- Great aerial game
- Versatile
- No vibrations
- Not super powerful
Scorecard
Specifications
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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 totally different from a 350g version of the same model.
The Starvie Kenta Eternal
The Kenta Eternal is a sort of replacement for the Raptor Evolution. It fills a gap between the more power-oriented Triton and the control-oriented Metheora. Like most of its models, Starvie offers this racket in three versions, which correspond to the different hardnesses, or densities of the foam cores:
1. Kenta Pro: the hardest with the Pro 50 EVA core
2. Kenta: the intermediate model with the Soft 30 EVA core (this model)
3. Kenta Speed: the softest model with the Ultra Speed Soft EVA core
All else being equal, we recommend the Kenta to intermediate control or versatile players.
The Kenta on the court
Despite its "Soft" core, the Starvie Kenta is not made for beginners or soft racket enthusiasts. It is designed for players who prioritize control, spin, and consistent performance across all shots, thanks to its rigid double layer of 3K carbon fiber surface.
It is a standout option for versatile intermediate players seeking a versatile racket because of its strengths in ball output, sensation, and spin. With its soft core and advanced design, this racket offers players the perfect balance of control, spin, and maneuverability, making it a valuable asset on the court.
Players note that while it may require a minimum rhythm to handle from the back of the court, it excels in delivering powerful shots with excellent ball output and control. In the back of the court, reviewers appreciated its excellent ball output and control, making it a valuable asset for defensive play and strategic shot placement.
Amazing aerials
At the net, the Starvie Kenta responds consistently, offering players great spin and versatility across all shots. In volleys and aerial maneuvers, this racket proves to be reliable, consistent, and solid. The 26.5cm balance and wide central sweet spot provide one of the best aerial game performances on the market.
Comfortable touch and maneuverability
Despite its advanced design, the Starvie Kenta remains comfortable to wield, thanks to its softer EVA core. Players note that it offers great touch and maneuverability, allowing for precise shot-making and fewer mistakes, particularly in compromised situations. Plus, its reduced vibration ensures minimal strain on the arm, making it an ideal choice for extended matches and intense rallies.
Amazing spin
"The most powerful spin technology I've seen to date."
- Manu Martin
Starvie's Full Plane Effect, the monicker for their previous 3D roughness system for spin, was previously the strongest roughness system. And now with the Kenta, they have one-upped themselves. Players appreciate the racket's ability to generate spin effortlessly, giving them an edge in controlling the weight of the ball. Whether executing high or low-speed shots, the new "Hex Tech" for spin is generous.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Starvie Kenta is a versatile and comfortable choice for intermediate players seeking precision, control, and spin all around the court. While it may not offer the raw power of some other rackets, its balanced performance and comfortable touch make it a valuable asset for players looking to take their game to the next level. We recommend beginners or players seeking a soft touch for high ball output at low speeds, check out the Kenta Speed.
Great maneuverability and control due to the rigid double layer of 3K carbon fiber. This model has a comfortable touch, which helps me when I find my self in compromised situations and need to shoot a lob. At the net, this is not a racket with a massive capacity to accelerate the ball when we push, but its great touch gives me a lot of security. It also helps me make fewer mistakes by placing balls in complicated locations for my rivals.
The Kenta is more comfortable than the Kenta Pro due to the lower density - softer - EVA used in its core. The main difference between this and the Kenta Pro is that its shots run a bit shorter than the Pro at high speeds. Unless you're clearly going for a demanding racket, the Kenta should be better for you than the Kenta Pro. Starvie has introduced a 1.5cm longer grip with this racket, which I think many will appreciate.
Great buy for versatile intermediate players. Test model weighs 362g and balances 26.6cm.
I liked this racket quite a lot. The tested model weighs 355g and balances at 27cm, 13cm handle. Don't be confused by the "Soft" core, this is advanced racket. It's designed for ball output / sensation and spin, not for absolute power. I think Starvie's spin system here is the best in the market.