Playing padel depends on the shape of your racket. Are you having trouble choosing the right padel racket shape? To choose the right shape for your padel racket, we go through everything you need to know in this article.
It is impossible to find a shape that is perfect for all players. Your playing style and level will determine what shape is right for you.
A Padel racket can be classified according to its shape into three categories: round racket, diamond-shaped racket, and teardrop-shaped racket. Here are some differences we need to clarify.
Round-shaped padel rackets
The padel racket with a round shape is the first shape to be studied in our analysis of padel racket shapes. In general, they are characterized by the following:
Low balance
The weight distribution of round padel rackets is closer to the grip, resulting in a low balance. The racket can be handled more easily in most situations on a padel court thanks to this. The risk of injuries such as tennis elbow is also reduced with rackets with low balance.
Larger sweet spot
When compared to teardrop-shaped or diamond-shaped rackets, round rackets have a larger sweet spot. When hit outside the sweet spot area, they are usually forgiving. These rackets have an area in the middle that keeps the ball from slipping.
What type of player should choose a round-shaped padel racket?
A round-shaped racket is the best choice for beginners in padel. Players with more experience can also benefit from it if they want the highest level of control and precision. A round padel racket is recommended if you want a racket that will be easy to handle and prevent injuries.
Among the professional padel players using round-shaped rackets are Matas Daz and Miguel Lamperti.
Diamond-shaped padel rackets
Padel rackets shaped like diamonds are next. Characteristics of these animals include:
High balance
Padel rackets with diamond-shaped heads are more balanced than those with round heads. Consequently, this results in a racket that is more difficult to handle, but that generates great power.
Smaller sweet spot
The sweet spot on padel rackets with diamond shapes is smaller than that on rackets with round shapes. Rackets with diamond-shaped heads usually aren’t very forgiving when impacts occur outside the sweet spot.
When should you choose a diamond-shaped padel racket?
Looking for maximum power in your volleys and smashes as an attacking player with good technique?
Then you may want to consider a diamond-shaped racket. Rackets with high balance are not recommended for those with previous injuries.
Round-shaped rackets are used by professional padel players such as Paquito Navarro and Maxi Sanchez.
Teardrop-shaped padel rackets
Padel rackets shaped like teardrops are the last ones to be discussed.
Medium balance
There is a medium or slightly higher balance between the head and the grip on teardrop-shaped padel rackets depending on the model. Generally, rackets with a teardrop shape are easier to handle than rackets with diamond shapes but are less easy to play with than rackets with round shapes.
Medium-sized sweet spot
The sweet spot on a teardrop-shaped racket is generally located in the center of the head or slightly higher. Compared to diamond-shaped rackets, they’re less forgiving when you hit the call outside the sweet spot area.
When should you choose a teardrop-shaped padel racket?
Do you want to be able to attack with enough power while maintaining control at the same time? For you, a teardrop-shaped padel racket might be a perfect choice. Also, if you are currently using a round racket and are planning on switching to a diamond racket in the future, it would be a natural next step.
Round-shaped rackets are used by professional players such as Sanyo Gutierres and Luciano Capra.
Padel racket shapes Final Thoughts
It is important to understand how padel rackets are made. It is important to determine what level you are playing at and what shape you want for your padel racket.
Padel rackets that are round are best for beginners because they are easier to play. For more experienced players seeking maximum control and security, the same principle applies.
It is recommended that you use a diamond-shaped padel racket if you are an attacking player with good technique. In comparison to the round ball, it generates more power during volleys, layups, and smashes.
For the all-around player who wants to combine power and control, a teardrop-shaped padel racket is a great choice.
When choosing a padel racket, the shape is one of the most important considerations, but many other factors also play a role. There are several factors that contribute to the weight of the inner core, including its balance and density.
