Key technical specifications and adjustability of the Adidas Metalbone CTRL 3.3
The reviewer begins by detailing the technical features of the Adidas Metalbone CTRL 3.3, focusing on its construction and unique adjustability. The racket is equipped with a conventional wrist cord and a grip that is slightly shorter than standard, measuring approximately 11 cm. This shorter grip, paired with a black octagonal cap, houses the Adidas soft performance EVA rubber in the core, contributing to the racket’s medium hardness.
- Weight (without screws): 345–360g
- Weight (with screws): up to 372g
- Balance (with screws): 25.7 cm
- Balance (without screws): 26.1 cm
- Core: Soft performance EVA
- Face material: Aluminized carbon (TU1)
- Surface: 3D roughness, extending to the edge
One of the standout features is the Weight & Balance System, which uses a set of removable screws—silver screws at 2.5g each and red screws at 1g each—allowing players to adjust the total weight by up to 12g and fine-tune the balance. The reviewer notes that playing without the screws makes the racket feel more agile and manageable, while leaving only the silver screws at the top maintains a comfortable balance without interfering with grip.
Performance and sensations in defensive play
In the defensive zone, the reviewer describes the Metalbone CTRL 3.3 as a racket that offers standard handling, with improved agility when the screws are removed. The sweet spot is described as medium-sized and centered, but not as generous as some other control rackets. This means players need to strike the ball cleanly in the sweet spot to achieve optimal sensations; off-center hits can result in noticeable vibrations and diminished performance.
At low to medium speeds, the racket provides good ball output with minimal effort, making it accessible for players who prefer not to exert too much force from the back of the court. However, at higher speeds, the reviewer observes that the racket absorbs more impact compared to the standard Metalbone 3.3, resulting in less ball speed but improved control. This trade-off favors players seeking precision over raw power in defensive scenarios.
Vibora and tray shots: manageability and grip feedback
When executing vibora and tray shots, the reviewer highlights the racket’s ability to accelerate well from above, especially when the screws are removed. The increased manageability and slightly higher balance in this configuration allow for faster gestures and more dynamic play. However, the shorter grip is noted as a drawback, offering less leverage and occasionally causing discomfort, particularly when gripping the racket low.
The sweet spot remains crucial; hitting outside this area leads to less satisfying sensations and reduced ball output. At moderate speeds, the racket delivers fast, deep shots with minimal effort, and its dry touch enhances directional control. At higher speeds, the ball runs well when struck cleanly, but the reviewer notes that the racket absorbs more impact than the standard Metalbone, especially when the screws are installed, making it feel heavier and less responsive for quick acceleration.
Volleying and net play: control and response
At the net, the Metalbone CTRL 3.3 is described as well-balanced and easy to maneuver, both with and without the screws. The reviewer finds it effective for quick volleys and directional changes, rarely lagging behind during fast exchanges. The racket’s control is praised, especially when striking within the sweet spot, where it delivers deep, accurate volleys with little effort.
However, when blocking or reacting to fast balls outside the sweet spot, the reviewer experiences increased vibration and a noticeable drop in ball output, sometimes resulting in shorter returns than intended. Despite this, the overall performance in the volley area is considered one of the racket’s strengths, with minimal difference felt between different screw configurations.
Power and demands in smash and finishing shots
In finishing situations, the reviewer characterizes the Metalbone CTRL 3.3 as having standard power for both flat and three-wall smashes. The medium hardness and balance provide a solid base, but the racket is described as more demanding than expected. Achieving maximum power and satisfying sensations requires precise contact with the sweet spot; off-center hits result in significantly reduced power and feedback.
Compared to the standard Metalbone 3.3, the CTRL version is slightly less powerful, particularly in flat smashes. The reviewer suggests that players seeking similar power with less technical demand might prefer alternatives like the Babolat Counter Veron, which offers easier access to power across a broader range of contact points.
Comparisons with other rackets and ideal player profile
The reviewer positions the Metalbone CTRL 3.3 as a versatile option suitable for both forehand and backhand players who prioritize control over explosive power. It is recommended for those who appreciate the Metalbone series but want less bounce and more control at high speeds. The feel of the racket is described as midway between the Bullpadel Vertex Hybrid (drier, requiring more effort for ball output) and the Nox ML10 Bahia (livelier, providing more assistance in play).
The adjustability of the screws is appreciated for fine-tuning weight and balance, but the reviewer finds the racket most comfortable either without screws or with only the top screws installed. This avoids interference with the grip and maintains a manageable balance.
Summary of key qualitative evaluations by court area
- Volley area: Excellent manageability and control, both with and without screws; best overall sensations here.
- Defensive zone: Good ball output at low pace, strong control at higher speeds; absorbs more impact than the standard Metalbone.
- Vibora/tray area: More manageable and dynamic without screws; short grip can be a drawback for leverage.
- Finishing/smash area: Decent power when struck cleanly, but more technically demanding than expected; less powerful than the standard Metalbone 3.3.
Overall, the Adidas Metalbone CTRL 3.3 is presented as a control-oriented, versatile padel racket that rewards precise technique and offers customizable balance and weight. Its best attributes are found in net play and controlled, defensive scenarios, making it a solid choice for players who value manageability and precision over raw power.
