Carlton Isoblade Graphite Review

Overall Rating

Super light
Light at the racquet head
2 piece construction

Original grip is very hard compound

The isoblade is a very light racquet at between 80 and 90 grams. The super light racquet head means that the balance of the racquet is towards the grip by a fair way. The advantage I have found there is that the flick on this racquet is fast allowing to change the shuttle cock direction quickly without being too obvious in the shot.
The 2 piece construction means that the shaft and racquet head are one piece, the grip block is the other. This means you have less chance of damaging the racquet (by not having a shaft to racquet head linkage that can all too easily bend/stretch) when coming into contact with the ground or a fellow player in doubles (it happens!!) If also gives a much stiffer feel I have found.

The original grips rubber compound is very hard. It has taken a few games to start wearing it in and feeling more confident about the grip in your hand. This can be overcome by replacing the grip with softer grip tape but this is an added expense.

I managed to pick this one up at Sports World at a local shopping complex for just £23 when the RRP was stated at £80. I wouldn't have paid this for a racquet myself but more regular players who may want the extra performance might be willing to pay this.