This is a 9.5 racket. The only area I’d want slightly better is maneuverability, but improving that would probably come at the cost of control or stability. It’s way better than version 3. It feels softer, yet still gives you that crisp strike feel and precise control, allowing you to decide when to hit flat or add more topspin. There’s no such thing as a perfect 10/10 racket, but a 9.5 probably makes this a top 3 among all 98-square-inch rackets in my opinion.

I have played with Pure Strikes since the first generation. This one is the best yet. I was concerned that Babolat is no longer making my 4 5/8 grip size; however, the Midwest product team arranged to build up a 4 1/2 grip to 4 5/8. I was skeptical from past experience that the feel would be the same, but now having played with the racquet the bevels feel the same and the racquet overall is great. Kudos to Midwest.

It definitely feels like an upgrade from the last version. Easy to control and gives you a good balance of power and spin. The design feels solid and responsive, so you can hit the ball just the way you want.