Padel buying guide
Your level is the best place to start when choosing a racket. Padel levels come down to how long you have been playing, how often, the shots you have mastered, and roughly where you sit on the Playtomic level scale (0 to 7) that most South African players use to find matches.
Racket Finder
Answer three quick questions and we'll match you with the right padel rackets for your game.
Step 1 of 3
Learning the basics and getting rallies going
Learning the rules and scoring, getting the ball in play with your forehand and backhand, starting to use the back wall, and building your first rallies. The focus is consistency, clean contact and footwork.
We stock: NOX X-Series, Head Edge, Bullpadel Discover, Babolat Vertuo, Siux Beat.
Shop beginner rackets ›Consistent rallies, learning tactics and shot variety
Rally consistently, use the back and side walls, serve and return reliably, and volley at the net. You are positioning with your partner and starting to develop the lob and the bandeja. The focus shifts to shot selection and court position.
We stock: NOX Equation, NOX AT10 Pro Cup, Adidas Cross It, Head Speed, Babolat Veron, Siux Trilogy.
Shop intermediate rackets ›Tactical play, power shots, and competing
Construct and control points, hit a reliable bandeja and vibora, smash with a bajada or por tres, and work the walls both ways. You read the game, stay consistent under pressure, and you know your style of play. Now you choose a racket by control or power.
We stock: NOX AT10 Genius, Adidas Metalbone, Head Coello, Bullpadel Vertex and Hack, Siux Fenix and Electra.
Shop advanced rackets ›Go by how long and how often you play, and the shots you are comfortable with. If you are still learning to rally and use the walls, you are a beginner. If you rally consistently and volley at the net, you are intermediate. If you control points and hit bandejas and smashes, you are advanced. The Playtomic app also gives you a level from 0 to 7 as you play matches.
A round, lightweight racket with a soft core and large sweet spot. It is forgiving, comfortable and easy to control while you learn. Avoid diamond-shaped power rackets at this stage.
Once your technique is consistent and your current racket feels like it is holding you back. Intermediate players benefit from a balanced all-court frame, advanced players from a racket matched to their style.
Not always. A heavier racket can add power but is harder to handle and tougher on your arm. Match the weight to your level and strength rather than assuming heavier is better.
Message us and we'll match you with the right racket for your game and budget. Fast nationwide delivery across South Africa.
