Key specifications and build quality of the Secco One Edition
The Secco One Edition is the debut padel racket from Secco, a new Spanish brand manufacturing its rackets in Madrid. The reviewer highlights the premium presentation: the racket arrives in a special box, accompanied by a protective cover, an informational dossier, and even a fragment of the carbon fiber used in its construction.
- Weight: Typically around 355g; the tested unit weighed 350g
- Balance: Medium-high, approximately 26.5 cm
- Face material: Double layer of 3K carbon fiber
- Core: Medium-density Black EVA rubber
- Grip length: 13 cm with a round cap
- Surface finish: Glossy with 3D point-pattern roughness
The design features a simple, U-shaped heart without central reinforcement, and an orange wrist cord branded with Secco’s name. The reviewer notes the racket’s low weight is well compensated by its balance, resulting in a manageable feel.
Defensive play: control, sweet spot, and handling
In the backcourt, the Secco One Edition delivers a blend of control and responsiveness. The reviewer describes the handling as standard—neither exceptionally agile nor cumbersome. The medium-high balance is occasionally noticeable, especially on difficult balls, but the low weight helps maintain maneuverability.
The sweet spot is slightly larger than average, providing a forgiving hitting area. However, the reviewer points out that shots struck outside this zone result in a noticeable drop in performance and feel, more so than with some other rackets. This means precise technique is rewarded, but mishits are more apparent.
At medium and low speeds, the racket offers excellent control and a “dry” contact sensation, which gives players confidence and security when defending. Ball output is sufficient, so players don’t need to exaggerate their swings to achieve depth. However, when the pace increases, the reviewer notes the rubber becomes more reactive, and the ball can shoot off the face unexpectedly, leading to occasional loss of control during fast exchanges.
Performance in viper and tray shots: acceleration and offensive potential
The Secco One Edition impresses in overhead shots such as the vibora and bandeja (tray). The 13 cm grip and 26.5 cm balance allow for quick acceleration above the shoulder, while the low weight ensures the racket doesn’t feel taxing over long matches. The sweet spot remains reliable in this area, with mishits being rare.
At low to medium pace, the racket provides good ball output without requiring excessive effort. The dry touch continues to deliver a sense of control, enabling precise placement. When increasing the intensity, the racket becomes more offensive, with the rubber’s bounce assisting in generating speed. However, the reviewer advises players to use a downward motion when hitting hard, as the ball can sometimes rebound higher than expected and risk going long. Once accustomed to this response, the racket allows for aggressive play with solid control.
Volleying: stability and shot variety at the net
During volleys, the reviewer again rates the handling as standard. Direction changes and quick reactions are manageable, though not exceptionally fast. The sweet spot is consistent, and off-center hits rarely result in significant loss of power or control.
At lower and medium speeds, the Secco One Edition offers excellent control and depth with minimal effort. The dry touch helps players feel connected to the ball, and the racket responds well to both block volleys and more aggressive, weighted shots. When playing flatter, high-speed volleys, the reviewer notes the racket absorbs some of the impact, reducing the power output compared to other medium-hard rackets. However, for sliced or weighted volleys, the racket performs admirably, providing security and confidence at the net.
Finishing and smashes: power limitations and three-meter shots
In the finishing zone, the racket’s low weight and balanced design allow for fast swing acceleration, which is helpful for overhead smashes. However, the reviewer finds that in flat, powerful smashes, the ball tends to stick to the face, resulting in less explosive power than expected. This is particularly noticeable in the tested unit, which was at the lower end of the weight range (350g).
For three-meter smashes, the Secco One Edition performs better. The reactive rubber at high speed helps the ball lift and clear the side wall, especially when the racket face is not kept completely flat. Players seeking maximum power may want to opt for a slightly heavier unit, as the reviewer suggests the low weight limits the racket’s potential in this area.
Summary of strengths and best court zones for the Secco One Edition
To help readers quickly understand where the Secco One Edition excels, the reviewer ranks the racket’s performance in different areas of the court:
- Vibora and tray: Excellent acceleration and control, especially after adapting to the rubber’s bounce at high speed.
- Volley: Good offensive potential and stability, particularly for sliced or weighted shots. Handling is standard, but the racket provides confidence at the net.
- Defense: High level of control and security at low and medium pace. Some loss of control at high speed, but overall forgiving for defensive play.
- Finishing: Adequate for three-meter smashes, but lacks power in flat, hard finishes due to low weight and the absorbing nature of the face.
Overall, the Secco One Edition is a versatile, medium-hardness padel racket that adapts well to a range of playing styles and levels. It is best suited for players seeking a lightweight option with a balance of control and offensive capability, especially those who value precision and quick acceleration over raw power. The reviewer notes that with only 100 units produced and a current price of €230, it is a unique and limited offering in the market.
