( Guide )

How to choose a padel racket

The right racket depends on your level, your playing style and how often you play. Look at five things: level, shape, weight, balance and materials. Once you have a shortlist, try all our gear at Padel Embassy.

16 October 2026 4 min read

1. Playing level

Beginner: a forgiving racket. Usually a round or hybrid shape, a softer core and a larger sweet spot. Rackets for beginners
Intermediate: more power without losing control. Teardrop and hybrid shapes for all-round play. Rackets for intermediate players
Advanced: power and precision for players with solid technique. Diamond and geometric shapes, higher balance and harder cores. Rackets for advanced players

2. Shape

Round: the sweet spot is in the centre and the balance is low. The most control and the easiest handling. Examples: NOX X-Hero White, NOX Equation Advanced Series 2024.
Teardrop: medium balance, a mix of control and power. A good choice if you play both in defence and in attack. Examples: Oxdog Hyper Pro 2.0 2026, Oxdog Hyper Tour X 2.0 2026.
Hybrid: between teardrop and diamond, an all-round response across the court. Examples: Oxdog Pure Pro+ 2026, Bullpadel Neuron 27.
Diamond: the sweet spot sits closer to the top and the balance is high. The most power for smashes and volleys, but it asks for good technique. Examples: Oxdog Ultimate Pro 2026, Bullpadel Pearl 27.
Geometric: a larger hitting surface and a balance shifted towards attack. For players who want to finish points. Examples: Bullpadel Vertex 05 Geo 27, Bullpadel XPLO 27.

3. Weight

Most adult rackets weigh between 345 and 375 g. A lighter racket is easier to move and puts less strain on your arm, while a heavier one gives more power and stability in fast rallies. Junior rackets are lighter, around 300 to 325 g, with a shorter grip, like the NOX AT10 Genius Junior 2025. If your arm is sensitive, choose a lighter racket with a lower balance and a softer core.

4. Balance

A low balance (closer to the handle) means more control and quicker reactions at the net. A high balance (closer to the top) means more power, but more effort for the wrist. Many rackets have weights that let you adjust the balance yourself: Oxdog RBS, NOX Weight Balance and Bullpadel CustomWeight.

5. Materials

Core: a softer EVA or foam core gives more ball output and comfort. A harder core gives more control and power on fast shots, but needs a stronger swing.
Face: fibreglass is softer and the ball comes off it more easily, which suits beginners. Carbon (3K, 12K, HES Carbon) is stiffer, more precise and more durable.
Texture: a rough face (3D Grain, Dual Spin, Top Spin) grips the ball better for spin.

Try before you buy

Try all our gear at Padel Embassy, Slavonska avenija 17, Zagreb. Buy the racket you choose online with BOX NOW delivery, or pick it up at the Padel Embassy reception.

FAQ

Which padel racket is best for beginners?
A forgiving one: usually a round or hybrid shape, a softer core and a weight of 345 to 365 g. See our rackets for beginners.

Is a heavier racket better?
Not necessarily. A heavier racket gives more power and stability, but tires your arm faster. Choose a weight you can play a full match with without losing speed.

Round or diamond racket?
Round for control and easier learning, diamond for power in attack. If you are not sure, a teardrop or hybrid shape sits in between.

How do I protect my racket?
A racket protector guards the frame against knocks on the walls and floor, and a fresh overgrip restores a secure hold. For example the NOX Padel Racket Protector and Oxdog Gold Pro Overgrip (3 Pack), and you will find the rest in Accessories.