What to look for when choosing a padel racket

Waarop letten bij het kiezen van een padelracket

Pleun Andriessen |

Choosing a padel racket that suits you can make the difference between winning and losing. However, at JustPadel we understand that it can be difficult to make the best choice, with so many different top rackets on the market. We would like to give you some tips on what to pay attention to when choosing your ideal padel racket:

Weight

One of the most important factors when choosing a padel racket is its weight. The weight of the racket affects the speed and power of your shots, but also your fatigue while playing. In general, the lighter the racket, the faster you can move and the less tired you become. For beginners, we therefore recommend a slightly lighter racket, because it will help you master your technique faster.

On the other hand, a heavier racket provides more power and stability. So choose a weight that suits your playing style and physical condition. Of course, you can also simply take your personal preference into account.

Our experts recommend these rackets per weight class:

  • In the weight class between 340 and 355 grams:
  • In the weight class between 355 and 375 grams:
  • In the 375+ gram weight class:

Click on the image for more information.

Form

The shape of the racket affects the balance and the sweet spot. For example, a round padel racket has a larger sweet spot, making such a racket especially nice for players with a defensive playing style. A round padel racket helps you to be agile on the court and offers optimal ball control.

Our experts recommend these beautiful rackets if you are looking for a round racket:

Click on the images for more information.

The balance point is often high in a diamond-shaped padel racket, which gives you extra power. Especially choose a diamond-shaped padel racket if you are more advanced in your technique and are mainly looking for extra power as an attacking player. Our experts recommend these high-quality padel rackets if you are looking for a diamond-shaped racket:

Click on the rackets for more information.

A teardrop-shaped racket combines the best of both worlds: a teardrop-shaped padel racket is ideal for players who can attack, but still want to maintain control. Thanks to this extraordinary power-precision combination, you can perform to your advantage in every game situation. In addition, the teardrop shape helps to add spin to the ball.

A hybrid padel racket also offers a good balance between power and control, making them a popular choice among experienced players looking for versatility in their game. Our experts recommend the following high-quality hybrid padel rackets:

By clicking on the rackets you can find more information.

Material

Padel rackets can be made from different materials, such as carbon, fiberglass and Kevlar. Carbon is the most commonly used material because it is strong, light and stiff. Fiberglass is cheaper, but less stiff and less durable than carbon. Kevlar is the strongest material, but also the most expensive. So choose a material that suits your budget and level. Different materials also support different playing styles:

  • Fiberglass : This material is lightweight and offers great control and precision. It is ideal for beginners and if you are looking for a racket that can help you develop your technical skills.
  • Aluminum : This material is heavier than fiberglass, carbon fiber and graphite and offers less precision and control, but more durability and strength. It is suitable for recreational players who are looking for a sturdy and durable racket.
  • Carbon fiber : This material is stronger and stiffer than fiberglass and offers more strength and stability. It is suitable for advanced players who are looking for more power and control in their strokes.
  • Graphite : This material is lighter and stiffer than both fiberglass and carbon fiber, offering the best combination of power, control and precision. Graphite is mainly suitable for professional players and advanced players who want to perform at the highest level!

Sheet

The head of a padel racket can have different surface finishes, including smooth, ribbed and sand. Each finish has different benefits:

A smooth surface generally provides good control over the ball and is therefore a popular choice among novice and recreational players. According to our experts, you should try these rackets with a smooth surface:

A rippled surface, also known as a "rough" surface, provides better grip on the ball and can generate more spin. This makes it a popular choice for advanced players looking for more control over their shots. Our experts recommend these rackets:

A sand surface offers the most spin potential of all and is therefore a popular choice for players looking for maximum spin on their shots. Our experts are fans of these high-quality padel rackets:

Balance

The balance of the racket is the distribution of the weight over the length of the racket. A racket with a higher balance has more weight at the top and offers more power, while a racket with a lower balance has more weight at the bottom and offers more control. So choose a balance that suits your playing style and level.

In these rackets you can adjust the balance point:

Click on the rackets again for more information.

Brand and price

There are many different brands and price ranges when it comes to padel rackets. It is important to choose a reliable brand with good quality and warranty. In general, the higher the price, the better the quality and performance of the racket. So you can really see a good padel racket as an investment. But there are also good rackets available in the lower price ranges.

Our experts are fans of these rackets:

  • Up to €100:
  • €100-€150:
  • From €150:

In short, when choosing your ideal padel racket you can take many factors into account. At JustPadel we like to make it as easy as possible for you. Our Racket Selection Guide presents you with a few top choices for you in 3 steps!

Good luck choosing your perfect padel racket and have fun playing!