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The Ultimate Padel Racket Buying Guide

Whether you’re a beginner picking up your first racket or an experienced player looking for a competitive edge, the right padel racket can make all the difference. From shape and weight to balance and materials, each feature influences how you play, how you feel on the court, and how your body responds.

Let’s break it all down.

Racket Shapes – Choose Your Shape ♦⭕💧

Diamond ♦

  • For aggressive players
  • Generates more power
  • Smaller sweet spot (higher on the face)
  • Best for advanced technique

Round ⭕

  • Beginner-friendly
  • Control-oriented
  • Larger sweet spot (centrally located)
  • Forgiving on off-centre hits

Teardrop 💧

  • Blend of power & control
  • Medium sweet spot
  • Versatile for different play styles

Balance Points – Why Balance Matters

Head-Heavy (High Balance)

  • More weight at the top
  • Generates powerful shots
  • Common in diamond-shaped rackets
  • Requires strong technique

Even Balance (Medium Balance)

  • Well-rounded play style
  • Balanced mix of control & power
  • Often found in teardrop rackets
  • Ideal for versatile players

Head-Light (Low Balance)

  • More weight in the handle
  • Easier to maneuver
  • Common in round rackets
  • Perfect for beginners

Weight Guide – Find Your Ideal Class

Light (340–360g)

  • Easy to maneuver
  • Better for defense & quick reactions
  • Less fatigue during long matches
  • Great for defensive players

Medium (360–370g)

  • Balance of control & power
  • Works for most play styles
  • Ideal for all-rounders

Heavy (370–390g)

  • Maximum power output
  • Better stability on impact
  • Favoured by aggressive players

Core Materials – Inside the Racket

Soft Foam

  • More comfortable feel
  • Better shock absorption
  • Great for beginners
  • Quickly recovers shape

E.V.A (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)

  • Higher rebound & control
  • Increased power potential
  • Preferred by advanced players
  • Available in different densities

💡 Pro Tip: If you get elbow pain, try a softer core.

Frame Materials – Built for Performance

Fiberglass

  • Softer impact feel
  • More forgiving on mistakes
  • Affordable and beginner-friendly

Carbon/Graphite

  • Premium durability
  • Better power transfer
  • Preferred by competitive players

💡 Note: Higher carbon percentage = harder feel & more power.

Player Profiles – Match Your Style

Beginner

  • Round shape
  • Soft foam core
  • Fiberglass frame
  • 340–360g weight
  • Head-light balance

Intermediate

  • Teardrop shape
  • EVA core
  • Carbon/fiberglass mix
  • Medium balance
  • 360–370g weight

Advanced

  • Diamond shape
  • Firm EVA core
  • Carbon frame
  • 360–390g weight
  • Head-heavy balance

Grip & Fit – Comfort is Key

Grip Size Guide

  • Always test if possible before buying
  • Slight finger space between thumb pad & fingertips
  • Too tight = elbow strain
  • Too loose = reduced control

Overgrips Matter

  • Absorb sweat
  • Adjust thickness
  • Improve comfort
  • Easy to replace regularly

Final Thoughts

Your padel racket is an extension of your playing style. By understanding shape, balance, weight, and materials, you’ll be able to choose a racket that not only improves your performance but also keeps you comfortable and injury-free.

Ready to find your perfect racket? Visit 88 Padel Academy or book a consultation with our coaches to get personalized recommendations.