A very surprising newcomer on the racket market is the American Diadem, known for its star-shaped strings. Mike tested the Diadem Elevate 98. This fully 'foam filled' racket offers a very solid playing feel, good precision and above average comfort!
Tested racket:
- Brand : Diadem
- Model : Elevate 98
- Blade size : 98 sq/inch
- Weight : 305 gr
- Balance : 32.0 cm
- Sparing pattern : 16x20
- Length : 27 inches
- RA : 64
- Stringing : Diadem Flash 17 on 22/21 kg
The Diadem Elevate 98 is now available in our webshop, or can be requested via our demo program!
Tester:
Test scores Diadem Elevate 98:
About Diadem:
The innovative American brand Diadem is best known for its star-shaped strings , which provide solid spin and excellent ball bite. In addition to strings and grips, Diadem has now also launched rackets. The Nova series focuses on power frames, while the Elevate 98 focuses on in the segment of control-oriented rackets such as the Wilson Blade 98 CV and Babolat Pure Strike .
Baseline:
The Diadem Elevate 98 offers a solid playing experience from the baseline. The racket does exactly what you expect it to do when you get in front of the ball. What immediately stands out is the homogeneous playing feel; you get back exactly what you put into it. This racket is completely filled with foam, which provides Impact Shield Technology , a technology that provides extra comfort without losing direct playing feel. This was a relief for Mike, given his previous shoulder problems.
Despite the 16x20 stringing pattern, the mesh in the sweet spot is relatively open, which ensures good ball rotation. Mike's backhand slices felt tight and well controllable. The sweet spot feels larger than the specifications suggest, and when you put the racket well behind the ball, it offers sufficient power.
Service:
Mike doesn't describe himself as a service cannon, but the Elevate 98 still offers sufficient service power. Kick and slice serves came out easily, probably due to the fairly open meshes. Mike is considering a leather base grip to lower the balance a bit, making the racket even easier to maneuver.
Just:
At the net the racket feels stable. Hard balls are well controllable and touch volleys come off the blade well. Mike is considering using a leather grip to make the racket more manoeuvrable, which helps with quick reflex volleys.
Power/control:
The Diadem Elevate 98 emphasizes control over power , but there is still plenty of power. You do need to apply the necessary swing and technique yourself to get the most out of this racket. It feels like a Babolat Pure Strike 16x19 , but less stiff and friendlier to the arm and shoulder.
Comfort/arm friendliness:
One of the biggest advantages of this racket is its comfort. The racket offers excellent vibration dampening and is arm-friendly, even during intensive sessions. This makes the Elevate 98 an excellent choice for players with arm problems.
Overall:
The Diadem Elevate 98 is an impressive 'players frame' with many possibilities for personalization. The solid playing feel and the excellent comfort make it a must-try racket. For players looking for a racket with control, good spin and exceptional comfort, this racket is a must-try!
The Diadem Elevate 98 is now available in our webshop or can be requested via our demo program !