Technical specifications and design details of the Starvie Kenta Pro 2024
The reviewer introduces the Starvie Kenta Pro 2024 as a highly anticipated round-shaped padel racket, designed for advanced players seeking a blend of control and power. The model stands out for its new mold, which optimizes stability and maneuverability while enhancing power through a refined weight distribution in the racket’s core. The construction features premium materials and a focus on durability and performance.
- Weight: 372g (actual tested), with a declared range of 355–380g
- Balance: 26.7 cm (high balance)
- Shape: Round
- Frame: 3K carbon fiber
- Face: 3K carbon fiber with pronounced 3D texture
- Core: EVA Pro 50 (medium-hard rubber)
- Player level: Advanced
- Year: 2024
The racket’s 3D surface is especially notable, providing enhanced grip on the ball for improved spin. Both the face and the frame are constructed from 3K carbon fiber, ensuring rigidity and a solid feel. The EVA Pro 50 core delivers a medium-hard touch, catering to players who favor a firmer response.
In-hand impressions and balance assessment
Upon unboxing, the reviewer notes the actual weight of 372g, slightly higher than the manufacturer’s stated average. The balance point is measured at 26.7 cm, which is considered high for a round racket. This high balance, combined with the medium-hard core, suggests a racket capable of generating substantial power without sacrificing control.
Despite the firmer touch, the reviewer highlights the racket’s large sweet spot, which makes it forgiving on off-center hits. The textured 3D surface is immediately apparent, promising excellent spin potential for advanced technical play.
Performance on volleys and net play
During net play, the Starvie Kenta Pro 2024 impresses with its crisp, responsive feel. The reviewer describes the impact as medium-hard, yet surprisingly comfortable, allowing for precise control in fast exchanges. The racket’s maneuverability and stability at the net are praised, with the large sweet spot contributing to consistent, confident volleys.
- Volleys: Excellent touch and stability, large sweet spot, medium-hard impact
- Net play: High maneuverability, precise placement, reliable control
The reviewer rates the racket’s performance on volleys as “excellent,” emphasizing its suitability for players who value both power and finesse at the net.
High shots: vibora, bandeja, and overheads
When executing high shots such as the vibora and bandeja, the Kenta Pro 2024 stands out for its ability to generate spin and power. The 3D textured face allows players to impart significant effect on the ball, while the high balance aids in delivering forceful, penetrating shots. The reviewer is particularly enthusiastic about the racket’s performance in these scenarios, awarding it a top score for high shots.
- Spin: Outstanding, thanks to pronounced 3D texture
- Power: High, especially on overheads and aggressive plays
- High shots (vibora, bandeja): Exceptional performance, maximum rating
This section underscores the racket’s appeal to advanced players who frequently rely on aggressive, spin-heavy shots from above the shoulder.
Basic strokes and overall playability
In baseline exchanges, including forehands, backhands, and lobs, the reviewer finds the Kenta Pro 2024 delivers a “fantastic” connection between player and racket. The large sweet spot and firm core provide both power and control, even when the ball is not struck perfectly. The reviewer notes that the racket remains stable and responsive, making it easy to maneuver and adapt to different playing styles.
- Forehand/backhand: Excellent feel, consistent performance
- Lobs: Reliable, with good control under pressure
- Off-center hits: Maintains power and stability
For players who value versatility and adaptability, the Kenta Pro 2024 offers a well-balanced experience across all basic strokes.
Wall rebounds and defensive play
On low wall rebounds, the racket continues to perform at a high level, providing both power and precision even when under pressure. The reviewer highlights the racket’s ability to maintain control during defensive situations, with the sweet spot and balance aiding in effective ball placement. High wall rebounds also benefit from the racket’s power and spin capabilities, allowing for aggressive counterattacks or precise placements.
Overall, the reviewer rates the racket’s wall rebound performance as “excellent,” noting that it consistently delivers in both defensive and offensive scenarios.
Smash and power shots: strengths and limitations
When it comes to smashes and powerful overheads, the Kenta Pro 2024 offers solid, but not extraordinary, performance. The reviewer finds that while the racket delivers good power, it does not reach the highest levels expected for pure power rackets. The rating for smashes is a “good 7 or 7.5 out of 10,” reflecting strong but not exceptional output in this area.
- Smash: Good power, but not the absolute best for pure power hitters
- Comfort: Enhanced by Noene Inside grip, which reduces vibrations
The inclusion of the Noene Inside grip is praised for its vibration-dampening properties, contributing to overall comfort and reducing strain on the arm during intense play.
Key qualitative evaluations and ratings summary
- Volleys: Excellent
- High shots (vibora, bandeja): Exceptional, maximum rating
- Basic strokes (forehand, backhand, lobs): Excellent
- Wall rebounds (low and high): Excellent
- Smash: Good (7–7.5/10)
- Comfort: High, thanks to Noene Inside grip
These evaluations reflect the reviewer’s technical ratings for each shot type, providing a clear overview of the racket’s strengths and areas for improvement.
Final impressions: who should choose the Starvie Kenta Pro 2024?
The reviewer concludes that the Starvie Kenta Pro 2024 is a high-quality racket, best suited for advanced players who appreciate a firm, responsive feel and a large sweet spot. Its combination of control, spin, and power makes it a strong choice for those seeking a versatile racket that excels in technical play. While it may not be the top pick for players who prioritize maximum smash power, it offers an excellent balance for those who value both control and aggressive shot-making.
Overall, the Kenta Pro 2024 stands out as a sophisticated, well-engineered option in the Starvie lineup, delivering impressive performance across a wide range of padel scenarios.
