What Is a Padel Racket Made Of?
A Detailed Guide to Padel Racket Materials for All Levels
Padel rackets may all share the same basic shape, but the materials used in their construction vary significantly, and those differences can dramatically affect performance, feel, and price.
Whether you're buying your first racket or want to understand the technology behind high-end models, this guide breaks down exactly what padel rackets are made of, and why it matters.
Understanding the Construction of a Padel Racket
Unlike tennis rackets, padel rackets are solid, no strings involved. They’re built from layers of material surrounding a core, designed to provide a specific balance of power, control, comfort, and durability.
A typical padel racket consists of:
A core (the internal filling)
A frame (the outer structural edge)
A face or surface (the hitting area)
Each of these parts can be made from different materials, and the combination determines how the racket feels during play.
The Core: EVA or Foam
The core is the sponge-like material inside the racket head. It’s critical to how the ball feels when it hits the racket.
EVA Rubber (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)
EVA is the most commonly used material in padel racket cores today. It offers a firm and consistent feel, with variations in density affecting performance:
Hard EVA provides better control and precision
Soft EVA adds more power and comfort, absorbing shock on impact
Most intermediate and professional rackets use EVA in varying densities. It’s long-lasting and delivers a balanced performance across control and power.
Foam Core
Some entry-level rackets use polyurethane foam. Foam is lighter and softer, offering greater rebound and an easier feel for beginners. However, foam tends to wear out faster and lacks the durability and precision of EVA.
The Frame: Carbon Fibre or Fibreglass
The frame gives the racket its strength and stability. A well-constructed frame reduces vibration, improves control, and increases durability.
Carbon Fibre
Carbon is used in high-end rackets for good reason:
It’s lightweight yet extremely stiff
It delivers sharp feedback and excellent control
It’s durable and resists warping over time
Carbon-framed rackets are the choice of serious players. They come at a higher price but deliver superior performance. Some use layered carbon (e.g., 3K, 12K, or 18K carbon) for added stiffness and feel.
Fibreglass
Fibreglass is more flexible, slightly heavier, and softer in feel. It’s used in beginner and lower-cost rackets, offering more forgiveness and comfort for newer players. While not as durable as carbon, it helps reduce strain and is easier to handle at slower speeds.
The Face: Composites and Textures
The face, or surface, of the racket is where the ball makes contact. This can be made from carbon fibre, fibreglass, or a composite, and may include textures for spin.
Common Surface Types
Carbon fibre (3K, 12K, 18K): used for responsiveness, stiffness, and durability
Fibreglass: softer feel, more comfort, less control
Hybrid materials: blend fibreglass and carbon to balance cost and playability
Textured finishes: rough surfaces or 3D patterns for improved spin and grip on the ball
Some premium rackets use sandpaper-like coatings or embossed patterns to help with spin generation. These features are often seen on rackets designed for control-based or technical players.
Comparison Table: Padel Racket Materials
| Component | Material | Performance | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core | EVA Rubber | Balanced control and power | Intermediate to advanced players |
| Core | Foam | Softer feel, more rebound | Beginners and casual play |
| Frame | Carbon Fibre | High stiffness and control | Advanced players |
| Frame | Fibreglass | More flex and comfort | Entry-level players |
| Face | Textured Carbon / Hybrid | Increased spin and response | Spin-focused or technical players |
How to Choose Based on Materials
Your ideal racket depends on your level and style of play:
Beginners: look for foam or soft EVA cores, fibreglass faces, and flexible frames to prioritise comfort and learning.
Intermediate players: benefit from EVA cores and hybrid construction, a good balance between control, durability, and price.
Advanced players: typically choose high-density EVA cores, full carbon construction, and textured faces for maximum performance and responsiveness.
Trusted Retailers for Clear Specs
When shopping for a racket, not all product pages give detailed specs. These retailers are known for providing clear breakdowns of core, frame, and surface materials:
Always check whether “carbon” refers to the entire racket, or just the surface layer, some listings can be misleading.
Conclusion
Understanding what a padel racket is made of can help you avoid overpaying, underperforming, or ending up with a racket that doesn’t suit your style. The difference between foam and EVA, carbon and fibreglass, smooth and textured, it all adds up on court.
Choose based on your experience, playing goals, and budget, and you’ll feel the difference from your very first swing.
