Wilson Optix V1 2025 Padel Racket Review

Wilson Optix V1 2025 Padel Racket Review: The Original See-Through Racket

Before there was the 2026 update, there was the original Wilson Optix V1 — the racket that introduced the world to transparent padel racket design. The 2025 version was the first to market with a see-through face, and it quickly became one of the most talked-about rackets in the sport. But beyond the visual innovation, how does it perform? And how does it compare to the updated 2026 model? We revisit the original to give you the full picture.

Specifications at a Glance

Feature	Detail
Shape	Round
Weight	350-365g
Balance	Low (head-light)
Core	EVA Soft Core
Frame	Carbon/fibreglass composite
Surface	Transparent composite
Thickness	38mm
Price	£100-£140 (often discounted as 2025 model)

Design and the Transparency Factor

The Wilson Optix V1 2025 was a genuine first in padel — a racket with a transparent hitting surface. The clear composite material allows you to see right through the face of the racket, creating a striking visual effect that turns heads on every court. It is a conversation starter, a design statement, and a genuine engineering achievement.

Wilson developed the transparent composite over several years, ensuring it matched the performance characteristics of traditional fibreglass and carbon surfaces. The result is a material that is durable, functional, and — yes — see-through.

On-Court Performance

Control

The Optix V1 2025 is fundamentally a control racket. The round shape provides a large, forgiving sweet spot — the biggest you will find in the Wilson lineup. Combined with the soft EVA core and low balance point, it delivers outstanding manoeuvrability and placement accuracy.

Volleys are where this racket truly excels. The quick handling allows rapid racket adjustments for both forehand and backhand volleys, and the soft core provides excellent feel and touch. Drop volleys, push volleys, and block volleys all feel natural and controlled.

From the baseline, the racket handles defensive situations well. Bandejas can be directed accurately, and defensive lobs are easy to execute with depth and placement.

Power

Power is limited — this is not a racket designed for aggressive hitting. The round shape, soft core, and low balance all prioritise control over pace. Smashes lack the explosive pop of teardrop or diamond rackets. Baseline drives are adequately paced but will not overpower opponents.

For the intended audience — control players, touch specialists, and developing players — this power level is appropriate. The racket encourages placement and strategy over brute force, which is the right approach for most recreational players.

Spin

The transparent surface on the 2025 model has a basic texture coating — less pronounced than the updated 2026 version. Spin production is moderate: adequate for standard topspin and slice but not outstanding for advanced spin techniques. Players who rely heavily on spin may find the surface a limiting factor.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature. The soft EVA core, round shape, and forgiving sweet spot combine to create one of the most arm-friendly rackets available. Vibration on off-centre hits is well-absorbed, and long playing sessions are effortless. For players with arm sensitivity or a history of tennis elbow, the Optix V1 2025 is an excellent option.

Sweet Spot

The sweet spot is large and centrally located — the benefit of the round shape. Mishits still produce reasonable results, which builds confidence for developing players. The forgiveness factor is among the highest in the market.

Optix V1 2025 vs 2026: Key Differences

Feature	2025 Model	2026 Model
Surface Texture	Basic coating	Improved textured coating
Frame Construction	Standard composite	Refined composite
Core	EVA Soft	EVA Soft (optimised)
Spin Potential	Moderate	Improved
Price	£100-£140 (discounted)	£120-£160

The 2026 model is an evolution rather than a revolution — improved surface texture for spin, refined core density, and minor frame construction upgrades. The 2025 model remains a very capable racket, and at its discounted price, it offers outstanding value.

Who Is It For?

• Control players: Outstanding placement and touch capabilities
• Beginners: The forgiving sweet spot and comfort make it an excellent learning racket
• Players with arm issues: Among the most comfortable rackets available
• Net specialists: Superb manoeuvrability for volley-dominated play
• Value seekers: The 2025 model often available at discounted prices makes it exceptional value
• Design enthusiasts: The transparent face remains visually stunning

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Unique transparent design — still a head-turner
• Excellent control and manoeuvrability
• Large, forgiving sweet spot
• Outstanding comfort and arm-friendliness
• Great for net play
• Often available at discounted price as previous year model

Cons

• Limited power output
• Basic surface texture limits spin (improved in 2026 model)
• Advanced players will want more performance
• Power players should look elsewhere

Our Rating

Overall: 7/10

• Control: 9/10
• Power: 5/10
• Spin: 6/10
• Comfort: 9.5/10
• Value: 8.5/10 (at discounted 2025 pricing)

Final Verdict

The Wilson Optix V1 2025 remains a compelling racket, particularly at its now-discounted price. The transparent design is still as eye-catching as when it first launched, and the performance underneath — outstanding control, comfort, and forgiveness — makes it a genuine recommendation for beginners, control players, and anyone who values touch over power.

If you can find it at a reduced price (which is increasingly common as retailers make way for the 2026 model), it is one of the best value propositions in padel. If you want the latest version with improved spin, step up to the 2026 model. Either way, you are getting a unique, well-made racket that plays as good as it looks.

For more racket options, see our comprehensive Best Padel Rackets 2026 guide.