Key design changes from control star to velocity star 2025
The reviewer highlights that the Pallap Velocity Star 2025 is a significant evolution from last year’s Control Star model. The most notable changes include a shift in balance and a rebranding that clarifies the lineup: “Velocity” now refers to the teardrop-shaped models, while “Power” designates the diamond-shaped rackets. The new Velocity Star features a higher balance point and increased weight, making it a more powerful and stable option compared to its predecessor. The reviewer notes that the finish is now a true sandpaper texture, identical to the Power Star, which enhances grip and spin generation.
Visually, the racket stands out with a vibrant cyan color, which the reviewer points out is the official brand shade, and subtle changes in the finish that make it more appealing. The overall design, including the extended heart and the two distinctive wings, aims to increase rigidity and stability in the core, resulting in improved power and control.
Technical specifications and construction details
The Velocity Star 2025 is built with high-quality materials, offering features that are rare at its price point. The reviewer provides a detailed breakdown of the specs:
- Weight: 360–365g (including an 8g wrist strap; actual racket weight without strap is around 352g)
- Balance: 26 cm (without strap)
- Shape: Teardrop (“goccia”) with a slightly rounded appearance due to the wings
- Face material: 15K aluminized carbon fiber (upgrade from last year’s 12K)
- Frame: Double 3K braided carbon tubular
- Core: EVA30, a firmer foam than the Power Star
- Grip length: 12.5 cm (shorter than the Power Star’s 13.5 cm)
- Surface finish: Aggressive sandpaper texture for enhanced spin
The reviewer emphasizes the Italian origin of the carbon fiber and the UK-sourced EVA, although the final assembly is done in Asia for cost efficiency. The inclusion of the actual weight and balance on the handle before the strap is attached is a new and welcome feature for transparency.
Performance on court: control, power, and spin
On the court, the Velocity Star 2025 delivers a more technical and substantial playing experience compared to its predecessor. The reviewer notes that the racket is still maneuverable but now offers a firmer, more present feel in the hand. The increased weight and higher balance provide more power, especially on volleys and smashes, while the firmer EVA30 core ensures a crisp, direct response on impact.
Control remains a strong point, with the Velocity Star offering a more progressive activation than the Power Star. The reviewer explains that this allows for more precise ball management, particularly on fast exchanges. The sandpaper finish significantly boosts spin potential, making it easy to generate heavy backspin and topspin with minimal effort. The reviewer warns not to overdo it, as the surface grips the ball exceptionally well.
Compared to the Power Star, the Velocity Star offers:
- More control and a firmer feel on impact
- Less effortless ball exit (the Power Star is more “springy” and forgiving)
- Superior spin generation due to the sandpaper finish
- A slightly larger and lower sweet spot, making it more versatile for both right and left-side players
The reviewer appreciates the racket’s “tennis-like” feel, especially when executing slices and kick-smashes. The new drilling pattern has expanded the sweet spot upwards, accommodating players who strike higher on the face while maintaining forgiveness in the center.
Comparisons with power star and previous models
The Velocity Star 2025 is positioned as a direct competitor to the Power Star within Pallap’s lineup. While both rackets now share similar balance and finish, their on-court personalities differ. The Power Star is described as more elastic and easier to activate, making it suitable for players seeking effortless power and a longer grip. The Velocity Star, on the other hand, is slightly more technical, demanding more from the player but rewarding with greater control and a more solid, responsive impact.
Compared to last year’s Control Star, the Velocity Star 2025 is a clear upgrade in every aspect: stiffer faces, higher balance, more mass in the head, and a much more aggressive surface. The reviewer notes that the previous model was too light and required constant effort, while the new version feels more substantial and satisfying, especially for players who like to “feel” the racket during play.
Strengths and weaknesses: who should choose the velocity star 2025?
The reviewer summarizes the main reasons to consider the Velocity Star 2025:
- Excellent value: Full carbon construction and advanced features at €160 (discounted)
- Significant power upgrade compared to last year’s model
- Outstanding spin potential thanks to the sandpaper finish
- Polivalent character: Suitable for both right and left-side players who want a balance of control and power
- Improved sweet spot and more technical feel, appealing to intermediate and advanced players
However, the reviewer also points out situations where the Velocity Star may not be ideal:
- Players seeking a very soft, forgiving racket (the Velocity Team is recommended instead)
- Those who prefer a long handle for two-handed shots (the Power Star offers a longer grip)
- Anyone looking for a “planted” or heavy racket feel (the Velocity Star remains maneuverable and not overly massive)
- Players who want maximum ease of ball exit with minimal effort (the Power Star is more suited for this)
The reviewer concludes that the Velocity Star 2025 is a major step forward, offering a more technical, powerful, and satisfying experience while maintaining the accessibility and versatility that made the previous model popular. For players seeking a high-performance, full carbon padel racket at a competitive price, it stands out as one of the smartest choices in the current market.
Summary of key qualitative evaluations from the review
- Power: Noticeably improved, especially on volleys and smashes
- Control: Superior to the Power Star, with a firmer, more precise response
- Spin: Exceptional, among the best the reviewer has tested
- Sweet spot: Larger and more forgiving than before, especially for central and slightly higher impacts
- Comfort: Still maneuverable, but more substantial and technical than last year’s model
- Value: Outstanding at the discounted price, with features rarely found in this range
