Key design features and technical specifications of the Oxdog Ultimate Pro Smash
The Oxdog Ultimate Pro Smash stands out for its unique construction and thoughtful design details. The reviewer highlights several features that set this padel racket apart from others in the Oxdog lineup. Most notably, the racket features a 30 mm profile, which is thinner than the standard 38 mm found on most padel rackets. This slimmer profile aims to improve maneuverability and handling, especially in fast-paced or challenging situations.
- Weight: 365g average (tested unit: 375g with plate, 367g without)
- Balance: 26.1 cm (with plate), 26.5–26.6 cm (without plate)
- Profile: 30 mm
- Face material: Sandy-type roughness for enhanced spin
- Core: Medium-hard, slightly harder than the Oxdog Ultimate Pro and Hyper Pro
- Reinforcements: Power Ribs in three areas of the frame to reduce vibrations
- Grip: Slightly longer than standard, with a removable 8g plate
Additional design elements include an inverted Y-shaped reinforcement in the heart of the racket and air channels along the sides, both intended to further enhance stability and maneuverability. The sandy roughness on the faces provides extra grip for spin shots, while the Power Ribs technology effectively minimizes unwanted vibrations, despite the thinner profile.
Handling and defensive play with the Ultimate Pro Smash
On the court, the reviewer notes that the Oxdog Ultimate Pro Smash delivers improved handling, especially in defensive situations. The thinner profile and balanced weight distribution allow for quicker reactions and easier racket movement when under pressure. In standard forehand and backhand exchanges, the difference in maneuverability compared to other Oxdog models is subtle, but it becomes more noticeable during fast, forced defensive plays.
The sweet spot is described as standard in size but positioned slightly lower on the face compared to other Oxdog Ultimate models. This means players will experience better ball output and comfort when striking with the central or lower part of the racket face, rather than the upper area. The reviewer emphasizes that, despite the medium-hard feel, the racket offers a surprisingly good ball exit at medium and even lower paces, making it forgiving in defense for a racket of this hardness.
Performance in mid-court: viper and tray shots
Transitioning to the mid-court, particularly for viper and tray shots, the creator finds the Ultimate Pro Smash to be faster and more agile than other Oxdog rackets of similar hardness. The improved handling is especially evident when accelerating the racket for aerial shots. However, the lower sweet spot requires some adaptation; players must focus on hitting with the central area to maximize rebound and power. Striking higher on the face results in a noticeably drier, less powerful response.
Once accustomed to the racket’s characteristics, the reviewer considers it one of the most offensive options in the Oxdog range. The ball speed is impressive, and the rebound effect allows for aggressive play without sacrificing the dry, controlled feel that many advanced players prefer. The reviewer does note that the racket is slightly more technical, demanding precise contact in the optimal zone for best results.
Volleying and net play: control and reactivity
At the net, the Oxdog Ultimate Pro Smash continues to impress with its quick handling and responsive feel. Despite the tested unit’s relatively high weight (375g), the racket does not feel cumbersome. The narrow profile aids in rapid direction changes and quick reactions during volleys.
The reviewer highlights that the central sweet spot is beneficial for block volleys and defensive touches, as the racket provides extra rebound even with minimal effort. Control remains strong at medium and lower paces, with the ball coming off the face quickly and predictably. However, when seeking more offensive volleys or hitting with the upper part of the racket, players may need to apply more force, as the rebound is less pronounced in that area. The reviewer advises players to adjust their technique slightly, ensuring contact is made with the central zone to avoid sending balls long due to the racket’s reactivity.
Finishing and power: adapting to the sweet spot
In finishing situations, such as smashes and flat shots, the Ultimate Pro Smash allows for rapid acceleration and natural follow-through, particularly in the “for three” shot. The reviewer reports feeling comfortable generating power when striking with the central area of the face, thanks to the racket’s rebound effect. However, hitting with the upper area yields less assistance, making it harder to achieve maximum power or bring the ball back to the player’s side.
The consensus from other players who tested the racket is similar: when contact is made in the sweet spot, the racket feels reactive and powerful, but off-center hits, especially higher on the face, result in diminished performance. This characteristic requires players to adjust their habits, aiming for a slightly lower strike point than with other diamond-shaped rackets.
Feedback from other players and comparative impressions
During a club testing session, players with experience using the Oxdog Ultimate Pro Plus and other hard rackets like the Babolat Viper and Black Crown Piton provided their first impressions. They described the Ultimate Pro Smash as “very reactive,” particularly in defensive play, and praised its maneuverability and control at the net. The consensus was that the sweet spot is indeed lower and more centralized than on typical diamond-shaped rackets, which usually have a higher balance and sweet spot.
Players accustomed to rounder rackets were pleasantly surprised by the ball output and control, even with minimal effort. In attack, they found the racket capable of delivering good power and spin, especially on viper and tray shots. The adjustment period for the sweet spot location was noted, but overall, testers were satisfied with the blend of control, power, and handling.
- Hardness rating (by testers): Comparable to Oxdog Ultimate Pro Plus, Babolat Viper, and Black Crown Piton
- Sweet spot: Lower and more centralized than most diamond rackets
- Best suited for: Players seeking medium-hard feel, dry contact, and improved handling
Final verdict: strengths, weaknesses, and ideal player profile
The reviewer concludes that the Oxdog Ultimate Pro Smash, with a retail price around €319, is a compelling choice for players who value a medium-hard, dry-feeling racket with enhanced maneuverability. Its thinner profile and innovative Power Ribs technology deliver a unique blend of control and offensive potential, especially for those willing to adapt to the lower sweet spot.
Key strengths include:
- Excellent handling and maneuverability, especially in defense and at the net
- Strong ball output and rebound effect when striking in the central area
- Dry, controlled feel with the ability to generate power without excessive effort
- Reduced vibrations despite the thinner profile
Potential drawbacks are mainly related to the adaptation required for the sweet spot location. Players used to higher sweet spots may need time to adjust their technique, particularly in finishing and aggressive net play. The racket is also more technical, rewarding precise contact but less forgiving on off-center hits.
Overall, the Oxdog Ultimate Pro Smash is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who appreciate a responsive, offensive racket that does not compromise on control. Its innovative design and playability make it a standout option within the Oxdog range for those seeking a modern, high-performance padel racket.
