Never played padel before? You're not alone — and you're about to discover one of the most fun, social and addictive sports out there. Whether you've seen it on social media or a friend won't stop talking about it, this guide covers everything you need to know before stepping on court for the first time.
What is Padel
Tennis meets squash, and it's incredibly fun
Padel is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It's played in doubles on an enclosed glass and metal court, roughly a third of the size of a tennis court. The ball can be played off the walls, which is what makes it so tactical, and so addictive.
Doubles Only
Always played 2v2
Glass Walls
Ball plays off walls
20m x 10m
⅓ of a tennis court
Underarm Serve
Easy to learn
Key difference from tennis: The underarm serve and enclosed court make padel far more accessible for beginners. You don't need a big serve to enjoy the game.
Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
The fastest-growing sport in the world
Padel is the fastest-growing sport in the world. It originated in Mexico, exploded in Spain and Argentina, and is now taking off across the UK. It's easy to pick up, social by nature (you always play in pairs) and genuinely fun from your very first session.
Players worldwide
And counting, with rapid growth across Europe and the Americas
Countries
Padel is now played in over 90 countries around the world
Fastest growing
Officially the world's fastest-growing racket sport
How Do You Score?
Same as tennis, it's simple
Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis, 15, 30, 40, game, and matches are typically played as best of three sets. If you've played tennis before, it'll feel familiar straight away.
Good to know: At deuce (40-40), padel uses a "golden point" in professional matches, a single deciding point rather than advantage scoring. It keeps things exciting.
What Do You Need to Play?
Spoiler: not much
Not much. A padel racket, a padel ball and a court. Most venues provide balls, so really all you need to bring is a racket and a pair of court shoes with a herringbone sole for grip. Clothing-wise, anything you'd wear to the gym or tennis works fine.
Padel Racket
Solid, no strings. Smaller and lighter than a tennis racket. Choose a round shape for your first one.
Court Shoes
Herringbone sole for grip on artificial grass. Don't wear running shoes, you'll slip.
Padel Balls
Similar to tennis balls but with slightly less pressure. Most venues provide them.
Clothing
Anything comfortable works. Gym shorts, a t-shirt and you're good to go.
Our recommendation: Start with a quality beginner racket in the £60-100 range and a pair of proper court shoes. That's all you need. Check out our Racket Buying Guide for help choosing.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
It's easier than you think
Book a court, grab a racket and just play. Padel is one of those sports where you improve quickly, and most players are hooked within their first few sessions. If you're in Liverpool, keep an eye out, courts are coming soon from The Padel Place.
📍 Liverpool Courts
The Padel Place is bringing padel courts to Liverpool. Follow us on social media to be the first to know when we launch.
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NOSSA BASE Padel Racket
Regular price £99.00Regular price -
Bas3line Nebula
Regular price £170.00Regular price -
HEAD Vibe 2025 Padel Racket Grey Black
Regular price £79.99Regular price£85.00Sale price £79.99Beginner -
Raquex Eclipse Padel Racquet
Regular price £79.00Regular price£79.00Sale price £79.00Beginner
