Key features and technical specifications of the Kombat Teide padel racket
The Kombat Teide is part of the new Vulcano line, a collaboration between Kombat and Manu Martín. The reviewer highlights several technical aspects that set this racket apart within the Kombat range. Notably, the racket features a slightly longer handle at 13.5 cm, which is also thicker than standard grips—meaning players may need fewer overgrips than usual. The wrist strap is now interchangeable, thanks to a new rope change system.
- Weight: 360–370g (tested model: 366g with two overgrips)
- Balance: High, around 27.1 cm
- Face material: Aluminized 18K carbon fiber
- Core: Medium-density Blue EVA rubber
- Surface: 3D roughness with Kombat “K” texture
- Hole pattern: Smaller holes in the center, larger on the perimeter
This combination of materials and design gives the Kombat Teide a medium-hard feel, with a sweet spot of standard size and a noticeable difference in response between the central and upper areas of the face.
Performance in defensive play and backcourt sensations
In defensive situations at the back of the court, the creator notes that the Kombat Teide offers a comfortable ball output at medium and medium-low pace, despite its overall hardness. The sweet spot is standard-sized, and most defensive shots benefit from the central area’s comfort and responsiveness. However, when shots are hit higher on the face—where there are no holes and the Kombat “K” logo sits—the racket feels noticeably stiffer and less forgiving, with reduced ball output.
At higher intensities, the racket provides good control, preventing the ball from bouncing excessively even when hit hard. This inspires confidence for players who want to maintain firm shots from the back without losing control. The reviewer contrasts this with the Kombat MM3, noting that the Teide offers better ball output at lower speeds but less rebound at higher speeds.
Two challenges are highlighted in defense: the high balance makes the racket less maneuverable on low or forced balls, sometimes causing the tip to lag and the ball to rise more than intended. Additionally, off-center hits outside the sweet spot feel drier and less responsive, especially when reaching for difficult balls.
Control and power in viper and tray shots
Moving to the viper (víbora) and tray (bandeja) area, the reviewer observes a more pronounced difference between hitting with the central and upper zones. The central area delivers deep shots with minimal effort, while the upper zone requires a longer, more forceful swing to achieve similar depth. At medium-low pace, the ball comes off the racket well from the center, but less so from the top, demanding more from the player.
On offensive shots, most contact occurs with the upper area, which feels stiffer and offers less rebound. However, this rigidity translates into excellent control at high speed, allowing the player to hit hard without fear of the ball flying out of bounds. The reviewer appreciates the confidence this gives, especially when playing aggressively.
The longer handle and high balance assist in generating leverage and weight on the ball, enhancing acceleration and enabling players to impart significant power. However, this also means the racket can feel head-heavy, potentially leading to arm fatigue over long sessions. The creator recommends the Kombat Teide in this area for players with solid technique, as it rewards precise, well-centered hits.
Volleying characteristics and handling at the net
At the net, the Kombat Teide maintains a good sweet spot for standard volleys, offering reliable ball output without requiring exaggerated follow-through. The reviewer notes that when dealing with fast, descending balls, striking higher on the face can result in shorter, less powerful returns, as the upper zone is less lively.
For offensive volleys, the racket’s high balance helps drive the ball with weight and keep it low, particularly effective for cut shots. However, the high balance also makes the racket less maneuverable during quick exchanges or direction changes, requiring players to be well-positioned and attentive. The reviewer found that in aggressive volleys, the need to hit with the upper area and generate more force could make timing challenging, especially under pressure.
Despite these demands, the Kombat Teide delivers strong control and offensive potential at the net, especially for players who prefer to play with weight and cut rather than rely solely on speed.
Finishing shots and power potential in smashes
When it comes to finishing points with smashes, the Kombat Teide offers satisfactory power, particularly for players with medium to advanced technique. The reviewer notes a clear distinction between hitting with the central and upper areas: the upper zone feels drier and less helpful, requiring the player to generate more acceleration and force, especially with older balls that have lost some bounce. In contrast, the central area provides a bit more rebound and comfort, assisting with power on smashes and “por tres” shots.
Overall, the racket rewards technically sound, well-centered hits and is less forgiving when contact is made higher on the face. Players with good technique will be able to extract the most power and consistency from the Kombat Teide in finishing situations.
Recommended player profile and court area evaluations
The Kombat Teide is priced at €185, aligning with the rest of the Vulcano line. The reviewer positions it between the Kombat Etna and Kombat Vesuvius models, offering a balance between control and power without being excessively hard. Compared to the MM3, the Teide feels a bit stiffer and is best suited for players with a medium to advanced technical level, as it demands precise, central contact for optimal performance.
The creator summarizes their experience by ranking the racket’s performance across different court areas:
- Viper and tray area: Excellent control and confidence at high pace, allowing hard play with significant weight on the ball.
- Volley area: Versatile and reliable when well-positioned, with good control at low to medium pace and offensive potential.
- Defense area: Manageable for its hardness, with good ball output at medium-low pace, though high balance and sweet spot sensitivity require adaptation.
- Finishing area: Decent power, but more technically demanding than expected; rewards well-executed, central hits, especially with newer balls.
In summary, the Kombat Teide is a strong option for players seeking to transition to a slightly harder, more offensive racket without sacrificing too much comfort in defensive play. Its high balance and differentiated sweet spot make it best suited for those with solid technique who can consistently hit the central area of the face.
