In short
- The padel is played in pairs on an enclosed court with walls: it is the most social and the easiest to pick up.
- The tennis demands more technique and fitness at the start.
- The pickleball combines elements of tennis, padel and table tennis on a small court.
- The squash is the most intense; badminton, the fastest.
Racket sports are booming, and padel is the one that has grown the most. If you are torn between several or coming from another sport, this comparison will help you understand what each one offers.
| Sport | Court | Players | Equipment | Initial difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Padel | 20 x 10 m, enclosed with walls | 2 vs 2 | Stringless racket | Low |
| Tennis | 23.77 x 10.97 m, open | 1 vs 1 or 2 vs 2 | Strung racket | High |
| Pickleball | 13.4 x 6.1 m, open | 1 vs 1 or 2 vs 2 | Light paddle, perforated ball | Low |
| Squash | Enclosed room | 1 vs 1 | Light racket | Medium |
| Badminton | 13.4 x 6.1 m, high net | 1 vs 1 or 2 vs 2 | Very light racket and shuttlecock | Medium |
Padel: the most social
It is always played in pairs and the walls keep the ball in play, so from day one there are long, fun rallies. The basic technique is quick to learn and the tactical side makes it very addictive. If you are thinking of starting, read our beginner's guide.
Tennis: the most technical
It takes longer to master the basic strokes and requires better fitness. Many tennis players switch to padel and adapt quickly thanks to their technique, although they need to learn to use the walls and not to hit so flat.
Pickleball: the new phenomenon
Very popular in the United States, it is played with a paddle and a perforated plastic ball on a small court. It is easy to learn and not very physically demanding.
Squash and badminton
Squash is the most intense cardiovascularly, played in an enclosed room against a front wall. Badminton is the fastest for reflexes, with a shuttlecock that can reach extremely high speeds.
Why is padel so addictive?
- It is quick to learn and enjoyable from day one.
- It is social: you always play with three other people.
- It suits all ages and levels.
- The equipment is affordable: a good racket and a pair of shoes are all you need.
Rackets to get started in padel
Ready to give padel a try?
Start with a comfortable, easy-to-handle racket.
