Key specifications and design updates of the Adidas Metalbone HRD+ 3.4 2025
The reviewer highlights the Adidas Metalbone HRD+ 3.4 2025 as a significant evolution in the Metalbone series, especially compared to the previous 3.4 Soft version. This model is positioned as a more aggressive, diamond-shaped padel racket, with a focus on power and substance. The core, while marketed as “HRD” (hard), is described as medium in hardness rather than truly rigid, which impacts both playability and comfort.
- Weight range: 345–360g (excluding the adjustable Weight and Balance System)
- Balance: High, with the ability to shift up to 12g of weight to alter balance by approximately 0.4–0.5 cm
- Face material: 16K carbon fiber
- Core: Medium hardness (not as rigid as the name suggests)
- Handle length: Approximately 13.5 cm
The racket’s design features a more compact face and a longer handle, making it more streamlined and head-heavy than previous Metalbone models. The reviewer appreciates the new aesthetic, noting the subtle grey tones and red accents, and considers it one of the most visually appealing rackets on the market. However, for a retail price of €490, the reviewer expected higher attention to detail in elements like the wrist strap and the quality of the plastic weight covers, which can be prone to threading issues if not handled carefully.
Performance on court: power, control, and feel
On the court, the Metalbone HRD+ 3.4 2025 stands out for its powerful response and solid feel, especially when compared to the standard 3.4 Soft. The reviewer consistently prefers playing with the weights removed from the head, as this configuration offers a fuller impact sensation and better maneuverability. With all weights installed, the racket becomes noticeably more demanding, increasing both the head weight and the overall challenge for the player.
The racket’s sweet spot is described as medium-small, slightly reduced compared to the 3.4 Soft, but still surprisingly forgiving for a racket with a smaller face. The core’s medium hardness provides a lively connection to the ball, with more immediate and energetic reactions than the softer version. This translates to a racket that is more powerful, solid, and “serious,” according to the reviewer, but also one that requires more attention to control, particularly from the back of the court.
Despite its head-heavy nature, the Metalbone HRD+ 3.4 2025 is not unmanageable, but it does demand timely preparation and precise technique, especially in defensive situations. The reviewer notes that the racket’s mass in the head can be felt during prolonged play, making it less suitable for those seeking a lightweight or ultra-maneuverable option.
Comparison with the Metalbone 3.4 Soft and previous HRD models
The channel draws clear distinctions between the HRD+ 3.4 2025 and the 3.4 Soft. While both rackets share a similar density and general handling, the HRD+ offers more substance, power, and a superior overall feel. The 3.4 Soft may provide slightly easier control and a marginally larger sweet spot, but the HRD+ excels in terms of energy transfer, solidity, and aesthetics. The reviewer places the HRD+ well above the Soft in their personal ranking, even including it in their top four rackets tested in 2024.
Compared to earlier HRD versions (such as the 3.3 and 3.2), the 3.4 HRD+ is less rigid but delivers a more complete performance, particularly in smash and kick shots. The updated core and higher balance point result in a racket that is both powerful and responsive, with enhanced spin capabilities thanks to the Spin Blade surface texture.
Detailed feedback on volleys, smashes, and spin potential
At the net, the reviewer finds the Metalbone HRD+ 3.4 2025 particularly impressive. The medium core allows for excellent management of volleys, providing both substance and precision. The racket’s head weight and balance contribute to a sense of mastery and power in fast exchanges, though the physical effort required is notable over time.
Spin generation is another strong point. The Spin Blade surface delivers easy and effective spin on both volleys and viboras, making the racket suitable for players who rely on heavy spin in their game. The reviewer notes that the racket’s ability to “whip” the ball is especially pronounced, with a lively response that aids in aggressive play.
When it comes to smashes, the HRD+ 3.4 2025 offers a balanced performance. While it may not match the flat power of the older, stiffer HRD models, it compensates with a superior kick smash, thanks to the combination of head mass and responsive core. Players looking for a racket that excels in both flat and kick smashes will appreciate the versatility on offer.
Strengths, weaknesses, and value for money
The reviewer is candid about the racket’s strengths and limitations. The Metalbone HRD+ 3.4 2025 is praised for its power, solidity, and connection to the ball, as well as its striking design. The adjustable weight system allows some customization, but the racket remains fundamentally head-heavy and substantial, which may not suit every player.
On the downside, the high retail price is a significant consideration. While the performance justifies the cost for dedicated players or fans of the Ale Galán signature line, the reviewer notes that the price is steep compared to other options on the market. Minor quality concerns, such as the durability of the plastic weight covers and the standard wrist strap, are also mentioned.
Despite these drawbacks, the reviewer considers the HRD+ 3.4 2025 a standout in the current padel racket landscape, especially for those seeking a powerful, aggressive, and visually appealing racket.
Reviewer’s ratings for the Adidas Metalbone HRD+ 3.4 2025
- Ball output: 8+ (full and powerful, not the easiest but very rewarding)
- Sweet spot: 6.5–7 (medium-small, surprisingly forgiving for the face size)
- Control: 7.5 (good, but requires attention due to energetic response)
- Power: 8.5 (undeniably powerful)
- Maneuverability: 6 (sufficient, but demanding with all weights installed)
- Comfort: 7 (improved over previous Metalbone models, less vibration)
- Feel: 8.5 (excellent connection and feedback)
- Spin: 8.5 (very effective, especially with Spin Blade)
- Stability: 8 (very stable on impact)
- Play from the back: 7.5 (requires good timing, but not difficult)
- Wall output: 9 (exceptional, with full ball release and spin)
- Volleys: 8.5 (substantial, easy to drive the ball)
- Flat smash: 8 (solid, though less rigid than older HRD models)
- Kick smash: 9 (outstanding, with excellent spin and energy)
Final impressions: who should consider the Metalbone HRD+ 3.4 2025
The reviewer concludes that the Adidas Metalbone HRD+ 3.4 2025 is a top-tier racket for players who prioritize power, substance, and a premium aesthetic. It is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who can handle a head-heavy, substantial racket and are willing to invest in a high-end product. The adjustable weight system offers some flexibility, but the core characteristics remain focused on aggressive, attacking play. For those seeking a lighter, more maneuverable option, or a racket with a larger sweet spot, the 3.4 Soft or other models may be preferable. However, for players who value performance, feel, and style, the HRD+ 3.4 2025 stands out as one of the best rackets tested this year.
