Racket
A padel racket - the pala - is the solid-faced composite implement used to hit the ball. FIP rules cap the racket at 45.5 cm length, 26 cm width and 38 mm thickness. Unlike tennis rackets, padel rackets are not strung - the hitting face is a solid panel of carbon fibre or fibreglass over an EVA foam core.
What is a padel racket?
A padel racket - known in Spanish as the pala - is a solid-faced racket made from a composite panel (carbon fibre or fibreglass) bonded to a foam core (usually EVA, ethylene-vinyl acetate). The hitting face is perforated with small holes to reduce drag, and the racket has a short handle with a mandatory wrist strap. The whole package weighs between 340 and 385 grams.
FIP regulation
FIP rules cap the racket at 45.5 cm total length, 26 cm width at the widest point of the head, and 38 mm thickness. The wrist strap is also regulated - it must be present and no longer than 35 cm. Manufacturers test rackets against these limits and the racket must display the FIP-approved mark to be legal in sanctioned competition.
Categories
Padel rackets are grouped by head shape: round (control, beginner-friendly), teardrop (balanced, intermediate) and diamond (power, advanced). Beginners should pick round-head rackets for the larger sweet spot. Weight is also categorised - under 360 g for most amateurs, 360 to 385 g for advanced players who can handle the extra mass.
Coach tip: Pick a racket that suits your level rather than the level you want to be at. Diamond-shape power rackets used by pros are punishing on amateur arms - they magnify timing errors and reduce control. Round-head rackets at 360 g or under suit nearly every player up to LTA 4.0.
Common mistakes
The biggest racket mistake is buying a power-shape racket too early. Diamond heads and harder EVA cores look pro on the shelf but produce more elbow strain and worse shot consistency at amateur level. The fix is to start with a round-head control racket and only move up when the technique demands it.