At the end of this summer period, which is generally less conducive to the presentation of new products for the following year, Head has chosen to make a spectacular entrance by prematurely unveiling its brand new line of power-focused racquets, called Extreme (it replaces the Delta series).

The Extreme One at the center of attention

Within this collection, one model has been attracting a lot of attention for some time: theExtreme One.

The Extreme One takes center stage between Paula Josemaria's Motion on the left and Arturo Coello's Pro on the right

I had the chance to test the prototype, some time ago, and as you probably noticed, it particularly piqued my interest.

Head, a brand that likes to innovate

The Austrian company therefore offers us a product with a single hole, defying current standards and shaking the sphere padel since last June.

Head has built its reputation on a culture of innovation, largely fueled by an exceptional research and development department, with an emphasis on product quality. This dedication is evident in the all-new Extreme One model. This project, which required several seasons of maturation, is on the way to revolutionizing a market which, while fertile in ideas, has ultimately been relatively uninnovative in recent years.

To trace the history, it is worth mentioning that this is not the first time that a specialized company has launched a racket with a single hole. Indeed, Drop Shot had already tried this approach in 2014, but the results had been mixed. However, after ten years of continuous materials technology research, exploiting relentless advances in computing power, and benefiting from a significantly larger user base, the proposal for Head seems to arouse much more pronounced enthusiasm.

The idea is so original that even the player of padel casual, less inclined to closely follow market developments, shows an obvious impatience at the idea of ​​testing it.

However, it is widely accepted that waiting only increases desire; in this specific case, Head succeeded brilliantly in meeting its challenge by orchestrating skillful communication around this model, arousing questions and desire.

The colossal influence of social networks has also amplified the impact of this novelty, generating an almost irrepressible impatience to try this model which unleashes passions across the globe. Now, the question is whether this final version will bring further advances in behavior and ergonomics, while offering technical clarifications on the integrated technologies.

A minimal influence for the holes present on the palas?

The snowshoe industry padel is in perpetual evolution, constantly marked by the introduction of new models each season to meet growing demand.

Studies have shown that the multitude of holes present on each frame (in accordance with current regulations, with diameters varying between 9 and 13 millimeters in the central area, or even more in the periphery) actually exerts a relatively modest influence on the behavior of the racket. This is why the decision was taken at Head to propose a model with an innovative approach.

It might be premature to talk about upheaval in the market for padel, however, it is undeniable that we are in the presence of the most captivating innovation presented for many years.

The lightest and strongest racquet in the Extreme series

Guided by the desire to design a racket that is light, maneuverable and at the same time incredibly powerful, compact and resistant, the company decided to take on a daring engineering challenge. A challenge that challenges one of the emblematic characteristics of this sport by proposing a racket having a single hole, positioned just above the bridge area, and the reason behind this is obvious: the rules prohibit the use of racquets without a hole, forcing manufacturers to incorporate at least one. It is no coincidence that the hole required, to comply with the rules, was positioned precisely where its impact on the strength, integrity and durability of the chassis is minimal.

According to the indications of the parent company, this diamond-shaped racquet is exceptionally powerful while maintaining a weight below the usual standards (345gr). This characteristic makes it an attractive option for those looking for specific performance, but prefer to avoid the use of heavier racquets, which can lead to physical fatigue and the risk of injury.

This situation may seem paradoxical, given that holes on the surface are usually associated with a reduction in material, which could imply a huge change in weight. However, the absence of holes allowed engineers to implement an alternative construction technique, reducing overall weight without compromising performance. Eliminating holes also provides a stronger structure, and carbon fiber layers can be reduced without sacrificing strength. The result is a lighter and stronger racket, delivering the perfect balance of weight, power and durability.

Thanks to this specific construction method, it is expected that the vibrations transmitted to the arm during impact are potentially eliminated, thus avoiding discomfort at the elbow. In addition, the sound produced upon impact differs from that emitted by conventional rackets, being softer in comparison.

Longevity and resistance

The main advantage of this racket without holes lies in its remarkable durability. For an overwhelming majority of gamers, this characteristic is of significant importance given that, in the field of padel, the balance between the cost of equipment and its longevity is not always optimal. A surface without perforations is inherently more robust and resilient than a surface with holes. This results in less impact and less deformation when hitting, while guaranteeing an extended lifespan of the racquet.

It is clear that the last phase of the production process, that of repeatedly drilling the frame of the pala to form the desired perforation pattern, creates an element of fragility in the construction. This operation inevitably leads to the creation of micro cracks which could potentially cause breakage during intense and forceful hitting.

Currently, carbon is the material of choice for manufacturing, however, drilling compromises its inherent properties. This logic also applies to the internal foam. Tests carried out both in the field and in the laboratory reveal that the striking zone of the Extreme One is twice as robust as that of conventional models!

Are the effects affected by the absence of perforation?

The vast majority of shots involve spin, with a desire to spin the ball. Also taking into account the data obtained in the wind tunnel, it was confirmed that the aerodynamics were practically not altered. When air enters through the holes, it causes turbulence which can even slow down the movement of the pala. Naturally, this depends on the angle: during a flat shot, this effect is less, but it is rare to hit the ball with the racket perfectly perpendicular.

Until now, the predominant idea has been that rotation results from the size and configuration of the holes, and this notion is partly true. Holes can influence the type of spin when the ball lands near their edges, but the area between two holes is basically neutral. The use of a wind tunnel to develop a rotation model, capable of generating a constant spin regardless of the location of contact with the ball, allowed Head to understand that a solid surface was just as effective in terms of spin as a perforated surface.

In terms of look, we appreciate this remarkable raven black lacquered finish, this logo adorned with pepper gray and the use of a slightly matte surface at the bridge, enhanced by the visible presence of carbon on the faces. In addition, integrated micro-reliefs in the form of circular pins, designed to respond to the name “Consistent Spin”, complete this aesthetic.

The handle length is in the mid range, while the wrist strap sports a simple design.

In the field

During the game, this racket meets all my requirements. Its responsiveness adjusts to the way I play: it's stiff on hard hits and surprisingly softer during slow play. Smashes are executed with vigor and power, while aggressive volleys are just as punchy because this racquet inspires total confidence.

It hardly vibrates, it's a delight on impact, and the sound produced by this pala after each strike is deaf and serious.

Despite its weight of 345 grams, it remains extremely stable on impact. It must be said that its maneuverability is a real asset during games, despite a weight focused on the racquet head. The sweet-spot, despite being a diamond shape, didn't feel that small to me. I was positively surprised, especially in defensive situations where a better ball exit is necessary; the trampoline effect is present and significant.

Conclusion

This first foray by Head is a real success. I had never felt such enthusiasm while testing a racquet. It seems to sync perfectly with my powerful and decisive left-handed style. I particularly appreciate its rigidity while benefiting from comfort and maneuverability.

The Extreme Pro brings all these aspects together, becoming the ultimate solution for players who were previously forced to choose between specific technical characteristics, without being able to combine them harmoniously. This gap is now filled, and I am convinced that this racket will bring satisfaction to many enthusiasts of padel worldwide.

Although the weight of the Extreme One is moderate, I would still recommend it to experienced players, as its still marked balance could pose challenges for beginners.

I'll save the best for last: the advertised price is €280. Suffice it to say that given the integrated technologies and the opportunity to play with a revolutionary product, which stands out for its exceptional maneuverability and devastating power, it is obvious that we will have to be very reactive when this pala is marketed.

Thanks to Evan from Head France, for the speed with which he sent me this model, and Laurent de Barbeyrac for his availability.

Technologies

The technologies previously used in the brand's top-of-the-range models have been renewed and improved.

The racket presents a diamond shape enlarged, with an optimal sweet spot located at the top of the head.

The balance of weight is adjusted towards the head of the racquet, which reinforces the power of the shots.

The core of the racket consists of a rubber Power foam denser and quite rigid, which offers excellent control while allowing powerful strikes. The striking surface 12K carbon guarantees exceptional response and feel with every keystroke, providing increased control and superior accuracy.

The racket frame and cover are made from carbon and Graphene 360. The combination of Graphene 360 ​​and spiral fibers Twisted Fibers provides superior flexibility, allowing for optimal energy transfer from racquet to ball. This results in a crisp hitting feel at impact, accompanied by intense power.

Thanks to the building Auxetic, carbon fibers have unique deformation properties, which generate remarkable energy return and an exceptional firm feeling upon impact.

The sweet spot Optimized Sweet Spot is improved to provide the best possible performance. Tubular construction Tailored Frame increases the flexibility of the racquet, while the technology Smart bridge developed by Head, adapts the bridge area according to the type of racket (control, precision, power, comfort). The racket frame is designed in distinct sections, with each section aimed at achieving optimal performance and maximum responsiveness.

The layer of polymer material Anti Shock Skin provides protection against shocks and resists friction, thus contributing to the preservation and durability of the racket.

The rough surface Consistent Spin, circular in shape, accentuates the effects of rotation of the ball.

The neck design incorporates an ergonomic grip, combining comfort and a solid grip, allowing hours of play without excessive strain on the wrist, and incorporates the Soft Butt Cap, this small flexible device that is incorporated into the handle to reduce vibrations and increase comfort during use.

Stéphane Penso

Fan of padel, Stéphane has become the official tester of the planet padel in Europe. Everything goes through his expert hands. Thanks to his extensive experience in the snowshoeing world, he is able to scan your gear from head to toe!

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