A Padel racket can last anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on how often it's used, the intensity of the player using it, and how well it's cared for.
Essentially a racket will last between 100-150 games, depending on the intensity of the hitting. The core (EVA Rubber or Foam) starts to compress over time and therefore starts to lose its elasticity and power.
Therefore, as a recreational player, if you play 2-3 times a week, it should last you 1 year. However, if you are playing nearly every day, it will last you 4 to 6 months and if you play once or twice a month, it could last year many years, if it is looked after correctly.
Proper care can extend the racket's lifespan. Here are some tips for extending the life of your Padel racket:
- Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures (hot or cold) as it affects the core.
- Change the overgrip regularly.
- Use a frame protector.
- Avoid hitting the racket against the cage, glass, floor or partners racket.
- Do not play in wet or damp conditions, this is a sure way to reduce the lifespan of your racket.
- Don't lift/pick up the ball from the ground by hitting it with the surface of the racket. This will create cracks in the face.
- Invest in a Padel bag to protect the racket from any damage and from extreme temperatures.
Symptoms of an old racket - Old rackets display a few symptoms you should look out for. These are as follows:
- They have lower ball output as the compressed foam/rubber has lost its elastic properties and doesn’t recover its original shape, as it was manufactured to.
- The sound from an old racket will have a deeper thump in its tone.
- Old rackets with compressed foam/rubber will send more vibrations to players' arms, due to the reduced absorption of the foam/rubber. Players with a history of Padel elbow or epicondylitis, in particular, should replace their rackets more regularly.
To shop our selection of rackets, please click on this link, https://padelgear.co.za/collections/rackets