Background and introduction to Balling’s 2024 padel racket lineup
The channel introduces Balling, an Argentine brand with over 20 years of experience, primarily known for its presence in field hockey. In 2024, Balling launches its first padel racket collection, aiming to make a mark in the competitive padel market. The reviewer highlights that Balling’s production is international, with operations in Argentina, Japan, Europe, and the United States.
The new Balling padel range consists of four models, split evenly between fiberglass and carbon fiber constructions. Each racket features a dual-density multieva core and a distinctive sandpaper-like 3D rough finish, which the reviewer notes as one of the best he has tested for generating spin and control.
Detailed specifications for each Balling padel racket model
- Reality Round
- Face material: Fiberglass
- Shape: Round
- Weight: 350g (range: 345–360g)
- Balance: 260mm
- Core: Dual-density multieva
- Surface: Sandpaper-like 3D roughness
- Aerial
- Face material: Fiberglass
- Shape: Teardrop
- Weight: 356g (range: 360–375g)
- Balance: 267mm
- Core: Dual-density multieva
- Surface: Sandpaper-like 3D roughness
- Mirage 3K
- Face material: 3K carbon fiber
- Shape: Hybrid (between round and teardrop)
- Weight: 346g
- Balance: 264mm
- Core: Dual-density multieva
- Surface: Sandpaper-like 3D roughness
- Mosaic 18K
- Face material: 18K carbon fiber
- Shape: Diamond
- Weight: 357g
- Balance: 261mm
- Core: Dual-density multieva
- Surface: Sandpaper-like 3D roughness
On-court impressions: performance from the baseline
The reviewer starts by testing the fiberglass models. The Reality Round stands out for its medium-soft feel and exceptional maneuverability. Its large sweet spot and easy ball release make it ideal for beginners or those perfecting their technique. However, at higher speeds or when volleying aggressively, some control may be lost, a typical trait for softer fiberglass rackets.
Moving to the Aerial, the channel notes a slightly higher balance and a firmer feel compared to the Reality. The sweet spot is less generous but still comfortable, and the racket offers more control at higher intensities. This model is recommended for intermediate players seeking a blend of comfort and precision without sacrificing too much maneuverability.
Switching to carbon fiber, the Mirage 3K immediately feels stiffer and more responsive. The reviewer describes its touch as “medium-hard, almost hard,” with a standard-sized sweet spot. The 3K carbon provides a more linear response, less ball output at low speeds, but much greater control and stability during fast rallies or aggressive shots.
The Mosaic 18K offers a unique experience. Despite its diamond shape, the balance remains moderate, resulting in a racket that feels both powerful and well-balanced. The 18K carbon is slightly more flexible than 3K, delivering a medium feel with good ball release and excellent control at higher speeds. The reviewer considers it the most balanced of the four, especially for players who want both power and control from the back of the court.
Net play, volleys, and aerial game with Balling rackets
At the net, the Reality Round impresses with its maneuverability and the effectiveness of its 3D rough surface for generating spin. The reviewer highlights how the sandpaper finish enhances slice and drop shots, even with a softer touch. While it’s not the most powerful for volleys, it remains consistent and easy to handle.
The Aerial shows its strengths in offensive volleys and net play, thanks to its higher balance and firmer feel. The reviewer finds it more progressive and controlled than the Reality, making it suitable for intermediate players who like to accelerate play at the net.
With the Mirage 3K, the stiffer carbon construction delivers a more direct and controlled response, especially when blocking or accelerating volleys. The rough surface continues to provide excellent spin, and the reviewer notes improved control during fast exchanges. However, the racket requires a firmer hand and is less forgiving on off-center hits.
The Mosaic 18K stands out for its combination of comfort and reactivity. Volleys come off the racket quickly, and the rough finish enhances spin on aggressive shots. The reviewer finds it particularly effective for both medium-paced and fast volleys, with good control even when accelerating. In aerial play, such as smashes and bandejas, the Mosaic 18K and Aerial are highlighted as the reviewer’s favorites for their balance of power and control.
Comparative evaluations and reviewer preferences
Summing up the playtest, the channel singles out the Aerial (fiberglass, teardrop shape) and Mosaic 18K (carbon, diamond shape) as the two standout rackets in the Balling lineup. The Aerial is favored among the fiberglass models for its versatility and slightly firmer feel, while the Mosaic 18K is praised for its overall balance and performance in both baseline and net situations.
Another tester, Ángel, expresses a personal preference for the Mirage 3K, citing its stiffer feel and rounded shape as ideal for his style of play. This highlights the diversity within the Balling range, catering to different player profiles and preferences.
- Reality Round: Best for beginners, large sweet spot, very maneuverable
- Aerial: Ideal for intermediates, more control, higher balance, versatile
- Mirage 3K: Stiff, direct, suited for advanced players who like hard rackets
- Mosaic 18K: Most balanced, good for power and control, comfortable at all speeds
Final thoughts on Balling’s 2024 padel racket collection
The reviewer concludes that Balling’s debut padel range offers a strong mix of comfort, control, and spin potential. The standout feature across all models is the high-quality 3D rough surface, which significantly enhances spin and touch. With options for both beginners and advanced players, Balling’s 2024 rackets are positioned as a compelling choice for those seeking new alternatives in the padel market. The channel’s hands-on impressions suggest that both the Aerial and Mosaic 18K are particularly worth considering for players looking to upgrade their gear this season.
