Technical features and construction of the adidas metalbone 3.3
The reviewer from Probando Palas provides a detailed look at the adidas metalbone 3.3, the signature racket of Ale Galán for the 2024 season. This model maintains its distinctive diamond oversize shape, designed for aggressive play, and features a 2-to-1 aluminized carbon fiber face. The core uses Adidas’s EVA Soft Performance foam, which is known for delivering a medium feel—a key characteristic of this version.
- Weight: 367g (with protector, overgrip, and all screws removed)
- Balance: 263 mm (medium)
- Face material: 2-to-1 aluminized carbon fiber
- Core: EVA Soft Performance (medium touch)
- Shape: Diamond oversize
- Surface: 3D rough finish with smaller, more extended circular pattern
- Custom weight system: Weight & Balance screws in the heart
- Grip: Short handle with classic wrist cord
The 3D roughness on the face has been updated for 2024, with smaller circles that now extend to the edge of the racket, aiming to improve spin potential. The Weight & Balance system allows players to fine-tune the racket’s weight and balance by adding or removing screws in the heart. The reviewer notes the handle remains short, a consistent feature from previous years.
Performance from the baseline: comfort and ball output
On-court impressions highlight the metalbone 3.3’s comfort and playability from the back of the court. Despite its diamond shape and medium-high balance, the racket is surprisingly maneuverable, especially with the screws removed. The reviewer emphasizes that at 367g, the racket does not feel demanding on the arm, making it accessible for a wide range of players.
The medium touch provided by the EVA Soft Performance core offers a blend of comfort and responsiveness. The reviewer finds the sweet spot to be standard for an attacking racket, but notes that the ball output is above average compared to other power-oriented models. This means players can achieve good depth and speed without excessive effort, especially at medium pace rallies.
For those accustomed to stiffer rackets, it may take some adjustment to extract maximum speed, but overall, the metalbone 3.3 stands out for its ease of play and effective ball exit from the baseline.
Net play: reactivity, control, and handling
At the net, the metalbone 3.3 demonstrates strong performance in both control and pressure volleys. The reviewer notes that the racket feels reactive, allowing the ball to travel deep with minimal effort. In controlled volleys, the medium balance and touch provide a solid sense of stability, while in faster exchanges, the racket remains responsive.
However, the short handle is mentioned as a minor drawback, as it can limit leverage and palanca for some players, especially those with larger hands or a preference for longer grips. The rough surface texture is present but not overly pronounced, resulting in average spin generation—other brands are noted to have improved their roughness more significantly.
In high-pace volley and block situations, the racket maintains its reactivity, though the reviewer cautions that relaxing the grip too much can cause the ball to float. While not the absolute best in this area, it still performs slightly above average for rackets with a medium touch.
Overheads and aerial game: power, spin, and progression
When it comes to overheads—bandejas, víboras, and smashes—the metalbone 3.3 offers good ball output and depth, especially at medium speeds. The diamond shape and balance help transmit power without requiring excessive effort. The reviewer finds that the racket excels in listed and sliced smashes, providing a satisfying trajectory and lift when the technique is correct.
However, as the pace increases, the racket’s progression becomes less linear. In powerful flat smashes, the ball can float or lose some control, and the reviewer notes that the metalbone HRD 2024—the harder version—would be a better fit for players seeking more rigidity and explosiveness in these situations.
Spin generation is adequate, especially in listed or sliced shots, but the roughness is not as aggressive as some competitors. The sweet spot remains forgiving, and the reviewer never felt penalized for off-center hits during aerial play.
Comparisons with other medium-touch rackets and alternatives
The reviewer draws comparisons with other popular medium-touch rackets, such as the Nox AT10 18K and Bullpadel Vertex 04. In their opinion, the metalbone 3.3 outperforms these models at the net, offering a more complete and versatile experience in volley situations. The racket’s comfort and reactivity set it apart, making it a standout option for players who value both control and power without sacrificing maneuverability.
For those seeking a more progressive or rigid feel—especially in high-speed rallies or flat smashes—the metalbone HRD 2024 is recommended as an alternative. This harder version provides more direct feedback and explosiveness, particularly useful for advanced players who generate their own power.
Key strengths and areas for improvement highlighted by the reviewer
- Comfort: Very comfortable for a diamond-shaped, attacking racket
- Ball output: Above average at medium pace, easy depth from baseline and in bandejas
- Reactivity: Quick response in volleys and blocks, especially at the net
- Versatility: Performs well in both defensive and attacking situations
- Customizability: Weight & Balance system allows for personal adjustment
- Spin: Average, with room for improvement in surface roughness
- Handle: Short length may not suit all players, limits leverage for some
- Progression: Loses some control and power in high-speed, flat smashes
Final thoughts on the adidas metalbone 3.3’s on-court performance
The adidas metalbone 3.3 earns high praise from Probando Palas for its balance of comfort, power, and versatility. Its medium touch makes it accessible for a wide range of players, and it stands out as one of the most enjoyable rackets tested this year in this category. While it loses a bit of control and explosiveness at the highest speeds, it remains a strong choice for those seeking a comfortable, reactive, and customizable racket for both baseline and net play. For players who want even more rigidity and progression in their shots, the metalbone HRD 2024 is suggested as a compelling alternative.
