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Extreme EVO for power-curious beginners under £75; Counter Viper only if you're already past the learning curve.
A three-times price gap and almost nothing in common between these two. The Babolat Counter Viper is £170, all-skill-rated, with Babolat's all-rounder positioning. The Head Extreme EVO is £55-75, beginner-rated, 350-365g, teardrop shape, medium balance, Power Foam core, fibreglass face at 38mm.
The Extreme EVO is honestly badged: a cheap teardrop that gives a hint of power for a learner who's outgrown pure round frames but isn't ready for proper attacking weights. The fibreglass face won't grip the ball for spin, and the materials feel basic in hand, but that's the deal at this price.
The Counter Viper sits in Babolat's serious-money tier. It's built for a player who wants a frame that won't be the bottleneck once their level rises. Put it in true beginner hands and you'll waste two-thirds of what you paid.
Hand-written editorial — not auto-generated. By Gary, RacketRise.
| Product | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Padel Rackets | Padel Rackets |
| Sport | Padel | Padel |
| Skill Level | Advanced | Beginner |
| Weight | 365-380g | 350-365g |
| Shape | Diamond | Teardrop |
| Balance | High | Medium |
| Core | Hard EVA | Power Foam |
| Surface | Carbon fibre | Fibreglass |
| Thickness | 38mm | 38mm |
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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The main differences are: Weight: Babolat Counter has 365-380g vs 350-365g. Shape: Babolat Counter has Diamond vs Teardrop. Balance: Babolat Counter has High vs Medium. Overall, the Babolat Counter Viper Padel Racket is best for advanced players while the Head Extreme EVO Padel Racket suits beginners.
The Head Extreme EVO Padel Racket is the better choice for beginners thanks to its forgiving design and accessible price point. The Babolat Counter Viper Padel Racket is aimed at advanced players and may be more demanding to use effectively.
The Babolat Counter Viper Padel Racket (£170) costs more than the Head Extreme EVO Padel Racket (£55-75). Whether the premium is worth it depends on your skill level — if you are advanced players, the extra investment in the Babolat Counter Viper Padel Racket can pay off.