Discover padel, a sport that combines leisure and pleasure, without neglecting the competitive dimension. Halfway between tennis and squash, it is attracting more and more amateur and professional players. Padel is a sport that originated in Mexico in the 1960s and quickly spread to Europe, particularly Spain and France. It is practiced on a field with reduced dimensions compared to tennis, framed by windows and fences. The game takes place with adapted rackets, without strings and a ball similar to that of tennis, but slightly less inflated.
The advantages of padel compared to tennis and squash
Padel has several advantages that explain its growing success with athletes. First of all, it is very easy to access. Indeed, its learning is fast and does not require to have particular technical skills. In addition, it favors the game of doubles, thus promoting conviviality and exchanges between the participants. In addition, it puts less stress on the joints than tennis thanks to shorter and less traumatic movements. Also, the windows and fences add a strategic dimension to the game and prolong the exchanges. Finally, the practice of padel is generally less expensive than that of squash, since it is not necessary to rent a specific court with glass walls.
How to equip yourself to practice padel?
To play padel in the best conditions, it is essential to have suitable equipment. In our padel storeyou will find everything you need to get started or improve your skills in this discipline:
- Padel rackets: unlike tennis rackets, padel rackets have no strings and have a central hole to make it easier to grip. They are also lighter, to allow better maneuverability. Several types of snowshoes exist, ranging from models for beginners to professional snowshoes. It is important to choose a racquet suited to your level and style of play.
- Padel balls: the balls used in padel are very similar to those in tennis, but they are slightly less inflated, which makes them easier to hit.
- Padel shoes: to play padel safely and avoid injuries, it is essential to wear suitable shoes. The models specifically designed for padel have a non-marking and non-slip rubber outsole, as well as a reinforcement at the level of the forefoot to protect the toes during lateral movements.
The development of padel in France
In recent years, padel has experienced a real craze in France. Many clubs and sports complexes now offer fields dedicated to this discipline, allowing players of all levels to learn or improve their skills. This enthusiasm has also encouraged the creation of sporting events around padel, such as amateur or professional tournaments, initiation courses and regional and national competitions. The padel is now recognized by the French Tennis Federation (FFT), which works actively for its development and promotion on the national territory. In short, padel is a fun and pleasant sport that is attracting more and more practitioners in France and all over the world. Accessible and friendly, it offers an interesting alternative to tennis and squash, while preserving the spirit of competition and the tactical dimension that make these disciplines so charming.
