You don't need much to start playing padel — and at Long Beach Padel Club you can rent everything for your first sessions. When you're ready to buy your own gear, here's what actually matters.
Racket
€60–€120Round-shape, 360–370g, EVA soft foam core. Look for brands like Bullpadel, Head, Babolat, Adidas, or Nox.
Balls
€5–€8 / tubeUse official padel balls (Head, Wilson, Bullpadel). A tube of 3 lasts a few sessions before pressure drops.
Shoes
€70–€150Padel-specific or clay-court tennis shoes with herringbone soles for grip and lateral support.
Grip & overgrips
€2–€5 eachReplace the overgrip every 5–10 sessions. They cost almost nothing and dramatically improve feel.
Wrist strap
Mandatory in most clubs. Comes with the racket — always wear it to prevent injury and broken glass.
Optional
—Sweatband, cap, padel bag with thermal pocket to protect rackets from heat and cold.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best padel racket for beginners?
Look for a round-shape racket weighing 360–370g with a soft EVA foam core and a balanced sweet spot. Avoid diamond-shape rackets — they're for advanced players.
How much should I spend on my first racket?
€60–€120 is the sweet spot. Cheaper rackets often have poor balance; more expensive ones are tuned for advanced techniques you won't need yet.
Can I use tennis shoes for padel?
Clay-court tennis shoes with a herringbone sole work well. Avoid running shoes — they lack lateral stability and the soles can damage the court.
Are padel balls the same as tennis balls?
They look identical but padel balls have slightly lower internal pressure, giving a slower bounce that suits the smaller court.
No gear yet? Rent everything when you book a court.