We review the Steel Custom Air Boom 2020 padel racket

Today we review a real gem: the Steel Custom Air Boom 2020, probably the brand’s most popular model.

Steel Custom Air Boom 2020: specifications

• Shape: diamond
• Frame: tubular fibreglass
• Face: fibreglass
• Core: Ultra Soft Foam
• Weight: 360–375 g
• Thickness: 38 mm
• Technology: ASI (Abrasive Surface Impact), Tubular Heart PWR + anti-torsion

First impressions

The Air Boom is a racket for advanced players, but it also helps intermediate players who want to refine their technique a lot. Visually, its lines give it a bold look.

Its open bridge greatly reduces vibrations, so it feels very pleasant throughout a match or training session, and it protects the parts of the arm that suffer most. It offers a great balance of power and control with a very large sweet spot.

One of its standout features is the Tubular Heart: a compressed-air chamber running from the base to the tip that adds incredible power to every shot without losing control.

Like many Steel Custom models, it has ASI (Abrasive Surface Impact), a rough, non-slip surface on both faces that helps develop technique and improves control.

The core is what STL calls Ultra Soft Foam, a soft polyethylene foam that increases ball output and gives great control on every shot. The fibreglass frame with the Tubular Heart PWR tube makes it more resistant to knocks and extends its lifespan.

Our verdict after testing it

The Air Boom is a great racket, very well balanced between power and control. The air chamber adds spectacular extra power to smashes and attacking volleys.

It also helps a lot in defensive shots and blocks, often making defence easy; it frequently gives you a second chance when defending.

It is highly recommended for players prone to tennis elbow, as the bridge minimises vibrations. All this means you adapt to it very quickly.

See the Steel Custom Air Boom in our shop