Starvie Metheora Dual 2024

Starvie in 2024 

Starvie is famous for a few things: manufacturing their rackets in Spain, the durability of their rackets, and ending their sponsorship program in 2024. We can't know why they decided to do this, but at the end of 2023 / beginning of 2024, Bea González, Coki Nieto, Lucas Bergamini, and other players announced that they would no longer be playing with Starvie rackets. I have to be honest - this slightly disappointed me as it sort of felt like the heavy-sponsoring, China-manufacturing brands would stomp out the Spanish-manufacturing brands. Or maybe it's just a shift toward boutique, premium, exclusive branding? How will this turn out? Only time will tell.  

Starvie tip 

Because Starvie weight ranges are so wide, we strongly recommend specifying the weight when you purchase your racket. A 385g Starvie will play very differently from a 350g version of the same model. My test model weighed 365g. Note that Total Padel provides a weighing service for €10.

The Starvie Astrum 

The Astrum is the new name for the former Astrum Eris. It fills a gap between the more power-oriented Triton and the control-oriented Metheora, closer to the Metheora. Like most of its models, Starvie offers this racket in different versions, which correspond to the different hardnesses, or densities of the foam cores: 
1. Metheora Dual: the hardest with the dual-density (aka MultiEVA) core (this model) 
2. Metheora: the intermediate model with the Soft 30 EVA core
All else being equal, we only recommend the Metheora Dual to advanced players who know they appreciate a hard touch.  

Design and craftsmanship

In the world of Spanish-made padel rackets, Starvie has garnered a reputation for quality and innovation. The Starvie Metheora Dual showcases meticulous craftsmanship, typical of the brand. This model being on the more conservative end of premium rackets. It has a lower balance, but still offers the same strong spin and durability as other premium models. While last year's model had a double layer of 3K carbon fiber, this year's just has a single layer. I welcome this change as I found mishits - outside of the sweet spot - slightly too punishing in the inaugural 2023 model.
The Starvie Metheora Dual stands as a testament to the enduring value of control, touch, and finesse. This racket excels for its ball feel, offering a level of precision and feedback that is sure to resonate with players seeking to elevate their defensive game and dictate the pace of rallies. This is at the expense of comfort - this racket can vibrate. However, this year's introduction of the Noene partnership had many of our reviewers reporting that this year's version is more comfortable than last year's - this is definitely a welcome change.

Uncompromising Precision

From the moment you step onto the court with the Metheora Dual, one thing becomes immediately apparent: this racket is designed with control and precision in mind. Its unique dual EVA composition, featuring two softer outer layers and a dense inner layer, translates into a remarkably stable and responsive racket that excels in delivering control at both high and low speeds. 
Our reviewers consistently praised the Metheora Dual's ability to provide unparalleled control, both in defensive situations at lower swing speeds, defensive blocks of rapid shots, and in aggressive shots at higher speeds. Whether executing well-disguised drop shots, imparting delicate slices on lobs, or playing without the aid of the wall, this racket offers a level of touch and finesse that is truly impressive.

Spin Generation

While control and precision are the Metheora Dual's forte, it would be a mistake to underestimate its spin generation capabilities. Starvie's renowned Full Plane Effect roughness system ensures that this racket can impart devestating spin on the ball, allowing players to dictate the trajectory of rallies and keep their opponents guessing.
Our reviewers were particularly impressed by the Metheora Dual's performance in the aerial game, where its medium balance and round shape translated into a potent combination of spin and power. Whether executing flat smashes or defensive bandejas, this racket delivered impressive spin and control, albeit with a noticeable lack of free power, requiring players to rely on technique and a full swing to maximize their offensive potential.

Stability and Maneuverability

Despite its round shape, the Metheora Dual adopts an aggressive on-court behavior, thanks in no small part to its hardness. This combination of factors provides a stable and responsive racket, allowing players to transition seamlessly between defensive and offensive shots without sacrificing control or feel.
While the high balance point may initially feel foreign to some players, our reviewers quickly adapted and praised the Metheora Dual's maneuverability, particularly in the aerial game where its responsive nature shined.

Feedback and Sweet Spot

One of the standout features of the Metheora Dual is its exceptional feedback and ability to transmit the sensations of the ball to the player's hand. Our reviewers consistently raved about the racket's "amazing sound when you hit the sweet spot," a testament to the level of feel and connection this racket provides.
However, it's important to note that the Metheora Dual's sweet spot is not particularly generous, and mishits can result in a noticeable loss of power and control. This characteristic may take some adjustment for players accustomed to more forgiving rackets, but it also serves as a reminder of the Metheora Dual's focus on precision and control over playability and forgiveness.

More Comfort than in 2023

Starvie has made several refinements to the Metheora Dual for the 2024 model year, including the addition of the brand's acclaimed Noene grip, which our reviewers found to be both comfortable and secure. Additionally, the reduction in the number of carbon fiber layers from two to one has resulted in a noticeable decrease in vibrations, further enhancing the overall comfort and feel of this racket.

In Conclusion: A Masterpiece of Feel and Finesse

The Starvie Metheora Dual is a true masterpiece of feel and finesse, a racket that prioritizes control, precision, and touch over raw power and forgiveness. While it may not be the ideal choice for players seeking an outright offensive weapon, the Metheora Dual excels in its ability to provide a level of control and feedback that can elevate the games of intermediate and advanced players alike.
With its unique dual EVA core, impressive spin generation capabilities, and exceptional feedback, the Metheora Dual represents a compelling option for those who value feel, finesse, and the ability to dictate the pace of rallies. It's a racket that demands technique and a commitment to precision, but for those willing to embrace its nuances, it promises to be a rewarding and engaging companion on the court.