Padel Rackets vs Tennis Rackets: The Differences
Contents
Padel is played on a smaller, enclosed court with walls in play, so its racket evolved differently from tennis.
| Tennis racket (ITF) | Padel racket (FIP) | |
|---|---|---|
| Max length | 73.7 cm (29 in) | 45.5 cm |
| Max width | 31.7 cm (12.5 in) | 26 cm |
| Hitting surface | Strung bed, max 39.4 × 29.2 cm | Solid face, max 38 mm thick |
| Holes | — | 9–13 mm centre; up to 20 mm within 4 cm of the edge |
| Core | None (hollow composite frame) | EVA rubber or foam |
| Face material | Strings | Carbon fibre, fibreglass or hybrid |
| Handle | Part of overall length | Max 20 cm long, 50 × 50 mm |
| Wrist strap | Not required | Required (non-elastic, max 35 cm) |
| Weight limit | None | None |
| Head shapes | Oval / isometric | Round, teardrop, diamond |
Tennis frames have evolved a lot; see the history of tennis rackets.
How the “tuning” moves
In tennis you tune a racket mainly through strings: type, gauge, pattern and tension. In padel, the core hardness, face material and shape and balance do that job.
| Want… | Tennis adjustment | Padel equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| More comfort | Lower tension, multifilament or gut | Soft EVA or foam, fibreglass face |
| More control | Higher tension, polyester, 18×20 | Hard EVA, carbon face, round shape |
| More spin | Open pattern, polyester | Textured or sanded face |
| More power | Head-heavy, stiffer frame | Diamond shape, high balance |
What tennis players should buy for padel
Start with a round or low-balance teardrop racket with a soft or medium EVA core. Your tennis swing already creates pace, so control and a shorter swing matter more. See the best padel racket for beginners.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use a tennis racket for padel?
No. FIP rules require a solid, perforated padel racket no longer than 45.5 cm with a safety strap. A tennis racket is up to 73.7 cm and strung.
Why do padel rackets have holes?
The holes cut air resistance and weight on a solid face and affect how the racket feels. FIP rules set the hole size: 9–13 mm in the central area.
Are padel rackets heavier than tennis rackets?
Neither governing body sets a weight limit. Compare the manufacturer’s stated weights for the models you’re considering.