Carlos Alcaraz Racket 2026: Exact Specs & Strings
Chris Davies | Lead Gear Tester Last Updated: May 23, 2026
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Carlos’s Racket Specs Summary
In 2026, Carlos Alcaraz uses a customized pro-stock version of the Babolat Pure Aero 98.
The Bottom Line:
- Racket: Babolat Pure Aero 98 (Custom Pro Stock)
- Strings: Babolat RPM Blast (16g / 1.30mm)
- Tension: 55 lbs (25 kg) mains, 51 lbs (23 kg) crosses
- Grip: Babolat Syntec Pro base with VS Original overgrip
Understanding His Custom Specifications
How do we know his exact specifications? Official data from the Babolat Pro Room confirms his true setup. Babolat engineers custom-build his frames directly in France. They use a specific mold designed strictly for tour professionals. The unstrung weight sits firmly around 320 grams.
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He uses Babolat RPM Blast 16-gauge strings. This thick 1.30mm string provides massive durability. It survives his incredibly violent racket head speed. A thinner string would snap in a matter of minutes. The octagonal string shape grips the yellow felt perfectly.
Look closely at his hybrid tension strategy. He strings the main strings at 55 lbs. He drops the cross strings to 51 lbs. This four-pound tension gap softens the stiff polyester. It allows the main strings to snap back faster for spin.
Pro-Stock vs. Retail Models
Retail rackets are mass-produced for the general public. Alcaraz uses a frame with custom graphite layups. Babolat adds hidden lead tape beneath the bumper guard. They place this extra weight at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions. This stops the racket from twisting during heavy baseline rallies.
Let us talk about swingweight. The retail Pure Aero 98 has a 327 swingweight. Alcaraz pushes his custom frame well over 335. This massive swingweight provides incredible plow-through on the ball. It allows him to dictate points against heavy hitters.
Read About: Wilson Blade 98 vs Babolat Pure Strike
Normal players should avoid his exact heavy specifications. A 335-gram strung racket will exhaust your arm quickly. Playing with stiff strings at 55 lbs causes injury. It is a leading cause of severe tennis tendonitis.
If you want spin, buy the retail Pure Aero. If you need forgiveness, look at softer frames. The Yonex EZONE 100 offers incredible easy power. Read our guide on the Best Tennis Rackets for Tennis Elbow for safer options.
Key Takeaways: Alcaraz Exact Specs
| Specification | Alcaraz Custom Setup | Standard Retail Racket |
| Head Size | 98 sq in | 98 sq in |
| String Pattern | 16×20 | 16×20 |
| Unstrung Weight | ~320 grams | 305 grams |
| String Tension | 55 lbs / 51 lbs | Player Preference |
| Swing Weight | ~335+ | 327 |
The Secret to His Grip Setup
His grip setup is highly specific for his playstyle. He uses a standard grip size 3 handle. He applies a Babolat Syntec Pro replacement grip first. Then, he wraps a Babolat VS Original white overgrip tightly.
Read More: Best Babolat Tennis Racquets
This specific overgrip is incredibly thin at 0.43mm. It lets him feel the handle bevels instantly. Feeling the bevels helps him switch grips rapidly. This is how he disguises his lethal drop shots so well.
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FAQs
Does Carlos Alcaraz use lead tape?
Yes, Babolat customizes his frame with lead tape. They hide it safely under the top bumper guard. This customization gives him incredible stability against heavy shots.
What grip size does Alcaraz use?
He uses a standard grip size 3. He wraps it with a thin Babolat VS Original overgrip. This allows him to feel the racket bevels perfectly.
Does Alcaraz change string tension during matches?
Yes, he frequently adjusts his tension during live matches. If the balls get heavy, he drops the tension slightly. Lower tension helps him find extra power when fatigued.
Does Alcaraz use a vibration dampener?
Yes, he uses a vibration dampener on his strings. He plays with the Babolat Custom Damp. He uses the black and red version with the insert removed.
How often does he restring his rackets?
Professional players like Alcaraz restring their rackets every single day. He brings up to six freshly strung rackets to every match. Polyester strings lose tension rapidly after just two hours of hitting.
What is the difference between Pure Aero and Pure Aero 98?
The standard Pure Aero has a 100-square-inch head. It uses a 16×19 string pattern for maximum power. The Pure Aero 98 has a smaller head and denser 16×20 pattern. This gives Alcaraz significantly more control
See you on the court,
