For advanced, hard-hitting tennis players, the Diadem Elevate franchise has always been something of an insider secret. Introduced to provide maximum control, it carved out a dedicated niche among competitive players who want traditional precision but with a slightly more user-friendly, spin-friendly response than a standard 18×20 control racquet (the Elevate is 16/20). Now, Diadem has officially dropped the Elevate V4 on their website.
It seems they have targeted certain specific criticisms of the V3 while doubling down on its signature feel. We have tried the new V4 on court; below you’ll find our review and some general info and specs for the new Diadem Elevate line.
The Specs: A Three-Model Lineup
This generation expands from the V3’s lineup naming convention and now ships in three distinct configurations:
| Spec | V4 98 | V4 Tour 98 | V4 Team 98 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Head Size | 98 sq. in. | 98 sq. in. | 98 sq. in. |
| String Pattern | 16×20 | 16×20 | 16×20 |
| Unstrung Weight | 305g (10.8 oz) | 315g (11.1 oz) | 290g (10.2 oz) |
| Stiffness (RA) | 64 | 67 | 64 |
| Beam Width | 21.5mm Flat | 21.5mm Flat | 21.5mm Flat |
| Price | $259.95 | $259.95 | $239.95 |
Notably, the standard V4 98 and new Team 98 both come in at a softer RA 64, while the Tour 98 retains the V3 Tour’s 67 stiffness rating. The Team 98 (the new name for what was previously the “Lite”) is the lightest of the three at 290g, suited for players who want the Elevate’s control profile with a more maneuverable swing weight.
What’s Actually Changing?
The V4 retains the suite of technologies that defined the V3: Kraibon (a flexible-yet-stable elastomer material), the FS (Flex Stabilization) system, high-density foam, and HMT carbon. According to Diadem, Kraibon continues to be the headliner innovation, managing to increase both the flexibility and stability of the frame without sacrificing power. The control-first character of the line is explicitly preserved – this is still a 100% player’s frame that rewards aggressive, precise ball-strikers who generate their own power.
A New Glossy Finish
The most visible change is aesthetic. The V3 shipped with a satin paint finish in a metallic blue colorway. The V4 transitions to a premium glossy finish, a more modern look that aligns with recent design directions from competitors. Gear-focused players will notice the difference immediately on the shelf.
Stability and Comfort
The 21.5mm flat beam is retained across all three models, as is the high-density foam construction that gives the Elevate its vibration-dampened, solid impact profile. Third-party reviewers have historically compared this feel favorably to the HEAD Radical and Wilson Pro Staff lines, noting its comfort on off-center hits relative to frames of similar stiffness.
The Verdict for Advanced Players
If you love the predictable feel of a control racquet but prefer a balanced launch angle (in between 16/19 and 18/20), the Elevate should be looked at. This racquet does not come with a lot of power, you need to bring your a-game to create powerful shots with the Elevate. However, they are a little firmer and more solid than the previous generation. I also feel like the glossy paint and the more direct feel make this racquet a better competitor to the Wilson Blade V10 than the V3 Elevate.
The racquets do perform pretty similarly and you can tell where Diadem got the inspiration. I do think that a 16/20 pattern is more useful than having two different ones and I also think that the presence of a heavier Tour model might make advanced players interested. However, you need to know what you get yourself into. Compared to modern racquets that pack power and spin, Diadem has the Nova for power and the Axis for spin, for example, the Elevate is soft control racquet that give you feel and precision over assistance.
If that sounds like your cup of tea, I would venture out to say that this is the best-looking and playing Elevate yet. Diadem have been improving their racquets with every generation and this V4 feels right in the hand straight away. This is not a racquet for personally, as I prefer more help on my shots these days, but if you are in love with control racquets and love to paint the corners of the court and pick your spots, the Elevate should be considered alongside the Blade V10 and the Radical 2025.
The Elevate is still a little more muted than those racquets, perhaps due to the Kraibon, but I feel like I still have control over where the ball goes. First impressions are solid, and I am keen to hear what you think about this frame. We plan to launch a more in-depth review later on.
All three models are available now on Diadem’s website here, use code TENNISNERD15 to get 15% off your purchase.
