Key technical features and innovations of the Adidas Metalbone 3.4
The reviewer from Padel Review highlights the Adidas Metalbone 3.4 as a significant evolution in the Metalbone series, especially when compared to previous years. This racket, endorsed by Ale Galán, introduces a range of technical updates and design changes that set it apart from its predecessors.
- Shape: Diamond (no longer oversized, classic diamond profile)
- Face material: 16K carbon fiber
- Core: EVA Soft Performance
- Surface: Rough finish with Spin Blade System
- Weight: 359g without weights, up to 372g with all weights applied
- Balance: 26.6 cm (without weights), up to 26.9 cm with all weights on the head
- Handle: Longer than previous versions, but still thin (overgrip recommended)
- Price: €390 retail, approximately €350 street price with discount code
Two notable structural innovations are the Power Groove and New Poly Bridge technologies, which increase the racket’s rigidity and provide a noticeable boost in both power and control. The handle extension is a welcome change, improving reach and leverage, particularly for players who favor two-handed shots or need extra reach at the net.
Weight & Balance System: flexibility and complexity
One of the most discussed features in this review is the Weight & Balance System. The channel notes that while this system allows for a highly customizable playing experience, it has become increasingly complex compared to previous years. The racket arrives with a set of removable weights:
- Base weight (without weights): 359g
- With all weights applied: 372g
- Balance point: 26.6 cm (without weights), up to 26.9 cm (all weights on the head)
The system includes a ring, blue and grey weights, and several 1g plastic weights at the tip. According to the reviewer, the combinations are numerous, but the practical benefit is limited. The balance remains largely unchanged regardless of configuration, and the process of adding or removing weights is described as unnecessarily complicated. The recommendation is clear: use the racket without additional weights unless you need to adjust for a particularly low base weight.
Importantly, the reviewer notes that this year’s Metalbone 3.4 does not produce the arm discomfort or vibration issues that plagued previous versions, even after intense play sessions.
On-court performance: power, control, and feel
The Adidas Metalbone 3.4 is positioned as an offensive racket best suited for intermediate to advanced players, especially those who play on the left or adopt an aggressive style. The reviewer emphasizes its suitability for both right- and left-handed players who seek power and precision, but notes that it shines most in the hands of attacking players who frequently approach the net.
Key performance impressions include:
- Ball output: Excellent, with a lively response and plenty of power. However, the ball can sometimes “escape” if not controlled, reflecting the racket’s dynamic nature.
- Touch and feedback: The 16K carbon face and EVA Soft Performance core provide a hard, direct feel. Players can always sense the ball on the racket, which aids in shot precision.
- Effects: The rough surface and Spin Blade System deliver top-tier spin potential, allowing for both flat and heavily spun shots.
- Sweet spot: Not particularly large, which is typical for a diamond-shaped, offensive racket. This makes the racket less forgiving on off-center hits.
- Comfort: Markedly improved over previous Metalbone models, with no vibration or arm fatigue reported during testing.
The longer handle is highlighted as a significant advantage, especially for backcourt stretches and overhead shots. The reviewer does note, however, that the handle is still thin and can be slippery—an overgrip or total grip is strongly recommended for optimal control.
Comparisons with previous Metalbone models and other variants
The creator draws a clear line between the Metalbone 3.4 and earlier iterations, stating that this is the best Metalbone they have ever tested. The racket is described as “devastating” in terms of power and overall playability, but also as fundamentally different from last year’s model. Players who enjoyed the previous Metalbone may find this version less forgiving, while those who disliked earlier models might appreciate the changes.
The review also briefly compares the Metalbone 3.4 to the Metalbone 3.4 Hard Plus, which features an EVA High Memory core instead of EVA Soft Performance. However, the Hard Plus was not tested in this review, so direct performance comparisons are limited.
Detailed ratings from the reviewer’s playtest
Padel Review provides a comprehensive set of ratings for the Adidas Metalbone 3.4, based on their on-court experience. These scores offer a clear summary of the racket’s strengths and minor weaknesses (13 grade system):
- From the backcourt: 8.5
- Lobs: 8
- Volley/net play: 9
- Control: 8.5
- Handling: 7.5
- Ball output: 8
- Sweet spot: 7.5
- Spin/effects: 9
- Power: 8.5
- For three (smash out): 8.5
- Smash: 8.5
- Vibora: 8.5
- Value for money: 7 (at approx. €340 street price)
These ratings reflect a racket that excels in offensive play, spin, and net performance, with only minor deductions for handling and sweet spot size due to its demanding, rigid nature.
Final impressions: a demanding but rewarding offensive padel racket
The Adidas Metalbone 3.4 stands out as a complete, aggressive, and technically advanced padel racket designed for players who want to dominate with power and spin. Its improved comfort, lack of vibration, and structural innovations make it a compelling choice for advanced and ambitious intermediate players. However, its rigidity, smaller sweet spot, and complex weight system mean it is not for everyone—those seeking a forgiving or easy-to-handle racket may find it challenging.
For players who value offensive capability, spin, and a direct feel, the Metalbone 3.4 is a top contender in the 2024 padel market, and according to Padel Review, the best Metalbone yet.
