How to Choose Your First Padel Racket

The good news first: you do not need your own racket to start playing padel. Rackets will be available to hire at DOME PADEL, and we recommend playing a few sessions before you buy. When you are ready to own one, here is what to look for.

Shape: round, teardrop or diamond

• Round. The sweet spot sits low and central, so off-centre hits still go where you want. Best for beginners and anyone who values control.
• Teardrop. A balance of control and power. A good second racket once your technique settles.
• Diamond. The weight sits towards the head for big smashes, but the sweet spot is smaller and less forgiving. Best left to experienced, attacking players.

Weight

Most padel rackets weigh between roughly 340g and 375g. Lighter rackets are easier to manoeuvre and kinder on the arm; heavier ones add power but tire you out faster. Beginners usually get on best at the lighter end.

Core and face

Padel rackets have a foam core. A softer core gives more bounce and comfort, which helps beginners. A harder core offers more control and power but needs good technique. Faces are usually fibreglass (softer, more forgiving, cheaper) or carbon (stiffer and more responsive). For a first racket, fibreglass is a great choice.

Budget

You do not need a top of the range racket to enjoy padel. A mid-priced, round, fibreglass racket will serve you well for your first year. Spend more once you know how you like to play.

Our advice

Hire first, try a few styles, then buy. Your game will tell you what you need.

Opening soon in Birmingham

DOME PADEL is opening soon in Stechford with 8 indoor courts, coaching for every level, free parking and dedicated disabled padel courts. Register your interest at domepadelltd.com and you will hear about the opening date before anyone else.