The importance of equipment in Padel: optimize your game!

When you start playing padel, it is essential to choose the right equipment. Indeed, the equipment plays a crucial role in your performance, your comfort and your safety on the ground. Whether it's the racket, the balls, the shoes or the clothing, each element contributes to optimizing your game and preventing injuries. In this article, we'll explore the importance of padel gear and give you tips on how to make the best choices.

1. The snowshoe : your extension on the court
The padel racket is your main tool on the court. It is crucial to choose a racquet suited to your level of play and your preferences. Rackets differ in shape, weight, balance and materials used. Beginner players may opt for a lightweight, maneuverable racquet for ease of movement, while advanced players may prefer a heavier racquet with stiffer material offering more power. The balance and shape of the racquet are also crucial and have a direct influence on your game. Below is a table summarizing the shape of the racquet as well as the type of sponge to favor according to your level and your style of play (table also present on our Instagram @akurate_padel ).

For example, the Aku-Control racquet from Akurate has been designed for beginner to intermediate level players looking for a high-performance, balanced racquet that is tolerant of "technical faults". Its round shape, its soft foam and its full carbon structure provide playing comfort and a balance that is particularly suitable for the levels mentioned above.

2. The balls: quality for an optimal experience

Padel balls are specially designed for this sport. They have a specific internal pressure that gives them a rebound suitable for playing on the padel court. It is recommended to use quality padel balls, with a core made of natural rubber, and a significant proportion of natural wool. Indeed, the latter offer a more precise trajectory, a constant rebound and increased durability.

Conversely, worn or poor quality balls can alter the quality of play and affect your performance. Make sure you always have fresh balls and in good condition for fluid and dynamic exchanges. If you feel that the rebound is less high, or that the ball has random trajectories or that the felt of this one is greatly damaged, then it is time to change them!

The ball can also evolve according to the weather (dry or wet weather) or the altitude. Here is our recommendation depending on the weather:

Avoid balls with less than 45% wool, they are often very hard, less well finished (with a strong negative impact on the trajectory) and much less durable.

Be aware that the altitude also has an effect on the behavior of the bullets. Beyond 700m (as in Madrid or Mexico (homeland of Padel), located at 2000m), livelier balls are recommended. Indeed, at altitude, the pressure drops, which has the consequence of having slower balls with less rebound.

3. Shoes : essential support and grip

Paddle shoes play a crucial role in your comfort, stability and agility on the court. They should offer good lateral support for quick movements and frequent changes of direction. Choose padel-specific shoes that provide adequate cushioning to reduce shock during sudden movements. Grip is also essential to avoid slipping on the court, especially in rainy weather on outdoor courts. Opt for rubber soles specially designed for padel, offering excellent grip on different surfaces.

4. Clothing: comfort, freedom of movement and protection

Padel clothes must be comfortable, light and allow maximum freedom of movement. Opt for breathable fabrics that wick away sweat to keep you dry during intense games. Loose clothing allows you to move freely without hindrance. Also, remember to protect yourself from the sun by wearing clothes with a high sun protection factor and a hat. Eye protection is also essential, so don't forget to wear sunglasses specially designed for sports. Glasses can also be used as eye protection in the event of impact with the ball.

5. Protection : preventing injuries

In addition to the basic equipment, it is important to consider protection to avoid injuries. Wear an elbow pad to prevent tendonitis, a knee pad to protect the joints and compression bands to support the muscles. Don't forget to warm up properly before each game and to stretch afterwards to prepare your body for the effort and prevent muscle injuries ( see our advice on avoiding injuries ). Finally, as mentioned in the previous section, glasses are very useful to avoid bullet holes at eye level!

6. The bale pressurizer: a revolutionary tool

Depending on your level of play, a ball can last between a set and a game of about 2 hours, before a drop in pressure is detected. This will affect the game as a whole (in particular the rebound of the ball and will slow down the game in addition to disrupting it).

To alleviate this inconvenience while avoiding changing balls too often, the ball pressurizer is an excellent option. It will extend the life of your ball while maintaining a good playing experience. Reusing rather than throwing away, what better way to reduce our environmental impact!

We will soon be dedicating an article to this tool, which is particularly close to our hearts.

Conclusion :
The equipment plays an essential role in the practice of padel. Whether it's the racquet, the balls, the shoes or the clothing, each element has an impact on your performance, your comfort and your safety on the court. Choose your equipment wisely according to your level of play and your specific needs. The right equipment will allow you to optimize your game, prevent injuries and fully enjoy your experience on the padel court.

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