Key Takeaways
- Pablo concluded that the new AT10 range represents “an evolution, not a revolution” with sensations closely mirroring the 2026 models.
- During defensive play, Pablo highlighted Edu Alonso’s EA10 as his top pick because “what you do with your arm is pretty much what the ball does.”
- Nox engineered the new VCS handle system to decrease frame shock, with lab results showing it “reduces vibrations by around 60%.”
Breaking down the new genius and ventus lineups
Equipment analyst Pablo from the4Set has carried out an extensive on-court test of the Nox 2027 collection, comparing the bestselling models endorsed by Agustín Tapia, Edu Alonso, and Aimar Goñi. The lineup centers around two distinct model families, two padel shapes, and three carbon options. The Genius line incorporates Tapia’s signature models, dividing into hybrid shapes with a balance of roughly 25 centimeters and diamond-shaped attack versions balancing at around 27 centimeters. In parallel, the Ventus line features Alonso’s EA10 in a hybrid format and Goñi’s AG10 in an attack build.
Pablo highlighted how much the balance point influences gameplay, noting that “those 2 cm of difference in balance are very noticeable on court and they definitely affect performance.” He also explained that the attack models come equipped with a handle that is 1 centimeter longer to offer added leverage. To provide players with further customization, all models preserve the adjustable weight and balance system situated at the top of the frame.
Carbon choices and structural updates
Across the seven models tested, Nox utilized three primary carbon variations: 18K Alum, 12K Alum Extreme, and 12K Extreme. According to factory engineers, the aluminized treatment stabilizes performance against temperature changes, whereas Extreme carbon trims interlacing fibers by roughly 50 percent to produce a thinner, stiffer feel. Aside from the lightweight AT10 Light, which incorporates softer HR3 White foam and weighs roughly 10 grams less, every racket features MLD Black EVA multilayer core foam.
Technical updates across the range include an elastomer-based VCS system fitted in the handle, which Nox lab tests indicate “reduces vibrations by around 60%.” Additionally, the bridge air channels have expanded to enhance aerodynamics and offset the added handle weight, complemented by new structural reinforcements on the racket sides. The four primary AT10 models enter pre-order at €390, while the AT10 Light, EA10, and AG10 retail for €350, with initial deliveries slated for October.
Smash testing and performance rankings
To measure raw power output, Pablo recorded the average distance of five smashes with each racket under controlled conditions in Madrid at 20 degrees Celsius using fresh balls. The 12K Hybrid registered the top smash distance in his hands, followed closely by the AG10 and 12K Attack. The softer 18K models finished lower in pure overhead speed.
| Rank | Defense | Volleys | Bandejas and Viboras |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EA10 | 12K Hybrid | AG10 |
| 2 | 12K Hybrid | EA10 | 12K Attack |
| 3 | 18K Hybrid | AG10 | EA10 |
Assessing baseline defense, Pablo placed Alonso’s EA10 at the top, explaining that “what you do with your arm is pretty much what the ball does.” The 12K Hybrid earned second position for its controlled response, while Tapia’s signature 18K Hybrid took third place as “one of the easiest to feel comfortable with right away.”
Moving forward to attacking volleys at the net, the 12K Hybrid claimed the top spot thanks to its crispness and directional precision. Regarding the 18K, Pablo remarked, “if you prioritize comfort and want the racket to give you a little more help, you might actually prefer the 18K, but for my game, I take in the 12K.”
When executing overhead transitions such as bandejas and víboras, the stiffer AG10 emerged as the standout choice. Pablo noted that “when you make contact high on the racket, you really feel it respond.”
Comparing 2026 and 2027 generations
Weighing the new updates against previous iterations, Pablo addressed whether casual players would perceive a vast leap forward from the 2026 version of Tapia’s racket. He was frank about the playing sensation, stating, “if you covered the designs and handed me one rocket after the other, I will have a very hard time telling them apart because the feeling is almost identical.”
Reflecting on the collection as a whole, Pablo concluded that “the 2027 NOX rackets are an evolution, not a revolution.” While current owners of intact 2026 rackets need not feel pressured to upgrade, he affirmed that the 2027 edition successfully “keeps all the qualities that made this racket so popular in the first place.”
