Nox AT10 18K 2025 review: control, comfort, and all-court power

Discover how the latest Nox AT10 18K 2025 padel racket builds on its predecessor with refined features and improved playability. This review explores its design updates, on-court performance, and how it compares to other top models, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your game.

Video created by: @ProbandoPalas

Key specifications and design features of the Nox AT10 18K 2025

The reviewer from Probando Palas highlights that the Nox AT10 18K 2025 maintains its iconic teardrop shape, a staple of Agustín Tapia’s signature line. The racket is constructed with 18K aluminized carbon on the face, which is paired with Nox’s MLD dual-density core. This year, the surface finish has been updated to feature a double roughness: a 3D texture in the central logo area and a lacquered layer, which together contribute to a slightly firmer feel compared to previous editions.

  • Weight: 373g (without cord; 376g with protector and custom grip)
  • Balance: 260 mm (medium)
  • Face material: 18K aluminized carbon
  • Core: MLD dual-density EVA
  • Grip: Standard length, now with an octagonal cap and Custom Grip system
  • Shape: Teardrop
  • Surface finish: Double roughness (3D + lacquer)

Additional features include the octagonal cap for improved grip ergonomics and the Rope Exchange System, allowing for easy replacement of the wrist cord. The reviewer notes these changes are subtle but add to the overall comfort and adaptability of the racket.

On-court impressions: feel, comfort, and handling

According to the channel, the AT10 18K 2025 feels slightly more rigid and drier than the 2024 version, mainly due to the new 3D roughness and lacquered finish. The touch is described as medium with a touch more firmness, which translates into a responsive yet controlled sensation during play. Despite not being an ultra-light unit, the racket’s 373g weight and balanced design allow it to move fluidly and with minimal effort, especially from the back of the court.

The reviewer emphasizes the wide sweet spot, which makes the racket forgiving on off-center hits and easy to maneuver during defensive play. The combination of the medium balance and the sweet spot ensures that players can generate good ball speed with little effort, especially at medium paces. The racket’s manageability is highlighted as a standout feature, making it suitable for players who value both control and quick reactions.

Adapting to the new octagonal cap and Custom Grip may require a brief adjustment period, but the reviewer found the comfort level to be high once accustomed. The grip modifications do add a bit of weight, but players seeking a lighter feel can remove the protector or opt out of the Custom Grip.

Performance in baseline and defensive situations

At the back of the court, the AT10 18K 2025 excels in both control and ball output. The reviewer notes that the racket allows for precise placement and easy ball movement at medium speeds. Even when increasing the pace, the ball remains controllable, and the slightly drier feel helps prevent shots from flying out of control. The reviewer prefers this year’s model for defensive play, stating that it offers more predictability and a better overall sensation than the previous edition.

For players who enjoy slowing down the game and playing tight, controlled shots at the net, the racket’s responsiveness stands out. The sweet spot and manageability make it easy to execute slow, accurate balls, while still providing enough power when needed. The reviewer rates the AT10 18K 2025 as the best Nox racket tested this year for play from the baseline.

Net play, volleys, and intermediate pace shots

When moving to the net, the channel observes that the double roughness surface provides reliable grip on the ball without causing excessive sliding. The racket’s handling at medium pace is described as excellent, offering enough weight for solid volleys but remaining agile for quick hand movements. The sweet spot continues to impress, delivering consistent results even on slightly off-center volleys.

The reviewer mentions that the racket feels a bit more rigid on clean hits, which is attributed to the new lacquer and 3D roughness. This added firmness gives a sense of robustness and control, especially when blocking fast balls. Players who favor a medium touch with a bit of extra firmness will appreciate the feedback and stability offered during net exchanges.

Overheads, smashes, and aerial game analysis

In aerial situations such as trays, viboras, and smashes, the AT10 18K 2025 demonstrates a balanced performance. The medium touch and responsive output allow for effective depth and power at moderate effort levels. The reviewer notes that the racket shines in tray and listed (kick smash) shots, providing excellent ball output and depth without requiring excessive arm speed.

For pure power smashes, the reviewer suggests that players who rely heavily on acceleration might find the 12K version slightly more suitable due to its stiffer feel. However, the 18K model still delivers above expectations, especially in situations where topspin or spin is needed. The racket’s progressiveness and quick movement from low to high positions make it a versatile choice for a wide range of aerial shots.

Comparisons with the 2024 version and other Nox models

The channel draws several comparisons between the 2025 and 2024 versions of the AT10 18K. The most notable changes are the slightly firmer, drier feel and the improved control at higher paces, attributed to the updated roughness and lacquer. While the 2024 model was already a top seller, the 2025 edition refines the formula, making it even more predictable and manageable, especially for players who value control and ball output at medium speeds.

Compared to the AT10 12K and Attack variants, the 18K 2025 offers a unique balance of comfort, control, and versatility. The 12K is described as stiffer and better suited for players seeking maximum power, while the 18K stands out for its all-around performance and adaptability across different styles of play.

Reviewer’s ratings and final impressions

  • Baseline play: Top marks among Nox rackets tested this year
  • Control: Improved over the 2024 version, especially at higher paces
  • Sweet spot: Very wide and forgiving
  • Net play: Excellent manageability and stability
  • Aerial game: Strong in trays and listed shots, good in smashes for medium-power players
  • Comfort: High, especially with Custom Grip and octagonal cap (after adjustment)

The reviewer concludes that the Nox AT10 18K 2025 is one of the most complete and versatile rackets for the new season. Its combination of medium touch, enhanced control, and improved surface texture make it a standout choice for players seeking a balanced, high-performance padel racket. The subtle upgrades over the previous version refine an already popular model, ensuring its place among the top picks for 2025.

Article written by

Practica Padel Team

Practica Padel Team

Specialists in curating insights from padel coaches, professional players, and trusted reviewers. Our goal is to make expert knowledge easy to understand and accessible for every player.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the main features that set the Nox AT10 18K 2025 apart from previous models?

The Nox AT10 18K 2025 features an updated double roughness surface, a firmer feel due to its 3D texture and lacquer, and a new octagonal cap with a Custom Grip system. These upgrades improve control, comfort, and adaptability while maintaining the iconic teardrop shape and balanced performance.

Who is the Nox AT10 18K 2025 best suited for in terms of playing style and skill level?

This racket is ideal for intermediate to advanced players who value a balance of control, comfort, and all-court versatility. It suits those who play at medium pace, enjoy defensive play from the baseline, and want a forgiving sweet spot for both quick reactions and precise placement.

How does the Nox AT10 18K 2025 compare to the AT10 12K and Attack models?

The AT10 18K 2025 offers more comfort and versatility than the stiffer, power-focused AT10 12K. While the 12K is better for players seeking maximum smash power, the 18K stands out for its control, wide sweet spot, and adaptability across different playing styles.

What are the key specifications of the Nox AT10 18K 2025?

Key specs include a weight of 373g (without cord), medium 260mm balance, 18K aluminized carbon face, MLD dual-density EVA core, teardrop shape, and a double roughness surface finish. It also features an octagonal cap and a Custom Grip system for enhanced comfort and grip.

What should players know about the feel and handling of this racket on court?

Players will notice a slightly firmer, drier feel compared to previous versions, with a medium touch that provides both responsiveness and control. The racket is easy to maneuver, has a wide sweet spot, and offers excellent manageability for both defensive and attacking shots.

Are there any tips for adjusting to the new grip and weight of the Nox AT10 18K 2025?

Adapting to the octagonal cap and Custom Grip may require a short adjustment period. If you prefer a lighter feel, you can remove the protector or opt out of the Custom Grip. Once accustomed, most players find the comfort and ergonomics significantly improved.

How does the Nox AT10 18K 2025 perform in net play and aerial shots?

The racket excels at the net with its stable, agile handling and reliable grip on the ball. In aerial shots like trays and smashes, it delivers strong performance, especially for medium-power players, offering depth and spin without needing excessive arm speed.