Quad Shark padel racket: a deep dive into materials and construction
The reviewer introduces the Quad Shark as the flagship model from Quad, a Portuguese brand known for its handmade rackets. What immediately sets the Shark apart is its use of four layers of 3K carbon fiber on the faces—a rare technical choice in the padel world, where most brands stick to two layers. This construction provides a solid, robust feel, but is paired with a soft EVA core, creating a unique blend of rigidity and elasticity.
Another standout feature is Quad’s proprietary anti-vibration rubber system. These rubbers can be repositioned or purchased aftermarket, allowing players to fine-tune the racket’s balance and vibration dampening. The Shark also boasts a teardrop shape with a noticeably elongated profile and a 13 cm handle—the longest in the Quad lineup—offering a more tennis-like grip and improved wrist maneuverability.
- Weight: 358–360g (reviewed model: 358g)
- Balance: 27–27.2 cm (head-heavy)
- Face material: Four layers of 3K carbon fiber
- Core: Soft EVA
- Shape: Teardrop, elongated
- Handle length: 13 cm
- Anti-vibration system: Proprietary, adjustable rubbers
Visually, the Shark stands out with geometric barrel designs and a subtle spin texture that mimics shark skin. The perforation pattern is also distinctive, featuring oval holes of varying sizes, reminiscent of some Varlion rackets but on a larger scale.
On-court performance: impact, ball release, and sweet spot
According to the channel, the Shark’s four-layer carbon construction gives it a distinctly firm and communicative impact. Despite the soft EVA core, the racket feels “medium plus” in hardness—harder than average, but not uncomfortably so. The reviewer notes that the ball release is not effortless at low speeds, but when activated with a medium to high swing pace, the Shark delivers impressive power and a lively response.
The sweet spot is described as medium-small, positioned slightly toward the upper part of the face. This rewards players who strike cleanly in the central or upper zones, but can be less forgiving for off-center hits, especially for less experienced players. The reviewer emphasizes that the Shark is best suited for advanced intermediates and expert players who can consistently find the sweet spot and appreciate a technical racket.
Despite its technical character, the Shark offers a satisfying blend of control and power. The reviewer highlights its ability to generate aggressive shots from the back of the court, provided the player has the technique to “activate” the racket. The sound on impact is described as “dry and educational,” giving immediate feedback on shot quality.
Spin, volleys, and handling in dynamic play
The Shark’s surface texture and perforation pattern contribute to a notably high spin potential. While the spin system isn’t deeply textured, the reviewer finds that the combination of carbon layering and hole design delivers excellent grip on the ball, especially for topspin and slice shots.
On volleys, the racket shines thanks to its head-heavy balance and responsive face. The reviewer notes that, although the Shark carries some mass in the head, it remains maneuverable and “polite” during quick exchanges. However, instinctive or technically imprecise shots can reveal the racket’s weight, occasionally causing the head to lag behind on very fast movements.
Overall, the handling is described as “very good,” with the caveat that players need to be attentive and technically sound to get the most out of the racket’s performance envelope.
Smash, kick, and wall play: where the Shark excels
In power shots, the Shark demonstrates a clear preference for kick smashes over flat smashes. The reviewer awards the racket high marks for its ability to generate spin and height on kick smashes, noting that the ball “climbs well” after the bounce with only a slightly more technical gesture than easier, less performance-oriented rackets.
For flat smashes, the Shark performs solidly—earning a rating of 8 out of 10—but the reviewer expected a bit more punch, especially compared to its sibling, the Rhino, which offers a bit more in this department. Wall play is another strong suit, with the racket delivering excellent ball exit and control when returning from the glass.
Ratings summary: how the Quad Shark scores in key areas
The reviewer provides a detailed set of ratings for the Quad Shark, giving readers a clear sense of its strengths and weaknesses:
- Ball release: 6.5/10 (requires activation, shines at medium-high pace)
- Sweet spot: 6.5/10 (medium-small, rewards precision)
- Control: 8/10 (good for a power-oriented racket)
- Power: 8.5/10 (especially strong at higher swing speeds)
- Handling: 7/10 (maneuverable, but head-heavy feel)
- Comfort: 7/10 (firm, direct, but excellent vibration dampening)
- Feeling: 8/10 (very communicative, clear feedback)
- Spin: 8.5/10 (excellent for topspin and kick)
- Stability: 8/10 (stable despite high balance and weight)
- Game from the back: 7.5/10 (technical, but rewarding)
- Wall exit: 8.5/10 (very effective)
- Volleys: 9/10 (outstanding at net)
- Flat smash: 8/10 (solid, but not a pure hammer)
- Kick smash: 9/10 (exceptional spin and acceleration)
These ratings reflect the Shark’s identity as a technical, performance-driven racket that rewards skilled play and offers a unique feel thanks to its four-layer carbon construction.
Final impressions: who should consider the Quad Shark?
The reviewer concludes that the Quad Shark is a standout option for advanced intermediates and expert players seeking a technical, head-heavy racket with a distinctive impact and high spin potential. Its unique construction and premium feel justify the €400 price tag for those who value craftsmanship and performance over mass-market appeal. While not recommended for beginners or those seeking maximum forgiveness, the Shark is positioned as a faithful companion for players who appreciate direct feedback, aggressive play, and a bold design.
With its arrival in the Italian market and growing visibility among professional players, the Quad Shark is set to attract attention from padel enthusiasts looking for something truly different in both feel and aesthetics.
