Your racket padel has a relatively determined lifespan. It is important to change it. Depending on your playing frequency and the conditions in which your racquet will be kept, you will need to replace it more or less quickly. Let's take a few minutes to clarify when your pala is showing you signs of fatigue.

The quality of the materials used

The first factor to consider when you buy a pala is its material used: fiberglass or carbon fiber. Generally fiberglass is less expensive, but it is more fragile.

The foam or gum used will be the second factor. Although all foams are effective, it must be recognized that EVA foam offers better benefits than FOAM.

The frequency of play

To give you an idea, the professionals of padel change pala on average every 3 months. The more you play, the faster your pala will deteriorate.

We calculate that in an average match, we can hit the ball around 300 times. For a player practicing padel 3 times a week, the total rises to 900 more or less violent strikes. In case you play 3 times a week, the average lifespan of your pala will be 6 months. For a player practicing once a week and of an average level, the palas of good quality can offer very good performances up to 2 years.

Degradation

Remember to protect your pala so that it lasts longer. Put a protector for the friction on the windows or grates, dry the pala well after playing in humid conditions, protect it from the heat, the cold, avoid the sudden changes of temperatures, let dry the handle well after each use, and especially use a cover.

Signs of fatigue

The gums, with time become hard and reduce the sensations. Conversely, when you play very often, the shocks make the rubber soften, also reducing the sensations.

The cracks on the frame are a very clear sign of wear. These cracks extend towards the center, cause vibrations and reduce the efficiency of the racket until causing injuries in the elbow "Tennis Elbow".

Finally the loss of power. You make smashes and you realize that the ball is coming out of your pala slower. The performance of your palas have reduced, it's time to change.

The final word

Whether you like it or not, your pala has a shelf life. For regular players, who compete and train regularly, no matter what pala you use, say that from 6 months of use, it will start to tire.

For casual or less regular players, it's up to you to see if the price of your racket is important or not. An inexpensive racket will offer you fewer sensations, an average life, but an attractive price. A more upscale racket will certainly be more expensive but will offer you more sensations and longer life.

In any case, if you do not take care of your racket do not be surprised at its rapid wear ...

https://padelmagazine.fr/categorie/marques-tests/

Julien Bondia

Julien Bondia is a teacher of padel in Tenerife (Spain). Columnist and advisor, he helps you play better through his tutorials and tactical/technical articles padel.

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