Everything you need to know about Padel balls
The round, often yellow appearance of padel balls can make it difficult to differentiate them from tennis balls. However, they are essential elements of the game and greatly contribute to the pleasure and enjoyment experienced while playing, based on individual expectations and skill levels. Just like any other equipment on sports fields, the characteristics of padel balls are well-defined by international federations.
What’s the difference between padel and tennis balls?
Let's examine the notable differences in the characteristics of padel balls compared to tennis balls:
- Ball pressure: In tennis, the internal pressure of the ball is slightly more than 2 bars, whereas in padel, it is around one bar for padel balls.
- Bounce of the ball: The lower pressure in padel balls leads to a less significant rebound compared to tennis balls, resulting in a slower pace of the game.
- Height and weight: Tennis players are quite meticulous, and the weight of a tennis ball must fall between 56.7 and 58.5 grams. Padel balls, on the other hand, have a greater range, varying from 56 to 59.4 grams. Both types of balls share a common size, with a diameter between 6.35 and 6.77 centimeters.
These distinct standards allow manufacturers to create greater variations among padel balls. These differences enable players to find their preferred type of ball.
Which padel balls should you choose?
- Occasional players or beginners: When starting a new sport or playing sporadically, it is usually easier to handle balls with lower pressure, as they allow for more time to position yourself and return the ball effectively.
- Players who prefer a slow game or "classic padel": If your pleasure lies in making your opponent work and tactically maneuvering the ball around the court, slower balls are your ideal choice. Brands such as Babolat and Head offer options that provide medium speed, longevity, control, precision, and an excellent feel on the racket.
- Players who enjoy a fast game or "modern padel": If you thrive on speed, powerful shots, and high-intensity exchanges, manufacturers have developed balls specifically for you. These balls enhance the fast-paced, modern style of play seen in professional matches.
Lifespan of a padel ball:
The lifespan of a padel ball depends on various factors and personal preferences on the court. If you favor placement shots, strategic exchanges, and shots like Bandejas and Viboras, the balls can last for a few weeks. However, if your game involves aggressive acceleration and high-intensity shots like Par3 or Par4, the balls may only last for one or two matches at most. It's worth noting that this shorter lifespan can be expensive and less eco-friendly.
In conclusion, while playing padel with tennis balls may seem tempting due to their similarities, it is important to use proper padel balls to ensure the best playing experience. The characteristics of padel balls, such as pressure, bounce, and weight, are designed to optimize performance on the padel court. So, choose the right padel balls according to your playing style and preferences, and enjoy the sport to its fullest!