Technical specifications and build quality of the Adidas Cross IT 2024
The reviewer from Padel Test by Roberto Cardi begins by highlighting the Adidas Cross IT 2024 as a diamond-shaped, oversize padel racket designed for advanced and professional players seeking maximum power. The racket’s technical features are clearly tailored for aggressive play, with a focus on high-intensity attacking shots.
- Weight: 360–375g (tested model: 365g)
- Balance: 26.2 cm (head-heavy)
- Frame: Carbon fiber
- Face: Carbon Aluminized 15K
- Core: EVA High Memory foam
- Surface: Rough 3D texture (Spin Blade Mold technology)
- Shape: Diamond oversize
The EVA High Memory core is a high-density foam that delivers extra power, especially on fast, aggressive shots. The Carbon Aluminized 15K face combines carbon fiber with an aluminized finish, enhancing both resistance and flexibility. This construction allows the racket to recover its original shape rapidly after high-velocity impacts, contributing to a crisp, responsive feel.
The surface incorporates Spin Blade Mold technology, providing a rough, 3D texture for increased spin and ball grip. Additional features like Dynamic Air Flow improve maneuverability by optimizing airflow through the racket’s core, while Power Extra Grip shifts the sweet spot toward the head, maximizing inertia and power. Structural reinforcements placed strategically around the frame further enhance torsional resistance and durability.
On-court impressions: feel, comfort, and maneuverability
Testing the Cross IT 2024 on court, the reviewer immediately notes the racket’s compact yet comfortable impact. Despite its hard touch—classified as “medium-hard” rather than extremely stiff—the racket remains surprisingly pleasant during volleys and fast exchanges. The balance, measured at 26.2 cm, gives the racket a head-heavy feel, but it does not weigh down the arm, maintaining good maneuverability for a power-oriented model.
During net play, the Cross IT 2024 stands out for its excellent maneuverability and the ability to generate both power and spin. The reviewer describes the sensation as “top,” with the racket excelling in quick, aggressive volleys and cut shots. The rough surface and advanced materials contribute to a lively response, making it a strong choice for players who like to attack at the net.
Performance on high shots: vibora, bandeja, and smashes
When executing high shots such as vibora and bandeja, the Cross IT 2024 impresses with its capacity for sharp slices and powerful impacts. The reviewer awards these shots a 9.5 out of 10, citing the racket’s ability to deliver exceptional cut and control from above the head. The diamond shape and shifted sweet spot help advanced players maximize their offensive potential in these scenarios.
For smashes, the racket produces a solid, compact sound and enables effective “per three” shots (smashes that exit the court). However, the reviewer notes that optimal performance is highly dependent on striking the ball at the upper sweet spot. Shots hit lower on the face do not generate the same power or consistency, making the racket best suited for technically proficient players. The smash receives a rating of 8 out of 10.
Baseline and wall exit performance: strengths and limitations
From the baseline, the Cross IT 2024 offers a good level of control and comfort, but the reviewer expected slightly more power in basic groundstrokes. The overall rating for standard shots (forehand, backhand, lob) is 8.5 out of 10. While the racket is responsive, players may need to apply extra effort to achieve depth and acceleration on defensive shots.
On low wall exits and lobs, the reviewer finds the racket less supportive. The maneuverability in these situations is not as high as expected, requiring more arm involvement to lift the ball effectively. The rating for low wall exits and lobs is 7.5 out of 10. For high wall exits, the racket performs slightly better but still falls short of top expectations, earning a score of 8 out of 10.
Who should choose the Adidas Cross IT 2024?
The reviewer emphasizes that the Cross IT 2024 is designed for advanced and expert players who can fully utilize its technical features. The racket’s hard, compact impact and head-heavy balance demand precise technique, especially to exploit the high sweet spot for maximum power. Players who enjoy aggressive, attacking padel and have the skill to consistently find the optimal contact point will benefit most from this model.
Interestingly, the reviewer also suggests that the racket could suit advanced women looking to increase power and spin in their game, as well as men seeking a high-performance, offensive tool. However, it is not recommended for beginners or those who prefer a softer, more forgiving feel.
Summary of key ratings and qualitative evaluations
- Vibora and bandeja: 9.5/10 (excellent cut and power on high shots)
- Basic groundstrokes: 8.5/10 (good control, expected slightly more power)
- Low wall exits and lobs: 7.5/10 (requires more effort, less supportive)
- High wall exits: 8/10 (solid, but not outstanding)
- Smash: 8/10 (strong when hitting the sweet spot, less so otherwise)
Overall, the Adidas Cross IT 2024 stands out for its power, advanced materials, and aggressive design. It is a top-tier choice for skilled players who prioritize attack and can handle a demanding, high-performance racket.
