Babolat RPM Blast + VS Natural Gut Hybrid Tennis String Review

Babolat RPM Blast + Touch VS is a premium hybrid tennis-string set combining two very different materials. RPM Blast supplies the firm response, spin and control of co-polyester, while Touch VS natural gut adds elasticity, power, comfort and tension stability.

The packaged set contains RPM Blast 1.25mm and Touch VS 1.30mm. Each string is supplied as an approximately 6m half set, providing enough material to string one racket as a hybrid.

The setup can be installed in two orientations. Placing RPM Blast in the mains creates a more control and spin-oriented stringbed. Placing Touch VS in the mains increases power, comfort and ball pocketing. Because the mains normally have the greatest influence on the overall response, the orientation is an important part of choosing this hybrid.

RPM Blast is closely associated with Rafael Nadal, but that should not be interpreted as evidence that he uses the RPM Blast + Touch VS hybrid. The packaged hybrid is a separate product designed for players who want to combine RPM Blast’s performance with the characteristics of natural gut.

Babolat RPM Blast + Touch VS Hybrid Rating

These ratings consider the hybrid within the broader tennis-string market. The final result will also depend on the racket, tension, string pattern and playing style.

Babolat RPM Blast + Touch VS Specifications

The complete set measures approximately 12m and is intended for one hybrid string installation.

Material, Construction, Shape and Technologies

RPM Blast is an extruded co-polyester monofilament. Unlike natural gut or multifilament, it consists of one solid synthetic filament rather than many flexible fibers twisted together.

Its octagonal profile creates eight defined sides. These edges contribute to ball bite, while the controlled polyester construction allows players to swing quickly without receiving excessive power from the stringbed.

Babolat has also described RPM Blast as using silicone to encourage string movement and snapback. A string’s ability to slide across the crosses and return toward its original position can contribute to spin, especially when combined with a fast upward swing.

Touch VS is genuine natural gut rather than a synthetic imitation. It is constructed from twisted animal-derived fibers containing collagen. This material is highly elastic and can return energy efficiently after stretching at impact.

Natural gut’s elasticity produces easier depth, longer ball pocketing and a softer response than co-polyester. It also maintains tension exceptionally well, which can help the hybrid remain consistent after the initial settling period.

Touch VS has a round profile. It does not generate spin through sharp edges. Its contribution comes from elasticity, string movement, pocketing and its interaction with the polyester string.

Combining these materials creates a stringbed in which each component performs a different role. RPM Blast limits excessive launch and adds spin potential, while Touch VS prevents the setup from feeling as rigid or underpowered as a full bed of RPM Blast.

The hybrid does not eliminate the limitations of either material. RPM Blast still loses tension and elasticity over time, while Touch VS remains more vulnerable to fraying, notching, moisture and installation damage than polyester.

Babolat RPM Blast + Touch VS Performance

Power

The natural-gut component gives this hybrid considerably more accessible power than a full bed of RPM Blast.

With RPM Blast in the mains, the response remains controlled because the polyester mains dominate the stringbed. Touch VS crosses add liveliness, pocketing and easier depth without completely changing RPM Blast’s character.

This orientation should suit fast swingers who appreciate RPM Blast’s control but find a full polyester setup too underpowered. The additional response is noticeable, but players must still generate much of their pace through their swing.

Placing Touch VS in the mains creates a more powerful result. The elastic natural-gut mains stretch and return more energy to the ball, while the RPM Blast crosses help manage the resulting launch.

Gut mains can be particularly effective for serves, volleys and groundstrokes when a player wants easier depth. However, players moving from full polyester may need time to adjust to the livelier trajectory.

RPM Blast mains power rating: 8/10

Touch VS mains power rating: 9/10

Spin

RPM Blast provides the primary spin characteristics. Its octagonal profile and smooth surface are designed to combine ball bite with string movement.

Putting RPM Blast in the mains produces the most recognizably RPM-like response. The shaped mains engage the ball, while the natural-gut crosses add enough elasticity to make the stringbed less rigid than a full polyester setup.

This orientation is the better option for aggressive baseliners who use heavy topspin, kick serves and biting slices. Fast racket-head speed remains essential because no string creates high rotation without the correct swing path.

Touch VS mains with RPM Blast crosses can also provide strong spin. Natural gut can slide effectively against a polyester cross, producing useful snapback. However, the response is generally more elastic and less directly shaped-string focused.

Gut mains may create a slightly livelier trajectory. Players who already generate their own spin can benefit from the combination of snapback, power and pocketing, but those seeking the strongest RPM Blast character should keep the polyester in the mains.

Spin may decline as the strings notch and stop moving freely. This can occur before either component breaks.

RPM Blast mains spin rating: 9/10

Touch VS mains spin rating: 8.5/10

Control

RPM Blast mains provide the strongest control-oriented configuration. The firm polyester limits free launch, allowing experienced players to accelerate through the ball with greater confidence.

Touch VS crosses add depth and feel, but the RPM Blast mains preserve a predictable response. This makes the arrangement suitable for aggressive baseliners who want more comfort without losing the controlled character of polyester.

Control also benefits from spin. Players can use additional rotation to bring faster shots down into the court rather than depending entirely on a low launch angle.

Touch VS mains produce a livelier response. Control remains strong because natural gut maintains tension well and RPM Blast crosses reduce some of its power, but the setup is less restrained than the reverse orientation.

Players switching from full polyester may initially send the ball longer with gut mains. A suitable tension and adjustment period can make the response easier to manage.

Control can decline when the RPM Blast component loses elasticity. The strings may remain unbroken even after depth and launch become less predictable.

RPM Blast mains control rating: 9/10

Touch VS mains control rating: 8.5/10

Comfort and Feel

Touch VS makes this hybrid substantially more comfortable than a full bed of RPM Blast. Its elasticity adds pocketing and reduces the rigid sensation associated with firm polyester.

With RPM Blast in the mains, the response remains relatively crisp and controlled. The natural-gut crosses improve feel, but they do not completely remove the firmness of the polyester mains.

This orientation provides a useful compromise for experienced polyester players. It is more forgiving than full RPM Blast while retaining a direct connection with the ball.

Touch VS mains produce the softest and most responsive arrangement. The natural gut has the greatest influence on impact, creating deeper pocketing, easier power and better touch for volleys and shorter shots.

The RPM Blast crosses keep the stringbed from becoming excessively springy. Nevertheless, this arrangement feels much closer to a natural-gut setup than one with RPM Blast in the mains.

The presence of natural gut does not guarantee that the hybrid will be appropriate for every player with arm discomfort. RPM Blast remains a firm polyester, and the complete racket and tension setup still matters.

RPM Blast mains comfort rating: 8/10

Touch VS mains comfort rating: 9/10

Durability and Tension Maintenance

This hybrid’s physical durability depends heavily on which string is installed in the mains and how the player contacts the ball.

RPM Blast provides strong resistance to breakage. However, Touch VS is more vulnerable to fraying, notching and damage from off-center contact.

With RPM Blast in the mains, frequent string breakers receive the greater physical resistance of polyester in the most heavily worked direction. The natural-gut crosses can still fray or notch where the RPM Blast mains move across them.

With Touch VS in the mains, the natural gut has a greater influence on power and comfort but also receives more direct wear. The octagonal RPM Blast crosses may gradually cut into the softer gut mains.

Babolat states that combining the two materials can reduce friction-related heat and improve durability. Even so, neither orientation should be expected to match the break resistance of a full polyester stringbed.

Natural gut is also more sensitive to moisture and environmental conditions. The racket should not be left in rain, a damp bag, direct sunlight or a hot vehicle.

Physical durability is different from useful playability duration. The hybrid may remain unbroken after the RPM Blast has lost tension and elasticity.

Touch VS maintains tension exceptionally well, but the polyester component changes more quickly. This can eventually create an uneven response in which the gut remains lively while RPM Blast becomes less elastic.

Signs that the hybrid may need replacing include:

• RPM Blast mains or crosses remaining out of position
• Reduced snapback
• Excessive natural-gut fraying
• Deep notching at string intersections
• A sudden change in launch angle
• Less predictable depth
• A firmer or less responsive sensation
• Reduced spin or directional control

Players should evaluate how the stringbed performs rather than waiting only for the natural gut to break. The guide explaining how often to change tennis strings can help identify when an intact stringbed is no longer performing properly.

Choosing the Right Gauge

The packaged RPM Blast + Touch VS hybrid comes in one fixed gauge combination.

The 1.25mm RPM Blast is thin enough to provide responsiveness and effective spin while retaining reasonable polyester durability.

The 1.30mm Touch VS is slightly thicker. This helps the natural gut resist notching and fraying when paired with the firmer polyester.

Players cannot select a different gauge within the standard packaged hybrid. Creating a custom gauge combination requires purchasing the strings separately.

A thicker RPM Blast can improve break resistance and create a firmer response. A thinner version can provide more feel and responsiveness but may lose physical durability.

A thicker Touch VS can help frequent string breakers, while a thinner version emphasizes feel and response. However, using thinner natural gut against a shaped polyester can shorten the hybrid’s physical lifespan.

For most players interested in this exact product, the supplied 1.25mm and 1.30mm combination is the logical starting point.

Full Bed or Hybrid Setup

RPM Blast Mains With Touch VS Crosses

This is the most control and spin-oriented configuration. It is also the arrangement most closely aligned with Babolat’s promotion of RPM Blast in the mains for maximum spin.

The RPM Blast mains provide the dominant response. Players receive the firm control, shaped-string bite and break resistance of polyester, while Touch VS crosses add power, pocketing and comfort.

This orientation is best suited to:

• Aggressive baseliners
• Fast swingers
• Heavy topspin players
• Players transitioning away from full polyester
• Players who want improved feel without giving up RPM Blast’s control
• Players who break softer mains too quickly

The stringbed will still feel firmer than a gut-main hybrid. Players seeking the greatest possible comfort should consider reversing the orientation.

Touch VS Mains With RPM Blast Crosses

This arrangement emphasizes the qualities of natural gut. It produces more power, comfort, pocketing and touch while using RPM Blast crosses to control the response.

Natural-gut mains can slide across polyester crosses and return toward position, creating good snapback and spin. The trajectory is generally livelier than with RPM Blast mains.

This orientation is best suited to:

• All-court players
• Serve-and-volley players
• Doubles players
• Players who want easier depth
• Players who prioritize comfort and feel
• Players who generate enough spin through technique
• Players who do not frequently break strings

The main disadvantage is physical durability. Touch VS mains can fray or notch against the RPM Blast crosses. Players who regularly break strings may find the premium setup expensive to maintain.

Full Bed Alternatives

The packaged hybrid contains two half sets and is intended for hybrid installation. Each individual 6m section is generally not enough to create a full stringbed.

Players wanting a full bed must purchase a complete set of the relevant string separately.

A full bed of Babolat RPM Blast provides greater control, shaped-string consistency and physical break resistance. The trade-offs are reduced comfort, less easy power and shorter useful polyester playability.

A full bed of Babolat Touch VS Natural Gut maximizes power, comfort, tension maintenance and feel. It provides less direct shaped-string bite and is more vulnerable to physical wear.

The hybrid sits between these two extremes. Orientation allows the player to decide which component should dominate.

General Tension Guidance

Both strings should be installed within the tension range approved by the racket manufacturer.

RPM Blast is normally installed at a lower tension than natural gut because polyester is firmer and less elastic. Using an unnecessarily high tension can make the RPM Blast component feel rigid and underpowered.

Touch VS can remain comfortable across a wider tension range because of its elasticity. A slightly firmer natural-gut installation can help manage its power, but the correct setting depends on the racket and player.

In an RPM Blast-main setup, the polyester should not automatically be installed at the same tension previously used for a softer string. A lower reference tension may provide a more practical balance of depth and comfort.

In a Touch VS-main setup, the natural gut can be installed slightly firmer than the polyester crosses to control its livelier response. This is a general principle rather than a fixed requirement.

Open string patterns and powerful rackets may require a more controlled setup within the approved range. Dense patterns and low-powered rackets may benefit from a slightly lower setting.

Only one variable should be changed at a time. Keeping the same racket, orientation and gauges while making a small tension adjustment provides more useful information than changing every part of the setup simultaneously.

Natural gut also requires careful installation. An experienced stringer should avoid kinking, crushing or generating excessive friction while weaving the crosses.

The Tennis String Tension Calculator can provide a general starting point based on racket and playing style.

Who Should Use This Hybrid?

Babolat RPM Blast + Touch VS is best suited to:

• Intermediate and advanced players
• Competitive players
• Experienced polyester users wanting more comfort
• Aggressive baseliners seeking spin and controlled power
• All-court players who value feel and touch
• Players who want better tension stability than full polyester
• Players willing to maintain a natural-gut setup
• Players who understand how main and cross orientation affects performance
• Players willing to pay for a premium hybrid
• Players with consistent contact who do not frequently damage strings through frame contact

RPM Blast mains are better for players prioritizing spin, control and physical durability. Touch VS mains are better for players prioritizing power, comfort and feel.

Who Should Avoid This Hybrid?

This hybrid may not be suitable for:

• Players on a limited string budget
• Frequent string breakers
• Beginners who regularly make off-center contact
• Players who want a low-maintenance stringbed
• Players who frequently play in wet conditions
• Players who leave their racket in hot or damp environments
• Players seeking the maximum durability of full polyester
• Players who want the full power and comfort of natural gut
• Players who intend to leave dead polyester installed indefinitely
• Players assuming that natural gut automatically makes every polyester setup suitable for arm discomfort

A player with current elbow, wrist or shoulder pain should not treat a hybrid as a medical solution. Equipment can influence comfort, but persistent pain should be assessed appropriately.

Babolat RPM Blast + Touch VS Pros and Cons

Babolat RPM Blast + Touch VS Compared With Other Setups

The closest direct alternative is Wilson Champion’s Choice. Both combine premium natural gut with performance polyester, but the polyester components create different responses. RPM Blast emphasizes an octagonal, spin-oriented construction, while ALU Power Rough provides its own crisp and textured character.

Final Verdict

Babolat RPM Blast + Touch VS is a premium hybrid that combines RPM Blast’s spin and control with the power, comfort and tension stability of Touch VS natural gut.

Its performance cannot be summarized accurately without considering orientation. RPM Blast mains create the more controlled and spin-focused setup. Touch VS mains produce more power, comfort, pocketing and touch.

It is an excellent all-around hybrid, but it still involves trade-offs. RPM Blast can lose elasticity before breaking, while Touch VS can fray or notch against the polyester.

The hybrid is also not confirmed as Rafael Nadal’s personal setup. His association is with RPM Blast, which should not be confused with use of the packaged natural-gut hybrid.

For intermediate and advanced players who find full RPM Blast too firm or underpowered, RPM Blast mains with Touch VS crosses provide a logical upgrade in comfort and feel.

For players who want natural-gut performance with additional spin and control, Touch VS mains with RPM Blast crosses offer the more suitable orientation.

The cost and natural-gut maintenance requirements prevent this from being a practical choice for everyone. However, players who can benefit from both materials should find it one of Babolat’s most versatile and complete string combinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the official name of this hybrid?

Babolat currently lists it as RPM Blast + Touch VS. Touch VS is Babolat’s premium natural-gut string.

What does the packaged set include?

It contains approximately 6m of RPM Blast 1.25mm and 6m of Touch VS 1.30mm. The combined 12m length is intended to string one racket as a hybrid.

Does Rafael Nadal use RPM Blast + Touch VS?

Reliable manufacturer information associates Rafael Nadal with RPM Blast. That does not confirm that he uses the RPM Blast + Touch VS packaged hybrid.

Which string should go in the mains?

Use RPM Blast in the mains for greater control, spin and physical durability. Use Touch VS in the mains for more power, comfort, pocketing and feel.

Which orientation does Babolat recommend?

Babolat promotes RPM Blast in the mains when maximizing spin is the priority. It also states that Touch VS can be placed in the mains for additional power and comfort.

Is the hybrid powerful?

Yes. Touch VS adds considerably more power than a full bed of RPM Blast. Power is highest when the natural gut is placed in the mains.

Does it provide good spin?

Yes. RPM Blast’s octagonal construction and smooth surface provide strong spin potential. Spin is most directly emphasized with RPM Blast in the mains.

Is it more comfortable than full RPM Blast?

Yes. Touch VS adds elasticity and pocketing, making either hybrid orientation more comfortable than full RPM Blast. Touch VS mains provide the greatest improvement.

Is this hybrid suitable for players with arm discomfort?

It can be more comfortable than full polyester, but it still contains RPM Blast. It should not automatically be considered suitable for every player with elbow, wrist or shoulder discomfort.

How durable is the hybrid?

Physical durability is lower than full polyester because the natural gut can fray, notch or break. RPM Blast mains generally provide the stronger configuration for frequent hitters.

Does Touch VS maintain tension well?

Yes. Natural gut is known for excellent tension maintenance. However, the RPM Blast component still loses tension and elasticity over time.

Can the strings remain playable after RPM Blast loses tension?

The stringbed may remain physically intact, but control, spin and predictability can decline as RPM Blast loses elasticity. The hybrid should be replaced based on performance, not only breakage.

Can this hybrid be used in wet conditions?

Natural gut is more sensitive to moisture than synthetic strings. Occasional humidity is not the same as soaking, but the racket should be protected from rain, damp storage and extreme heat.

Is this hybrid suitable for beginners?

It is primarily aimed at intermediate and advanced players. Beginners may not receive enough benefit to justify the cost and may damage the natural gut through frequent off-center contact.

Can either half be used as a full bed?

The individual halves are generally too short for a complete string installation. Full sets of RPM Blast or Touch VS must be purchased separately for a full bed.

Should both strings be installed at the same tension?

They can be, but it is not required. Natural gut and polyester behave differently, so many stringers adjust their tensions to balance power, control and comfort.

How long does the hybrid last?

There is no universal number of playing hours. Durability depends on orientation, racket pattern, swing speed, contact quality, weather and playing frequency.

When should it be replaced?

Replace it when the natural gut is deeply frayed, the strings are heavily notched, RPM Blast stops snapping back or the stringbed becomes less predictable, even if it has not broken.

Is it better than RPM Blast + RPM Soft?

Touch VS provides greater elasticity, feel and tension maintenance. RPM Soft is less expensive, easier to maintain and does not require the same protection from moisture.

Is it better than Wilson Champion’s Choice?

Neither is universally better. The Babolat hybrid emphasizes RPM Blast’s octagonal spin and control, while Champion’s Choice uses Luxilon ALU Power Rough for a different crisp polyester response.