Babolat Xcel 16/1.30 String Black
Line: Xcel
$22.00
Offering an almost unmatched combination of comfort, touch and feel this newer version of XCel adds a durability upgrade to Babolat's time-tested original recipe. The increase in durability will allow stronger players with longer strokes to enjoy maximum playability. While this one has more than enough pop for players with shorter strokes, the control is actually quite good for the breed. Suitable to all ability levels, this one is a genuine treat for any non-poly player who wants to experience one of the most responsive multifilaments on the market.
String specs
| Gauge | 16/1.30mm |
| Length | 40ft/12m |
| Composition | Multifilament |
| Color | Blue, Natural |
Where to buy
What players say
Players and reviewers describe Babolat Xcel 16/1.30 as a soft, arm-friendly multifilament with easy power and a plush feel, closer to a true comfort string than a control string. The main trade-offs reviewers point to are modest spin and durability that falls short of polyester, with some reporting fraying or tension loss within a short time.
Best for
- Arm or shoulder issues
- Players wanting easy power and comfort
- Baseline control rather than heavy spin
- Beginner to intermediate players
Pros
- Comfortable, plush feel that testers and customers repeatedly call easy on the arm
- Good ball pocketing and natural, effortless power without feeling unwieldy
- Above-average control for a soft multifilament, according to polyester-leaning testers
- Large sweetspot and forgiving response
Cons
- Noticeably less spin than a firm polyester, requiring higher tension or more swing effort to bring the ball down
- Durability trails polyester and some other multis; several users report fraying or notching
- Tension loss can be inconsistent, with at least one user losing string tension the same day it was strung
- Can feel too lively or less controlled for players with big, fast swings
Voices
— Brittany, Tennis Warehouse playtester, Web
I really enjoyed the feel of this string.
— Brittany, Tennis Warehouse playtester, Web
With this multifilament string there really wasn't that much spin to work with.
— Chris, Tennis Warehouse playtester, Web
To our surprise, however, we didn't experience the unwieldy power level that big hitters often encounter with soft multis.
— Chris Nash, Tennisnerd, Web
Xcel is far more powerful vs Xplore... that classic multifilament 'trampoline' effect.
— Chris Nash, Tennisnerd, Web
Tension drops quicker than Xplore.
— SN, Tennis Warehouse customer review, Web
Very muted and comfortable feeling, but Xcel 16 didn't last very long in my racquet.
