio
The Kombat Vesubio stands out for its competitive price—just €167 with a discount code on Padelmarket, down from a list price of €185. The reviewer highlights the racket’s solid construction, consistent with the Kombat brand’s reputation for quality. Despite its affordability, the Vesubio does not compromise on materials or build.
- Weight: 357g (as tested)
- Balance: 27.1 cm (high balance)
- Shape: Diamond
- Face material: 3D carbon fiber
- Core: EVA (marketed as medium-soft, but reviewer disagrees)
- Surface: Rough texture for spin
- Grip: Comfortable handle, but problematic wrist strap
The channel notes that, while the racket feels robust and well-made, the wrist strap is excessively long and uncomfortable, requiring multiple wraps around the wrist and causing distraction during play. This detail, though minor, affected the overall user experience.
Target player and playability insights from the reviewer
The Kombat Vesubio is positioned as a racket for intermediate to advanced players, suitable for both right and left-side players. However, the reviewer emphasizes that it is not an easy racket to master. Despite being described by Kombat as “medium-soft,” the creators found it anything but soft or forgiving. The racket’s technical demands mean it is best suited for players who consistently hit the sweet spot and prefer a more aggressive, flat style of play.
Its high balance and diamond shape make it powerful, but also less forgiving on off-center hits. The sweet spot is described as “average” in size, and when the ball is not struck cleanly, power and control drop off sharply. This characteristic requires players to maintain high concentration and precise technique throughout the match.
Performance from the baseline and on lobs
According to the channel, the Vesubio performs best on lobs and defensive shots from the back of the court. The racket offers a satisfying ball exit on lobs, making it easier to lift the ball deep and high. The reviewer notes that the racket’s explosiveness is most evident when hitting flat smashes, where the ball leaves the racket with impressive speed and depth.
However, the reviewer warns that the Vesubio is less effective for players who rely on spin or finesse. When attempting to play with touch or work the ball with slice or topspin, the racket’s smaller sweet spot and stiff response make it challenging to control. Off-center hits are particularly unforgiving, often resulting in weak or mishit balls.
Net play, smash, and technical shots
At the net, the Vesubio’s strengths and weaknesses become even more apparent. The channel found that while the racket is “explosive” on flat smashes—delivering powerful, deep shots—it struggles with finesse shots and technical plays such as the vibora. The sweet spot feels small, and the racket does not inspire confidence when attempting to play with subtlety or when under pressure at the net.
The reviewer specifically mentions difficulty executing the vibora, a shot that typically requires both control and spin. They felt hesitant to fully commit to the stroke, fearing the ball would either die short or fly long. This lack of trust in the racket’s response led to a more tentative, less effective net game.
On blocks and quick volleys, the Vesubio performs adequately when the ball is struck cleanly, but again, any lapse in precision results in a noticeable drop in quality. The reviewer concludes that the racket rewards decisive, flat hitting but punishes any attempt at subtlety or imprecision.
Comfort, handling, and overall feel during play
Despite its high balance, the Vesubio moves well in the hand and does not feel cumbersome. The handle is comfortable, but the wrist strap is a significant drawback, described as “too long and uncomfortable,” requiring awkward adjustments mid-match. This issue, while not affecting performance directly, detracted from the overall playing experience.
The racket’s feel is described as “explosive” and “reactive” when the ball is struck cleanly, but it can feel harsh and unforgiving on mishits. The reviewer suggests that players will need substantial time to adapt to the Vesubio and unlock its full potential, especially if they are accustomed to more forgiving rackets.
Comparison with other Kombat rackets and key qualitative evaluations
The channel compares the Vesubio to other models in the Kombat lineup, specifically the Etna and Teide. Of the three, the reviewer considers the Vesubio the most difficult to use and the least enjoyable, while the Etna is described as the best. The Vesubio’s technical demands and lack of forgiveness set it apart from its siblings, making it a niche choice within the brand’s range.
- Best for: Flat smashes, lobs, and aggressive play
- Weaknesses: Control on spin shots, finesse at the net, small sweet spot
- Build quality: High for the price, but with a problematic wrist strap
- Player profile: Intermediate to advanced, technical, aggressive hitters
Reviewer ratings for the Kombat Vesubio
- Baseline/lobs: 7
- Net play: 7
- Control: 7
- Maneuverability: 7.5
- Ball exit: 7.5
- Sweet spot: 7.5
- Spin effects: 8
- Power: 8
- 3-meter smash: 7.5
- Flat smash: 8
- Vibora: 7.5
- Value for money: 7.5 (at €185)
These ratings reflect the channel’s experience: the Vesubio excels in power and explosiveness but is less convincing in control and versatility. Its value is undeniable at the current price, but it remains a technical racket best suited for players who can handle its demands.
