The 3 Most Common Mistakes When Buying Your Padel Racket (And How to Avoid Them)

Buying a new padel racket can feel overwhelming. With so many brands, shapes, and prices to choose from, it’s easy to make the wrong decision - especially if you're new to the sport.

In this guide, we’ll break down the 3 most common mistakes players make when buying their padel racket, and show you how to avoid them so you can play better and enjoy the game more.

1. Choosing the Wrong Racket Shape

Padel rackets come in three main shapes:

Round – Best for control and beginners.
Teardrop – A good mix of control and power.
Diamond – Designed for power, but harder to control.

Mistake: Many new players go straight for a diamond-shaped racket thinking more power = better play. But without proper technique, it can lead to miss-hits and frustration.

Fix: Start with a round or teardrop racket for better feel and forgiveness. You’ll enjoy the game more and develop faster.

👉 Browse our Control & All-Round Padel Rackets

2. Buying Based on Price, Not Performance

Everyone loves a bargain - but with padel rackets, you often get what you pay for.

Mistake: Going for the cheapest racket without considering weight, balance, or material quality can seriously hold back your game (and might cost more in the long run if you upgrade quickly).

Fix: Look for a racket that matches your playing level, not just your budget. We stock a range of beginner-friendly padel rackets under £100 that still offer quality and comfort.

👉 Explore Best Value Rackets

3. Ignoring Your Playing Style

Mistake: Buying the same racket as your mate or a pro player - even if it doesn’t suit your style.

If you prefer long rallies and keeping the ball in play, go for a control-focused racket. If you love smashes and fast-paced action, a power racket might be better - as long as you can handle it.

Fix: Understand your playing style before you buy. Be honest about what enjoy about the game and what you're naturally good at.

Final Tip: Always Try Before You Buy (If You Can)

Reach out to us to see if we have a demo racket available for you to try first. Or, if you’ve got access to a padel club with demo rackets or a friend with the racket you want to try, have a hit with the racket first if possible.