Testing a diverse lineup of padel rackets at Monopoli Padel Club
The latest episode of the channel’s “racchette da incubo” series brought four passionate players—Francesco, Marco, Andrea, and Giuseppe—to the Monopoli Padel Club for a comprehensive group test of some of the most talked-about padel rackets of 2024. Each participant, ranging from relative beginners to more seasoned amateurs, rotated through a selection of rackets, providing immediate feedback on feel, control, power, and overall playability.
The session featured a dynamic mix of brands and models, including the Tecnifibre Wallbreaker 365, Tactical El Toro 2 Viceversa, Set Katana Blu, Oxdog Ultimate Pro Plus, Pro Kennex Black Ace 2024, and Tactical El Sabio. The players’ impressions were shaped by their playing styles, positions, and previous racket preferences, making for a rich and varied set of insights.
Initial impressions: comfort, control, and power across the lineup
As the players began their first rounds, distinct characteristics of each racket quickly emerged. The Tecnifibre Wallbreaker 365 impressed with its explosive power, especially on serves and smashes, but several players noted it required a confident, aggressive approach to keep shots under control. Its balance point felt higher, making it more suitable for advanced or attacking players.
The Tactical El Toro 2 Viceversa stood out for its blend of easy power and surprising comfort. Players described it as “spectacular” and “easy to play,” with a balance that made both volleys and baseline shots feel natural. Even those who typically prefer control-oriented rackets found the El Toro 2 accessible, with one participant calling it “the best of the bunch” for its combination of forgiveness and punch.
Meanwhile, the Set Katana Blu and Pro Kennex Black Ace were praised for their control and maneuverability, especially by players who favor a defensive or right-side game. The Black Ace, in particular, offered “crazy control” but demanded good technique to maximize its potential, while the Katana Blu was described as “easy for everyone” and “forgiving.”
Detailed player feedback and racket preferences
After several rounds, each player ranked the rackets they tested, offering candid feedback on what worked and what didn’t for their style. Here are the summarized preferences and comments from each participant:
- Francesco:
- 1st: Tactical El Toro 2 Viceversa – “Spectacular, easy, powerful, and worth every euro.”
- 2nd: Tecnifibre Wallbreaker 365 – “Great for attacking, but requires careful control.”
- 3rd: Pro Kennex Black Ace – “Perfect for right-side players, very forgiving.”
- 4th: Nox Ionic Power – “Neither here nor there, didn’t suit my game.”
- Marco:
- 1st: Tactical El Toro 2 Viceversa – “Perfect for my game, the weight distribution is ideal.”
- 2nd: Oxdog Ultimate Pro Plus – “Very rigid, more for left-side attackers, but great handle.”
- 3rd: Tecnifibre Wallbreaker 365 – “Aggressive and powerful, but not for everyone.”
- 4th: Set Katana Blu – “Easy and comfortable, but less suited to my style.”
- Andrea:
- 1st: Tactical El Toro 2 Viceversa – “Best mix of sensitivity and power, no real flaws.”
- 2nd: Set Katana Blu – “Lighter, but still powerful and controlled.”
- 3rd: Tactical El Sabio – “Good for both sides, but a bit less control than El Toro.”
- 4th: Tecnifibre Wallbreaker 365 – “Too lively for my control-oriented game.”
- Giuseppe:
- 1st: Oxdog Ultimate Pro Plus – “Excellent for aggressive play, but tough on the arm.”
- 2nd: Tactical El Toro 2 Viceversa – “Easier to use, great sensitivity, quick response.”
- 3rd: Set Katana Blu – “Comfortable, but less sensitive than El Toro.”
- 4th: Pro Kennex Black Ace – “Great for beginners, but the sound and feel were unusual.”
These rankings highlight how the Tactical El Toro 2 Viceversa consistently won over players of different backgrounds, while the Oxdog Ultimate Pro Plus and Tecnifibre Wallbreaker 365 were seen as more specialized tools for advanced or aggressive players.
Performance comparisons: spin, forgiveness, and technical demands
Throughout the session, the reviewer and players emphasized the importance of matching racket characteristics to individual technique and position. The El Toro 2 Viceversa was repeatedly praised for its ability to generate spin and for its forgiving sweet spot, making it accessible even to less experienced players. Its weight—around 359g—was considered optimal, offering both stability and maneuverability.
The Oxdog Ultimate Pro Plus delivered exceptional power and spin, but its stiffer construction and higher balance made it more demanding, especially on the arm. Players noted that it “doesn’t give away anything for free”—you need both technique and strength to unlock its full potential.
Meanwhile, rackets like the Set Katana Blu and Pro Kennex Black Ace were described as ideal for defensive players or those seeking maximum control and comfort, though they lacked the raw power of the more attack-oriented models.
Key takeaways from the group test and final verdicts
This group review at Monopoli Padel Club showcased how different rackets cater to a wide spectrum of playing styles and skill levels. The Tactical El Toro 2 Viceversa emerged as the clear favorite, praised for its versatility, comfort, and accessible power. The Tecnifibre Wallbreaker 365 and Oxdog Ultimate Pro Plus were highlighted as excellent choices for advanced players who prioritize aggression and spin, while the Set Katana Blu and Pro Kennex Black Ace offered more forgiving, control-oriented experiences.
Ultimately, the channel’s format—rotating rackets among players of varying backgrounds—provided a nuanced look at how each model performs in real match conditions. The detailed feedback and rankings offer valuable guidance for anyone considering a new padel racket in 2024, whether seeking power, control, or all-around playability.
