Racquet: Babolat Pure Aero ($259)
If you like to overwhelm your opponents with pace and spin, the Pure Aero is one of the premiere racquets for the job. For this 8th generation of the franchise, Babolat decided to slightly tighten the spacing of the 16x19 string pattern to give the frame a bit more feedback and control. Another notable change is flax fibers—commonly used in alpine skis—which have been placed at 3 and 9 o’clock and inside the handle to give better feel at contact. The racquet is still well-suited for bashing serves and spin-laden groundies, with the greater command emboldening users to let loose on the ball since there’s less fear of overhitting. The updates tinkered in the fringes of the response control without diminishing what makes the racquet an Aero.
Apparel: Adidas Heat.rdy Freelift Tee ($80); Adidas 7-inch Seersucker Shorts ($70)
Made with 100% recycled materials, this top has Freelift construction which incorporates adaptive stretch in strategic locations to offer players greater range of motion. The slim fit and seamless design also limits friction in busy areas such as under the arms. To help keep players cool, the garment includes Heat.rdy technology for moisture-management, as well as mesh side and back panels to improve ventilation in high sweat zones.
The fabric on these shorts stretch as you do, allowing for unfettered movement on the court. A mesh gusset adds to the flexibility and increases ventilation. An elastic waistband and drawcord provide a tailored and secure fit, and the seersucker puckering gives the piece a stylish look.
Shoes: Adidas Barricade 13 ($160)
When a shoe is up to its 13th iteration, it’s a safe bet that it’s got a strong following. The Barricade has always been attractive to the high-performance crowd thanks to its combination of first-rate stability and durability. This latest version has been updated with Repetitor cushioning to offer a smoother, more responsive ride. It features a dual-density foam—firmer in the forefoot for better stability; plusher in the heel for better shock absorption and comfort. The upper also has more mesh and enhanced padding in the tongue for greater breathability and out-of-the-box comfort. The Geofit sense pods and shark skin lining in the heel have been refined for an improved fit. All the tweaks continue to evolve the Barricade to be more comfortable and user-friendly, but at its core remains a rock-solid stable shoe.