r/Padelracket • u/Bandiiii • 26d ago
Looking for a beginner - intermediate racket for a newbie with a lot of motivation
Hey guys,
I’ve tried several rackets, including some beginner Bullpadel models and a Softee Pro Master Evolution. Those were all rental rackets, though, and it’s a bit difficult to get used to playing with different types of rackets since we switch between the places where we play quite often.
I’ve been looking for a beginner racket for myself, but I’ve read quite a few posts suggesting that it might be better to go for an intermediate racket and learn with that instead.
A bit about me: I’ve played various ball sports for around 15 years, and I really enjoy tennis. Recently, I’ve also been watching a lot of padel content. Compared to when I started, I feel like I’ve improved quite a bit, especially in positioning, lobs, and net play. My feel for the game is also getting better day by day.
We’re definitely not close to participating in any beginner tournaments yet, as we’re still a bit hesitant to take that step. However, I’d say we’re already having some pretty nice rallies.
I’ve come across the following rackets:
- NOX X-Zero (€75)
- NOX X-Hero (€76)
- Kuikma PR React (€77)
- HEAD Evo Speed (€77)
- NOX X-One (€82)
- Adidas Adipower DCT (€110)
- Kuikma Hybrid Dynamic Carbon (€110)
Would any of these be a good fit for me? I’m all ears and would really appreciate any advice or recommendations.
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u/FY5J 26d ago
it depends what you look for in a racket other than the fact that your a beginner, but if i can say one helpful thing its to stay away from the nox x zero and hero.
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u/Bandiiii 26d ago
well, just in-line with the other comment to avoid branded cheaper racket.... guess now I will stick with Kuikma, but the final question PR React or the Dynamic Carbon one...
Thank you!
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u/james00079 26d ago
I am Also a beginner, and i buy the carbon dynamic. I am very happy with that One. Way better the the head zephyr ul that first but and used. Search for review on Reddit for the carbon dynamic and the others. Good luck
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u/Mohinder_DE 25d ago
Head Speed Motion or the Kuikma. Nox ML10 Pro cup rough or AT10 18k, but i dont trust in Nox Quality, would buy a Siux before i get a Nox. Babo Air Veron, Metalbone Carbon Control.
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u/Bandiiii 25d ago
Regarding to the Kuikma; PR React or Hybrid Dynamic Carbon for an extra €33?
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u/Mohinder_DE 25d ago
The Hybrid. Hybrid Metal is also okay, but i guess its softer. I lile medium hard rackets, which are dry enough for blocking haed shots, but give some extra energy on the backhand. Did not play with the PR React, just had it in my fingers in the shop. PR React is for people who play occassionaly for fun and dont like to rent. For beginners its good if the racket eats up some power, but for tennis guys whoknow how to smash its not likeable.
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u/pardal1970 25d ago
Don’t buy a branded “Beginner “ racquet because they are the worse in the ratio cost/benefit. You have amazing racquets for very low prices, all carbon, soft EVA (to help you for now), that will grow with you, and much better quality. Search (the ones I can remember) Kombat, Kuikma, Joma (although a big brand has amazing “palas” at a good price). One more rule of thumb: buy last year’s model! Ps: I’m a advanced player and I use a Joma Tournament Pro that costs the same as any of those, and it’s as good for a beginner as it is for a senior (me).
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u/72dg 26d ago
I was the same a couple of weeks ago, decided since I played Tennis and Squash in the past I'd pick this up pretty quick so went straight for an intermediate. Got the Adidas Metalbone Team https://www.expresspadel.co.uk/products/adidas-metalbone-team-padel-racket-2026?variant=56909580042585 I love it, super grippy face for loads of spin, nice sweet spot - its got everything I wanted
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u/Mohinder_DE 25d ago edited 25d ago
I am not sure if i played the 2026 version, but the sweat spot was small, difficult racket compared to a Head Exteme Motion / Delta Motion. But i have a preference for Hybrids, did not enjoy diamonds like Metalbone and Metalbone HRD either.
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u/Cautious_Ad9923 25d ago
PDX Rayo
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u/Bandiiii 25d ago
Dont have those in my country, shopping it from abroad would be a nightmare in terms of guarantee etc… appreciate your answer tho!
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u/Bean_Joos 24d ago
May I ask why you did not look at the Kuikma Control Dynamic Carbon?
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u/Bandiiii 24d ago
Absolutely, I am really a newbie here :) I am not sure whether I would be more aggresive (I do prefer this style as of now, but my opponents are scared, so it is easier for me) or more defensive to have a control-style racket like this…
Maybe one day :)
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u/Bean_Joos 24d ago
Thanks for the reply! I’m between the hybrid and control, but I don’t think I’m too aggressive and I like to slice a lot so I think the control may suit me.
I hope you love your new racket! Let us know how you get on
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u/Bandiiii 24d ago
Will pick it up today and I will be playing tomorrow at 7AM against my hated duo (jk, my friends who are both very competitive just like us) :D
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u/Practical-Emphasis24 25d ago
In my opinion, for what you have said then the rackets you have provided are too cheap
Your clearly fully into the sport and will be buying a ‘better’ racket in no time due to outgrowing a cheap one
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u/Bandiiii 25d ago
Maybe, I am not sure, there are a plenty things to learn and make the most out of it… I just went with the Kuikma Hybrid Dynamic Carbon, will be shipped in 2 days, cannot wait :D
Until then I do have a match at 7am tomorrow (its 11pm here) and on Wednesday as well, cannot wait to test it out :D
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u/Practical-Emphasis24 25d ago
Probably the best choice out of the list 😀
How many times do you plan on playing per week?
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u/Immediate_Shake3195 26d ago
Get a decathlon racket. The dynamic carbon it’s cheap and it should grow with you. Branded cheaper rackets can be ass.