The Babolat Air Origin 2025 is ideal for intermediate allrounders who prioritize a lightweight frame with a soft core for effortless handling. In contrast, the Babolat Counter Veron 2.6 2026 caters to intermediate attacking players looking for a heavier, high-balance racket with a large sweet spot. Both models offer a balanced power-to-control ratio in our assessment, but they deliver distinct playing experiences on court.
| Feature | Babolat Air Origin 2025 | Babolat Counter Veron 2.6 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Season | 2025 | 2026 |
| Weight | 345 g | 365 g |
| Balance | Not stated | High |
| Thickness | 38 mm | 38 mm |
| Core Material | EVA | Black EVA |
| Face Material | Not stated | Carbon Flex |
| Frame Material | Not stated | Carbon |
| Shape (our assessment) | Teardrop | Round |
| Level (our assessment) | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Core Hardness (our assessment) | Soft | Medium |
| Power vs Control (our assessment) | 3 / 5 | 3 / 5 |
| Sweet Spot (our assessment) | Medium | Large |
| Player Type (our assessment) | Allrounder | Attacker |
Which one has more power?
In our assessment, both the Babolat Air Origin 2025 and the Babolat Counter Veron 2.6 2026 achieve a rating of 3 out of 5 on our power-versus-control scale, where 1 represents pure control and 5 represents pure power. However, the mechanism behind their output differs based on physical specifications.
The Babolat Counter Veron 2.6 2026 incorporates a high balance combined with a total weight of 365 g. It also features a Carbon frame, Carbon Flex face, and Black EVA core. This top-heavy structure provides extra momentum when accelerating the racket head through overhead shots like the smash or aggressive viboras.
In comparison, the Babolat Air Origin 2025 weighs significantly less at 345 g and uses a standard EVA core. Its balance, frame material, and face material are not stated by the manufacturer. While its lighter weight makes it easier to accelerate quickly, it offers less total physical mass behind the ball compared to the 365 g Counter Veron.
Which is easier to play and defend with?
Ease of handling in defense depends on weight, shape, and sweet spot size.
The Babolat Air Origin 2025 stands out for defensive play off the back glass due to its low weight of 345 g. In our assessment, it features a teardrop shape and a soft core hardness, which helps produce smooth ball exit without requiring extreme swing speed. However, in our assessment, its sweet spot is rated as medium, meaning precise hitting is still beneficial when resetting deep balls.
The Babolat Counter Veron 2.6 2026 is 20 g heavier at 365 g and utilizes a high balance, which demands slightly more physical strength to maneuver behind the glass. On the other hand, in our assessment, its round shape delivers a large sweet spot, making off-center hits during late defensive block shots far more forgiving. In our assessment, its core hardness is medium, offering a slightly firmer impact feel than the soft core of the Air Origin.
How do they handle at the net and in aerial shots?
At the net, player preference for maneuverability versus head-heavy stability dictates performance.
The Air Origin 2025 shines in fast reaction volleys and quick block shots. The 345 g build allows players to position the racket rapidly during fast-paced exchanges. In aerial situations like the bandeja, the soft core provides comfort, though players must supply their own force due to the lighter weight.
When transitioning to net attack and overheads, the Counter Veron 2.6 2026 takes advantage of its high balance and 365 g build. The top-heavy mass helps drive bandejas deeper into the opponent's court and gives extra weight to offensive volleys. Its medium core hardness and Carbon Flex face maintain structure under heavy hits, providing a stable response.
Who should buy which?
Choose the Babolat Air Origin 2025 if you:
- Prefer a lightweight 345 g frame that places less strain on the arm.
- Are an intermediate player looking for an allrounder profile (in our assessment).
- Value a soft core hardness (in our assessment) for comfortable ball output.
- Want a teardrop shape with standard 38 mm thickness.
Choose the Babolat Counter Veron 2.6 2026 if you:
- Are an intermediate player with an attacking playstyle (in our assessment).
- Prefer a high balance and 365 g weight to generate leverage on aerial shots.
- Want a round shape with a large sweet spot (in our assessment) for defensive consistency.
- Desire a racket featuring a Carbon frame, Carbon Flex face, and medium core hardness (in our assessment).
Frequently asked questions
What are the main weight and balance differences between these two rackets?
The Babolat Air Origin 2025 weighs 345 g, while its balance is not stated. The Babolat Counter Veron 2.6 2026 weighs 365 g and features a high balance.
How do the shapes and sweet spots compare according to PadelLeague's assessment?
In our assessment, the Babolat Air Origin 2025 has a teardrop shape with a medium sweet spot, whereas the Babolat Counter Veron 2.6 2026 has a round shape with a large sweet spot.
Which playing levels are these rackets suitable for?
In our assessment, both the Babolat Air Origin 2025 and the Babolat Counter Veron 2.6 2026 are rated for intermediate level padel players.