Star Vie Drax Soft 12K

The Drax Soft 12K is built for players who want control and feel without sacrificing too much punch. If you find yourself relying on placement and consistency rather than raw power, this racket deserves a close look.

Star Vie has positioned the Drax Soft in their control-oriented line, and the "Soft" designation points to a core tuned for better touch and vibration absorption at contact. The 12K in the name refers to the carbon fibre weave on the face, a 12K carbon that gives the hitting surface a degree of stiffness for clean ball response while keeping feedback manageable. At 400g, this sits on the heavier side of the standard range, which suits players with a confident swing who want extra stability through the ball. If you are newer to the game or still building arm strength, that weight could become tiring over a long match. Beyond that, without confirmed specs on balance point and shape, it is worth checking with us directly before buying, since those two factors will tell you a lot about how the racket actually plays in your hand.

This is a racket for intermediate to advanced players who have their technique in place and want a tool that rewards precision. It is not aimed at beginners looking for a forgiving, lightweight option, and it is not a power-first diamond-shaped racket for players who want to smash from the back. If either of those sounds like you, there are better fits in the range.

Frequently asked questions

Who is the Star Vie Drax Soft 12K best suited for?

Intermediate to advanced players who prioritise control and consistent placement, and who are comfortable handling a 400g racket over a full match.

What does "12K carbon" mean in practice?

It refers to the weave density of the carbon fibre on the face. A 12K weave offers a good balance of stiffness and feel, giving you clean feedback without the harshness of some higher-stiffness faces.

Is 400g too heavy for me?

If you are a beginner or returning from an arm injury, yes, it likely is. Most recreational players are more comfortable in the 360g to 385g range.

How should I care for the frame?

Keep it in a padded bag away from extreme heat, and check the frame for small cracks regularly, especially around the bridge and throat area.