Padel expert Lucas Krämer: Rackets, balls, action! Your ultimate guide to getting started in padel

Sports clothing that allows you to move easily is suitable here, and the trousers should have pockets for the balls

Best of all, many facilities offer rental rackets—perfect for anyone who wants to try out the sport for the first time. So, grab your racket, put on your shoes, and head out onto the court!

Which brands are leading in the production of padel equipment?

If you look around the padel market, you'll quickly come across well-known brands from tennis. But there are also smaller padel specialists, mostly from Spain, with whom you can't go wrong.

Most larger sports shops now sell padel equipment; just ask one of the employees for advice.

What should be included in a padel starter set?

A padel starter set should ideally include several essential elements to help you get started in this exciting sport. First and foremost, a lightweight padel racket is essential. A weight of around 340 to 360 grams is ideal for beginners, as it offers a good balance between control and power. Of course, padel balls are also a must in any starter set. These special balls are slightly smaller and heavier than regular tennis balls, enabling the unique feel that characterizes padel.

Whether you're a rookie, amateur, or pro, the right club supports your playing style and helps you develop. Pay attention to shape, weight, and balance—and don't be afraid to try out different models. Many clubs and shops offer test clubs—take advantage of this!

Are there any special clothes or shoes recommended for padel?

Technical clothing is a recommended choice for padel players, especially for indoor games, as it helps keep you cool even when sweating profusely. The clothing generally doesn't differ much from that for other sports. One important aspect, however, is that the pants should have pockets for storing balls. Balls on the court are a tripping hazard, so they should always be kept in your pocket, in the net, or in the ball container!

In recent years, special padel shoes have been developed that are tailored to the specific needs of padel players. The sole is designed to facilitate rotation on the ball of the foot and provide grip when sprinting. This can be identified by a coarse pattern or a circular area on the ball of the foot. The rest of the wider sole is finely patterned (herringbone pattern) to prevent twisting during changes of direction. This makes these shoes ideal for the many small, quick movements on the padel court.