The history of Nox: the family brand that conquered padel

Padel brands

Founded in 2008 by the Ballvé brothers, Nox went from a risky bet to one of the leading brands. Its history, its ranges and which racket to choose.

    In short

    • Origins: brothers Jesús and José Luis Ballvé founded Nox Sport in 2008, even though a consultancy advised them not to invest in padel.
    • Philosophy: a family business with its own R&D and testing in a specialist laboratory.
    • Star product: the racket, which accounts for around 70% of its business, alongside shoes, clothing and bags.
    • Best-known range: AT10 Genius, the racket of Agustín Tapia.

    Nox is one of those stories that prove passion can beat the reports. Today it is one of the best-selling brands in the world, but it started as a bet almost against the tide. We look at its history, how it works and which Nox racket suits you.

    2008: two brothers against all odds

    Jesús and José Luis Ballvé founded Nox Sport in 2008 after selling their transport company. A consultancy advised them not to invest in padel, but they went ahead, convinced of the sport's potential. Time proved them right.

    Despite its global presence, Nox still describes itself as a family business, with a small team in which everyone plays padel. That closeness to the court shows in the way its products are developed.

    In-house R&D and a factory in South America

    Nox's R&D department is entirely in-house: it controls the moulds and the choice of materials, and prototypes are tested in a specialist laboratory. But the final test is done by the players, who decide whether a model needs changes.

    To serve South America with better prices and avoid stock shortages, the brand built its own factory in Paraguay. It has also expanded its catalogue with shoes, clothing, backpacks and padel bags, and even beach tennis products.

    Year Milestone
    2008 The Ballvé brothers found Nox Sport
    2019 Entry into beach tennis
    2021 Launch of its footwear line
    Today More than 20 sponsored players and an international presence

    Nox racket ranges

    • AT10 Genius: the range of Agustín Tapia. Versions in 18K (more power and stiffness), 12K (more balance) and Ultralight (easier to handle).
    • Genius Attack: a more attacking version for players who love to smash.
    • X-Zero and beginner ranges: comfortable, affordable rackets to take your first steps.

    Which Nox racket should you choose?

    • Just starting or playing for fun: an X-Zero or any beginner racket.
    • Intermediate level: the Genius Ultralight or the 12K version will give you control and ball exit.
    • Advanced level: the Genius 18K or the Attack, if you want maximum power.

    All Nox rackets

    Find your Nox by level, shape and price.

    View Nox rackets →

    Keep reading: the history of Bullpadel, the history of Adidas Padel y all the brands.

    FAQs

    Who founded Nox?
    Nox was founded in 2008 by brothers Jesús and José Luis Ballvé.
    Which racket does Agustín Tapia use?
    Agustín Tapia plays with Nox's AT10 Genius range, available in several versions.
    Is Nox a good brand for beginners?
    Yes. As well as its professional rackets, Nox makes comfortable, affordable models for beginners.

    In this article

      We'll help you choose

      Find your ideal racket

      Tell us your level and how you play and we'll recommend the perfect racket.

      Ask for advice →
      Keep reading

      More padel guides

      View the whole blog →

      Looking for a new racket?

      The best brands, with up-to-date prices and free advice.