How to choose a padel racket

Like in any racket sport, it is important to play with a racket tailored to your level. By choosing a racket according to your level, you will enhance your enjoyment and playing skills. So, let's first review playing styles:

Control: In this style, the player tends to focus more on defense and enjoys controlling the game. Therefore, it is important for them to have a racket that offers good accuracy and maneuverability.

Attacking: In this style, players play close to the net, waiting for opportunities to showcase their power and easily score points. Therefore, it is crucial for them to have a racket that meets all the offensive indicators.

Universal: In this style, players choose a racket designed for both control and attack. Players with this style can play in both defensive and offensive positions.

Before delving into the technical details, let's look at what each player level needs:

Beginner- Since you have just started playing padel, we recommend choosing a racket that makes the game enjoyable, is relatively light, easy to control, and comfortable, helping you place the ball accurately.

Intermediates- Now that you are playing at a higher level, it's time to invest in a racket that will help you continue to improve. It's best to look for a versatile racket that offers a good balance of power and precision. However, you may already know whether you prefer to play with more powerful shots or prioritize control. Therefore, you can choose a racket that suits your preferred playing style. But this doesn't mean that if you choose a racket designed for power, you cannot also play in a control position. Opting for an attacking racket simply gives you an advantage in making stronger shots.

Advanced- For those who have accumulated a wealth of knowledge, mastered various playing techniques, and want to elevate their level even higher. If you are at this level, you should invest in a racket that allows you to maximize your preferred playing style.

Padel rackets shapes

There are three racket shapes: Round, teardrop and diamond. The player's style is often influenced by the racket shape.

Round Shape

Since the weight balance is closer to the racket handle, a round-shaped racket is the most maneuverable of all three shapes. The advantage of round rackets is that they have a large area where the most power is generated, also known as the 'Sweetspot'.

These shaped rackets provide excellent control, which is crucial for beginners and those who enjoy controlling the game or playing defensively. The only downside to round-shaped rackets is a lack of power.

Teardrop Shape

This is a mix between a round and diamond-shaped racket. Tear-shaped rackets have the balance closer to the middle, making them highly maneuverable and providing an excellent combination of power and control.

These shaped rackets are suitable for all intermediate-level players but are especially ideal for those who have recently moved beyond the beginner level and have not yet found their playing style.

Diamond Shape

Since the balance and the location of the 'Sweetspot,' where the most power is generated, are closer to the top, with this shape of the racket, you'll get the most power. This is the most common choice among advanced and professional players.

They are perfect for a player who loves to attack. Their downside is maneuverability and they can cause 'Tennis Elbow' injuries for beginners. Therefore, it is not recommended to buy this racket if you have just started playing padel.

Racket Balance

The balance is directly linked to the shape of the racket. The balance has a significant impact on the racket's maneuverability.

More than 275mm, the racket is called a heavy racket. (Head Heavy), it provides the most power, but the racket becomes less maneuverable.

Around 270mm, the racket is considered a neutral racket. (Neutral Balance), this provides versatility.

Less than 265mm, classifies the racket as a light racket. (Head light)this provides easy maneuverability and control.

Racket Weight

Padel rackets usually weigh from 345g to 375g. This is an excellent weight category for those seeking a perfect combination of power and control.

Less than 370g, a lighter padel racket is easier to handle and control, but it generates less power. These light rackets are excellent for players who have just started playing padel and are also suitable for women. (340g-370g).

More than 375g, a heavier padel racket provides more power but is harder to maneuver. This weight racket is suitable for attacking players.