Technical specifications and build quality of the Tenax Hammer 2025
The reviewer from Padel Review provides a detailed look at the Tenax Hammer 2025, highlighting its construction and technical features. This padel racket is designed with a clear offensive character, but it remains accessible to a wide range of players. The key specifications are as follows:
- Shape: Diamond
- Face material: 12K carbon fiber
- Surface: Rough (sandblasted) for enhanced spin
- Core: EVA Hard
- Weight: 360g (with a typical range of 365g ±10g)
- Balance: 27 cm (high)
- Grip: Standard length, slightly thin—overgrip recommended
- List price: €279 (street price around €239)
The reviewer notes that, despite its high balance and diamond shape, the Hammer 2025 is surprisingly manageable. The rough, sandblasted face stands out, providing excellent grip on the ball for spin shots. The handle is comfortable but a bit slim, so adding an overgrip is advised for better hold and comfort during play.
Target player profile and on-court positioning
This racket is positioned for intermediate to advanced players, particularly those who play on the left side and favor an aggressive style. The channel emphasizes that while the Hammer 2025 is designed to support offensive play, it is not overly demanding or extreme. Players looking for a racket that allows them to play assertively—seeking to finish points with smashes or viboras—will find it well-suited to their needs.
The reviewer mentions that even players with experience in Premier Padel events have used this model, reinforcing its suitability for serious enthusiasts and competitive amateurs.
Performance from the back of the court
From the baseline, the Tenax Hammer 2025 demonstrates a good balance between power and control. The reviewer describes it as not the fastest or most agile racket due to its weight and high balance, but it delivers a solid, decisive shot with a pleasingly firm feel. The sweet spot is generous for a diamond-shaped racket, making it forgiving on off-center hits.
Key observations include:
- Control: Reliable, with consistent ball output
- Spin: Enhanced by the rough surface, allowing for effective topspin and slice
- Power: Satisfying, especially for aggressive, flat shots
The reviewer highlights the racket’s versatility from the back, noting that it supports both aggressive and controlled play without being overly stiff or difficult to handle.
Net play and volleying characteristics
At the net, the Hammer 2025 maintains its offensive edge but requires some finesse. The reviewer notes that while the ball output is good, it is not excessive—allowing players to push for winners without losing control. However, the racket can be less forgiving on volleys, especially if the player is too aggressive or fails to time the shot well. The sweet spot helps, but the high balance means it’s best to avoid swinging with maximum force on every volley.
Spin remains a strong point at the net, with the sandblasted face delivering excellent grip for drop volleys and angled shots. The reviewer also comments on the effectiveness of blocks and defensive volleys, which benefit from the racket’s firm response and spin potential.
Overhead shots, smashes, and aggressive finishing
The Hammer 2025 truly shines in overhead play. The reviewer praises its performance on smashes, viboras, and bandejas, citing the combination of explosive power and spin as a standout feature. The high balance and hard core allow for forceful, penetrating shots that can finish points decisively. Even flat smashes benefit from the racket’s structure, while worked shots like the vibora or kick smash are enhanced by the textured face.
Despite its offensive capabilities, the racket remains accessible, making it a strong choice for left-side players who want to attack but don’t want an excessively demanding racket.
Comfort, grip, and handling feedback
The reviewer finds the grip comfortable in length but slightly thin, recommending the use of an overgrip for added security and comfort. The wrist strap is functional, though perhaps a bit long for some tastes. Overall, the handling is manageable, but the high balance does reduce maneuverability compared to more control-oriented rackets. Players should be aware that the offensive design comes with a trade-off in quick handling, especially at the net.
Comparison with other Tenax models and market positioning
Compared to other Tenax rackets, such as the Gladiator, the Hammer 2025 is described as a significant improvement. The reviewer notes that the Gladiator did not impress, whereas the Hammer 2025 offers a much more satisfying experience, particularly for players seeking a blend of power and playability. The price point is considered fair for the quality and performance offered, especially given the racket’s premium build and features.
While Tenax is a niche Italian brand, the reviewer observes that it is gaining visibility and offers opportunities for players to test rackets at events across Italy. This accessibility, combined with the Hammer 2025’s performance, makes it a compelling option for players willing to try something beyond the mainstream brands.
Reviewer’s ratings and key qualitative evaluations
The channel provides clear ratings for the Tenax Hammer 2025, helping players quickly assess its strengths:
- Control: 7.5/10
- Ball output: 7.5/10
- Sweet spot: 7.5/10
- Spin: 8/10
- Power: 8/10
- Per 3 (kick smash): 8/10
- Smash: 8/10
- Vibora: 8/10
- Value for money (at €279): 6.5/10
These ratings reflect a well-rounded offensive racket that excels in power and spin, with solid control and a forgiving sweet spot for its category. The only notable drawback is the value rating, which is slightly lower due to the price point, but overall, the Hammer 2025 stands out as a top offering from Tenax for aggressive left-side players seeking a blend of explosiveness and playability.
