PADEL HANDBOOK
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The handbook · Research-based guide

Padel equipment for beginners: hire first, choose carefully

A practical checklist for rackets, footwear and the kit your booking actually needs.

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PADEL HANDBOOK / SESSION NOTES1Ask about hire2Check footwear3Confirm what is suppliedA visual guide to the questions covered in this article.
Original Padel Handbook planning graphic.

Your first equipment decision can be a question to the venue: “Can I hire what I need?” That answer may save you buying a racket before you know which one feels comfortable.

Start with the booking

Check whether rackets and balls are included, available at an extra charge or your responsibility to bring. Keep the answer with your booking confirmation. Do not assume a package offered at one club is standard elsewhere.

Before you buy

Try the sport, note what felt comfortable, then compare products against your own experience. A higher price is not a substitute for suitability.

Questions to ask about a racket

Handle the racket if you can. Notice whether you can hold it comfortably and move it without feeling you are fighting its weight. Ask the hire desk or coach to explain any features you do not recognise.

  • Does the grip feel secure in your hand?
  • Can you try the racket during a session?
  • What does the warranty cover?
  • What are the retailer’s return conditions?

Use the wrist safety cord as required by the FIP rules. Ask the venue to show you how to wear it and check hire equipment before play.

Follow the court’s footwear advice

Tell the venue which shoes you own and ask whether they are appropriate for its surface. When you shop, consider fit, sideways movement and the seller’s guidance for the surface you will use. We do not recommend a specific shoe here without evidence about that model.

Keep the first shopping list short

A bag, spare grip or racket cover can wait until you know what your routine needs. Make a note after a few sessions: what did you repeatedly need, borrow or struggle with? Use that list rather than buying a bundle because it looks complete.

How future recommendations will work

We will state whether an assessment is based on research or hands-on use. Product specifications will be sourced, commercial links disclosed and any limitations explained. This introductory guide focuses on equipment essentials rather than product rankings.

Use the first-session checklist before spending.

For the game before the gear, read our beginner padel guide. The court guide can help explain why footwear and movement matter.

Sources and review

Research-based guide. Sources checked on 16 October 2026. This is a beginner explanation, not a substitute for the rules of your event.

Spotted an error? Send a correction with the statement and source.