Padel rackets for beginners: what to look for and mistakes to avoid

When you start playing padel it is tempting to buy the racket your favourite player uses. That is almost always a mistake: professional rackets are designed to hit very hard with very refined technique. To progress quickly you need exactly the opposite.

What a racket for starting out should have

• Round or teardrop shape: a large sweet spot that forgives off-centre shots.
• Low or medium balance: easier to handle and faster at the net.
• Soft feel: more ball exit at low speed and fewer vibrations for your arm.
• Moderate weight: between 355 and 370 grams is usually enough for an adult.

The 4 most common mistakes

1. Buying a power racket too soon. A diamond racket with a hard feel demands technique; without it you will lose control and your arm will feel it.
2. Choosing on price alone. Neither the most expensive nor the cheapest: the mid-range models of the big brands offer very good performance at a reasonable price.
3. Choosing on looks alone. The colour won’t win you points; the shape and feel will.
4. Not thinking about your arm. If you feel elbow discomfort, check our guide on rackets that look after your arm.

Our recommendations in stock

• Siux Astra Control 2026: round, control-oriented and great value.
• Steel Custom Centaurus: handmade, round and soft.
• Head Radical Team 2026: an easy-to-handle teardrop to progress with.
• Nox X-Zero 2026: light and comfortable to start with.

See all the options in control rackets or take the “Find your racket” quiz selecting the “Beginner” level.