The Babolat Counter Viper 2.6 2026 is engineered for advanced players who win through patience, placement, and precision. Built for the counter-attacker — the player who absorbs pressure, resets with control, and strikes decisively when the moment is right. With a round hybrid shape, 3K carbon face, and the widest sweet spot in the Viper range, it gives you the stability and consistency to dominate rallies on your own terms.

Designed for control-first, tactical play

This is the racket for players who slow the game down, read the opponent, and convert defence into controlled offence. The round hybrid head creates a massive, forgiving sweet spot that holds firm on off-centre contacts and deflects pace with authority — ideal for deep defensive lobs, precise bandeja shots, and redirecting hard-hit balls from the back of the court. When the opportunity arrives, the 3K carbon surface delivers the explosive response you need to finish the point cleanly.

Premium materials & technologies

• 3K Carbon face — woven carbon fibre provides a firm, responsive surface that enhances ball direction, shot accuracy, and durability across every session.
• 100% Carbon frame — maximum structural rigidity for stability under pressure and consistent power delivery on every contact.
• X-EVA triple-layer core — two stiffer outer layers generate explosive response on attacking shots; the softer inner layer absorbs pace and provides forgiveness on defensive contacts.
• Vibrabsorb System 2 (SMAC) — elastomers integrated into the carbon fibres at the heart of the racket significantly reduce vibration on impact, protecting your arm and keeping you comfortable through long, demanding matches.
• 3D Spin+ — raised surface texture with a rough finish adds bite and spin to every ball — especially effective on slice lobs, topspin drives, and tactical dropping shots.
• Holes Pattern System — optimised hole distribution tuned to the round shape maximises sweet spot size, improves power transmission, and sharpens precision on returns.
• Smart Buttcap — customise or remove the wrist strap entirely for hygiene, personal comfort, and style preference.

Why this racket excels on South African courts

South African padel rewards strategic, consistent players — and the Counter Viper 2.6 is built for exactly that style. On the outdoor clay and hard courts across Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, ball pace can be unpredictable and rallies run long. The Counter Viper's huge sweet spot handles off-centre hits with composure, its firm carbon face redirects pace without wrist strain, and the Vibrabsorb System keeps your arm fresh through back-to-back sets in the SA heat. Whether you play the right side and build from the back or play left and set traps with your lob, this racket is your weapon. Available now with fast nationwide delivery from The Padel Market.

Racket specifications

• Shape: Round / Hybrid
• Weight: 365 g (± 10 g)
• Balance: Head-heavy
• Profile: 38 mm
• Face: 3K Carbon
• Frame: 100% Carbon
• Core: X-EVA multi-density foam
• Level: Advanced
• Play style: Control / Counter-attack

Air Viper vs Counter Viper — which one is right for you?

If you play aggressively, live at the net, and want maximum swing speed, see the Babolat Air Viper 2.6 2026. If you build points tactically, value consistency over raw pace, and want a forgiving sweet spot that rewards precision — the Counter Viper is your racket.

Complete your setup

Pair this racket with a premium overgrip and a padel bag — both available in our accessories collection — to build a complete match-ready kit.

Shop with confidence

At The Padel Market, we specialise in padel gear for South Africa. Get authentic Babolat equipment, fast nationwide delivery, secure checkout, and expert support tailored for your game. Elevate your game today with the Babolat Counter Viper 2.6 2026.