What Are the Different Types of Padel Rackets?
How Shape, Weight and Balance Affect Your Game
To the untrained eye, most padel rackets look like variations on the same theme, rounded, hole-punched, no strings in sight. But behind that familiar silhouette lies a world of variation. Padel rackets come in different types designed to suit different playing styles, skill levels, and preferences.
This guide walks you through the key types of padel rackets — by shape, balance, and player intent, so you can make sense of the choices and find the right one for your game.
Racket Types by Shape
The most common way to categorise padel rackets is by head shape. Each shape affects how the racket handles on court, especially in terms of power, control, and manoeuvrability.
1. Round Rackets
Sweet spot: Large and central
Power: Moderate
Control: Excellent
Best for: Beginners, defensive players, and those who prioritise control
Round rackets are the most forgiving type. The large sweet spot makes it easier to connect with the ball cleanly, which is why many starter and intermediate rackets use this shape.
Adidas Adipower CTRL 3.3
2. Teardrop Rackets
Sweet spot: Slightly higher than centre
Power: Balanced
Control: Balanced
Best for: Intermediate players looking to improve all-round performance
Teardrop rackets strike a balance between power and control. If you're progressing beyond the basics and want more versatility, this is a reliable option.
Babolat Air Veron
3. Diamond-Shaped Rackets
Sweet spot: High and small
Power: High
Control: Lower
Best for: Advanced and attacking players
Diamond rackets are designed for offensive play. They’re top-heavy, which helps generate powerful smashes but can be punishing if you mistime your shots.
Bullpadel Vertex 04
Comparison Table: Padel Racket Shapes
| Racket Shape | Sweet Spot | Power | Control | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round | Large and central | Moderate | High | Beginners and control-focused players |
| Teardrop | Medium, slightly high | Balanced | Balanced | Intermediate, all-round players |
| Diamond | High and small | High | Low to medium | Advanced, attacking players |
Racket Types by Balance
Balance refers to how the weight is distributed across the racket. It’s closely related to shape, but not always identical.
Low Balance (Head-Light)
Easier to manoeuvre
Better control
Great for quick reactions at the net
Often found in round rackets
Medium Balance
Even weight distribution
Ideal for mixed playing styles
Found in many teardrop rackets
High Balance (Head-Heavy)
Generates more power
Heavier to swing
Less forgiving
Often found in diamond-shaped rackets
A racket’s balance can significantly influence how tired your arm feels after a match — especially if you're not used to higher-weighted heads.
Other Factors That Define Padel Racket Types
While shape and balance are key, a few other factors help define racket types:
Core Material
Soft EVA / foam: More bounce, easier on the joints
Hard EVA: Less bounce, more control
(See our full guide: What Is a Padel Racket Made Of?)
Surface Texture
Smooth: Standard, predictable rebound
Textured or sandpaper-like: Adds spin and control
Weight Range
Light rackets: 340–360g — great for control and comfort
Medium: 360–375g — the most common weight range
Heavy: 375g+ — more power, but can fatigue the arm quickly
Read Total Padel’s explanation of racket weights
Which Type Should You Choose?
It depends on your level, playing style, and physical comfort.
Beginners - Start with a round racket, low or medium balance, and a softer core. Prioritise comfort and control while you develop your technique.
Improving players - Try a teardrop racket with medium balance and a hybrid surface. This lets you experiment with power and control as your consistency improves.
Advanced players - Look for a diamond racket with a high balance, harder EVA core, and textured face for extra spin and power.
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of padel racket isn’t just about brand or budget, it’s about matching the racket’s shape, balance, and materials to the way you play. By understanding the key differences, you can choose a racket that helps, not hinders, your development on court.
Whether you're just starting or refining your game, get to know the types, test what works, and build your setup around how you like to play.
