Babolat Counter Viper 2.6
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Rated 4.4 out of 5 on Trustpilot
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Free shipping on orders over $200
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Order before 4 pm Sydney time, shipped today
Babolat Counter Viper 2.6
The Babolat Counter Viper 2.6 is a padel racket developed for advanced to pro players who build their game on control, stability and counter-punching, but want a hard, direct face to do it with. This model is the most demanding version within the Counter line and is aimed at players who want to take over the point from a solid defence and decide it with precision and timing.
The Counter Viper 2.6 is not a comfortable or forgiving racket. It is a technical match racket that combines maximum control with a very direct response.
Who is this racket for?
The Babolat Counter Viper 2.6 is best suited to right-side players at advanced to pro level who like to read the game, slow it down and then accelerate at the right moment. Players who are strong in rallies, defence, lobs and well-placed volleys will get the most out of this racket.
It can also be used by left-side players with a controlling or all-round style who don't rely on smash power but do want a hard, precise face. For players who prioritise comfort or forgiveness, this model is less suitable.
Key features
The round to slightly hybrid shape gives a large, centrally positioned sweet spot, which helps with control and stability even at high ball speeds. The balance is even, keeping the racket stable and easy to handle in defensive situations.
The face is built entirely from carbon and has a hard feel. The face is stiff, direct and not very forgiving. This provides maximum precision and control on clean contact, but demands well-developed technique.
The core is made of firm EVA rubber, which reinforces the direct and powerful response. Vibration damping is functionally present, but comfort is clearly secondary to performance.
Feel and performance
On court, the Babolat Counter Viper 2.6 feels very stable, crisp and extremely precise. In defensive situations you play with plenty of confidence and control, while on acceleration you get maximum feedback and predictability. The racket forgives few errors, but rewards clean play with high-level control and consistency.
That makes the Counter Viper 2.6 a clear choice for players looking for a hard control racket to dominate the game through positioning, timing and precision, from Babolat's high-performance range.
What does shipping cost?
We ship across Australia and New Zealand, with two options at checkout:
- Standard (2–5 business days): $10, or free on orders from $200
- Express (1–3 business days): $20, or $10 on orders from $200
When is my order shipped?
Order on a business day before 4 pm Sydney time and we ship from Sydney the same day. Once your order is on its way you'll get a tracking link so you can follow it to your door.
Can I pick up my order?
Not at the moment – we don't have a pick-up location yet.
Shop the full look
All about the Babolat Counter Viper 2.6
Shape
Round:
Round rackets have a low balance with a large sweet spot (ideal hitting point) in the center of the racket. Round rackets are very maneuverable and offer a lot of control. Perfect for beginners or experienced players who desire a lot of control in their game.
Droplet:
Droplet rackets have a slightly higher balance and a slightly smaller sweet spot. This provides an excellent balance between control and power. These versatile rackets are suitable for intermediate players and various playing styles.
Diamond:
The balance point is towards the top of the racket and the sweet spot is even smaller. The racket is less maneuverable but offers maximum power. These rackets are suitable for advanced players with an attacking playing style.
Hybrid:
Hybrid rackets combine features of droplet and diamond-shaped rackets. These hybrid shapes are often difficult to classify or even completely new. Usually, these rackets offer a mix of power and comfort. These rackets are often ideal for intermediate to advanced players and are accessible for multiple play styles.
Playing style
Controlling:
These rackets are focused on precision and consistency, allowing players more control over their shots. They usually have a lower balance point and a larger sweet spot, making them suitable for players who prefer placement and tactics over power.
All-Round:
This type of racket offers a balanced mix of power, control, and maneuverability, making it suitable for various playing styles and skill levels. They are versatile and can be used for both offensive and controlling game strategies, with a sweet spot that offers a compromise between power and precision.
Attacking:
These rackets are designed to promote powerful shots and help players generate speed and spin for aggressive attacks. They often have a higher balance point for extra power in smashes and volleys, but a smaller sweet spot for more precision and control over powerful shots.
Touch
Soft Touch:
Rackets with a soft touch provide players with a subtle feel and cushioning when hitting the ball. These rackets absorb vibrations and offer more comfort, making them ideal for players who prefer control and precision over pure power.
Medium Touch:
Rackets with a medium touch offer a balanced mix of control and power. They provide sufficient feedback to the player when hitting the ball while still offering a good level of comfort. These rackets are suitable for players looking for versatile performance.
Hard Touch:
Rackets with a hard touch provide a more direct feel and less cushioning on impact. They deliver more power to shots and promote aggressive play, making them ideal for players seeking maximum hitting power and explosiveness.
Feeling
Light Feeling:
Rackets with a light feeling offer not only speed and maneuverability but are also less prone to causing injuries and feel comfortable during long play sessions. These rackets are ideal for players looking for a sense of control without compromising on comfort and arm health.
Medium Feeling:
Rackets with a medium feeling provide a balanced combination of control, power, and comfort. They give sufficient feedback to the player when hitting the ball and are suitable for players of various levels looking for reliable performance.
Heavy Feeling:
Rackets with a heavy feeling offer players more stability and power with each stroke, but they also often feel a bit heavier in the hand. These rackets are suitable for players who prefer a solid feel and maximum hitting power, even if it means a bit of extra weight.
Surface
Smooth:
Rackets with a smooth surface provide players with a consistent and smooth hitting experience. This surface minimizes friction and promotes quick ball movement, making it ideal for players who prefer control and precision in their shots.
Sand:
Rackets with a sand surface have a rougher texture that offers more grip on the ball. This surface enhances spin and placement, allowing players to impart more spin to their shots and better manipulate the ball during play.
3D:
Rackets with a 3D surface feature a relief pattern that is three-dimensional, creating a unique texture. This surface promotes spin, control, and precision, allowing players to add more variety and spin to their shots while maintaining a comfortable grip.