The reviewer’s criteria for the 2024 padel racket top 10
The channel’s annual top 10 padel rackets list is built on a mix of personal preference, technical performance, and value for money. The reviewer tested over 60 rackets during the year, considering not only playability but also ethical choices and pricing. Some models released late in the year or just after the cut-off date are noted as strong contenders for future rankings. The list aims to balance standout sensations on court with practical aspects like durability and accessibility.
Rackets just outside the top 10: notable mentions
Before diving into the main list, the reviewer highlights the StarVie Drax Pro Touch as a racket that narrowly missed inclusion. Although its review was published just after the cut-off, it’s recommended as a model to watch for next year’s ranking. The reviewer suggests it would have easily made the top 10 based on its performance and feel.
Positions 10 to 8: trusted classics and new discoveries
At tenth place is the Axion Attack, praised for its immediate confidence and medium-hard feel. The reviewer notes its transformation from a striking yellow to a new blue colorway for 2024, but emphasizes that the previous version remains a top choice for those seeking a powerful, reliable racket. It’s especially recommended for players who miss the feel of the Nox Nerbo, offering strong performance at a competitive price point (often €170–180 before signature editions).
Ninth place is shared by two models: the Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025 (endorsed by Agustín Tapia) and the Quad Linkx. Both rackets offer a rounded shape and a balanced, aggressive play style. The Quad Linkx stands out for its handmade Portuguese construction and slightly more elastic, grippy surface, while the Nox AT10 has improved significantly over previous years, though it comes with a higher price tag. The reviewer points out that both rackets deliver a solid blend of power, spin, and maneuverability, with the Quad Linkx offering a better price-to-performance ratio.
In eighth place is a new entry from a previously untested brand for the reviewer: the Orven Vulcano V3. This racket, part of Orven’s premium handmade Spanish range, is commended for its power, ball output, and overall completeness. The Vulcano V3 features two carbon layers, sitting between the single-layer Kerala and the more aggressive Sentinel (with double 3K carbon and a harder core). While the price is high (around €380), the reviewer justifies it with Orven’s reputation for durability and niche appeal.
Positions 7 to 5: maneuverability, power, and customization
Seventh place goes to the Wilson Blade Pro V3. The reviewer prefers this model over the heavier Bela Pro, citing its superior maneuverability and slightly more forgiving teardrop shape. The Blade Pro V3 is described as easier to handle, with a shorter handle and a mass distribution that suits players who dislike heavy rackets.
At sixth is the Siux Fenix Pro 4, a racket that impresses with its effortless power and high spin potential. The reviewer’s test model had a 28 cm balance point, yet it never felt unwieldy. Siux’s ability to combine high balance with manageable weight is highlighted, and the Fenix Pro 4 is singled out for its punch, ball output, and spin. The reviewer even notes that the sweet spot may have been underrated in the original review, suggesting it deserves a higher score.
Fifth place is awarded to the Oxdog Ultimate Pro Plus, though the reviewer also recommends the Ultimate Pro and Ultimate Pro Lite as strong alternatives. The Pro Plus stands out for its 370g weight and 26 cm balance, with Oxdog’s customizable weight system allowing for real on-court adjustments. In the reviewer’s preferred configuration (370g plus 8g in the handle), the racket delivers solidity and responsiveness without feeling head-heavy. The advice here is to focus less on static weight and more on dynamic feel and customization potential.
- Weight: 370g (plus 8g handle customization)
- Balance: 26 cm
- Customization: Oxdog weight system
Positions 4 to 2: refreshed classics and value surprises
Fourth place is claimed by the Adidas Metalbone HRD Plus. The reviewer welcomes the long-awaited refresh of the Metalbone line, noting improvements in handle design and overall playability. The HRD Plus is described as more energetic and solid than its soft-core counterpart, with a balance above 27 cm and a core that delivers both power and sensation. Despite a high price (around €390), the reviewer finds the HRD Plus offers better value and performance than the Metalbone 3.4, especially for players seeking a more assertive, lively racket.
In third place is the Babolat Viper Lebron 2.5. This model marks a return to the classic Viper Carbon shape, with a more playable core and a slightly larger sweet spot. The reviewer’s test unit weighed 365g with a 27.2 cm balance, making it surprisingly maneuverable for its category. The Viper Lebron 2.5 is recommended for intermediate to advanced players looking for power, feel, and a manageable head weight, though its price is in line with other top-tier rackets.
- Weight: 365g (test unit)
- Balance: 27.2 cm
- Core: Medium, more playable than previous years
Second place is a surprise: the Pallap Power Star 01. The reviewer highlights its versatility, lightweight feel, and outstanding value (retailing at just €140). The Power Star 01 is a diamond-shaped, full-carbon racket with a medium balance and rough surface, suitable for both right and left-side players. It’s praised for its ease of use in difficult matches and varying conditions, making it a reliable choice for players who value comfort and affordability.
First place: Starvie Triton Pro touch as the standout of 2024
The top spot in the reviewer’s 2024 ranking goes to the StarVie Triton Pro Touch. This model is celebrated for its combination of serious performance and newfound accessibility. The Pro Touch core makes the Triton easier to play than previous versions, offering help on off days without sacrificing the power and solidity the Triton line is known for. The reviewer emphasizes that this is now the Triton to buy, as it strikes the best balance between playability and performance, even outperforming the softer version. A recent price reduction further strengthens its appeal.
Reviewer’s ratings for the top 10 rackets of 2024
- 1st: StarVie Triton Pro Touch
- 2nd: Pallap Power Star 01
- 3rd: Babolat Viper Lebron 2.5
- 4th: Adidas Metalbone HRD Plus
- 5th: Oxdog Ultimate Pro Plus
- 6th: Siux Fenix Pro 4
- 7th: Wilson Blade Pro V3
- 8th: Orven Vulcano V3
- 9th: Nox AT10 Genius 18K 2025 / Quad Linkx
- 10th: Axion Attack
Key trends and takeaways from the 2024 padel racket ranking
The reviewer’s 2024 top 10 reveals several trends: the continued rise of niche and handmade brands, the importance of dynamic customization, and a market shift toward higher prices for premium models. Models with improved playability and balance—without excessive head weight—are favored, as are rackets that deliver both power and comfort. The list also highlights the value of emerging brands and the ongoing evolution of established lines, ensuring that players at every level can find a racket that matches their needs and budget.
