What do I need to play padel?
Padel is a fantastic sport that is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide. It combines the best elements of tennis and squash, offering fun, physical activity, and a social experience. But what do you actually need to get started with padel? In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the essential equipment – from padel rackets and balls to shoes and accessories – so you’re well prepared for your first matches on the court.
Padel Racket
The padel racket is the heart of your game and differs from traditional rackets. Its shape is flat and compact, resembling a beach tennis racket more than a tennis racket.
When choosing a padel racket, there are several factors to consider. The shape plays a key role in how the racket feels during play. A round racket is the most forgiving and is especially recommended for beginners because it offers great control and is easy to handle. If you're more advanced, a teardrop-shaped racket offers a balance between control and power. The diamond-shaped racket is best for experienced players who want maximum power in their attacking shots but requires greater precision.
Material is also important. Most rackets are made of fiberglass or carbon. Fiberglass rackets are easier to play with and usually more affordable, while carbon rackets offer more power and durability but demand better technique. You should also consider the weight and balance of the racket. A head-heavy racket gives more power to your shots, while a balanced one offers easier maneuverability.
Padel Balls
Although padel balls look like tennis balls, there are key differences. Padel balls have lower pressure, which means they bounce less and better suit the fast-paced, controlled nature of padel. A new padel ball has about 11 psi of pressure compared to 14 psi in a tennis ball.
The court surface also plays a role in your choice of balls. On indoor courts, which often use Mondo synthetic grass, the balls maintain their pressure better and last longer. Outdoor courts in Denmark are more durable to withstand the unpredictable weather, but they also wear the balls down faster. If you play outdoors, you should choose balls with slightly higher pressure, as they bounce better and withstand wind and moisture.
Ball quality makes a difference. Cheap balls typically wear out faster and lose pressure more quickly. It’s often worth investing in slightly more expensive balls that provide a more consistent bounce and longer playtime.
Padel Shoes
A good pair of padel shoes is an essential part of your equipment. The surface of the padel court places special demands on your shoes since you often change direction quickly and need optimal grip.
While padel shoes resemble tennis shoes, there are differences. Padel shoes are lighter, more flexible, and designed to give you the necessary agility. If you play on outdoor courts with visible sand, it’s recommended to choose shoes with a clay sole for better grip. On indoor courts, where sand is under the synthetic grass, all-court soles work just fine.
Comfort and shock absorption are key, especially since padel is often played on hard surfaces like concrete. If you have knee, back, or ankle issues, you should opt for shoes with extra support and shock absorption to reduce strain. It’s also important that the shoes fit well. A good fit ensures stability and reduces the risk of injuries when you quickly change direction on the court.
Padel Bag
A padel bag makes it easy and convenient to transport your gear to and from the court. Bags come in different sizes and designs, so you can choose one that fits your needs.
If you only play occasionally, a smaller bag is usually sufficient to store your racket and balls. For players who have more gear like shoes, clothing, and multiple rackets, a larger bag or backpack may be necessary. Many padel bags have a separate compartment for shoes, which is practical after a match when your shoes are often wet and dirty.
When choosing a bag, it's also worth considering how much you play. Elite players and coaches often need larger bags, while casual players who play a few times a month can get by with smaller models.
Overgrips
An overgrip is a small but important addition to your padel racket. The standard grip on most rackets is often thin and lacks sweat-absorbing properties. By applying an overgrip, you enhance your grip and reduce the risk of the racket slipping in your hand during play.
Overgrips also allow you to adjust the thickness of the grip to better fit your hand. This helps you hold the racket more comfortably, which can prevent overuse injuries like tennis elbow. When the grip starts to feel slippery, it's time to replace the overgrip so you always maintain control over the racket.
Extra Accessories
To get the best experience on the padel court, it may be worth investing in some additional equipment. Breathable and flexible clothing gives you the freedom of movement you need, while sweatbands and headbands help keep sweat away from your hands and face. A good water bottle is also essential to stay hydrated during play.
Learn More About Padel
At Wannasport, we love padel, which is why we've gathered the most important topics about padel so you can master the sport. Check out our articles below to learn more about padel: