The balance of the Padel racket is one of the factors that most influences how a Padel racket is experienced on the court. In this article, we will explain everything that you need to know.
The balance of the Padel racket is determined by how the weight is distributed between the bottom and the top of the racket.
So how does the balance affect your game?
Imagine holding a hammer at the lowest part (tip) of the handle and then swinging it. The momentum creates speed and therefore power, but also gives you less control over the hammer. Then imagine holding the hammer handle right at the top, just below the head and then swinging it. You have a lot more control of the hammer, but less momentum. It’s simple physics and it works the same with Padel rackets. When the weight is more towards the top, you get more power, due to more momentum. When the weight is at the bottom of the racket, you get more control.
Balance of a racket is divided into three categories, low, high, and medium.
Low Balance
Padel rackets with a low balance, have a feeling of neutral balance when you hold the racket out in front of you. The balance is at the bottom of the face, just above the handle. A low balance racket is associated with a Round shaped racket and it offers lots of control.
In our example with the hammer, the low balance corresponds to gripping the hammer in the upper part, which makes it easier to swing and control. Low balance Padel rackets are therefore easier to handle and comfortable to play with. They are easy to manoeuvre and ideal for players seeking control in their shots.
The disadvantage of low balance rackets is that you don’t get help from the racket to generate momentum and therefore power when attacking. You need to generate the power yourself.
Medium balance
Padel rackets that have the weight distributed slightly higher up the racket, have a medium balance. Medium balance is mostly associated with Teardrop-shaped rackets.
These rackets offer more power in the attacking play than low balance rackets and they are more manoeuvrable and give more control than high balance rackets. Essentially, they are the best of both worlds, a good mix of power and control.
High Balance
Padel rackets with a high balance, have a head/top heavy feel when you hold the racket out in front of you. Padel rackets that have the balance in the middle part of the racket have a high balance and the sweet spot right at the top of the racket. High balance is often associated with Diamond shaped rackets.
High balance rackets are equivalent to gripping the hammer at the very end of the handle. This creates lots of momentum and therefore great power, but loses some control. When the weight balance is higher up the racket, it gives you the power needed for aggressive volleys and perfect smashes. High balance Padel rackets are therefore an excellent choice for attacking players with good technique.
Summary
The type of balance to look for in a Padel racket depends largely on your playing style. If you are more of a control/strategic type of player, a low balance Padel racket might be more suitable. If you are an attacking player, with good volley and smashing technique, then a high balance, Diamond shaped racket may suit you better.
Don’t forget that these are only guidelines, and choosing a Padel racket is more about your personal preferences.