Nox AT10 12K Luxury Genius Arena

There are two main models of Augustin Tapia’s Nox AT10 - the original, AT10 Luxury GENIUS Arena (this racket) and the harder AT10 18K Luxury GENIUS.
After playing with the 12K in high temperatures, Augustin requested a harder version to counteract the softening of the core at tournaments in the summer. Similarly, we can envision players buying a 12K and an 18K and switching between them based on the temperatures.

Note that Nox employs the confusing strategy of naming their rackets K “made up” values that do not correspond to carbon fiber thread counts. I don’t agree with their reasoning, but if I allow myself to interpret it for a moment: “the harder 18K is a more technical racket than the 12K, so let’s just give it a higher number.”
Augustin’s genius (sorry about the pun) on the court is that his toolbox is so massive that you never know which one he is going to pull out next. Similarly, this racket is defined by its versatility. A jack of all trades.
Nox calls it a teardrop, but Nox teardrops are quite conservative - this racket might be called a round format if produced by another brand.
Further, Nox refers to its HR3 core as having the greatest memory effect, but it is, in fact, not a very rigid core - let's call it medium density. Our reviewers feel the racket’s rigidity from its surface, not its core.
Nevertheless, this is a premium racket with premium features:
- the SmartStrap strap interchange system
- Sand-blasted roughness
- Anti Vibration System - silicon inserts along the frame near the neck
We would be remiss if we failed to mention that Nox carbon fiber has a reputation for issues with durability in its carbon fiber. This is anecdotal, but we have heard it reported by multiple sources.

Should I play with the Nox AT10 12K or the Nox AT10 18K?

The rackets are very similar - both have the same features, and the same strengths in maneuverability and versatility. The only difference is the 12K’s softer surface. This surface makes it easier to play with in general, and especially easier to defend with.
By default, we recommend the 12K to intermediate players or players unfamiliar with their hardness preferences. The 18K is an advanced racket for players seeking a medium-hard **touch. It is **stronger in the attack and more technical in the defense.