Fils Geared Up

Racquet: Babolat Pure Aero 98 ($279/single; $539/pair)

Once upon a time, a soft drink was marketed as “the choice of a new generation” and now the Babolat Pure Aero 98 could make a similar claim. With Carlos Alcaraz, Holger Rune and Fils all using the frame—and RPM Blast strings to boot—it clearly appeals to some of the biggest talents in the next era of men’s tennis.

With its smaller head size and thinner, more flexible beam, the Aero 98 is the most demanding and control-oriented member of the franchise. Its 16x20 string pattern allows you to direct shots into tighter windows and employ more all-court tactics, yet still produces a lively ball.

A nice feature for competitive players needing multiple racquets is the Aero 98 is offered as a single or in matching pairs. The two matched racquets are intended to have a maximum weight variance of just 1 gram, well below industry standard.

WATCH: CHAMPION! Arthur Fils sinks Alexander Zverev's Hamburg title defense hopes in decisive tiebreaker

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Apparel: Lacoste Ultra Dry Pique Polo ($125) & Lacoste Men’s Lightweight Shorts ($80)

This polyester top—made entirely from recycled manufacturing offcuts—boasts moisture-wicking technology and rip resistant pique. So it keeps you dry and maintains its shape during the toughest conditions. Strategically placed mesh inserts also add to the garment’s breathability. And the light lines and crocodile logo offer classic Lacoste style.

More: Shop Lacoste Men's Tennis Apparel on Tennis Shop powered by Tennis Point.

The shorts are made with recycled polyester diamond taffeta to create a light, airy and stretchy fabric. It won’t weigh you down, and adapts to the most aggressive movement. The elastic waist and drawstring give an adjustable fit, while the contrast taping gives the piece a bit of flair. Available in six different colors, it can mix and match with anyting in your athletic wardrobe.

Shoes: Asics Gel Resolution 9 ($145)

The Gel Resolution has distinguished itself and attracted a wide audience thanks to its rock-solid stability and support. There are shoes that are lighter, others with a softer feel, but few shoes can match its all-around performance.

For this ninth installment, the full-length Flexion Fit upper’s new checkerboard pattern and urethane covering flexes with the foot during movement for a contoured fit and enhanced support. Dynawall, introduced in the previous generation, has been updated to extend from the medial side to the heel for improved stability in the back the shoe, and gain more ground force reaction. And the AHAR outsole is segmented by a groove from the heel through the lateral forefoot to provide a larger contact area for smoother landings.

The six-month guarantee is always a welcome bonus.