Babolat Viper Soft Juan Lebrón 3.0 vs Kombat Etna 2026 By Manu Martin

“The Viper Soft Juan Lebrón 3.0 takes the same 365g Black EVA formula that already works on the Technical Viper Soft and wraps it in Juan Lebrón's signature diamond shell. Power eases back from the standard Viper JL's tour-level peak to a still-strong 82, and in exchange control and comfort both climb into the high 70s/80s — a genuinely balanced racket rather than a compromise. Maneuverability improves too, so the head-heavy diamond feels less punishing to hustle at net. The catch is coverage: it is stocked at a single retailer so far, and priced at parity with the far more aggressive standard Viper JL, so this is not the discount play the Technical Soft is.”

“The Kombat Etna 2026 by Manu Martin is a mid-range diamond-shaped racket aimed at aggressive intermediate players seeking extra punch, but it lacks the refinement and feel consistency needed to truly compete with established brands at a similar price point. On-court it delivers decent smash power but can feel stiff and unforgiving on off-centre hits, making control placement a real challenge under pressure. Players who prioritize raw attack over finesse may find it serviceable, but those with any arm sensitivity or demanding touch play will quickly outgrow it.”

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