Padel is a racket sport that originated in Mexico in the 1960s and quickly spread to Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries. It is similar to tennis but played on a smaller court with walls and a lower net. Padel has gained popularity in recent years, with professional tours and international competitions. Its fast-paced and social nature makes it a fun and accessible sport for players of all ages and skill levels.
How to choose your padel racket
Choosing a padel racket is essential to improve your performance and enjoyment on the court. But before opting for one padel racket, you must consider various factors such as your playing style, skill level, weight, balance, shape, and materials used. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you choose the right padel racket for your needs.
Choosing a padel racket in 6 steps
Determine your level and playing style
Knowing your level is a fundamental aspect. For example, a common mistake beginners make is to buy a racket that is too expensive and often difficult to play.
Also, evaluate your playing style and consider whether you are more of a power or control player. Power-oriented players may prefer a heavier racket, while control-oriented players may opt for a lighter racket.
Racket shape
Padel rackets are typically categorized as either round-shaped, diamond-shaped, or teardrop-shaped.
Round-shaped rackets are suitable for beginners, as they are generally easy to handle and easier to use. They are also a good option for those who prioritize control and are ideal for defensive players.
Diamond-shaped rackets offer more power and are suited for aggressive players. They are more difficult to play because they do not offer the same control as a round racket, but they give power to your game.
Teardrop-shaped rackets provide a balance of power and control. They are generally a little easier to play than diamond-shaped rackets and offer more power than round rackets.
Weight and balance
The balance of a racket is defined by the distribution of the weight. Low-balance rackets have the weight closer to the grip, while in high-balance rackets the weight is placed more towards the head of the racket. Low balance makes the racket easier to handle and more comfortable, while a racket with high balance generates more power.
Grip size
The grip size should allow you to hold the racket comfortably without doing too much effort into your hand or losing control. If you are in doubt between two grip sizes, it is better to go for a smaller grip than a larger one. Because a smaller grip can be wrapped with an overgrip and be slightly enlarged. If possible, try different grip sizes to find the one that feels most comfortable for you.
Consider the racket materials
Padel rackets are commonly made from materials such as carbon fibre, fibreglass, and foam. Carbon fibre rackets are known for their hardness and power, while fibreglass rackets offer a balance between power and control. Foam-core rackets provide enhanced ball control.
Seek advice
Consult with experienced players or coaches who can provide insights and recommendations based on their knowledge and expertise. They may have valuable suggestions and be able to guide you toward a racket that suits your style of play.
Whenever possible, try out different rackets before making a purchase. Most sporting goods stores or padel clubs have demo rackets available for testing. Take advantage of these opportunities to evaluate how a racket feels in your hand, test its performance, and assess its suitability for your playing style.
Play padel with Move Sports
Padel is one of the fastest growing sports in the world in recent years, as an incredibly fun and social sport. At Move Sports, we organise padel meetings and tournaments for all kinds of groups. Contact us to find out how we can help you set up your activity.
Discover our training camps and sports experiences, tournaments and events. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to keep up to date.
