You see all the new rackets from padel 2020 and are looking for a pattern to control the tempo. Which type of pala do you turn to? Let's try to clarify this.

The term Control Is not always easy to understand because it is very subjective. Indeed, depending on your experience, your playing style, your technique, or the sensations you are looking for, you will not perceive it the same. We will define three notions easier to qualify, and which can help you when making your choice.

  • Maneuverability

Remember that the less weight a racket has in mind, the easier it is to move. So, if your primary objective is to control the game, not to make mistakes, you will have to orient yourself towards a racket whoseis centered on the handle. This mainly concerns snowshoes with a round shape or an inverted drop of water. Similarly, for maximum maneuverability, choose a racket that is not not too heavy (<380g). Finally, some manufacturers offer technologies such as a special arrangement of holes or a special shape of the bridge, which make a pala more manageable. It will therefore be necessary to be attentive to these details.

  • Comfort

Soft palas are the most comfortable. Indeed, they reduce vibrations and dampen the ball, acting a little like a spring. Some players who need “Keep the ball in the racket”, attach particular importance to this parameter. If this is your case, you should favor the FOAM (Polyethylene) for the foam, and the fiberglass for the frame and the sides, since it provides a softer feel than carbon. These materials are also particularly suitable for those who suffer from the elbow.

  • The precision

It is a concept that is in contradiction with comfort, since one harder racket will provide you more precision than a tender racket. Indeed, when you hit the ball with a soft racket, the elastic force of the soft foam is added to the force you put in your gesture, and it is therefore more difficult to know which force to apply to direct the ball where you want. If you are looking for the highest precision, you will have to orient yourself towards a foam EVA harder, and towards the carbon for the faces, because it brings a more rigid feel.

In summary, if you want a model focused control, it is advisable in the first place to select rackets rather round, and light. Then, depending on your preference for comfort or precision, you will have to make a choice between the different materials that exist. Fortunately, brands now offer many different palas. Whether you are looking for flexibility, stiffness, or a bit of both, you will inevitably find your happiness!

Xan is a fan of padel. But also rugby! And his posts are just as punchy. Physical trainer of several padel, he unearths atypical posts or deals with topical subjects. It also gives you some tips to develop your physique for the padel. Clearly, he imposes his offensive style as on the field of padel !

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