The Babolat Storm 2023 offers excellent value as an entry-level racket, featuring a forgiving nature and balanced performance that suits developing players. While it may not satisfy advanced players, its comfortable feel and manageable weight make it an ideal choice for those beginning their padel journey.
Power
5.9/10
Control
4.8/10
Defense
6.0/10
Offense
5.8/10
Maneuverability
5.4/10
Padel Racket Review - Babolat Storm 2023
Bowe is convinced that the racket, shoes, court are the problem, never his own abilities.
Our mission is to help you choose the right padel racket with clear, in-depth reviews that make it easy to level up your game.
We start with official specs, then break down each racket's key properties. Finally, we bring together trusted video and written reviews—summarised into one consistent, easy-to-read overview.
Babolat Storm 2023: The Value-Focused Entry Level Champion
The Babolat Storm 2023 stands out in the budget segment by offering a thoughtfully designed experience for players starting their padel journey. Its hybrid frame construction, combining carbon and fiberglass, delivers a surprising level of durability at this price point. The soft EVA core and teardrop shape work together to create a forgiving platform that encourages players to develop their skills with confidence.
How it plays..
Balanced Performance for Growing Skills
On court, the Storm 2023 immediately impresses with its manageable 345-gram weight and balanced feel. The medium-soft touch provides good feedback without being harsh, making it easy to read the ball's behavior off the face. The sweet spot is generously sized for a budget racket, helping players maintain consistency even when contact isn't perfect. While it won't overwhelm with raw power, it delivers predictable performance that helps build fundamental skills.
Defense
Reliable Defense for Building Confidence
From the baseline, the Storm 2023 shows its beginner-friendly character. The forgiving sweet spot and balanced weight distribution make it easier to maintain control during defensive play. While it may not have the precision of premium rackets, it provides enough feedback and control to help players develop proper defensive technique and positioning. Lobs and clearance shots feel natural, though they require good technique for maximum effectiveness.
Attack
Measured Power for Developing Players
In offensive situations, the Storm 2023 delivers moderate power that suits developing players. The teardrop shape provides enough punch for effective smashes without being overwhelming. Players will need to focus on proper technique to generate power, which actually helps build good habits. The racket responds well to controlled aggression but may leave more advanced players wanting more explosive potential.
Netplay
Approachable Net Play
At the net, the Storm 2023's light weight and balanced design shine through. Quick reactions feel natural, and the forgiving sweet spot helps maintain control during fast exchanges. While it may not offer the precise touch of higher-end rackets, it provides enough feel for developing players to work on their volley technique and positioning. The moderate power level actually helps players focus on placement rather than overwhelming force.
Our Advice for New Players
Perfect Starting Point for Beginners
If you're just starting your padel journey, the Storm 2023 is an excellent choice. Its forgiving nature helps build confidence, while the balanced performance encourages proper technique development. The comfortable feel reduces fatigue during learning sessions, and the durable construction ensures it can handle the inevitable mishits. At its budget-friendly price point, it offers everything you need to begin enjoying the sport.
Our Advice for Intermediate Players
Transition Phase for Improving Players
For intermediate players, the Storm 2023 might serve as a temporary solution while developing skills or as a reliable backup racket. While you may start to feel its limitations as your technique improves, particularly in power and precise control, it remains capable enough for regular recreational play. Consider it a stepping stone rather than a long-term solution at this level.
Competitive level
Limited Appeal for Advanced Players
Advanced players should look elsewhere. While the Storm 2023 is well-made for its intended purpose, it lacks the performance ceiling needed for high-level play. The moderate power output and limited precision will feel restrictive to players who have developed refined technique and expect more from their equipment.
Research & References
Our mission is to help you choose the right padel racket with clear, in-depth reviews that make it easy to level up your game. We start with official specs, then break down each racket’s key properties. Finally, we bring together trusted video and written reviews—summarised into one consistent, easy-to-read overview.
Comfortable and forgiving for developing players
Good durability with hybrid frame construction
Light weight improves maneuverability
Excellent value for money
Limited power output for advanced players
Control could be better for precise shot placement
Performance ceiling may be reached quickly as skills improve
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Skill Level
Low_Intermediate
Court Position
Both
Play Style
Balanced
Best at: Defense (6.0/10)
Average: 5.6/10
Shape
Teardrop
Weight
Light (341–355G)
Balance
Balanced (Even)
Touch
Medium-Soft
Core
Soft
Surface
Medium
Texture
Rough
Year
2023
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