Design and construction details of the Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025
The reviewer describes the Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025 as a highly commercial padel racket, designed to appeal to a broad range of amateur players. Its aesthetic is striking, with a hybrid shape that, according to the channel, feels closer to round than truly hybrid. The face stands out for its dual roughness: a sandy texture across the surface and a 3D finish on the X-shaped logo. The reviewer notes a preference for a consistent roughness, as found on some Babolat models, but acknowledges the unique approach Nox has taken here.
Key construction features include:
- Face material: 18K carbon fiber
- Core: Multilayer Black EVA
- Frame: 100% carbon tubular
- Weight: 365g (without cord), 372g (with cord)
- Balance: 25.5 cm (with overgrip and cord), 26 cm (without cord)
- Grip length: 12.5 cm
The bridge design remains consistent with previous years, but now features two lateral holes for improved aerodynamics and maneuverability. The handle is slightly longer than previous models, and the new octagonal butt cap replaces the previous round design. The Smartstrap system allows for easy replacement of the wrist cord, now secured with a small rubber stopper to prevent accidental loosening. The reviewer appreciates this detail, though personally prefers the previous cord style or the integrated system seen on Babolat rackets.
On-court performance: comfort, control, and versatility
According to the channel, the Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025 delivers a balanced, comfortable playing experience. The racket offers a generous sweet spot and a medium touch, making it accessible for a wide range of players. The reviewer highlights its maneuverability and notes that it feels secure and easy to handle, especially from the back of the court. Defensive play is comfortable, with a controlled ball exit that avoids the overly springy feel of some softer rackets.
When comparing the touch to other models, the channel finds it softer than the Adidas Metalbone HRD and the Babolat Viper range, but slightly firmer than the standard Metalbone. The touch is most similar to the previous year’s Bullpadel Vertex, offering a balanced medium feel that suits both control and power shots.
At the net, the racket performs well in volleys and overheads. It provides enough rigidity to add weight to the ball when needed, yet remains forgiving on softer shots. The reviewer draws a parallel to the Siux Fenix 1 in terms of response when increasing shot power: the racket becomes slightly stiffer, giving the player more feedback and control.
Power and smash potential: what to expect in attack
In aerial play, the Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025 offers solid performance on bandejas and viboras, with its controlled ball exit providing confidence and precision. For smashes, the reviewer notes that the racket can “eat” the ball slightly if contact is made above the sweet spot, resulting in some loss of power. However, when striking cleanly in the sweet spot with good technique, the racket responds well, making it suitable for players who rely on proper form for power shots.
For “por tres” smashes, the channel finds the racket supportive, especially for players with solid technique. The controlled response helps keep the ball in play and offers a reliable option for attacking shots, though it may not provide the explosive power of stiffer, head-heavy rackets.
Comparisons with other popular padel rackets
The reviewer places the Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025 in context by comparing it to several leading models:
- Adidas Metalbone HRD: Harder touch than the Nox, less forgiving
- Adidas Metalbone (standard): Slightly firmer than the Nox, but closer in feel
- Babolat Viper range (Air, Counter, Technical): All are stiffer and drier than the Nox
- Babolat Veron range: Also a touch harder than the Nox
- Bullpadel Vertex (previous year): Very similar in touch, though not identical in behavior
- Siux Fenix 1: Comparable in how the racket firms up on powerful shots
These comparisons help clarify the Nox AT10’s position as a versatile, medium-touch racket that bridges the gap between pure control and power-focused models.
Strengths and weaknesses highlighted by the reviewer
The channel identifies several strong points for the Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025:
- Wide appeal for amateur players, from beginners to advanced
- Excellent maneuverability and comfort
- Generous sweet spot and medium touch
- Improved Smartstrap system with secure rubber stopper
- Longer grip for added comfort
However, the reviewer also points out areas for improvement:
- High retail price (around €300 at launch, slightly less with discounts)
- Inconsistent roughness on the face; sandy texture wears off quickly
- Preference for previous cord system or fully integrated solutions like Babolat’s
- Not ideal for players seeking a very hard touch or extremely head-heavy balance
Despite these drawbacks, the overall impression is positive, especially for those seeking a versatile racket that performs well in most situations.
Suitability and recommendations for different player profiles
The reviewer recommends the Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025 for a broad spectrum of players. Its forgiving nature and balanced performance make it suitable for everyone from beginners to advanced amateurs. The only exceptions are players who specifically want a very hard, dry touch or a racket with a high, head-heavy balance—these users may prefer a different model.
For most players, the Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025 offers a blend of comfort, control, and manageable power, making it a safe recommendation for those unsure of their ideal racket profile.
Reviewer’s ratings for the Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025
- Power: 3.5 out of 5
- Control: 4 out of 5
- Maneuverability: 4.5 out of 5
- Overall: 4 out of 5
These ratings reflect the channel’s view that the Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025 is a highly versatile and well-rounded padel racket, especially appealing to the amateur market and those inspired by Agustín Tapia.
