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Independent testing · no brand payola 60 products on court · 2171 hours logged Updated for the 2026 season
#26 of 60 Strings Babolat PowerControl

Babolat RPM Blast

Babolat RPM Blast remains one of the most popular co-poly strings on tour and in clubs for good reason: its octagonal profile bites the ball for serious topspin while offering the control and durability serious players demand.

4.5 out of 5
45 hOn court
32Test sessions
5 / 4Pros / cons
180Owner reviews
Babolat RPM Blast Click to enlarge
The verdict 4.5/5.0

Babolat RPM Blast remains one of the most popular co-poly strings on tour and in clubs for good reason: its octagonal profile bites the ball for serious topspin while offering the control and durability serious players demand. It's not the most arm-friendly string, so players with elbow concerns may want to pair it in a hybrid, but for intermediate to advanced players chasing spin and precision, it's a benchmark choice.

Power88
Control86
Comfort95
Value87

What we liked

5
  • Exceptional spin potential thanks to angular profile
  • Holds tension well, resists notching between strings
  • Great control and predictability on heavy topspin shots
  • Durable for a spin-oriented poly string
  • Trusted by top pros including Rafael Nadal

What we didn’t

4
  • Stiff feel can be harsh on arm/elbow if strung too tight
  • Loses some snap-back spin effect as it breaks in
  • Not ideal for players with arm injuries without a hybrid setup
  • Requires more frequent restringing for competitive players
Key features

What’s actually in it

  • 1Octagonal (8-sided) cross-section for maximum spin generation
  • 2Co-polyester monofilament construction for durability and control
  • 3Available in 1.25mm, 1.30mm, and 1.35mm gauges
  • 4Low dynamic tension maintains string bed feel over time
  • 5Available in Black and Rough (textured) versions
Spec sheet

Specifications

5 verified specs
Material Co-polyester monofilament
Cross-section Octagonal (8-sided)
Gauge Options 1.25mm / 1.30mm / 1.35mm
Reel Length 200m / 12m set
Color Options Black, Rough (grey)
The long read

Babolat RPM Blast in depth

Babolat RPM Blast has become one of the most trusted tennis strings among competitive players and coaches, prized for its ability to generate exceptional spin without sacrificing control. Made from a durable co-polyester monofilament, this string features a pentagonal cross-section that grips the ball longer on contact, allowing players to brush up aggressively and produce heavy topspin or biting slice shots. Its firm, dense construction also delivers crisp feedback and precise directional control, making it a favorite for aggressive baseliners and all-court players who want to dictate rallies with confidence.

Exceptional spin potential thanks to angular profile— Court notes, 32 sessions / 45h

Beyond spin production, RPM Blast is engineered for consistent performance and tension maintenance over extended play. The string resists notching and grooving better than many comparable polyester options, meaning players retain the spin-friendly texture even after significant hitting. This durability translates into fewer restrings and more reliable performance in long matches or intense practice sessions. The string's stiffness does mean it plays best for intermediate to advanced players with faster swing speeds, as it rewards technique and racket head speed rather than being forgiving for slower, flatter strokes.

Available in a range of gauges, including 15L, 16, 16L, 17, and 18, RPM Blast lets players fine-tune the balance between power, comfort, and longevity to suit their game and stringing preferences. Many players choose to pair it with a softer multifilament or synthetic gut in a hybrid setup to offset its stiffness while still capturing its signature spin characteristics. Endorsed and used by numerous professional players, including Rafael Nadal, Babolat RPM Blast continues to set the benchmark for polyester spin strings, offering a proven combination of ball bite, control, and resilience that suits players looking to elevate their shot-making on every surface.

From the court

What owners say

4 of 180 reviews · avg 4.5/5
MT Marcus T. Verified 12 Mar 2024

Best spin string I've used

Switched to RPM Blast 1.25mm and immediately noticed more bite on my topspin forehand. Tension holds well for about 15-18 hours of play before I need a restring.

ER Elena R. Verified 22 Jan 2024

Great control, tough on the arm

Love the spin and control this string gives me, but I had to switch to a hybrid with a multifilament because my elbow started acting up after a few weeks of full poly.

DK David K. Verified 5 Nov 2023

Nadal's choice for a reason

This is what the pros use and I understand why. Predictable, durable, and the spin potential is noticeably higher than other polys I've tried.

PS Priya S. Verified 18 Feb 2024

Solid all-around performer

Good durability and the octagonal shape really does grab the ball more. Just make sure you don't string it too tight or it gets stiff quickly.