Unlike the popular myth, padel balls are not the same as tennis balls. They are smaller and bounce slightly less than tennis balls. The internal pressure level is also different, as padel balls have less internal pressure than tennis balls.
Moreover, remember that padel balls for tournaments and leagues should be approved by the International Padel Federation (FIP) who is the world-wide governing body of Padel. Also, the approved colors for padel balls are white and yellow, with a rubber sphere and a uniform exterior surface.
A typical padel ball has a diameter between 6.35 to 6.77 cm and should weigh between 56.0 to 59.4 grams. The internal pressure of the padel ball can vary from 4.6 Kg to 5.2 Kg per 2.54 square cm.
The Padel Ball Technical Specifications
The outer cover of the Padel ball shall have an unvaried outer core and a hollow inner core composed of rubber. The outer core shall be primarily of a smooth surface that can incorporate a seamless pleat and be made of a combination of multi-textile materials of cotton, wool and nylon fibers.
The Padel ball shall be in conformity of one of the following types in the table below.
Standard Type (1)
High Altitude Type (2)
Mass (Weight)
56,0-59,4 g
56,0-59,4 g
Size
6,35-6,77 cm
6,35-6,77 cm
Rebound
135-145 cm
121,92-135 cm
Forward deformation (3)
0,56-0,74 cm
0,56-0,74 cm
Return deformation (3)
0,80-1,08 cm
0,80-1,08 cm
Colour
White or Yellow
White or Yellow
Specifications:
The Standard (1) Padel Ball may be pressurised or pressureless. The pressureless ball shall be acclimatised a minimum of 60 days at the altitude of which the specific championship or tournament will be held. The internal pressure shall be no greater than 7kPa and may be used for high play above 1.219 meters above the sea level.
The High Altitude (2) Padel Ball type is pressurised and is specified for play in court locations at high altitude of 1.219 meters above the sea level only.
Two deformation (3) readings cannot differ by more than 0,08 cm on the average of a single reading alon each of three perpendicular axes.
The bouncing rate should be between 135 to 145 cm when the ball hits a hard surface dropped from a height of 2.54 m. However, the bouncing rate changes (more than 121.92 cm and less than 135 cm) when the padel is played at an altitude of more than 500 m above sea level.
Sounds a lot? Let’s dive into the following guide to find your next best padel ball, where we have reviewed some of the best padel balls manufactured by the world’s top brands!
Best Padel Balls by World’s Top Brands!
- Wilson X3 — 3 BALL CAN
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The premium build Wilson X3 balls are wrapped with Dura-Weave felt, featuring the ideal combination of consistency, durability, and playability. One can include three balls manufactured with an eco-friendly overcap to reduce plastic waste and protect the balls when not in use. Country of origin of Wilson balls is China. - Wilson X3 SPEED — 3 BALL CAN
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Wilson’s X3 SPEED balls showcase a premium woven felt and a resilient core, making them perfect for slower court surfaces. The balls are also faster and more durable, designed for competitive padel players on the court. Wilson balls are made in China. - HEAD PADEL PRO
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The Head Padel Pro is a popular name in the padel world, featuring maximum control and durability. It is heavy and has less pressure, giving a solid feeling when hitting. Because the ball has a lower bouncing rate, it is ideal for dry and cold areas. Head Padel Pro ball is approved by the FIP. Head balls are manufactured in China. - HEAD PADEL PRO S
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The Head Padel Pro S is different from the typical Head Pro ball, featuring a lighter but more rigid body. The balls are designed for humid areas, such as sea levels, as they contain higher pressure, maximum durability, and greater control. This Head ball is also approved by the FIP. Head balls are manufactured in China. - DUNLOP PRO PADEL
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The DUNLOP PRO PADEL is a Spanish National Federation approved ball manufactured with premium synthetic cloth for the league’s top-quality performance. The balls are professionals’ all-time favorites, thanks to their solid feel, faster flight, and higher rebound. The ball is also approved by the International Padel Federation. Country of origin is Philippines. - BABOLAT COURT X3
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The BABOLAT COURT X3 is a pressure ball featuring the perfect blend of felt and rubber to provide the ideal amount of sturdiness, longevity, and resistance to hard impacts. The ball offers a decent rebound, good bounces, and superior playability for servers of all levels. Babobal balls are made in China. - BABOLAT PADEL TOUR X3
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If you are looking for a durable yet soft ball, grab BABOLAT PADEL TOUR X3. It is made from twisted felt that is extra-strong yet also makes the ball comfortable to hold and serve. The ball has a faster flight and can receive maximum impact during the game. Babolat balls are made in China. - RS PADEL TOUR X
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The manufacturers have ensured the RS PADEL TOUR X is equipped with the finest felt. The ball offers a tremendous feel and higher durability without compromising the ball output, hitting sensation, bounce, and speed. Moreover, the ball has a comfortable touch, absorbing greater shock yet maintaining a smooth flight. These balls are also made in China. - ADIDAS SPEED RX
Size: 2.66 inc (6.75 cm)
Weight: 58 g
Bouncing Rate: 57-58 inc (144 – 147cm)
These superior-quality padel balls are made of high-density rubber and light felt to maintain better pressure while making the ball bouncy enough for smoother flights. Undoubtedly, the ADIDAS SPEED RX balls have outstanding durability, swiftness, and speed. Adidas’ country of origin is China.
Premium Padel Balls
Final Words
Finding the right padel balls seems like a tough decision, given so many factors impact a ball’s performance. On top of that, some people still believe a tennis ball can replace a padel ball, while in reality, the two are entirely different games.
So, make sure to consider factors like material, durability, smoother flights, higher shock resistance, a resilient body, speed, and swiftness, when looking for a padel ball. In the end you find the ball you favor by testing different brands.
