Ranking the most expensive padel rackets of 2024: a detailed look
The4Set channel dives into the world of high-end padel rackets, revealing which models top the price charts in 2024 and whether their features justify the investment. The review highlights seven standout rackets from leading brands, each with unique technologies, materials, and design philosophies. Here’s an in-depth breakdown of what sets these premium rackets apart.
StarVie Kenta: three versions and advanced vibration reduction
StarVie’s flagship for 2024, the Kenta, comes in three distinct versions, each tailored to a different playing style:
- Pro: Features the EVA 50 core, one of the hardest rubbers available, favored by StarVie’s professional athletes.
- Normal: Uses EVA 30, offering a more balanced feel.
- Speed: Incorporates StarVie’s softest rubber for maximum comfort.
All Kenta models share a dual layer of 3K carbon, resulting in a firmer touch compared to most rackets. The standout innovation is the Noene grip, which significantly reduces vibrations—a benefit confirmed by the channel’s vibration tests. Additionally, the Kenta’s rough surface is molded directly into the frame, ensuring lasting texture and consistent spin potential. The price for any Kenta version is €275.
Head Radical Pro: control-focused design with a hefty build
Head’s most expensive offering, the Radical Pro, introduces a brand-new mold for 2024. Despite its name, the Radical line prioritizes control over raw power. The racket features a 3K carbon construction and is notably heavy, with most units weighing around 370–375g. The reviewer notes this weight suits players who prefer a solid, stable feel, but may be excessive for those seeking maneuverability. For lighter alternatives, Head’s Motion models are recommended, as they offer similar specs in a more manageable weight range.
One criticism is the lack of surface roughness, which limits spin generation compared to Head’s Extreme series. The Radical Pro retails for €280.
Siux Electra ST3 Pro: a harder, more aggressive update for Stupaczuk
In fifth place is the Siux Electra ST3 Pro, the signature racket of Franco Stupaczuk. The 2024 version introduces several changes:
- Core: Switches from soft to hard rubber for a firmer response.
- Face material: Upgraded to 15K carbon.
- Surface: Combines gloss and sand textures for enhanced grip on the ball.
This combination results in a racket with a very hard touch, especially if the included ShockOut dampeners are left in place. The reviewer points out that the original grip is too thick and angular, making quick grip changes challenging—a modification even Stupaczuk himself makes by removing it. The price for the Electra ST3 Pro is €300.
Bullpadel Hack 03 MF Edition: Paquito Navarro’s limited edition and price drop
The Bullpadel Hack 03 MF Edition is the special racket used by Paquito Navarro to win the last WPT Master Final. The most notable updates are in its design and the unique rough finish, which mimics the MF logo. While the 2023 edition was priced at a staggering €480, the 2024 special version is now available for €350—a significant reduction with no major technological changes. This sharp price drop raises questions about future pricing trends for limited edition rackets.
Babolat Technical Viper 2024: Juan Lebron’s unchanged but demanding weapon
Taking third place is the Babolat Technical Viper 2024, associated with Juan Lebron. The channel notes that the only update from the previous year is a slight design tweak; the technical specs remain unchanged:
- Core: Hard rubber
- Face material: 12K carbon
- Finish: Glossy and sandy for maximum spin and a hard feel
This combination makes the racket one of the hardest on the market, which may have contributed to Lebron’s elbow issues in 2023. Interestingly, Lebron switched to a different mold upon returning to competition, raising speculation about future Babolat releases. The Technical Viper 2024 is priced at €380.
Nox AT Genius Limited Edition: premium materials and unique features
In second place, the Nox AT Genius Limited Edition was intended for Agustín Tapia but ultimately wasn’t used in competition. This model stands out for its advanced construction:
- Face material: 18K carbon
- Core: New Black EVA from Nox
- Grip: Extended by 1 cm and includes Custom Grip for vibration reduction
- Surface: Dual roughness—sandy and relief—for superior spin
- Air channel: Improves agility
These features combine to deliver a unique playing experience, blending power, control, and comfort. The price for this limited edition is €399.
Adidas Multiweight CTRL by Alex Ruiz: the most expensive padel racket of 2024
At the top of the ranking is the Adidas Multiweight CTRL by Alex Ruiz, retailing for €400. This model is €10 more expensive than the Hard version of Ale Galán’s racket. The only update from the previous year is a new design, with no significant changes to its core technologies or materials. The channel highlights that Alex Ruiz himself provided insights into the racket’s setup before its final price was revealed.
Summary of 2024’s most expensive padel rackets and their prices
- Adidas Multiweight CTRL by Alex Ruiz: €400
- Nox AT Genius Limited Edition: €399
- Babolat Technical Viper 2024: €380
- Bullpadel Hack 03 MF Edition: €350
- Siux Electra ST3 Pro: €300
- Head Radical Pro: €280
- StarVie Kenta (all versions): €275
The4Set’s review makes it clear that while these rackets command premium prices, the differences often come down to materials, feel, and subtle design tweaks rather than revolutionary technologies. For players considering a high-end purchase, understanding these distinctions is crucial to making an informed choice.
