Snauwaert Vitas Tour: a diamond-shaped padel racket with unique balance
The reviewer from Padel MaDs introduces the Snauwaert Vitas Tour as a flagship padel racket from the historic Italian brand Snauwaert, renowned for its tennis heritage. This is the channel’s first feature of a fully Italian-made racket, and the creator expresses clear pride in presenting a product that stands out in both design and technology. The Vitas Tour is positioned as the most advanced—and consequently, the most expensive—model in Snauwaert’s padel lineup.
What immediately sets this racket apart is its diamond shape, though the creator notes it’s not as aggressively pointed as some diamond models, making it feel slightly closer to a hybrid than a pure drop shape. The Vitas Tour also boasts a quartz sand finish on the face, providing a pronounced and detailed texture for enhanced spin. The reviewer highlights the use of 3D Braid carbon fiber and an EVA 10 core, both contributing to the racket’s firm, responsive feel.
- Shape: Diamond (with a less pronounced profile)
- Face finish: Quartz sand for extra spin
- Material: 3D Braid carbon fiber
- Core: EVA 10
- Balance: 24 cm (notably low for a diamond racket)
- Weight: 365g (as tested)
- Protective bumper: Included and pre-applied
- Custom velvet cover: Included
First impressions: hard touch and surprising maneuverability
On court, the reviewer immediately notices the very hard and dry touch of the Vitas Tour. This is attributed to both the rigid carbon construction and the brand’s tennis roots, which seem to influence the overall feel. Despite the diamond shape, the racket’s 24 cm balance point is unusually low, resulting in a level of maneuverability that is rare for power-oriented models.
This unique balance allows players to control the racket easily in all areas of the court. The reviewer repeatedly emphasizes how the Vitas Tour feels “extremely manageable,” even during quick exchanges or overhead shots. The hard face means players need to actively accompany the ball with their arm, but the reward is excellent directional control and a clean, direct response.
Performance from the baseline: control and depth with a firm response
From the back of the court, the Vitas Tour’s rigid face stands out. The reviewer notes that the racket requires the player to generate their own power, but the ball “comes off very well” once adapted to the feel. Lobs and defensive shots benefit from the racket’s precision, and the hard face helps in directing the ball exactly where intended. The sanded surface also aids in producing spin, making it easier to add slice or topspin when needed.
Despite the firm touch, the reviewer finds that the Vitas Tour is forgiving enough to handle a range of shots, especially for players who appreciate a crisp, no-nonsense response. The low balance continues to be a highlight, making it easy to adjust quickly and maintain control during fast rallies.
Net play and overheads: power meets precision
At the net, the Vitas Tour maintains its character: hard, direct, and precise. The reviewer describes volleys as deep and easy to direct, with the racket’s rigidity providing a sense of confidence in aggressive exchanges. Overhead shots, such as smashes and bandejas, benefit from the combination of manageable balance and firm face. The reviewer is surprised by how much power can be generated despite the lower balance, which typically favors control over raw force.
The sanded quartz finish continues to impress, especially for players who rely on spin to control their volleys and overheads. The reviewer notes that the grip on the ball is “just right,” allowing for effective slice and topspin when attacking at the net.
Viboras, bandejas, and advanced shots: precision and minimal trampoline effect
When executing viboras and bandejas, the Vitas Tour’s stiff face ensures minimal trampoline effect, resulting in a direct and predictable ball trajectory. The reviewer highlights the “extreme precision” possible with this racket, likening the sensation to tightly strung tennis rackets. Contact with the ball feels solid, and the racket’s rigidity allows for sharp, controlled spins.
Players who come from a tennis background or who prefer a firmer, more connected feel will likely appreciate this characteristic. The reviewer also mentions that the racket is “extremely manageable,” reinforcing that the low balance does not compromise stability or control, even during powerful shots.
Unique drilling pattern and thoughtful accessories
The Vitas Tour features a variable hole pattern, with smaller holes toward the center and larger ones toward the edges. While not discussed in detail, this design is intended to optimize the sweet spot and improve aerodynamics. The racket comes with a pre-applied bumper for protection and a custom velvet cover, both of which the reviewer considers valuable additions.
Another notable feature is the elastomer insert in the bridge, designed to dampen vibrations and enhance comfort during play.
Who should consider the Snauwaert Vitas Tour?
The reviewer recommends the Vitas Tour primarily for intermediate to advanced players who can appreciate and handle a firm, precise racket. It is particularly well-suited to left-side players who want a diamond-shaped model with more control and maneuverability than usual. However, right-side players who enjoy diamond shapes will also find it manageable and effective at the net.
- Ideal for: Intermediate to advanced players
- Best position: Left side, but also suitable for right-side players who like diamond shapes
- Playing style: Those who value precision, direct response, and spin
Key takeaways from the Padel MaDs review
- The Snauwaert Vitas Tour stands out for its diamond shape paired with an unusually low 24 cm balance, offering a unique blend of power and maneuverability.
- The hard, dry touch is reminiscent of tennis rackets and provides excellent precision but requires players to generate their own power.
- The quartz sand face delivers impressive spin and grip on the ball.
- The racket is extremely manageable for a diamond model, making it suitable for fast exchanges and aggressive net play.
- Accessories like the protective bumper and custom velvet cover add value and protection.
- Best suited for medium to advanced players who appreciate a firm, precise response and are comfortable with a racket that rewards active play.
The Padel MaDs channel concludes that the Snauwaert Vitas Tour is a bold, innovative offering from an Italian brand with deep roots in racket sports, and it’s a compelling option for players seeking a distinctive feel and high-level performance on the padel court.
