How to choose your first padel racket — a beginner's guide
So you've discovered padel. Welcome — you're not getting your weekends back.
The game is growing faster than any other sport in the UK right now, and for good reason. It's social, fast-paced, and genuinely addictive from the first session. But if you're buying your first racket, the options can feel overwhelming.
Here's everything you need to know.
Shape matters more than you think
Padel rackets come in three basic shapes — round, teardrop and diamond.
Round rackets have a low balance point, meaning the weight sits towards the handle. They're more forgiving and easier to control — ideal for beginners.
Teardrop rackets sit in the middle — a balance of power and control. Great for intermediate players who want the best of both worlds.
Diamond rackets are top-heavy, generating maximum power. These are for advanced players who've already mastered control and want to add pace.
As a beginner, start with a round or teardrop shape. You'll develop your technique faster and enjoy the game more.
Face material — what's the difference?
The hitting surface of a padel racket is either fibreglass or carbon fibre.
Fibreglass is more flexible and forgiving — good for beginners as it absorbs more impact and gives you more feel on the ball.
Carbon fibre is stiffer and more powerful — it transfers more energy into the ball, giving experienced players extra pace. The higher the carbon grade (e.g. 3K, 12K, 18K) the stiffer and more powerful the face.
The KATANA 1.0 White uses a carbon fibre face at an accessible price point — giving beginners the benefits of carbon fibre without the advanced player price tag. The KATANA 1.0 Black uses a 3K carbon fibre face for players ready to take their game to the next level.
Core material — EVA vs foam
Inside every padel racket is a foam core that affects how the ball feels when you hit it.
EVA foam is denser and more responsive — it gives you a crisper, more powerful hit. It also absorbs vibration well, reducing arm fatigue over long sessions.
Soft foam is more forgiving and better for control — ideal for beginners still developing their technique.
Both KATANA rackets use EVA memory foam cores — giving you that responsive, satisfying feel from day one.
Weight — lighter isn't always better
Most padel rackets weigh between 340g and 390g. As a beginner, aim for something in the middle — around 355-370g. Too light and you'll lose power, too heavy and you'll fatigue quickly.
Budget — how much should you spend?
You don't need to spend a fortune to get a great first racket. The biggest brands charge premium prices largely for their name. A well-engineered racket from a specialist brand at £70-£90 will perform just as well for a beginner — and look a lot better on the court.
The KATANA 1.0 White at £69.99 gives you carbon fibre construction, EVA core technology and a design that turns heads — without the inflated price tag of the big names.
Our recommendation for beginners
If you're just starting out, go for the KATANA 1.0 White. It's got the right balance of power and control for a developing player, it's built to last, and honestly — you'll be the best dressed player on the court.
If you've already played a few times and want something with more punch, step up to the KATANA 1.0 Black. The 3K carbon fibre face will reward players who've started developing their technique.
Either way, you won't regret it.