Yonex Astrox 88D Pro Badminton Racket
Yonex Astrox 88D Pro is a premium badminton racket for doubles players who want speed without losing power. A racket for champions! A racket for professionals! Next-gen rotational generator system, new isometric head shape, improved handle length, changed shaft thickness, new grommet construct, and enhanced counterweight balance: Yonex promises all this and much more power to dominate the game with AX88D-P.
Updates: Yonex has launched in Black and Silver color.
Specifications:
- Flex: Stiff
- Level: Advanced / Professionals
- Balance: Head Heavy
- Frame: HM Graphite / VOLUME CUT RESIN / Tungsten
- Shaft: HM Graphite / Namd
- Joint: NEW Built-in T-Joint
- Length: 10 mm longer
- Weight / Grip Size: 4U/G5 (Avg 83g), 3U/G5 (Avg 88g)
- Stringing Advice: 4U (20-28 lbs), 3U (21-29 lbs)
- Color: Camel Gold
- Strung Type: Unstrung
- Cover: Yonex Full Cover
- Made in: Japan
- Item Code: AX88D-P
Technology:
Namd
Revolutionary Graphite
A world-first, new dimension graphite material, Namd, greatly improves the adhesion of the graphite fibers and resin by attaching nanomaterial directly to the graphite fiber.
In high performance racquets, it is common to combine nanomaterials with resin that connects graphite fibers, but in Namd, nanomaterials are directly adhered to the graphite fibers and resin is greatly increased. This major improvement produces a shaft that flexes and stores energy, delivering explosive force on impact with the shuttle.
AERO+BOX Frame
Combines solid hitting feel and quick swing.
ISOMETRIC
Enlarged Sweet Spot
ISOMETRIC technology continues to help the worldss greatest players achieve global success. Developed over 30 years ago, the ISOMETRIC design increases the sweet spot by 7%*. Compared to a conventional round frame, a square-shaped ISOMETRIC racquet generates a larger sweet spot by optimizing the intersection of the main and cross strings. It delivers greater control without sacrificing power.
Rotational Generator System
Counterbalanced Weight Distribution
By applying the counterbalance theory, weight is distributed throughout the grip end, frame top and the joint for maximum control. The transition to the next shot can be performed smoothly, with rapid succession.
Solid Feel Core
Cuts Vibration
The built-in solid feel core cuts harmful miscellaneous vibration at impact. Solid feel core is carried in all racquets manufactured in Japan.
Extra Slim Shaft
Thinnest, Strongest Ever Produced by Yonex
Cutting edge NANOMETRIC carbon technology is used to produce an ultra-thin, ultra-tough, aerodynamic shaft, created for a stronger and more intense shot.
Energy Boost CAP PLUS
Uniquely shaped cap which maximizes shaft performance. The front allows the shaft to flex, while the sides arch-shaped curve stabilizes the racquet face by preventing the shaft from twisting.
VOLUME CUT RESIN
Did you know Yonex launched Astrox 88D in 2018? With the growing popularity of the racket model, Yonex re-introduced Astrox 88D Pro in 2021 with dramatic changes to adjust to the evolving style of the doubles game. If you have used Yonex Astrox 88D in the past, you will find the current model to have an even weight distribution to ensure you do not tire during fast rallies.
How is 88D Pro different from the previous Astrox 88D model? Is it worth upgrading to the latest model? TIA.
Although AX88D-P is an enhanced version of the original Astrox 88 Dominate racket model, it is not just an upgrade. Many badminton professionals will tell you it feels like a different racket altogether.
There are many changes from the original racket. The company has introduced different materials and innovations in the latest version. For example, the Volume Cut Resin included in 88D Pro ensures powerful adhesion with less material usage and lower weight. It also has an improved, larger grommet pattern. Thus, you can enjoy a faster and stronger racket without compromising durability.
Yonex Astrox 88D Pro model has a different head shape, handle, shaft thickness, diff. Even though the racket is still a head-heavy model, you will feel a more balanced distribution of weight throughout the racket body, making it effortless for players who want a powerful racket with an overall faster frame.
I have used Victor Thruster Ryuga II in the past. I am looking to buy a Yonex racket this time. Will Astrox 88D Pro be a good choice?
Although Yonex has marketed the Astrox 88D Pro as a doubles player, many singles players prefer the racket because it delivers power and speed together. If you have been using Victor Thruster Ryuga II, you will enjoy the Astrox 88D Pro version because both are designed for aggressive players with a penchant for smashes and drives. If you are looking for power explicitly, we recommend Astrox 99 Pro, but if you want a mix of power, speed, and maneuverability, Astrox 88D Pro will be the perfect choice for you.
I am confused between 88S Pro and 88D Pro. What are your opinions as a badminton expert?
The choice between Astrox 88S Pro and Astrox 88D Pro depends on your playing style. A badminton professional or an intermediate player who plays for several hours knows their plating style. If you are a heavy-hitter and love to play aggressive shots, go for AX88D-P. It has an intense driving power to deliver stronger shots. On the other hand, if you prefer a more controlled game with a focus on skills, Nydhi recommends Astrox 88S Pro. Remember it doesn't matter whether you play the singles game or the doubles game. Focus more on how you play to make the decision.
I have seen people comparing Yonex Astrox 88D Pro with the Arcsaber 11 Pro model. One is designed for hard hitters while the other is for all-rounders. What is your take on it?
You are correct when you say that both rackets are marketed for different badminton players. However, marketing is different than what players decided to do with their rackets. Often, a racket marketed for a doubles game can work for singles players if they are comfortable yielding it.
Arcsaber 11 Pro is a revamped version of the original Arcsaber 11. Yonex re-launched it in 2022 to revive its popularity among badminton players who prefer more accurate shot placement. If you want precision and control, you can choose the ARC11-P. If you want more power, go for the Astrox 88D Pro.
Yonex Astrox 88D Pro racket is a preferred choice of a long list of badminton professionals: Kunlavut Vididsarn, Kong Hee Yong, Marcus Fernaldi Gideon, Lucas Mazur, Kim So Yeong, and Soh Wooi Yik.