So you’re looking to get into Padel. I better state the obvious straight off the bat: You can’t play Padel without a Padel racket. Shocked? That’s okay. I’m here to let you know about the 5 best padel rackets for beginners so you can start your padel career with the best possible racket for you.
All the leading brands, like Adidas, Head, Babolat, and others, make an abundance of Padel Rackets, but which one is the best for you? I’m going to give you my expert opinion on the best racket for you to purchase. Let’s get into it.
Best Padel Rackets For Beginners At A Glance
1) HEAD Graphene 360 Zephyr Padel
2) Adidas Drive Light 3.2
3) Babolat Contact
4) Adidas Adipower CTRL
5) Babolat Counter Vertuo
Why Does My Opinion Matter?
I have been lucky to play Padel for the last few years. During my playing, I have realised that using the right padel racket is essential to playing the game to the best of one’s ability.
I have tested the below 5 padel rackets firsthand in games against friends and local leagues. I can vouch for all of them as they were rackets I either owned or used as a beginner.
Best Padel Rackets For Beginners
HEAD Graphene 360 Zephyr
- Material: Graphite
- Type: Round
- Weight: 340g
- Rating 10/10
From the moment I picked up the HEAD Graphene 360 Zephyr, I knew this racket was something special. It is now in my top five best padel rackets for beginners.
The Zephyr is hands down one of the most elegant rackets I’ve ever seen. Its design and harmonious colour combination give me a buzz whenever I play with it, making me feel like a pro every time I step onto the court.
Looks aren’t everything; it’s all about performance, and this racket certainly delivers.
What really sets the Zephyr apart for any beginner is its incredibly lightweight feel. At just 340 grams, it’s incredibly easy to manoeuvre. This helps when you’re just getting to grips with your technique, allowing you to work on form without feeling weighed down.
The Zephyr’s round shape is also perfect for beginners. It provides excellent control, which helps place shots more accurately and keeps rallies going longer.
I love the roughened touch on the frame. Any beginner sometimes struggles with generating power, but this added texture gives each shot an extra oomph.
The Graphene patch material is fab. It provides an incredible feeling of strength and control that I’ve found unique to this racket. This will prove crucial in building confidence on the court.
Lastly, I love that HEAD has included anti-shock material with the Zephyr. I’m not always the gentlest with my equipment, so having this extra layer of protection gives me peace of mind.
If you’re just starting out and want a racket to help you improve quickly while looking great, look no further than the Zephyr. It’s been the perfect starter racker for me, and I’m confident it will be for you, too.
Adidas Drive Light 3.2
- Material: Rubber
- Type: Round
- Weight: 360g
- Rating 9/10
The Adidas Drive Light 3.2 can also be considered one of the best padel rackets for beginners.
The racket’s design really drew me in. The vibrant colour schemes on offer really make this racket stand out. I love the bright and modern look, which drew me to this racket. If you’re at a club and picking from a selection of demo rackets, this one will surely catch your eye.
How does it play? The soft foam technology used in the Match Light 3.2 makes it extremely comfortable to handle. The racket has a noticeably large sweet spot, which helps with hitting clean, powerful shots, even if your technique still needs to improve.
This makes it much more forgiving than other rackets I’ve tried, and it will give you a big confidence boost on the court.
The Match Light 3.2 is super easy to swing, making it effortless to control. Again, this helps players just starting out who are still getting used to the dynamics of Padel. It doesn’t tire your arm out, and it’s gentle on your wrist and elbow.
The racket’s power strikes a nice balance. While it’s not the most powerful racket out there, it offers just the right amount of force for someone who’s learning the game. It’s powerful enough to give your shots some punch but not so intense that it’s hard to control.
The Adidas Match Light 3.2 is a top recommendation for beginners. Whether you’re playing for fun or looking to get serious about the game, this racket is definitely a good choice for any new player.
Babolat Contact
- Material: Fibreglass
- Type: Round
- Weight: 340g
- Rating 9/10
The first thing that stands out on the Babolat Contact is its nice round shape, which isn’t something you see often with Babolat rackets. The design gives the Babolat Contact one of the largest sweet spots of any racket in the lineup.
This makes a huge difference; you’re more likely to make solid contact no matter where you hit the ball on the racket.
Another big plus is the control this racket offers. This is a great option if you’re still mastering the basics and not playing too fast or aggressively. It supports maximum control over your shots, allowing you to place the ball exactly where you want.
The Babolat Contact has a fibreglass construction. Unlike rackets made from carbon, which can sometimes be too powerful or stiff for new players, the fibreglass material gives you that softer, more controlled feel.
The Babolat Contact is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a racket that will make learning the game smoother and more enjoyable.
Adidas Adipower CTRL
- Material: Rubber
- Type: Round
- Weight: 375g
- Rating 8/10
The Adidas Adipower CTRL has a soft spot in my racket collection. It helped completely transform my game, and I can confidently say it’s the top choice for newcomers.
The round-shaped head is perfect for beginners. It positions the sweet spot right in the middle of the racket, making it much easier to hit consistently good shots. Using the CTRL improved my game, and I built confidence with every swing.
What sets this racket apart is its perfect balance of control and power. The Adipower CTRL delivers both in spades. The racket can help place shots precisely while still enjoying that satisfying pop when making solid contact.
The added grits on the surface are a nice touch, especially for those of us still mastering our spin game. Once you progress with your technique, this racket can spin the ball effortlessly, again building more confidence.
I love how forgiving this racket feels. Unlike some control-oriented rackets I’ve tried, the Adipower CTRL has a softer feel in the middle. The high-memory EVA provides just enough flex to absorb mishits without compromising performance.
After using the Adipower CTRL, I played with nothing else for a while. It’s one of the best padel rackets for beginners on the market.
Babolat Counter Vertuo
- Material: Fibreglass
- Type: Round
- Weight: 350g
- Rating 8/10
The Counter Vertuo has a soft fibreglass surface, meaning it’s much more forgiving of shots. This is a huge plus because you don’t need perfect form or power to make a good hit. The racket really helps you out.
The comfort level is also impressive. The foam inside is soft to medium, making it feel comfortable when hitting the ball. You can tell the difference in the impact on your arm.
The Counter Vertuo is also nice and lightweight. It’s noticeably lighter than some of the more advanced models, which makes it much easier to swing and control.
Even though this racket is designed for beginners, it still has great technology. The 3D holes system gives you more control over your shots, and the design is sleek and stylish, so you’ll feel good using it on the court. With Babolat’s trusted branding behind it, you know you’re getting a quality product.
This is another great option if you’re new to the game and want a racket that will help you improve while being easy to handle.
Buyers Guide
It’s important to know what to look for when buying a padel racket to help you start out. Here are the key things to look out for.
Weight
Opt for a lightweight racket. As a newcomer, you’re still adapting to the unique feel and techniques of the sport. A lighter racket allows you to focus on developing proper form without straining your muscles.
It’s easier to manoeuvre and helps prevent fatigue during longer practice sessions. As your skills and strength improve, you can gradually transition to heavier, more powerful rackets.
Comfort
Comfort is key. Look for rackets with soft cores, typically made from materials like EVA foam. These rackets are more forgiving on your arm and wrist, reducing the risk of conditions like tennis elbow.
Remember, most arm injuries in racket sports stem from poor technique. Choosing a softer racket while you’re learning gives you the best chance to develop good habits without discomfort.
Shape
When selecting your first padel racket, consider its shape carefully. Round rackets are ideal for beginners due to their larger sweet spot. This shape offers greater control.
While diamond or teardrop shapes might tempt you with promises of power, stick with a round shape until you’ve developed consistent ball control.
Balance
Pay attention to how the weight is distributed in your racket. You’ll want an even balance, meaning the weight is evenly distributed throughout the racket rather than concentrated in the head.
An evenly balanced racket gives you more control over your shots, which you need when starting out.
Quality & Price Range
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, resist that urge. Very low-priced rackets often lack durability and performance. Instead, look to invest in a racket from a reputable brand. Brands like Babolat, Adidas, Wilson, or HEAD offer quality beginner-friendly options.
Don’t hesitate to consider rackets that are a bit pricier as you progress. Remember, a good racket is an investment in your development as a player.
Different Types of Rackets
Padel rackets come in three primary shapes, each with its own specific performance attributes. It’s important to know which one is good for what, and I’ll tell you that now.
Round Rackets
Round rackets have an even weight distribution and a generously sized sweet spot towards the middle. This design lends itself to precision-focused play, allowing for more accurate ball returns. Circular rackets are notably forgiving, making them ideal for beginners who are still honing their accuracy and finesse.
Diamond Rackets
Diamond rackets are known for their top-heavy weight distribution and are engineered for power play. They boast a compacted sweet spot positioned higher on the racket face, which can be slightly challenging to master.
This is typically favoured by more intermediate players who have been playing for a while and are seeking to add extra oomph to their offensive strokes.
Teardrop Rackets
Striking a balance between round and diamond designs, teardrop rackets offer a blend of power and control. Their sweet spot is just above the centre, affording more punch than circular rackets while maintaining reasonable precision.
Teardrop rackets suit intermediate players or ambitious beginners eager to rapidly improve their game.
Materials Used For Padel Rackets
The materials used in a racket construction are essential in determining its performance. Here’s a breakdown of the most common materials you’ll encounter:
Carbon Fibre
Carbon fibre is a staple in top-tier padel rackets, prized for its remarkable strength-to-weight ratio. They can be trusted to deliver exceptional power and precision, making them a top choice among players. The material’s rigidity allows for excellent energy transfer, producing more potent shots without sacrificing control.
Fibreglass
A popular choice for beginners, fibreglass offers a more forgiving playing experience. Its flexibility absorbs more shock upon impact, which can be particularly handy for beginners still refining their technique. Fibreglass rackets typically provide a good balance between power and control.
Other Materials
Some manufacturers use a mix of materials to create specific performance characteristics. For instance, graphite might be added to create better durability and responsiveness. The core of the racket often features materials like EVA foam, which can be manipulated to influence the racket’s sweet spot and the balance between power and control.
FAQ’s
What are the best padel rackets for beginners?
The best padel rackets for beginners typically balance control, power, and comfort. Look for rackets with a round or teardrop shape, as these provide a larger sweet spot and are more forgiving on off-centre hits.
Brands like Babolat, Head, and Bullpadel offer excellent options for newcomers. Always consider weight, balance, and what it is made of. A racket weighing between 350 and 370 grams with a soft core (like EVA foam) is often ideal for beginners, providing enough power without sacrificing control.
What is the best padel racket shape for beginners?
For beginners, the round or teardrop shape is considered the best to start with. Round rackets offer the largest sweet spot, making it easier to hit the ball consistently.
Teardrop rackets offer an excellent middle ground between round and diamond rackets, providing a balance of control and power. Once you get better, you can experiment with a diamond racket, which offers more power but requires more precise technique.
How do I choose the right weight for my first padel racket?
Weight is important when scouring the best padel rackets for beginners. Most beginners find rackets weighing between 350 and 370 grams ideal. This weight range offers a good balance between agility and power.
What is the easiest padel racket to play with?
The easiest padel racket to play with is typically one that prioritises control and has a large sweet spot. Look for rackets with a round shape and a soft core, such as those made with EVA foam. These features make the racket more forgiving on off-centre hits and help absorb vibrations, reducing strain on your arm.
How much should I spend on my first padel racket?
Good-quality rackets are available at reasonable prices for beginners. While it might be tempting to choose the cheapest option, investing in a slightly higher-quality racket can enhance your learning experience and enjoyment.
Look for rackets from reputable brands that offer a good balance of control, power, and comfort. As you progress and decide to commit more to the sport, you can consider upgrading to more advanced models.
How often should I replace my padel racket?
It depends on how often you play and the quality of the racket. For beginners playing 1-2 times a week, a good-quality racket can last 1-2 years. However, if you notice significant wear on the surface, cracks in the frame, or a noticeable decrease in performance, it might be time to replace it sooner.
As you improve and play more frequently, you might replace your racket more often. Regular maintenance, such as replacing the grip and protecting the racket from extreme temperatures, can help extend its lifespan.