Adidas Drive 2026 Padel Racket Review
The Adidas Drive 2026 is the ideal entry point into padel for beginners and casual players. With a round shape, forgiving sweet spot, and lightweight design, it prioritises control and comfort over power — exactly what new players need to develop their technique without fighting their equipment.
Key Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Shape | Round |
| Weight | 345-360g |
| Balance | Low (head-light) |
| Core | EVA Soft Performance |
| Frame | Carbon fibre |
| Surface | Textured fibreglass |
| Price | £50-70 |
Performance Review
Control: 9/10
The round shape positions the sweet spot in the centre of the face, making off-centre hits far more forgiving than diamond or teardrop rackets. For beginners still developing their timing, this is invaluable.
Power: 6/10
You won’t be blasting winners from the baseline with the Drive. The low balance and soft core absorb energy rather than redirect it. However, for volleys and touch shots at the net, it’s perfectly adequate.
Comfort: 9/10
The EVA Soft core absorbs vibration excellently, reducing arm fatigue during long sessions. If you’re playing 2-3 times per week and worried about tennis elbow, this racket is kind to your joints.
Manoeuvrability: 9/10
At 345-360g with a head-light balance, the Drive swings effortlessly. Quick exchanges at the net feel natural, and you can react to fast shots without the racket feeling sluggish.
Who Is It Best For?
- Complete beginners learning the fundamentals
- Casual players who play 1-2 times per month
- Players coming from tennis who want a forgiving transition racket
- Anyone who prioritises comfort and arm-friendliness
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
- Intermediate players wanting more power — consider a teardrop shape
- Aggressive players who rely on smashes — a diamond shape suits better
- Competitive players — you’ll outgrow this quickly
Pros
- ✅ Excellent forgiveness on off-centre hits
- ✅ Very lightweight and manoeuvrable
- ✅ Comfortable for long sessions
- ✅ Outstanding value for money
- ✅ Great for developing technique
Cons
- ❌ Limited power for aggressive play
- ❌ You’ll likely outgrow it within 6-12 months
- ❌ Basic aesthetics compared to premium rackets
Verdict: 7.5/10
The Adidas Drive 2026 does exactly what it’s designed to do — give beginners a comfortable, forgiving racket that lets them focus on learning the game. At £50-70, it’s a no-brainer first racket. Just know that as your skills develop, you’ll want to upgrade to something with more power. For more options, see our Best Padel Rackets 2026 guide.
