Technical specifications and design features of the Head Radical Pro 2024
The reviewer from Probando Palas introduces the Head Radical Pro 2024 as a significant evolution in the brand’s control-oriented padel rackets. This model stands out with its teardrop shape and a distinctive hole pattern featuring a smaller diameter than most Head rackets, enhancing the sweet spot and providing a unique feel on court. The face is constructed from 3K carbon fiber—a visible, non-rough surface that balances durability with a crisp response. Inside, the new Control Foam core debuts for 2024, offering a softer, less reactive feel compared to the Power Foam used in Head’s Extreme line.
- Weight: 370g (tested unit: 368g with overgrip, no protector)
- Balance: 261 mm
- Face material: 3K carbon fiber (smooth, not rough)
- Core: Control Foam (softer than Power Foam)
- Grip length: 13 cm (average)
- Technologies: Auxetic expansion, soft cap, horizontal heart reinforcement
The handle incorporates Head’s 2024 soft cap for improved comfort, and the heart of the racket features a new horizontal reinforcement, increasing rigidity and stability. The overall design is a departure from previous Head models, aiming to deliver a comfortable, controlled playing experience.
Comfort and handling at the back of the court
On-court, the reviewer highlights the Radical Pro 2024’s exceptional comfort and maneuverability, especially from the baseline. The medium touch and balanced weight distribution make it easy to handle, even during long rallies. The expanded sweet spot—thanks to the smaller hole diameter—means off-center hits are more forgiving, and players are less likely to mishit. The reviewer notes that the racket is “difficult to hit outside the sweet spot,” which is a significant advantage for players seeking consistency and control.
The combination of the 3K carbon face and Control Foam core results in a comfortable, slightly muted response, particularly noticeable in colder conditions, where the touch feels even softer. This setup allows for excellent control at both low and high speeds, with the racket maintaining stability and precision even when the pace intensifies.
Performance in volleys and net play
Transitioning to the net, the Radical Pro 2024 continues to impress. The reviewer finds the racket highly maneuverable during lateral movements and quick exchanges, especially when the ball isn’t coming in excessively high. The rigid frame—aided by the new heart reinforcement—provides a solid platform for volleys, allowing for firm, controlled responses without excessive vibration.
While the smooth face means spin potential is slightly reduced compared to rougher models, the reviewer notes that the unique hole pattern still helps generate some spin. The ball carries sufficient weight on volleys, and although the core is not highly reactive, it offers enough feedback for precise placement. At higher speeds, the racket retains its control-oriented character, requiring the player to generate their own power but rewarding them with accuracy and stability.
Overheads, smashes, and offensive play
In overhead situations and when hitting smashes, the Radical Pro 2024’s control DNA remains evident. The reviewer observes that while the racket does not deliver the explosive power of models with harder, more reactive cores (like those with Power Foam), it still performs admirably for a control racket. Players must engage their wrist and technique to maximize power and spin, but the racket’s medium balance and stable frame make it possible to accelerate through the ball when needed.
For aggressive shots such as viboras and topspin smashes, the Radical Pro 2024 may lack the outright punch of Head’s Extreme Pro or similar power-focused rackets. However, it compensates with a high degree of predictability and a progressive response, making it ideal for players who prioritize placement and consistency over raw power.
Comparisons with Head’s Extreme line and other control rackets
The reviewer draws several comparisons between the Radical Pro 2024 and Head’s Extreme line. Notably, the Radical Pro features a lower balance and a significantly wider sweet spot, making it more forgiving and easier to handle, especially from the back of the court. The Control Foam core is softer and less reactive than the Power Foam found in the Extreme series, resulting in greater control but less automatic power on offensive shots.
In summary, the Radical Pro 2024 stands out as a control-oriented alternative within the Head lineup, offering a unique feel and playability that sets it apart from both the Extreme line and other control rackets on the market.
Key qualitative evaluations from the reviewer
- Sweet spot: Exceptionally wide and forgiving, thanks to the smaller hole diameter
- Comfort: Among the most comfortable rackets tested, with a medium-soft touch
- Control: Outstanding, especially at the back of the court and in fast-paced rallies
- Power: Adequate for a control racket, but less than power-focused models
- Spin: Decent for a smooth-faced racket, aided by the hole pattern, but not as high as rough-surfaced models
- Maneuverability: Excellent at the net and during quick exchanges
- Progressivity: Smooth, with a predictable response on both defensive and offensive shots
Final impressions on the Head Radical Pro 2024 for control-focused players
The Probando Palas channel concludes that the Head Radical Pro 2024 is a standout option for players seeking a comfortable, highly controllable padel racket that does not sacrifice performance at higher speeds or in net play. Its innovative design, soft-yet-responsive core, and expanded sweet spot make it especially suitable for those who value precision and consistency. While it may not be the top choice for players who rely on maximum power or spin, it offers a compelling blend of comfort, stability, and control that will appeal to a wide range of intermediate to advanced padel enthusiasts.
