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There are three shapes to pick from: diamond, round and teardrop. A racquet’s shape determines the position of the “sweetspot”. That means that each shape has performance characteristics that suit a different type of player. Depending on whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, and whether you’re looking for more power, extra control or a combination of the two, there will be a shape for you.

The sweet spot is the area on the hitting surface which gives you maximum performance. Hitting the ball also feels and sounds best from the sweet spot.

Attacking players will often choose a diamond-shaped racquet as it adds power to your game. This shape is better suited to more advanced players, rather than beginners, as it doesn’t give you as much control as the other shapes, as the sweet spot is smaller and is nearer the tip of the hitting surface, rather than in the centre.

If you’re a beginner, or any level of player seeking extra control, you should consider choosing a round racquet. The sweet spot is larger than on diamond and teardrop-shaped racquets and is also in the centre of the hitting surface. When you’re new to Padel, you’ll find it easier hitting the ball with a round racquet.

If you’re searching for a mix of power and control, you should be considering a teardrop-shaped racquet. This is ideal for players who have been playing for a while, and perhaps have a more balanced game.

If you’re new to Padel, or still learning the game, we recommend a round racquet. You’ll find it easier to hit the ball using a racquet with that shape.

A racquet’s balance influences whether it offers more power or control, or a mix of the two. The balance is largely determined by the racquet’s shape.

A racquet with a high balance – with the balance point that’s higher up, towards the head of the racquet – offers more power. Racquets with a high balance tend to be diamond shaped.

The balance point is between the head and the handle, which gives you a blend of power and control. Teardrop-shaped racquets tend to have medium balance, with an even distribution of weight.

Beginners will probably prefer a racquet with a low balance which means it’s towards the handle. But players of all levels will choose racquets with a low balance if they are looking for more control. These racquets tend to be round.

The heavier a racquet, the more power you can generate. That extra weight will help you to hit smashes and give you additional stability. But there’s a downside to a heavier racquet: it can be a little harder to handle. Attacking, experienced players usually prefer heavier racquets as they want the extra power.
Beginners, younger players, and those still learning and developing their games, should consider a lighter racquet, which you can swing faster and more freely. As you become more advanced, you might find you want to switch to a heavier racquet.

While beginners and intermediate players usually prefer racquets that weigh between 340 and 360 grams, tournament and more advanced players tend to choose racquets that weigh between 360 and 375 grams. But those are just general guidelines, and you can be flexible with the weight you choose as you need to find what works for you. Some more advanced players like lighter racquets because of the faster handling and the reduced physical strain, and some beginners pick heavier racquets for a more solid feel and easy power.

The materials used in the hitting surface affect how a racquet performs. Carbon fibre supplies more stiffness during impact, giving extra control, and tends to be more durable. Fiberglass provides additional flexibility and softness, which delivers more power.

The number, size and position of the holes in the hitting surface will change the performance of the racquet, with a direct impact on control, power and spin. While more and bigger holes provide more power and spin, fewer and smaller hole deliver additional control.

If you play with a lot of spin, a rough surface will add to your game.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal choice and how the racquet feels in your hand, and whether it allows you to play as you want. If you have an opportunity to try a racquet, you should always take it as that will inform your decision.