Laboratory test of padel rackets - the first of its kind
Testfakta has conducted the world's first comparative laboratory test of Padel rackets was carried out. Among other things, it was found that the rackets react differently to use and wear over time.
The test was conducted at the Testea Padel Lab in Spain and the winner was the Equation WPT from Nox.
Using robots and sensors, we recreated the same shot hundreds of times and measured the changes over time. With some racquets, the stiffness changes a lot, which affects the hitting power and therefore the game. These are things you can't know when you choose a racket in the shop
says Jordi Piedra, founder and CEO of Testea.
The test compared eight padel rackets in the price range between 100 and 300 euros, which are intended for advanced players. The rackets were rated according to their performance in various aspects, with a focus on endurance, comfort and power.
The winner, the Equation WPT from Nox, is easy to control and offers a high level of comfort, while the frame is durable and its characteristics remain unchanged after the endurance test.
The runner-up, Kuikma's PR 990 Hybrid Soft, costs about half as much. It performed well in the endurance test and allows for a more powerful stroke than the first-place winner, while its control and comfort are significantly lower.
The lowest rated racket was the K3 Avant 21 from Bullpadelwhich performed worst in the control and was heavily modified in the endurance test.
The Adidas Greenpadel ended up in second to last place, mainly due to its lack of power and durability.
Padel has become very popular in recent years, so there are now a variety of options on the market. This test highlights the differences in construction, quality and durability. It also shows how well different rackets suit different playing styles
says Jordi Piedra
In the final ranking, control, comfort and power were weighted equally (all at 20 %) to suit a versatile player. The greatest weighting was given to quality and endurance (40 %). Measurements included swinging the clubs back and forth on a mechanical arm while sensors measured impact force and vibration.
The sweet spot response was measured by bouncing a ball against the clubs at a controlled speed.
In the durability tests, the rackets were subjected to 500 powerful blows simulated with compressed air.
Interest in padel has increased greatly in recent years.
It is estimated that there are now over 12 million active players in 78 countries worldwide.
See also
Padel racket test with Babolat and Dunlop
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