Padel for Beginners: Which Racket, Balls and Grip to Buy
Share
Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and more and more courts are opening in the US and the UK. It's easy to learn and very social. Here's what you need to start.
1. Your first padel racket
- Shape: choose a round racket. The sweet spot is bigger, so it forgives mistakes. Diamond shapes are for advanced, attacking players.
- Weight: 350–365 g is comfortable for most beginners.
- Foam (core): soft EVA gives more control and less arm vibration. Hard foam gives power but needs good technique.
- Face: fiberglass is softer and cheaper; carbon is stiffer and lasts longer.
2. Padel balls
They look like tennis balls but have a little less pressure. Buy a pack of 3 and change them when they stop bouncing well.
👉 Padel Balls
3. Overgrip
A thin tape over the handle. It absorbs sweat and stops the racket slipping. Change it every 10–15 games.
👉 Anti-Slip Overgrips 10-Pack
4. Frame protector tape
Beginners often hit the floor or the wall with the racket. A protector on the top edge saves it from chips and cracks.
👉 Padel Racket Frame Protector
Beginner tips
Stay at the back, let the ball bounce off the glass, and play with a partner who's also learning. Most people play a decent game after 3–4 sessions.
Who it's for
Perfect for anyone looking for a padel racket for beginners, a complete padel starter kit, or a gift for a friend who just discovered padel.
👉 See the full Padel collection.