Reddit · r/Padelracket · yesterday
They moved from the Air Viper to the Oxdog Ultimate Tour X and find it dry feeling yet maneuverable, giving up some easy power for much better control and feedback on every shot.
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Fresh experiences from real players, collected from Reddit, YouTube and blogs and linked to their sources.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · yesterday
They moved from the Air Viper to the Oxdog Ultimate Tour X and find it dry feeling yet maneuverable, giving up some easy power for much better control and feedback on every shot.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · yesterday
They tested the Coello and found it bouncy, with a strong trampoline effect that sometimes sends their volleys flying onto the glass.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · yesterday
They loved their previous racket but found it lacked power for their offensive game, and it eventually developed a large crack on the edge near the hole.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · yesterday
They currently play with this racket and dislike the ball feel, finding it awkward and tacky despite being marketed as light and maneuverable.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 2 days ago
Used the Hack 04 Hybrid for six months and just bought the 05 for 2027. They describe a dry first feel with generous output, excellent maneuverability, strong blocking, and no elbow trouble after five or six matches.
PadelRecs · Ilkka · 2 days ago
The Neuron suits the way I play on the right: lots of blocks and deep lobs. Quicker in the hand than my Metalbone. I do miss the Metalbone when there's a chance to put away a smash, but overall I play better with this one.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 3 days ago
After a lot of experimenting they keep returning to this racket. They describe a large sweet spot, medium hardness, not much free power, and comfort even with tennis elbow.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 3 days ago
Owns the Arrow Hit CTRL Carbon without the weights and calls it a great racket. They also note it cost about half the price of the Metalbone and the non-carbon Arrow Hit.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 3 days ago
Has used it for almost a year after a Bullpadel Xplo 2025 while managing arm overload. They find it lighter and more maneuverable than the Xplo.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 3 days ago
Loves the Metalbone Control 2026 but finds it a bit bouncy, with a trampoline feel. They smashed it to bits and ordered the Arrow Hit control for a more direct feel.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 3 days ago
Came from a very soft beginner Head racket. This one still feels good for control but lets them smash the ball easily out of the court.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 3 days ago
Bought it because of tendinitis and likes it so far: light, big sweet spot and enough power. They note it is the non-Edge control version and was cheaper after the 2027 release.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 3 days ago
Owned two 2026 Neurons with extra weight added and is moving on. They praise the maneuverability, spin and stability on blocks, but find it stiff with a small sweet spot and not enough power.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 3 days ago
Owns the 2027 Neuron 02 Edge and describes it as stiff and hard, suited to placing the ball with control but with no trampoline effect.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 3 days ago
After years on soft control rackets and a switch to the left side, they tested several rackets and bought the 2026 Coello Motion, which suited what they needed.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 4 days ago
Stiff feel requires high swing speed and contributed to wrist and elbow pain.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 4 days ago
Has tried both the 12K and 18K AT10 and rates the 18K far above anything else, picking up the 2025 version on a Black Friday deal.
PadelRecs · Javiiii · 5 days ago
Easy on my elbow and pretty forgiving off the back glass. But it feels too bouncy when I'm blocking fast balls at the net, and my smashes don't have much power either.
PadelRecs · nico · 5 days ago
Way too stiff for me for normal club games. The sweet spot is small, and hitting outside it feels like using a plank. My elbow was already hurting by the second set. I can hit some hard smashes when I time them right, but it's not worth the arm pain.
PadelRecs · 6 days ago
Heavy. That's the first thing and honestly the main thing. I bought it because I watch Coello every weekend and I play left, and when I get a high ball and hit it clean the smash just goes, no question. Problem is the other 90% of the match. I'm late on everything low at the net and anything off the middle feels dead and buzzy. Probably a racket for someone a couple levels above me.
PadelRecs · Sam T. · 6 days ago
Switched from a diamond and this just sits in the middle, defence is solid and I can still put power on overheads
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 6 days ago
Recently got the Metalbone CTRL and is very happy with it, saying the movable weights let them tune the power and that it gives plenty of control and precision on lobs.
PadelRecs · Cas · 6 days ago
Switched from Extreme Pro because 370g was too heavy for me, Motion still works great in overheads and quicker to move around
PadelRecs · 6 days ago
Light and firm, Smashes still go when I accelerate it but its not a heavy ball as the weight is low, you need good form to get it to do the things you want to. Sweet pot is smaller than other rackets I tired before so I mishits at least a few times every game.
PadelRecs · padelhero · 6 days ago
Sandy face is fantastic and it does well in effects, I leave the 8 g weight at the bottom in as I feel the racket is more balanced that way. You do have to swing through to get output out of it so not for beginners. Good all around racket.
PadelRecs · Ray · 6 days ago
Defense is not easy with this racket so it should not be used by players without a lot of experience, if you seek power then you will get it with this racket but you will need the ball well as the sweet spot is not the biggest.
PadelRecs · Dada · 6 days ago
if you want free smash power look elsewhere, this racket is for control and it does it well, its quick to move around, I love it.
PadelRecs · 7 days ago
Its head heavy racket so be aware of that, it will penalize you at the back . Once I'm at the net though it really shines and you can get that extra power the foam gives you. Also my arm isn't hurting after like it was on harder diamonds.
YouTube · PADELREVIEW ENG · 7 days ago
Geometric 3K carbon frame feels super sharp at the net, letting you rip overheads and volleys without sending the ball long. It also gives you crisp touch on chiquitas and cut lobs from the back. You'll need clean technique, though, because off-center hits make a wooden sound and die on the net. The 3D surface texture doesn't grab huge spin either.
YouTube · Padel Magazine · 7 days ago
Weight is condensed toward the handle on the hybrid frame, making it super fast and comfortable when scrambling in defense. The 3K carbon face and MultiEva core strike a great middle ground that's neither too stiff nor too soft. Thanks to the Prism Lock bridge and corner dampeners, it doesn't flinch or vibrate even when blocking heavy balls at the net. You also get plenty of bite for slicing and solid pop once you push through your swing. It's built to control the tempo rather than blast winners, so pure attackers wanting head-heavy power will prefer the Edge version.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 7 days ago
Still prefers the 2025 18K over the newer version, mainly because they find its round handle feels much better.
PadelRecs · Ignacio · 7 days ago
My old racket was a heavy diamond that was hurting my elbow. This feels softer and is much easier to play with. Getting my lobs deep is easy too. I do miss the extra power on smashes.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 8 days ago
Recommends the 2026 Metalbone Carbon Control for its control at the net and a good sweet spot, with enough power left for smashes.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 8 days ago
Calls the 2025 AT10 12K perfect for their game and regrets it is out of stock everywhere.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 8 days ago
A right-side player with a powerful vibora and smash who had a great time with the AT10 12K Attack 2026 before selling it. His only complaints were the small sweet spot and that it lacked a bit of control and manoeuvrability, so he is now choosing between the AT10 18K Genius 2027 and the Metalbone.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 9 days ago
Served as a beginner racket over about seven months of weekly lessons and matches, but they now want something firmer with less trampoline effect and a textured face for spin.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 9 days ago
Owns both the Adidas CTRL and the Nox AT10 18K and prefers the Adidas for its bigger sweet spot, which stays forgiving on off-centre hits where the Nox does not.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 9 days ago
Finds the 2026 ST5 much stiffer and more manageable than the too-soft ST4, and calls this year's version incredible.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 9 days ago
Tried the ST5 and rated its hardness around 6 out of 10, finding it gave little power output.
PadelRecs · Javi · 9 days ago
I used a budget round racket that i got from decathlon and the first week the difference in firmness was a lot more than i expected so my lobs were going a lot shorter than i wanted, but now i'm used to it the ball pretty much goes exactly where i'm pointing it. I'm the right side player, which suits me.
PadelRecs · Ramon · 9 days ago
Too firm for me. Quick to move around, yes, but I want a softer contact than this. The Air name had me expecting an easier racket.
PadelRecs · Luis R. · 9 days ago
Soft enough to get the ball moving when I'm defending, and the long handle is a big plusfiddling with screws before a match. Wouldn't pick it for smashing everything. For blocking, lobbing and waiting for a ball I can actually attack, it works for me
PadelRecs · 9 days ago
Crisp is the word. I like feeling the contact this clearly on a volley. Wouldn't choose this 12K if I wanted a soft racket.
PadelRecs · 10 days ago
The control is excellent. Chiquitas and lobs land where I aim them, and the 12K face gives a nice bit of feel on soft volleys. Balance is a touch head-heavy for a teardrop but it never feels sluggish at the net. Sweet spot is normal
PadelRecs · Sergio M. · 10 days ago
The balance is very high, so in fast exchanges at the net when they aim at my feet I'm late more than I was with the teardrop. My overheads kept landing long for most of July since the ball jumps off the face even on a short swing, it took a while to calm my arm down. The sweet spot is small too, hit anywhere near the frame and you feel it buzz up into the wrist. Yes there is a lot of free power when you hit it well, but it ask for a lot in return. Get it only if you are advance level left side player who smash a lot.
PadelRecs · Marc V · 10 days ago
Playing it since spring on the left, about three times a week, Playtomic level around 4. I came from a softer round racket so the first weeks took some adjusting. What I like: at the net it's very stable, a hard ball at my body doesn't twist the face, and the rough texture lets the víbora and the bandeja really bite. Smashes have proper pace when I commit to the swing. What took work: from the back glass the racket hands you almost nothing on its own. A defensive lob I hit late lands short unless I swing all the way through. Mine weighed 371 g on the kitchen scale, heavier than the listed 365, and late in a long match my shoulder starts to complain. It has held up well, just a few scuffs on the frame from the walls. If you mostly defend, look at the LS version instead. If you like to win points at the net, it's a very good racket.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 10 days ago
Very comfortable and excellent for control-oriented play, but after about a year it starts to lack power when attacking.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 10 days ago
Dual 3K carbon faces and balanced weight give superb control and comfort with zero trampoline effect.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 10 days ago
Owns the lighter version and needed a few sessions to adapt, since it wants to be hit dead centre and needs some tailoring with weights or a protector. Calls it solid but less forgiving than the teardrop shape suggests.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 10 days ago
Has played both the 2025 and 2027 versions and feels the 2027 has more spin and a plusher feel at similar power. Dislikes how quickly the paint scratches in normal play.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 10 days ago
Moved over from a Siux Electra ST4 and found less trampoline effect and more control on lobs and chiquitas, but developed tennis elbow with it.
YouTube · R A C C A · 10 days ago
Firm face with a slightly small sweet spot, though balls still jump off quickly on volleys and deep lobs. Slowing the pace down and controlling placement from the back court is super easy. Because it doesn't have much weight in the head, getting downward whip on bandejas, rulos, and smashes takes extra effort.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 10 days ago
Plays regularly with the 2026 18K but it hurt their wrist badly, so they switched to the Nox AT10 12K Lite.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 10 days ago
Two months into playing a Babolat Technical Viper 2025 two or three times a week, a hard spinny vibora produced a pop and a large crack across the face. The shop's technician believed it was a manufacturing defect and is contacting Babolat.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 10 days ago
Owns the 2026 AT10 Genius 18K, which weighed 390 grams with two grips and a protector, and says it really damaged their elbow. Has moved to a Cork Supreme Control, which they find much better.
PadelRecs · 10 days ago
When I'm set under the ball the smash is a weapon, the problem is anything fast at the body. At 370 g with that much weight up in the head I'm late on reflex volleys, and digging balls out of the back corner is hard work. I'm keeping it for friendlies and going back to something lighter for competitive games
PadelRecs · Nacho · 10 days ago
52, right side, four mornings a week. Came from a Vertex that was too much racket for my shoulder. The Neuron is light, mine came in at 361 g, and I'm quicker at the net and much steadier on bandejas and lobs from the back glass. Almost no vibration. Flat smashes don't go out of the court like they did with the Vertex, I've accepted that. Face is smooth, so not much bite on spin. One star off because at month seven a small crack showed in the paint on the frame after a wall hit.
PadelRecs · Marta K. · 11 days ago
Ridiculously light and fast at the net, volleys feel great. But it is stiff and dry and off-centre hits get punished hard. Fine if you hit clean, not if you're tired.
PadelRecs · Marco D · 11 days ago
Switched from an old Adidas that was pretty hard on my wrist. About 3 months with the 18K now, playing twice a week, and my arm has thanked me. It's soft, the ball sort of sits on the foam a bit longer so lobs and chiquitas land where I aim them. Volleys feel crisp and it's quick enough at the net. Power is just ok, don't expect big smashes unless you swing properly. I'd call it a control racket that forgives a bit when I'm late. Got a few scratches already so get a protector. Would recommend if you're intermediate and want comfort over raw pop.
PadelRecs · Vlad Kat · 11 days ago
Switched to the Vertex 05 from a round control racket and the first two weeks were rough. The head-heavy balance is very noticeable and my bandejas kept sailing long until I shortened my swing. Once it clicked though, the power on smashes is the best I've had. Flat smashes from the left side actually go out by 3 now, which never happened before. Downsides: the sweet spot is small and up high, so off-centre volleys feel dead and you feel it in the elbow by the third set. Slow at the net in fast exchanges too. Face is still holding up fine after about 8 months, 2-3 times a week. Great if you play left and like to finish points overhead. If you're a defensive right-side player or have any arm issues, I'd look at something more forgiving.
PadelRecs · dave52 · 11 days ago
bought it because the shop guy said its a control racket. it kind of is, but its very firm and dry and my elbow started complaining after about 3 weeks of playing twice a week. light in the hand and quick at the net, which i liked. sweet spot is small so my bad days are really bad. not terrible, wouldnt buy it again
YouTube · Dani 13 · 11 days ago
Shines on fast bandejas, víboras, and aggressive volleys, letting you swing out freely without sending the ball into the back glass. It's half a point softer and more forgiving than the Hack or Xplo, and the reactive 3K carbon helps your kick smashes pop out even when you're late. However, it doesn't give away free ball output at slow speeds. On passive volley blocks or stretched defensive digs, the ball sticks to the face and drops short unless you push through. It's also slower to maneuver in tight spots than the standard Neuron.
YouTube · pdhsports · 11 days ago
Got wider side air channels on the 2027 teardrop frame, so swinging through fast volleys feels super quick. The 12K face gives you a firmer, drier response than the 18K, which really shines on crisp bandejas and víboras. It's also gentler on your arm with the new handle dampening, though it isn't built for raw power unless you clip on the extra top weights.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 11 days ago
Used the Triton+ Power 2026 as a diamond power-control racket: stiff and dry with a smaller sweet spot but forgiving for its shape, little rebound, and very good for smashing, though it demands focus and early preparation.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 11 days ago
Right-side low-intermediate player who used the Raptor+ 2026 for about a year; finds it very forgiving with a big sweet spot and plenty of rebound, strong from the back, and comfortable, though at the net the ball output needs a swing adjustment.
PadelRecs · Nico · 11 days ago
Nice racket when I stop trying to smash everything. I like the control from the back and there's a decent amount of room for a slightly messy contact. But when I want to finish a point, I have to do more of the work than I'd like. Probably better suited to someone more patient than me lol.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 14 days ago
Bought the 2027 18K among about five rackets in a month and found nothing special about it, compared with the instant appeal of the Oxdog Ultimate Tour X.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 14 days ago
Loved the Metalbone CTRL 2026 after 90 minutes, a big upgrade that gave enough power, but struggled with overheads and digging balls near the glass, and returned it over a faulty weight-adjustment screw.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 14 days ago
Calls the Metalbone CTRL 3.4 the best racket they've played to date, though it finally cracked after 18 months.
YouTube · Fun Padel Shop · 15 days ago
Whether you're playing in summer heat or a cold indoor court, the 18K aluminized face keeps its medium-stiff feel consistent all year. In the back court, the multi-layer core gives you calm, predictable depth on lobs and glass rebounds without random trampoline bounce. Up at the net, the side air channels make reaction volleys feel light and quick in your hand. The rough texture really bites into slicing víboras, though you still need to swing through firmly to unlock the denser inner foam on smashes.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 15 days ago
Owns the Metalbone 3.4 and an Oxdog Ultimate Pro: the Adidas is a bit more unpredictable when blocking but gives more free power for heavy hitters.
YouTube · Tino · 16 days ago
Strong easy power, quick ball output, serves and the feel appeal after time with the Fire Red and an earlier try of the Shadow version. He nevertheless struggles to control right-side volleys because of the lively response and needs more adaptation. He still prefers his own Head Motion, seeing this as a better match for a more attack-minded player.
YouTube · pdhsports · 17 days ago
Got a centered balance and big 12K carbon face, making it the most forgiving racket in the main Vertex lineup. It's easy on the arm and great for steady returns, though you'll have to work harder to generate big power on smashes.
YouTube · Ariel Padel Reviews · 17 days ago
Light teardrop frame moves fast in defense and gives you a generous sweet spot with easy ball output at slow speeds. Its medium touch feels great on quick volleys and steady containment bandejas that pin opponents back. When you try to rip fast bandejas, though, the face absorbs some energy so you'll have to swing harder. You also don't get a high balance for free smash power.
YouTube · pdhsports · 17 days ago
Middle balance and centered sweet spot on a large 12K carbon face make it the most forgiving full-carbon Vertex. Volleys and back-court returns come off cleanly with a medium feel, and the Hesacore grip soaks up vibrations. You won't belt easy winners on smashes, though, since its 370-gram shape makes you work harder for overhead power.
YouTube · pdhsports · 17 days ago
370-gram frame with the highest balance in the Vertex family sends the ball flying when you commit to overheads. The wider geometric frame opens up a generous high sweet spot, and firm volleys rebound deep without much effort. Airflow channels in the throat help it cut through the air, and you can even add custom weights to the top bumper. The catch is that all that head weight makes it the least maneuverable Vertex model. If you're caught late in defense, it'll take extra work to get the racket in place.
YouTube · pdhsports · 17 days ago
Fibrix face softens impact and gives you lively rebound on off-center blocks, making back-glass defense feel super forgiving. It's 5 grams lighter than the stiffer Vertex models, so it moves fast at the net and won't strain your arm. Just watch full swings since that extra bounce can sail into the back glass, and it doesn't come with a Hesacore grip.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 17 days ago
Bought the last Ultimate Tour X in stock from the Oxdog website a couple of months ago and absolutely loves it.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 17 days ago
Tested the 2025 Metalbone HRD+ 3.4 and really liked its feel; wants an offensive racket with a firm touch.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 17 days ago
Tested the 2026 Vertex 05 and found it too soft and too all-round for an offensive, firm-feel preference.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 17 days ago
Used the 2026 Metalbone CTRL for a few months and hates its trampoline effect.
PadelRecs · R.M · 18 days ago
Great racket for control, it does sometime feel like it lack power
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 18 days ago
Found the AT10 Pro Cup Soft 2026 gave slightly more power than their Head Radical Elite but felt average at everything and not powerful enough to attack, though control on lobs and defence was better than a powerful AT10 Genius.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 18 days ago
Switched from a Metalbone CTRL to the Pure Tour X and loves it: it feels like the Metalbone but without the bouncy trampoline effect, with better volleys at the net.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 18 days ago
Just got the Counter Viper 2026 and does not like the feel so far: it seems too heavy and not powerful enough for them.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 19 days ago
Comfortable after 2-3 years thanks to a lot of control, but now they want more finishing power.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 19 days ago
Chosen after testing the Nox AT10 Pro Cup Soft, described as similar but a little more forgiving and softer.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 19 days ago
Forgiving, nimble, and delivers excellent spin during intensive testing.
YouTube · Peter Consuegra · 19 days ago
360-gram diamond frame moves easily on bandejas, víboras, and rulos, letting you work spin without straining your arm. The sweet spot is wider than on the Viper, making medium-pace volley exchanges much more comfortable. Still, off-center hits in defense drop short, and you won't get the same top-end smash ceiling or heavy block rebound.
YouTube · Setup Padel | Mario Pazos · 19 days ago
Redesigned bridge and frame channels make it handle surprisingly fast in defense, quick transitions, and net volleys. You get plenty of whip on smashes and sharp bite on víboras from the matte 3D finish. It has a dry touch with low ball output, so you can't be lazy with your swing. The small sweet spot is also quite tricky and demands clean technique.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 20 days ago
An advanced left-side player who loves their Siux Electra Pro 2026 and prefers it by far over the Vertex 04 Power they had before, though after 8 months the foam feels like it is deteriorating.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 20 days ago
Currently loving the Oxdog Ultimate Pro Smash 2026.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 20 days ago
A low-intermediate right-side player tested the Metalbone CTRL 2026 and hated its trampoline effect.
PadelRecs · Leo k · 20 days ago
Really nice one, easy to handle and comfortable, it have quite a lot of easy power as the racket is very reactive so it can take some time to get use to it and feel in total control.
PadelRecs · Danny · 20 days ago
FIrst the weight of the air viper I got without the string was 363 gram, so quite a bit more then the 355 that it's suppose to come with, with 1 overgrip we already have a racket that is about 370 gram so not really light as intended. I bought It after trying a friend air viper for a few shots and liked the crisp touch, but playing it in game felt much more demanding, speclay coming from the nox at10 18k which is super a comfortable racket, the viper with the higher balance and longer handle felt harder to move and to play well with. Sure I got some extra power in shots compare to the nox, but the price I paid in my overall game was not worth it. I gave it 3/5 and not less because I can see the appeal it can have for other players.
YouTube · the4Set · 21 days ago
Stiff 3K carbon face and 27 cm balance pack serious punch on flat smashes. Still, it's clumsy in defense with a tiny sweet spot, and fresh balls can slip off the holeless center.
YouTube · Extreme Padel · 21 days ago
Measured at 365g with 25.5cm balance, the sample is easy to position for lobs and delivers precise, spin-rich slice volleys and víboras. Smashes still come back convincingly, with only a small power loss against the standard Hack 05.
YouTube · Canary Padel · 21 days ago
Ball output and control feel well balanced, with comfortable all-round play and an especially good net response. The textured face helps his víboras and spin, with useful rather than exceptional smash power. He finds baseline direction changes less agile, feels the balance and long handle, and notices a penalty when contact misses the limited sweet spot.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 21 days ago
After trying almost every top brand they now play the 2025 Oxdog Ultimate Pro+ and call it one of the best rackets they have ever had.
YouTube · on Otro Nivel Padel · 21 days ago
Came from Vertex 04 and Vertex 03 Comfort looking for a softer feel; bought the Xplo Comfort 2026 and loves it, exceeding expectations.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 21 days ago
A player who got the Vertex 05 Hybrid 2026 this week says it's great and perfect for them.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 22 days ago
Three months with the Air Vertuo: very forgiving and great for tennis elbow and long rallies, but it lacks power.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 22 days ago
After 1.5 years with the Air Viper 2025: more power than the AT10 18K 2026, but it needs a lot more technique.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 22 days ago
Three matches into the AT10 Genius 18K 2026 after the Air Viper 2025: far more forgiving, with a bigger sweet spot and better feel.
PadelRecs · Gali A · 22 days ago
I am intermediate playing for about 1 year and this is my second padel racket, Before this I played with some random cheap rackets my club had, and this is a huge jump, i like how easy it is to hit my shots, sweet spot is the all racket so even when I miss hit the ball does not die like on other rackets I tried, it doesn't have a massive power but it's enough for me as I don't really smash, i do get great deep vibora and volley with it. When I use it in defense it feels really solid on ground stokes and lobs.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 23 days ago
Full carbon surface and big sweet spot give a firm, responsive feel that carried them from beginner to intermediate play.
YouTube · Padel Test by Roberto Cardi · 23 days ago
Feels great with plenty of spin whether you're blocking at the net, slicing víboras, or lifting lobs off the back glass. However, the multi-layer foam has a strange muted feel on impact, and flat smashes don't pack enough punch.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 23 days ago
Calls their Head Coello Pro 2026 (365 g) a beast: easy in defence, powerful in attack with a big sweet spot, though blocks, viboras and volleys take getting used to.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 23 days ago
After one training session, a new Viper Soft Juan Lebrón 2027 showed hairline cracks along the frame curve, though the 360g unit felt incredible.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 23 days ago
Tried StarVie's new rackets: likes the Eternal, with an OK sweet spot, though it doesn't feel very different from the Triton; finds all StarVies soft.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 23 days ago
After trying StarVie's new models, rates the Triton Balance+ as their best racket for intermediate and above, with an OK sweet spot.
PadelRecs · Chris K · 24 days ago
I bought after trying my friend viper soft for a few hits and loved the power with it on volly and vibora but when I actually played in a game with it I realized quickly it's too much for me to handle, the sweet spot was not big enough and the high balance made me struggle too much carrying it around, felt too heavy and demanding. I can see the appeal though, the foam is reactive and gives you a lot of power so if you can manage it than it can be a real treat, but you need to be at least in advance level for this racket imo. My unit was not heavy, it was 360g.
YouTube · pdhsports · 24 days ago
365-gram build is five grams lighter than the standard Viper and uses a softer carbon weave for a much livelier feel. Aggressive volleys still feel crisp and stable, plus you get extra rebound pop when you miss the sweet spot slightly. Because it's still stiff and head-heavy, though, arriving late to the ball in defense will leave you struggling.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 24 days ago
A player still loves the carbon-face Head Extreme Motion 2025: slightly less power than the Technical Viper but far more manoeuvrable and forgiving.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 24 days ago
Cracked before its first use after a low, knee-height drop in the changing room.
PadelRecs · Timofi · 25 days ago
Love this racket, bought after I saw some glowing youtube reviews on how easy it's to play with, first I hesitate a bit because it's branded as a women racket and i'm a man but don't let that stop you! it's just a branding thing and this racket is great for guys and girls both. it's not a power house but it's so comfortable and easy to use, its light so very fast to swing around and I'm hitting the deepest most accurate lobs with it.
PadelRecs · Vito R · 25 days ago
Not for me, I could not get with it and while I can see the power it has it was costing me way too much in defence it felt like holding a hammer, my lobs fell short often, even though my unit was light - 355g, its head heavy so moving it around was a pain for me. Granted I am not an advance player or anything like that (playing for 1 year) so I would say you need to be a skilled player to handle this racket.
PadelRecs · Matt · 25 days ago
Love/hate story with the metalbone, Volleys and overheads feel amazing, there’s a lot of free power and the head-heavy balance really helps when you’re accelerating through the ball. The downside for me is definitely defense. You feel the weight in the head, especially when you’re under pressure at the back and need to react quickly. It’s not impossible to defend with, but you need to prepare earlier and I notice I’m late more often than with a lighter teardrop racket. Overall I’d say it’s a fun racket if you like attacking and don’t mind a head-heavy feel that will make you lose some edge when you are in the back.
YouTube · KB Sports Clips · 25 days ago
The Metalbone 2026 comes across as a tunable diamond for club/advanced attackers who finish at the net, with stiff-but-not-harsh 16K Soft Performance pop and a high compact sweet spot that rewards smashes. He warns beginners and defence-first players away, pointing them to Team or CTRL instead, and notes low defence/blocks ask more than a forgiving mould.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 25 days ago
Plays the Drax+ 2026 and calls it a fantastic racket. Being tall with big hands, they use two overgrips and haven't had the handle problems others mention, noting that StarVie handles tend to be thin.
PadelRecs · Dino · 25 days ago
Picked it up as I heard it's very arm friendly racket and I had some wrist pain and it does work for that purpose. Very easy to play with and light on the arm. It's not a power racket and have a soft feeling, but it makes up for it by how fast and maneuverable it is. Mine weight is 360 gram with one wilson overgrip but since the balance is low it feels so light to move around. In defense it's a dream, I do feel it lack a bit of punch when hitting overheads but it's an ok tradeoff for me for the comfort it provide.
PadelRecs · Racket addict · 25 days ago
I love the 2026 Air viper more then the 2025 one, I sense the sweet spot is bigger and the racket is more easy to use, the maneuverability is incredible, power I would say 6.5/10 and with a very crisp touch that I enjoy. not suitable for beginners or low intermediate, you need good technique to manage this racket. Flas smash is my favorite with it, balls are coming back to my side with ease.
PadelRecs · Artem · 25 days ago
I am attacking left side player and this 12k is perfect for my game style, I loved the 2025 and this feels different, it's more reactive and got more explosive power, the big plus is that it's also very to defend with. The weight of my unit is 364 gram with the original grip and 1 overgrip. For Intermediate players I would advice to go with the 18k variant instead as its slightly less demanding than the 12k.
PadelRecs · Alex F · 25 days ago
Little too head heavy for me, I was struggling in defense and found the sweet spot to be too small for me, it's not a bad racket but I think it's just too advanced for me.
PadelRecs · R.D · 26 days ago
It's very much like the vertex hybrid 2025, very easy to play with, sweet spot is all over the racket so very hard to miss hit, power is 4/10 so not amazing for attacking style player for its one of the best all rounder rackets. I would say level is good for beginners + up to advance, mostly for right side players.
PadelRecs · Daniel · 26 days ago
I wanted to love this racket as I read lots of positive reviews but just could not get used to how much trampoline effect this racket have! the ball just bounce out of the racket and even though this is suppose to be a CTRL racket I felt like I could not get it under control at all! I guess its good for beginners who need help with ball output but it was not for me.
Reddit · r/padelracket · 26 days ago
Picked up the Metalbone CTRL 2026 and it’s honestly exceeded expectations. Defensively, it’s super easy to play with. Even without any weights, it feels very stable, forgiving, and gives a lot of confidence when you’re under pressure or defending low balls. What surprised me most is the attacking side. Once I added weight at the top, the racket still feels quick through the air and the ball output improves a lot. You can actually finish points without feeling like you’re missing power, which isn’t always the case with control rackets. Also a big one for me: zero arm pain so far, even after longer sessions. Overall, it’s a really nice balance, strong on defense, but still enough pop on attack when you tweak the setup. If you’re looking for a control racket that doesn’t feel dead, this is a very solid option.
Reddit · r/padelracket · 26 days ago
Was literally about to sell it after using it once with the weights in the bottom. Decided to try it without the weights and wowwwww. I really thought I needed a “hard” racket. And this was just too soft. I was very wrong. It is literally perfect, and I’ve never felt so confident playing. Like I can finally play as I know I can, and don’t have to worry about my racket.
PadelRecs · Sylvian · 26 days ago
I am fairly new to padel, only 4 months and someone recommended me this racket and it feels great and gives me a lot of confidence when I play, the sweet spot is huge so when I miss hit the ball still goes well, it took me very little time to get used to it (coming from counter veron racket) also very comfortable on the arm.
PadelRecs · James · 26 days ago
It's 4/5 on everything so for me it's great, it allow me to attack well while not losing much on maneuverability and defensive play, my favorite shot with is vibora, really easy to add good spin.
PadelRecs · Jonathan · 26 days ago
Love this pala and been playing with it in the last 2 years, it's the perfect combo racket for me for power and control. balance is medium and feels light (mine without the heascore grip and with 1 overgrip is 354 gram )
PadelRecs · Blake · 26 days ago
I wanted to like the neuron because i liked the first version of it, but I could not get along with the ball output, felt very little and I like higher ball output as I am a bit lazy sometime and this racket require you put more force into it. Having said that, sweet spot is good, lot's of comfort and control, so good racket overall.
PadelRecs · Ben · 26 days ago
Legendary racket (much better imo than the LS V3 update they made) so light to move around and perfect for anyone who have arm or elbow issues. I feel fast and agile when playing with and I love how responsive it is, getting lots of easy power with it.
PadelRecs · Tristan · 26 days ago
I love the easy power the metalbone give me, the long handle is great when attacking but can make you little more slow to get to the ball when defending, the sweet spot is not huge but got used to it after a few games. My lobs can came short sometime unlike my nox10 at18k but it's expected from diamond racket. overall I love it and it really improved my level of aggression.
YouTube · Zona de Pádel - Tienda Pádel · 26 days ago
Compared to the 18K, this 12K version feels slightly harder and gives you livelier rebound to bring smashes out of the court. It's super easy to maneuver, though the sweet spot feels a tiny bit smaller and less absorbent.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 26 days ago
A left-side player (about 5.0) who bought the previous Extreme Motion 2025 to move away from demanding rackets, three matches in. Compared with their Siux Fenix Elite 5 it feels stiffer and gives slight discomfort on mishits, but has more ball output for deep lobs and is more controllable and manoeuvrable for bandejas and viboras; flat smashes have a little less raw power.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 26 days ago
Recently got the Coello Motion 2026. Finds it not too stiff, with nice ball output and a big sweet spot, good for overheads thanks to its diamond shape, and light (360 g) and easy to move.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 26 days ago
A right-side intermediate player who has used it for three months. Enjoys the ball output and sweet spot but finds it a bit heavy and hard, and is looking for something similar with a softer core.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 26 days ago
Has played it for 15–20 hours and loves its feel, hardness, rebound and control. The six-sided, rounder handle is the problem: the racket slips in their continental grip on hard shots, even with grip aids, so they decided to give up on it despite liking how it plays.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 26 days ago
Their racket weighs 375 g with protector, two overgrips and strap, which they feel is above the CTRL's stated range. Compared with the much lighter Arrow Hit Light it is noticeably less manoeuvrable, but they prefer the Metalbone in most other respects.
PadelRecs · Ruud · 26 days ago
Great racket but sometime I feel it lack power for attacking shots, also can feel a bit bouncy at times. It is great for right side defensive player as it offer a lot of control.
PadelRecs · Phill · 26 days ago
Love this racket, super easy to move around, comfortable, can get you out of tough situations. It's not super power racket but the 18k is mainly a control racket with good enough power, I can easily do 3x smash with it using spin, flat smash is not this racket main thing but also possible. I am hitting the best deep lobs with it as well. Highly recommend for beginners plus up to advanced players.
PadelRecs · Dino · 26 days ago
One of the best rackets out there for control + comfort, I hit my best lobs with it, its not that amazing on power so only gave it 3/5 on that but its perfect on everything else.
PadelRecs · Tom · 26 days ago
Very explosive racket, love the power it gives me and for a power racket I would say its not bad at all when defending. Sweet spot is decent, I personally don't like the hesacore grip so I removed it and the racket only weigh 355 gram without and with 2 wilson overgrips instead. Not suitable for beginners as it's super easy to handle and you need to know how to handle it.
PadelRecs · Daniel · 26 days ago
The metalbone is such a unique racket and I am pretty divided about it. The foam is really reactive and it gives me a lot of "free power" so when you hit the ball will come out a lot even you don't complete the swinging motion, so it really helps when attacking, the problem is that it can also easily get out of control and lead to more errors. So you really need to learn how to handle it and master it. The balance is high so defending with it will cost you as its not the easiest to move around. You need to have good form to play with this racket well.
PadelRecs · Andrea · 26 days ago
Great racket, easy to move around and offer decent power with stiff touch. the 2025 Model and the 2026 increased the sweet spot (I tired the 2024 and could not handle it) so for me it became more accessible. Its truly shine at the net, vibora, volly etc. Only minus I found that when I play long hours with it I do get slight shoulder pain, probably due to the stiff touch.
PadelRecs · Dan · 26 days ago
Wow this is worst racket I ever tried, which is a real shame because the 2025 hack hybrid was a truly great racket, I am not sure what bullpadel did with the foam of this racket but it feel so soulless, I could not really feel the ball, really awful feeling, I would avoid.
PadelRecs · Alan · 27 days ago
Really fun racket to play with, feels light and easy to move (i took the 8 gram plate off and with 1 overgrip its 362 gram), it does have a bit of a bouncy foam, so it's not very dry so that's something to get use to and manage as balls can sometime fly too much. overall fantastic racket that will require some adjustment period.
PadelRecs · Denis · 27 days ago
I had high hopes for this racket as I saw really good reviews for it, both on youtube and reddit but I got to say I really didn't like it. I can see the appeal as the price is cheap and it's a terrible racket but the touch with the ball felt so dim to me, like my racket had a condom on, I could not really feel the ball and it felt bad to play with. I can see it is a maneuverable racket that is not hard to play with so it can suit early intermediate and beginners + and above, and I guess some people like it as it does get a lot of great reviews. I just could not click with it.
PadelRecs · David · 27 days ago
Its amazing racket, I love the feel of it so much, it's crisp and dry, great for both attack and defense.. but! sadly it totally wrecked my arm, my shoulder, my wrist - everything was In pain every time I played with it. I am not sure if its the stiff carbon, the weight (mine was 373 gram with one overip) or probably just a combination of all of those things, so sadly I had to sell it. if you have arm problems or prone to arm problems I advice you stay away from it, otherwise it's one of the best rackets on the market.
PadelRecs · Ali · 27 days ago
It's a nice racket with dry feel, the sweet spot I would say is less than medium, the control for diamond racket is good but it's not as easy to play with like hybrid shape rackets, you can feel when you are hitting outside the sweet spot and many time my lobs fell short. Overall it's a solid racket but if you coming from hybrid shape racket it will take some time to adjust. I do not recommend this racket to beginners
PadelRecs · Alex P · 27 days ago
Its a great racket, very easy to play with and has decent power
YouTube · KB Sports Clips · 27 days ago
Fiberglass face instead of the flagship's carbon makes the diamond racket feel much softer and more forgiving on contact. The sandy finish grabs plenty of spin, and the long handle helps you generate overhead pace while you're still building your smash. However, there's no weight system, and the head-heavy 360 to 375 gram frame will tire your arm if you lack strength.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 27 days ago
Calls it amazing to play with and very powerful. They picked the lightest unit in the shop for manoeuvrability; it weighs 376 g with an overgrip and head protector and has helped them develop their attacking game.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 27 days ago
Owns the non-Pro Bela V3 (365 g) and has played it three times a week for six months. Likes its weight for smashing, its almost dry but lively touch, the balance and the rough 3D face for slicing, and says it has held up with no dents or paint loss.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 27 days ago
A former tennis player of 40 years, now three years into padel, who mostly plays the 2025 Speed Pro (non-X). Calls it a good compromise: 370 g yet surprisingly agile and very solid, with a huge sweet spot and excellent on blocks and overheads.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 27 days ago
Recommends it as a very manageable racket with a hard touch that still gives enough ball output. Says it has a little less power than a diamond but is very good for a teardrop shape.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 27 days ago
Owns both the 2024 and 2025 AT10 Genius 18K and finds the 2025 noticeably softer, with a trampoline effect, while the 2024 feels much firmer. They're now weighing another 2024, the 2026 18K or the 2026 12K.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 28 days ago
Calls the 2027 Hack Hybrid probably the worst racket they have tried, a soulless wooden board, and a big step down from the 2025 version, which they found amazing.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 28 days ago
Found it an awesome racket at first, but after about four months of use a crease appeared at the top of the frame around the branding. They also mention an AT10 that cracked, and feel Bullpadel and Oxdog hold up better.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 28 days ago
Used the Pure Tour X while rehabbing a shoulder injury and says it saved their shoulder. Now fit again and playing more aggressively on the left, they moved to a higher-balance racket, but would happily go back: a great all-rounder with high build quality and feel.
YouTube · Fun Padel Shop · 29 days ago
3K carbon geometric frame with a 26 cm balance feels noticeably stiffer and hits harder than the classic 12K Vertex. It's built for aggressive attackers, though it's less adaptable when you're stuck defending.
YouTube · Fun Padel Shop · 29 days ago
Reasonable 25.5 cm balance makes the diamond frame much easier to whip around in defense than you'd expect. The 12K carbon face and multi-density core give it a medium feel that's comfortable from the back glass while still packing plenty of pop on smashes. It also comes with hole dampeners and a Hesacore grip, so your elbow stays well protected during long sets. Pure attackers looking for maximum leverage and a stiffer, direct transfer of energy might find it a bit tame compared to the 3K carbon Geo version. For an all-court game, though, it hits a great middle ground.
YouTube · Mellis_YTB · 29 days ago
18K carbon racket feels super stable and precise at the net on firm blocks, punchy volleys, and flat smashes. When you swing clean and accelerate through bandejas or víboras, the dry touch puts the ball right where you aim. That said, it won't give you any free rebound at slow speeds from the back court. Its small sweet spot immediately punishes late or off-center hits when you're stretched in defense. It's built for technical, aggressive players who generate their own pace rather than anyone wanting easy forgiveness.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 29 days ago
A right-side player who gets most smashes back into their own court with it; loves it.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 29 days ago
Tried the Metheora+ 2027 for the first time, coming from the Oxdog Hyper Pro 2.0, Ultimate Tour X and Head Coello Motion. Found it versatile, balanced between control and power, very light and comfortable with a medium feel, though the sweet spot isn't big.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 29 days ago
Switched from a two-year-old AT10 18K 2024 looking for a drier, less bouncy racket. Finds a big difference: much less bounce and much better volleys, but a slightly smaller sweet spot and a bit harder defending; still adapting but likes the change.
Reddit · r/Padelracket · 29 days ago
Calls the ST4 great: quite stiff but not to the point of hurting, with no trampoline effect. The only drawback is a slightly smaller sweet spot than their previous racket, a Drop Shot Axion Comfort.