Are you struggling with control, as a mid-level player? Follow this review guide to choose the best padel racket for the intermediate level.
Choosing the right racket for mid-level players is the real challenge, as they are upgrading from the basic options out there. Hence, you neither need something too simple nor extremely advanced. The right one must have the perfect blend of power generation, speed, control, and reach.
How to control your power smashes and topspins, as a mid-level player? Do you need the lightest racket to master attack-oriented tactics? Are you struggling with control? Need not worry as I am here with the best padel rackets for intermediate players. So, dive right in for more.
Related: How Long Does a Padel Racket Last? Expert Insights and Tips
Our Top Picks
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Adidas Adipower CTRL 3.1 Padel Paddle
PREMIUM PICK
Babolat 2022 Air Vertuo Padel Racket
BUDGET PICK
Babolat AIR Veron 2022 Padel Racquet
Best Padel Rackets for Intermediate Comparison Table
1. Adidas Adipower CTRL 3.1 Padel Paddle
2. Babolat 2022 Air Vertuo Padel Racket
3.Babolat AIR Veron 2022 Padel Racquet
4. NORDIC SLICE Polar Bear Padel Racket
5. Pronto Store Padel Racket
6. Babolat Reveal Padel Racket
7. Dunlop Sports Rocket Ultra Padel Racket
8. WLSRW Padel Racket
9. WILSON Ultra Team V2 Padel Paddle
10. RAYKOBELL Padel Racket
10 Best Padel Rackets for Intermediate Players
1. Adidas Adipower CTRL 3.1 Padel Paddle
If you are a padel enthusiast, you would’ve heard about this Adidas Adipower 3.1 racket. It is undoubtedly one of the best-selling options out there for players who want to upgrade from beginner’s skills. I have used this one and its predecessor, so it was quite easy for me to begin with hard training.
More:
Starting off with the design, this one has a rounder carbon fiber frame that feels light. It pops better than usual, all thanks to the hard and large hitting surface. The fiberglass surface is sturdy and hits the ball to a far distance. Hence, with this racket, I was able to get the shots with better reach.
In the end, when it comes to performance, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that keeping it stable is no big deal. This is because of the soft-core structure that absorbs all the vibrations. It can deal with power and speed shots incredibly well. The vibrant graphics further makes it worthy of investment.
Final thoughts, when I planned to upgrade my pedal racket, I was absolutely sure of putting my money on this CTRL 3.1. This is because I had used its Lite version previously. All in all, handling this racket was not at all an issue, as I was able to get accurate shots to a greater distance.
2. Babolat 2022 Air Vertuo Padel Racket
The runner-up on my list of the best paddle rackets for intermediate players is this Babolat Air Vertuo. This is because it helps them with control and balance. With that said, it feels light and is easy to handle, so during training sessions, you don’t have to worry about injuries.
More:
The first thing that impressed me about this racket is its design. It has a drop shape with rounded edges that not only cuts the weight but adds to the hitting surface. So, you can get the majority of shots accurately and consistently. The fiberglass surface is also quite responsive and pops better.
Here, another thing to appreciate is the soft EVA rubber core. It has dense padding that absorbs vibrations and prevents potential injuries. I have used it for hard power smashes and found no stability issues. Over time, this can help players deal with extreme speed.
Related: How to Hold Pickleball Paddle: Mastering the Proper Grip
In essence, for anyone who is struggling with control, this racket will work wonders. It comes with a large sweet spot and Vibrabsorb technology that reduces the shakiness and provides you with a stable experience. With that said, its unique shape certainly adds to the visual appeal.
3. Babolat AIR Veron 2022 Padel Racquet
Have you ever struggled with attacking strategies? Well, do give this Air Veron racket a try. I have used this for the longest time and can say it is the perfect match for players who want to master offensive tactics. Its vibrant graphics appeal to the taste of the majority of players out there.
More:
This racket has an unusual spherical hybrid diamond shape that has symmetrical holes that makes it easy to balance it out. The surface is textured, so you don’t have to worry about the response. The sweet spot is large enough to provide players with a better pop.
Another highlight of this racket design is its Carbon Flex core technology. It is absolutely soft and absorbs vibrations. So, with this racket, you won’t feel shaky with power volleys and smashes. In the end, I would also like to mention that the grip is wide and comfortable.
In essence, this racket from Babolat is yet another great deal for mid-level players. It works wonders for power smashes and volleys, all thanks to its strategic point holes. Balancing this racket is not at all difficult, so do give it a try and decide for yourself.
4. NORDIC SLICE Polar Bear Padel Racket
Are you upgrading your racket to a level? Struggling with control and don’t know where to start? This Nordic Slice racket has got you covered for the most part. It has a standard minimalistic design that works best for people who are starting off their offensive attack-oriented games.
More:
The reason why I opted for this one is its design. It has an equal distance between the holes that makes sure the weight is balanced and you can handle it well. Another thing that gives it an edge over others is the wide grip handle that locks players’ wrists and keeps them comfortable.
Finally, when it comes to the control, this one is equipped with a medium-soft core. Although it is not really dense, it certainly absorbs the vibrations from power smashes. The 18K EVA memory foam used in the construction removes any shakiness and helps players withstand high speed.
In essence, this Nordic Slice padel racket is one of the best out there for anyone who wants to master the art of attack tactics. Its simple yet well-put design generates power and allows the players to feel comfortable. All being said, you need to put in extra effort to take care of it.
5. Pronto Store Padel Racket
Its minimalist and clean design is the reason for it being in this place. I have used this for complicated matches and would confirm that it does deliver. All in all, from precision to control and power, you are getting every single thing with this racket in your hands.
More:
The manufacturers have used woven carbon to make its core. Hence, you won’t be having issues controlling speed and power. Getting a hold of this racket was incredibly easy for me, even though I just shifted to this mid-level racket from the very simple Adidas CTRL Lite.
Similarly, this racket has a textured carbon surface that pops more and provides you with incredible reach. The carbon fiber material is absolutely sturdy and has the ability to generate power. It comes with a carrying bag, so you can prevent it from picking up dirt when left idle.
Wrapping up, for anyone who is struggling with control, this Pronto racket will work for them. It has a sturdy and responsive hitting surface that generates high power and offers better reach. That being said, another reason for its popularity is the attention-grabbing graphics.
6. Babolat Reveal Padel Racket
Here come yet another best padel racket for intermediate players from Babolat. It has a spherical structure and round edges that helped me practice longer and power smashes easily. Likewise, the textured finish and hard-hitting surface further make it worth the money.
More:
The first thing to note about this racket is its teardrop shape that has the standard sizing, making it easy for players to handle. It is further accompanied by a textured sandpaper finish that pops better than other competitors. The grip is wide enough to keep it stable yet prevent fatigue during long matches.
Lastly, for performance, the manufacturers have added a soft Eva core. It is quite dense and durable to absorb the vibrations, while you are throwing the ball with speed and power. It can withstand spin and power smashes really well. With that said, it might take some time to get used to.
In essence, this Babolar padel racket is great for players who want to practice their offensive or attack-oriented tactics. It has a dense soft core and a large hitting surface that offers control and stability. The textured surface generates incredible power and can withstand extreme speed.
7. Dunlop Sports Rocket Ultra Padel Racket
The next racket on my list is this one from Dunlop. It has everything a player with intermediate skills need, from a big sweet spot to a textured hitting surface and a soft core structure. Similarly, the simple black and orange graphics might seem minimalist yet appeal to almost all pellets equally.
More:
To start off with the design, the hitting surface is made up of a combination of fiberglass and graphite. The holes are further placed strategically to make sure you feel in charge of the racket while playing. Here, this is accompanied by a hybrid head shape for better reach and response for the most part.
Lastly, when it comes to the control, this racket has a rubber EVA core that is dense and weighs around 365 grams. It absorbs vibrations really well and allows players to progress in the game quickly. On the whole, I found the racket quite comfortable and responsive, even with extreme power smashes.
The bottom line is that if you are a player with intermediate skills who want to defend your position on the field, do give it a try. The hybrid head is designed to manage the weight while allowing players to throw the ball to a longer distance. In addition, its rubber core handles power smashes well.
8. WLSRW Padel Racket
Speaking of quality, this padel racket is all about it. This one is designed to aid players with impact and response. It has the new patented 62 holes technology that makes things so much better for you. If you want to upgrade from the beginner racket, do consider this racket.
More:
When it comes to the design, it has rough graphite and carbon fiber structure that delivers well. So, with this one, I was able to generate power for smashes and volleys against the opponent. Likewise, the hole distribution is another reason players feel comfortable, even during hectic matches.
Finally, the manufacturers have used EVA memory foam in the center of the core. Hence, it is quite soft and allows you to resist vibrations ideally. The 4.3 inches grip also locks the wrist properly, making sure the racket is able to spin and generate power quickly and effortlessly.
Finally, if you are someone who wants to practice power smashes, I have this WSRW Bracket for you. It is equipped with the new 62 holes technology that improves the power and consistency of the game. All in all, the length and grip size makes sure you don’t feel any fatigue.
9. WILSON Ultra Team V2 Padel Paddle
Wilson is certainly a known brand when it comes to tennis equipment. This one from the brand is one of the best-selling rackets, all thanks to its visual appeal and scope for practice. It generates incredible power and helps players throw the ball at a consistent speed to defeat the enemy quite effortlessly.
More:
The first thing you will notice in this racket is the new 62 holes technology. These are distributed intelligently over the entire surface to make sure the weight is proportionately divided. Moreover, the manufacturers have intentionally added extra space on the bottom to provide players with better reach.
Lastly, to help players with control, this racket has a soft EVA core that is quite dense. So, you won’t find any issues with the stability, even with power smashes. All in all, it works for both defensive and offensive tactics. With that said, you might feel a bit overwhelmed by the dust it picks up from the field.
Related: 5 Best Padel Rackets For Spin
In essence, this Wilson racket is undoubtedly the best for both defensive and offensive matches. It is known for its intelligent hole technology that regulates weight and makes sure you feel easy throughout. Similarly, the memory foam core provides you with the required control.
10. RAYKOBELL Padel Racket
Last but not least on my list of the best paddle rackets for intermediate players is this Raykobell. I am using it currently and would say it is not only easy to handle but also offers you incredible reach. Likewise, it is a perfect match for training sessions, all thanks to its comfortable and light design.
More:
The first thing that attracted me to this racket is its well-put structure. The spherical, teardrop shape of this racket makes sure the weight is balanced from all directions, so you don’t have to bother with the potential risk of injuries. I have used this for long hectic sessions and felt no fatigue at all.
In addition, the textured surface adds to the response, hence, it works great for longer shots. The core also has a rubber center that resists vibrations and generates more power. On the whole, I have used this for offensive attack tactics and was able to control it effortlessly, which is a great deal for intermediate-level skills.
In conclusion, if you are someone who wants to master the art of attack, this racket is a perfect match. I have been using it for quite some time and can definitely confirm that it is easy to handle, even for complicated power smashes. The reason why I would prefer this over other competitors is the tear shape that makes it suitable for long and hectic practice sessions.
Best Padel Rackets for Intermediate Players Comparison Table
| Image | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Adidas Adipower CTRL 3.1 Padel Paddle | Check Price |
| 2. Babolat 2022 Air Vertuo Padel Racket | Check Price |
| 3. Babolat AIR Veron 2022 Padel Racquet | Check Price |
| 4. NORDIC SLICE Polar Bear Padel Racket | Check Price |
| 5. Pronto Store Padel Racket | Check Price |
| 6. Babolat Reveal Padel Racket | Check Price |
| 7. Dunlop Sports Rocket Ultra Padel Racket | Check Price |
| 8. WLSRW Padel Racket | Check Price |
| 9. WILSON Ultra Team V2 Padel Paddle | Check Price |
| 10. RAYKOBELL Padel Racket | Check Price |
FAQs
What is the intermediate level in padel?
On average, level 3 and 4 players are considered at an intermediate level. Now, speaking in technical terms, he is someone who has mastered the ground rules of backhand shots. However, he is still learning attack-oriented tactics like slices, power smashes, and flat shots for the most part.
Do you need to change your paddle racket as a mid-level player?
Well, it depends on your own desires. With that said, if you are a beginner who wants to upgrade your skill level and want to master attack-oriented tactics, the answer is yes. Changing the paddle racket can help you deal with power and speed well. Yet, you need to opt for the one that has a better scope of practice.
Final Thoughts
Finally, are you someone who is struggling with control and wants to upgrade to a new padel racket? Well, make sure to look into everything from size to structure, hole position, durability, and core. Here are some of my favorites, so you can consider them for buying;
- Adidas Adipower CTRL 3.1 Padel Paddle is great for practice and looks quite appealing.
- Babolat AIR Veron 2022 Padel Racquet generates incredible power that works for spins, topspins, and smashes quite well.
- Dunlop Sports Rocket Ultra Padel Racket pops better and has a better reach, so you can practice your attack-oriented shots ideally.
I do hope that you soon will find the best padel racket for the intermediate skill set and will soon master some best shots.
Meet Daniel, a highly experienced writer who is passionate about pickleball. Widely recognized as a trusted source in the pickleball community, Daniel has extensively tested and reviewed countless pickleball products, ranging from paddles to shoes and beyond. Their writing showcases a keen understanding of the sport and its various intricacies.