New to padel? Don't sweat the gear — we've got you covered.
Starting your padel journey? The good news is you don't need to break the bank or overthink it. Here's everything you need to get on the court and start having fun.
Essential Gear List
The Racket (aka "pala")
Shape Matters
Round shape = control (perfect for beginners)
Diamond shapes offer more power but less control. Start round, upgrade later.
Shoes
Court Shoes for Grip
Tennis or indoor court shoes work perfectly
Avoid running shoes - you need lateral support and grip for quick direction changes.
Padel Balls
Actual Padel Balls
Look for lower pressure than tennis balls
They bounce less and move slower, making rallies longer and more strategic.
Optional Extras
TL;DR Checklist
Budget Breakdown
Budget Starter
- • Basic round racket ($50-80)
- • Court shoes ($60-90)
- • Padel balls ($10)
Recommended
- • Quality round racket ($100-150)
- • Good court shoes ($80-120)
- • Padel balls + bag ($30)
Premium
- • Premium racket ($150+)
- • Pro court shoes ($120+)
- • Full accessories ($50+)
Pro Shopping Tips
Try Before You Buy
Many courts rent equipment. Try different racket shapes and weights before investing.
Check Local Shops
Local padel shops often have better advice and can help with racket customization.
Start Simple
Don't overthink your first purchase. Focus on comfort and control over power.
Upgrade Later
As you improve, you'll know exactly what you want in your next racket.
Understanding Padel Balls
Padel balls are one of the most important pieces of equipment, yet they're often overlooked by beginners. While they look similar to tennis balls, padel balls have distinct characteristics that affect gameplay.
Key Differences
- •Lower internal pressure than tennis balls
- •Slightly smaller diameter
- •Less bounce for better control
- •Designed for wall play
Why It Matters
The lower pressure creates longer rallies and more strategic gameplay. The ball moves slower through the air, giving players more time to react and position themselves.
This makes padel more accessible to beginners while still providing plenty of challenge for advanced players.
Final Advice
The most important thing to remember is that you don't need the most expensive equipment to enjoy padel. Many beginners make the mistake of over-investing before they know what they like.
Start with mid-range equipment, play regularly, and upgrade as you develop your style and preferences. Most padel facilities offer equipment rentals, so you can try the sport before making any purchases.
Remember: the best equipment is the equipment that gets you on the court and playing. Focus on having fun, improving your skills, and enjoying the social aspect of padel. The gear will follow naturally as you progress.