adminAt your local YMCA, your spot people playing a tennis-like game on the courts. It’s not racquetball like the 90s, or pickleball like kids these days love. It’s “padel,” and it’s on the rise.
Padel has many of the same features as the games above. It’s fast-paced, focuses on rapid lateral movement, and requires tons of dexterity. Without the proper pedal racket, though, you won’t last long.
You’ll notice that regular players all have different racket types. The one that’s best for you will depend entirely on your play style.
Not sure where to start? Keep reading as we discuss how to choose the best padel racket for you.
Padel Racket Shape
Padel rackets come in three general form factors:
- Diamond shape
- Round shape
- Teardrop shape
Although the names seem pretty self-explanatory, it’s more complicated than that. At first glance, you likely wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between the three.
They are, however, very different in aerodynamics and performance. As a beginner, the focus is on learning the game. Experiment with new types once you have more experience.
Racket shape primarily determines one thing: the sweet spot. This is the “center” of the hitting surface. In other words, where the ball makes contact.
Round Racket Shape
This is the ideal shape for a beginner. It gives you better control when you are new to the game. There is a much larger sweet spot compared to other racket types.
Choose the round shape if you want a more forgiving, relaxing game. For faster-paced, higher-stakes games, you’ll want other types.
Teardrop Racket Shape
For a more balanced game, consider the teardrop shape. Experts turn to this racket when they want control and power. Simply put, this racket allows you to hit heavier without your racket drifting off target.
Diamond Racket Shape
You choose the diamond racket when you want to go on the attack. While there is less control, it’s faster and more powerful.
Advanced players choose this racket. We do not recommend it for beginners. The hitting surface is closer to the tip and is much smaller.
Padel Racket Balance
A padel racket is very much like a sword. There needs to be a balance between the “blade” and the “tang.” You can test this by finding the center of gravity where the racket balances on your finger.
High Balance
High balance, as you can imagine, has a higher center of gravity. It’s closer to the racket’s head. These tend to be diamond rackets, which generally have more power.
Medium Balance
Medium balance is the perfect all-rounder. The center of gravity hovers between the handle and head. It’s the ideal compromise between control and power.
Most medium-balance rackets have an even weight distribution and teardrop shape.
Low Balance
This is a beginner-friendly racket. Balance lies close to the handle, offering exceptional control. Round rackets are usually in this category.
Padel Racket Weight
As you can tell by now, weight also plays an important role.
Heavier rackets take more energy to swing, but naturally have more mass. That means they are more powerful and hit harder. The heavier mass also gives them better stability.
Of course, a heavier racket can tire you out faster. You are less responsive, reducing rapid rejoinders to your opponent’s moves. Advanced players prefer this weight, since it gives them impressive attack power.
You’ve probably guessed which one is best for a beginner player: lighter rackets. They’re easier to swing, and swing more freely. Choose lightweight rackets as you work your way up.
Average Racket Weight
The weight difference isn’t very large, and you won’t notice upon picking one up. 340-360 grams works for intermediate and beginner players. Advanced players prefer 360-375 grams.
Padel Racket Material
Rackets only use two main materials:
- Fiberglass
- Carbon fiber
Let’s examine the advantages of each material.
Fiberglass Advantages
Fiberglass is an incredibly strong material. It serves well in tool handles, kayak and canoe bodies, and more. It also works great as a racket, too.
One great benefit of fiberglass is that it’s incredibly flexible and soft. This contributes to a powerful swing and impact. It’s incredibly durable, so your fiberglass racket will likely last a lifetime.
Carbon Fiber Advantages
Carbon fiber looks and feels like a futuristic material. It uses a dense weave of fibers and resin. Despite being so lightweight, it’s stronger than steel.
Carbon fiber excels when in tension. In other words, when you are pulling on it. This means it stays rigid on impact with the ball.
Thanks to its stiffness and lack of flexibility, you get greater control and durability.
Fiberglass or Carbon Fiber: Which Is Best?
You may have noticed a common theme by now. In padel, there is always a trade-off between control and power.
Carbon fiber provides control, while fiberglass provides power. Choose whichever one works best for your play style.
Padel Racket Cost
The cost of your racket will depend primarily on your budget. If you play casually and don’t have much disposable income, you can easily go cheap. A racket on Amazon may cost you $20-50, and work well.
Of course, more expensive rackets have better materials and construction. Industry leaders design their rackets for professional play and unparalleled durability. Obviously, you will get far better performance with a quality racket.
Prices vary greatly. You could spend up to $200 on a decent racket. Check https://proracketreviews.com/ to see reviews of some of the best rackets on the market.
Buy a Padel Racket Today
Padel is taking the Western world by storm, and for good reason. It’s got all the excitement and fun of pickleball, tennis, and racketball. Use this guide to choose a good padel racket that works for you.
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