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PADEL CHAPTER Score combines product specifications and editorial assessment. Scores are updated when new information becomes available.

Babolat

Viper Counter

The Babolat Viper Counter 2023 stands out with its round-diamond shape and 3D texture on the face. First impressions point to particular strengths in ball control and spin.

Round365–365gHigh balance
7.5
Good
All-round racket for experienced players
Performance potential7.7
Playability7.4
CharacterAll-round

The PADEL CHAPTER score is our overall editorial assessment. The pillars provide additional context. Read how we assess products →

Babolat Viper Counter padel racket
Score Breakdown
Power7.6
Control7.8
Maneuverability6.7
Sweet spot7.7
Defense7.4
Comfort7.4
CharacterPlaying character

Control focused • Forgiving • Forgiving

Specifications
Weight365–365g
BalanceHigh balance
ShapeRound
CoreX-EVA, multilayered densities
Frame3K carbon fiber
Profile38mm

The Babolat Viper Counter 2023 occupies its own position within the Viper line with a round-diamond shape and a slightly wider sweetspot than its siblings. Based on first impressions, it appears focused on ball control and spin potential, with the 3D face texture intended to play an important role. We have compared specifications with early playing experiences to see what it offers.

The Babolat Viper Counter 2023 weighs 365 grams with high balance, as expected in an attacking racket. Its shape nevertheless differs from classic diamond rackets: the round shape gives a larger sweetspot and increases its control character. The face is 3K carbon fiber, a relatively soft carbon weave with fewer filaments, and the core is X-EVA with multiple density layers. At a profile thickness of 38 mm, it sits in the middle range, neither extremely thick nor very slim. The frame is fully carbon. At 290 euros, Babolat positions it in the market's mid-range segment.

What will you notice on court?

What you will notice as a player

The smash gets plenty of easy power; you do not need a full follow-through to put the ball away.

A balanced racket that responds predictably in most situations.

No pronounced weakness, but no single shot where the racket particularly stands out either.

Which shots are affected most?

SituationWhat will you notice?
DefenseReasonable: a calm swing returns most balls off the glass.
VolleyComfortable and stable; aiming is easy and you keep the ball low.
BandejaVery easy to control: the ball stays low and predictable, ideal for controlling the court.
ViboraEnough bite for a quick brushing shot with some acceleration of your own.
SmashIts strongest point: maximum power with little effort, sending the ball away like a rocket.
BlockStable: the racket is ready in time and returns the ball with control.
Off-center ballReasonably forgiving: outside the sweet spot you lose some speed, while accuracy is largely maintained.
What type of player does this racket suit?

This racket suits a broad range of players.

Well suited to

All-round playersAttacking playersPlayers who want plenty of help from their racketComfort seekers

Less suited to

Players with a fast swingTechnical players
Does this racket meet your needs?

This racket suits a broad range of players and needs.

This racket is likely to suit you if you…

want more power and strength in your smash

like to play an attacking, explosive game

have a sensitive arm and need cushioning

This racket may disappoint if you…

want a light and agile racket

want to react quickly to hard-hit balls

You will probably appreciate this racket if you…

  • •value an explosive smash and vibora more than comfort;
  • •want a balanced racket that handles every shot;

You may run into limitations if you…

  • •want a pronounced specialist rather than an all-round racket;

Personal advice

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Babolat Viper Counter 2023: first impressions | PADEL CHAPTER