Starvie Basalto Pro

Starvie in 2024 

Starvie is famous for a few things: manufacturing their rackets in Spain, the durability of their rackets, and ending their sponsorship program in 2024. We can't know why they decided to do this, but at the end of 2023 / beginning of 2024, Bea González, Coki Nieto, Lucas Bergamini, and other players announced that they would no longer be playing with Starvie rackets. I have to be honest - this slightly disappointed me as it sort of felt like the heavy-sponsoring, China-manufacturing brands would stomp out the Spanish-manufacturing brands. Or maybe it's just a shift toward boutique, premium, exclusive branding? How will this turn out? Only time will tell.  

Starvie tip 

Because Starvie weight ranges are so wide, we strongly recommend specifying the weight when you purchase your racket. A 385g Starvie will play very differently from a 350g version of the same model. My test model weighed 365g. Note that Total Padel provides a weighing service, which I consider a requirement for Starvies, for €10.

The Basalto Pro: A Power-Oriented Racket for the Attacking Player

In the world of padel, power and offensive prowess are often the keys to seizing control of the court. For those seeking to elevate their attacking game, the Basalto Pro is a compelling choice, offering a potent combination of power and precision that caters to the needs of intermediate and advanced players alike.
Like most of its models, Starvie offers this racket in different versions, which correspond to the different hardnesses, or densities of the foam cores: 
1. Basalto Pro: the hardest with the Pro 50 core (this model) 
2. Basalto: the intermediate model with the Soft 30 EVA core
All else being equal, we only recommend the Basalto Pro to advanced players who know they appreciate a hard touch.  

A High-Balance Power Racket

From the moment you take the Basalto Pro in your hands, its power-oriented nature becomes evident. With a medium touch and a high balance point measured at around 27.6cm in our test model, this racket is designed to deliver explosive power and depth, particularly in offensive situations.
Our reviewers consistently praised the Basalto Pro's ability to excel in the aerial game, where its high balance and teardrop shape allowed them to unleash a barrage of powerful smashes and viboras with minimal effort. The ball seemed to run comfortably off the racket face, providing a distinct advantage in offensive scenarios.

Precision and Control

While power is undoubtedly the Basalto Pro's forte, it would be a mistake to overlook its precision and control.
However, it's important to note that this racket demands a certain level of technique and control from its users. As one reviewer observed, players without proper follow-through and technique may find themselves inadvertently sending balls into the back glass, as the high balance and power potential can be unforgiving for those unprepared for its demanding nature.

Versatility and Defensive Capabilities

While the Basalto Pro excels in offensive situations, it would be a disservice to overlook its defensive capabilities. Our reviewers found that the racket's high balance and power potential also translated well into defensive scenarios, allowing players to comfortably defend and redirect shots with depth and precision.
This versatility makes the Basalto Pro a compelling choice for players who are already comfortable on the defensive end but seeking to elevate their attacking game. Its ability to seamlessly transition between offensive and defensive play styles provides a distinct advantage in the fast-paced world of padel.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Comfort and ergonomics are areas where the Basalto Pro received mixed reviews. Some reviewers found the handle to be slightly too short for their liking.
Additionally, the weight of the racket, which can vary between models but typically falls within the range of 360-380 grams, was noted as a potential drawback for players who prefer a lighter and more maneuverable racket. Our test model, nearing 380 grams, was deemed too heavy by some reviewers, who found it burdensome on their shoulders during extended play.

In Conclusion: A Potent Weapon for the Attacking Player

The Basalto Pro is a racket that unapologetically caters to the needs of the attacking player. With its power-oriented design, high balance point, and emphasis on offensive capabilities, this racket promises to elevate the games of intermediate and advanced players seeking to take their attacking game to new heights.
While it may demand a certain level of technique and physical conditioning to unlock its full potential, the Basalto Pro's ability to seamlessly transition between offensive and defensive play styles, combined with its impressive power and precision, make it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and potent weapon on the court.
For players willing to embrace its demanding nature and commit to honing their technique, the Basalto Pro promises to be a rewarding and engaging companion, capable of delivering explosive power and depth when called upon, while still offering the precision and control necessary to navigate the fast-paced world of padel.