Simone Cremona discusses his experience with the Macron Poseidon II padel racket
During the Premier Padel 2024 event in Rome, the channel sat down with Simone Cremona, one of Italy’s most accomplished padel players, to discuss his current racket of choice: the Macron Poseidon II. Cremona, a multi-time Italian champion and European gold medalist, provided detailed insights into why this racket suits his evolving style and the demands of modern padel.
Key specifications and design features of the Macron Poseidon II
The Macron Poseidon II stands out for its distinctive multicolor mosaic-inspired design and technical build aimed at aggressive players seeking power from their racket. According to the information shared, the racket’s specifications are as follows:
- Weight: 355–375g
- Balance: High (but adjustable towards medium with added weights)
- Shape: Teardrop (“goccia”)
- Surface finish: Matte + laminated, with 3D paintwork
- Hole pattern: Macron Hero
- Core: Medium-hard EVA (positioned between hard and soft)
These features combine to create a racket that is visually striking and functionally tailored for advanced, offensive play.
Balance and handling: Cremona’s personal adjustments
Cremona emphasized the importance of balance in his choice of racket. While the Poseidon II is designed with a high balance point, he prefers a feel closer to medium balance. To achieve this, he adds small weights to shift the balance slightly towards the handle. This customization allows him to maintain maneuverability without sacrificing the racket’s inherent power.
He noted that rackets with too much weight in the head do not suit his style, as they can feel cumbersome during quick exchanges and defensive play. The ability to fine-tune the Poseidon II’s balance is a key factor in his satisfaction with the model.
Shape evolution: from round to teardrop for modern padel
Previously, Cremona favored round-shaped rackets, particularly for their control and suitability for right-side players. He explained that round rackets, often lighter and with a wider sweet spot, are ideal for defensive play and precise placement. However, as the game has become more aggressive, he has transitioned to the teardrop shape of the Poseidon II.
This change supports a more offensive style, especially for overhead shots and volleys. The teardrop design provides a balance between control and power, enabling him to be more effective in attacking situations. Cremona highlighted that this adaptation aligns with the evolving demands of high-level padel, where versatility and the ability to finish points quickly are increasingly important.
Core feel and comfort: medium-hard EVA for all-round play
The Poseidon II features a medium-hard EVA core, which Cremona described as sitting “right in the middle” between soft and hard. This composition offers a blend of comfort and responsiveness, delivering enough cushioning for control while still providing the rebound needed for powerful shots.
He finds this balance ideal, as it allows for both defensive touch and offensive punch, adapting well to the dynamic pace of modern matches.
Grip preferences and handle customization
Cremona shared his approach to grip setup, opting for a very thin handle by using only one overgrip directly on the wood, with the factory grip removed. This provides him with greater sensitivity and easier grip changes during play. He occasionally builds up the base of the handle slightly (“cipolla effect”) for added comfort and control at the start of the grip, but overall prefers a minimalist, responsive feel.
Comparisons with other rackets: Tridens ST2 and previous Macron models
The reviewer asked Cremona about his experience with other rackets, specifically the Tridens ST2. Cremona acknowledged that the Tridens ST2 is an excellent racket, with a slightly higher balance and strong offensive capabilities. However, he ultimately prefers the Poseidon II for its more balanced feel and suitability to his game. He also referenced his earlier use of a round-shaped Macron racket, which offered more control but less attacking potential compared to the Poseidon II.
- Poseidon II: Medium balance (with custom weights), teardrop shape, medium-hard core, balanced for offense and control
- Tridens ST2: Higher balance, more head-heavy, strong ball exit, suited for aggressive play
- Previous round Macron: High control, lighter, wider sweet spot, less suited for modern aggressive play
Summary of Cremona’s qualitative evaluations of the Macron Poseidon II
- Excellent balance between power and control, especially after personal adjustments
- Teardrop shape supports a more aggressive, modern style of play
- Medium-hard EVA core offers comfort and responsiveness for both defense and attack
- Customizable balance allows adaptation to individual preferences
- Thin handle setup enhances sensitivity and grip changes
- Visually distinctive design with practical performance benefits
For Cremona, the Macron Poseidon II represents a well-rounded choice for advanced players seeking a racket that adapts to the evolving demands of high-level padel, balancing power, control, and comfort in a customizable package.
