Bullpadel Hack 03 24 Review
The Intermediate Player’s All-Round Secret Weapon
📋 Table of Contents
Overview & First Impressions
When most padel players talk about Bullpadel, the conversation quickly turns to the iconic Hack 04 — the powerful diamond beast swung by world number two Paquito Navarro. But tucked quietly beneath its flashier sibling sits a racket that arguably offers more value for the vast majority of club players: the Bullpadel Hack 03 24.
Launched as the 2024 edition of the Hack 03 line, this round-shaped racket is engineered for the intermediate-to-advanced player who wants Bullpadel’s legendary craftsmanship without sacrificing comfort or control for raw power. It strikes a balance that very few rackets at this price point manage to achieve, and it has quietly earned itself a loyal following on courts across the UK.
In this review, we put the Bullpadel Hack 03 24 through its paces across multiple sessions on both indoor and outdoor courts. We tested it in pairs matches, against the glass wall, in extended rallies and during pressure points to give you the most complete picture possible. Whether you’re stepping up from a beginner racket or looking for a more comfortable alternative to a demanding power stick, this guide will tell you everything you need to know.
🎾 Bullpadel Hack 03 24 — Buy on Amazon UK
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Check Price on Amazon UK →Design & Build Quality
Bullpadel’s design philosophy has always combined athletic aesthetics with functional engineering, and the Hack 03 24 is no exception. The racket features a predominantly black frame with striking red and grey accent detailing — a nod to its more aggressive sibling, the Hack 04, while retaining its own distinct identity.
The round face shape provides an enlarged sweet spot compared to diamond or teardrop alternatives, meaning off-centre strikes are far more forgiving. This is crucial for intermediate players still refining their positional play and stroke technique. The face is perforated with Bullpadel’s trademark hole pattern, which reduces air resistance on swing-through and helps generate that characteristic whip at contact.
Pick it up and you immediately appreciate the craftsmanship. The weight — officially stated at 360–375g — feels well-distributed in hand. There’s no feeling of nose-heaviness that you sometimes get with power-oriented diamond rackets. The balance point sits in the medium range, giving the Hack 03 24 a neutral feel that works equally well at net and in defensive positions at the back of the court.
The Comfort Eva Plus grip system wraps the handle in a material that absorbs vibration effectively. After a two-hour session, our test arm reported no fatigue or discomfort — a genuine achievement given the percussive nature of padel. The grip circumference is standard (G4 — 4¼ inches), and the included Bullpadel overgrip adds a little extra tackiness if you prefer a thicker feel.
Technology Deep-Dive
Hybrid Carbon + Fibreglass Frame
The Hack 03 24 uses a hybrid construction that combines carbon fibre rails with fibreglass face panels. This dual-material approach delivers structural rigidity where you need it (the frame) while maintaining flex and softness across the hitting surface — the best of both worlds for intermediate players.
Soft EVA Core
The interior is filled with a soft EVA rubber core that absorbs energy on impact, reducing vibration transmission to the arm and providing a plush, comfortable feel. This technology is particularly valued by players who suffer from tennis or padel elbow, as the shock-dampening properties are exceptional.
Comfort EVA Plus Grip
Bullpadel’s Comfort EVA Plus grip system cushions the handle, complementing the soft core to create a racket that feels genuinely comfortable across long play sessions. The grip material offers good tackiness even in humid conditions, an important consideration for UK outdoor play.
Multi-Layered Carbon Rails
While the face uses fibreglass, the outer rails of the Hack 03 incorporate carbon fibre layers for structural stiffness. This reinforcement prevents frame flex on harder strikes, maintaining directional control even when you catch the ball on the edge of the sweet spot.
Aerodynamic Hole Design
The precisely positioned holes across the face are engineered to reduce aerodynamic drag during the swing. Less resistance means a faster swing path — which translates to additional speed on the ball without requiring extra physical effort from the player.
Round Profile Geometry
The round head shape maximises the sweet spot area compared to teardrop or diamond formats. For players developing their stroke consistency, this geometric choice is forgiving and confidence-inspiring — particularly important during the transition from beginner to intermediate level.
Performance on Court
Control & Touch
This is where the Hack 03 24 genuinely shines. The combination of a round face, soft EVA core, and medium balance creates a racket that feels remarkably intuitive at net. Volleys have a crisp, predictable response — you know exactly where the ball is going. The touch on drop shots and dink volleys is exceptional for a racket at this price point, rivalling models that cost significantly more.
At the back of the court, the soft core gives defensive strokes from the glass a satisfying cushioned feel. Lobs come off cleanly, and the racket generates enough controlled power to push opponents back without sacrificing direction. This is a genuinely complete all-court racket rather than a specialist tool.
Power & Smash
Don’t expect the explosive power of a diamond-shaped carbon weapon like the Hack 04. This isn’t that racket, and that’s entirely by design. The Hack 03 24 generates comfortable, manageable power — enough to hurt opponents on the right shot, but not so much that it becomes unpredictable when you’re not perfectly positioned. Smashes land with authority, particularly when the ball drops into the central sweet spot. The fibreglass face actually enhances trampoline effect slightly on hard strikes, giving you a pleasant pop on attacking balls.
Where power players may find it lacking is in the ultra-fast flick smash. The softer core absorbs some energy on maximum-effort shots, meaning you won’t generate the same ball pace as a stiffer, carbon-faced competitor. For most club players playing at three to four sessions per week, this is absolutely not a concern.
Spin Generation
The textured surface of the Hack 03 24 provides adequate grip on the ball for topspin and slice. It’s not a specialist spin machine — rackets like the Adidas Adipower feature more aggressive surface textures for that. However, the Hack 03 generates plenty of usable spin for UK padel conditions, particularly helpful when attacking the back glass with kick smashes.
Maneuverability & Speed
At 360–375g with a medium balance, the Hack 03 24 is responsive and quick through the air. Exchanges at the net don’t feel sluggish, and you can redirect quickly without straining. Players transitioning from lighter beginner rackets may notice the weight initially, but within two to three sessions, the balance becomes second nature.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Exceptionally forgiving, large sweet spot
- Superb comfort — excellent for arm-sensitive players
- Great all-round performance at net and back court
- Premium Bullpadel build quality at intermediate price
- Medium balance — works for all court positions
- Good value compared to Hack 04
- Stylish design with Bullpadel heritage aesthetics
❌ Cons
- Not designed for aggressive power players
- Softer core limits pace on flat smashes
- Spin generation is average vs specialist rivals
- Advanced players may outgrow it quickly
Who Should Buy This Racket?
The Bullpadel Hack 03 24 is tailor-made for a specific player profile. You’ll love this racket if you are:
This is not the racket for you if you’re an advanced player seeking maximum ball speed, a specialist power hitter, or a beginner who hasn’t yet built consistent contact technique (in which case, look at the Wilson Optix V1 or HEAD Evo Extreme for more accessible entry points).
How It Compares
| Racket | Shape | Control | Power | Comfort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bullpadel Hack 03 24 | Round | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | All-round intermediate |
| Bullpadel Hack 04 26 | Diamond | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Advanced power player |
| NOX ML10 Pro Cup 25 | Diamond | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Advanced attacking player |
| Bullpadel Vertex 05 Hybrid 26 | Teardrop | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Int-advanced versatile |
The Hack 03 24 occupies a sweet spot in the Bullpadel range. If you’re not yet ready for the demands of the Vertex Hybrid or the Hack 04, this is exactly the racket that bridges that gap while keeping Bullpadel’s premium quality in your hands.
🛒 Bullpadel Hack 03 24 — Also Available as Hybrid & Comfort Versions
Choose the variant that suits your playing style
View Hack 03 Hybrid on Amazon UK →Practice Drills to Maximise Your Hack 03
The Hack 03 24’s large sweet spot and medium balance make it an ideal training companion. Here are four drills that will help you exploit its strengths:
🎯 Drill 1: Soft-Hand Volleys at the Net
Stand at the net with a partner feeding from the baseline. Focus on redirecting volleys with minimal backswing, using the racket’s soft core to absorb pace rather than generating it. Aim for precise placement at your partner’s feet. This drill highlights the Hack 03’s exceptional touch and rewards economical stroke technique.
🔄 Drill 2: Back Glass Control
From the back of the court, have your partner put up high balls that bounce off the back glass. Practice lobbing consistently from defensive positions, focusing on trajectory control. The Hack 03’s round face makes this drill highly productive — the forgiving sweet spot means you’ll spend more time practising footwork and less correcting mishits.
⚡ Drill 3: Transition Attack
Practise the transition from baseline to net in pairs. One player defends from the back, the other looks for the opportunity to move forward and finish. The Hack 03’s medium balance allows quick positional adjustment — use this drill to develop your attacking footwork and volley decision-making.
🎾 Drill 4: Cross-Court Consistency Challenge
In a controlled rally, alternate cross-court forehand and backhand drives with your partner, keeping the ball deep. Count consecutive successful exchanges. This drill builds stroke consistency and takes full advantage of the Hack 03’s all-court versatility. Target: 20 consecutive exchanges without error.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Year | 2024 |
| Shape | Round |
| Weight | 360–375g |
| Balance | Medium (265–275mm) |
| Face Material | Fibreglass + Carbon Rails |
| Core Material | Soft EVA Rubber |
| Grip | Comfort EVA Plus (G4 standard) |
| Frame Hardness | Medium-Soft |
| Player Level | Intermediate to Advanced Intermediate |
| Playing Style | All-Round / Control-Comfort |
| Brand | Bullpadel |
| Variants Available | Standard, Hybrid, Comfort |
Bullpadel Brand Heritage
Bullpadel was founded in Madrid in 1994 and has grown to become one of the most respected padel equipment brands in the world. Based in Spain — the undisputed spiritual home of padel — Bullpadel supplies many of the world’s top-ranked players, including Paquito Navarro, Marta Ortega, and Alejandra Salazar. The brand’s commitment to innovation, using technologies developed in collaboration with professional players, means every racket in their range carries hard-won expertise from the highest levels of the game. The Hack line specifically reflects Bullpadel’s understanding that elite-quality construction needn’t be reserved for elite players.
🏆 Final Verdict: 8.8/10 — Highly Recommended
The Bullpadel Hack 03 24 is one of the most satisfying all-round padel rackets available in the UK at its price point. It delivers Bullpadel’s exceptional build quality in a format that serves intermediate players extraordinarily well — forgiving on off-centre strikes, comfortable through long sessions, and precise enough at net to genuinely elevate your control game. If the Hack 04 is the hammer, the Hack 03 is the surgeon’s scalpel: a refined, intelligent tool that rewards skill and consistency. For club players looking to step up their game without the unforgiving demands of a full power weapon, this is an outstanding choice. Highly recommended.
🎾 Buy the Bullpadel Hack 03 24 on Amazon UK
Free Prime delivery — multiple variants available
Check Price on Amazon UK →Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bullpadel Hack 03 24 good for beginners?
The Hack 03 24 is primarily designed for intermediate players, but it is accessible enough for advanced beginners who have developed consistent technique. Its forgiving round face and soft core make it less demanding than specialist power rackets. True beginners may find the weight (360–375g) a little heavy — consider starting with the Hack 03 Comfort variant, which is slightly more arm-friendly.
What’s the difference between the Hack 03 Standard, Hybrid, and Comfort versions?
The Standard 03 24 uses the fibreglass/carbon hybrid construction described in this review. The Hybrid variant incorporates more carbon fibre in the face for increased firmness and slightly more power. The Comfort version features an even softer core for maximum shock absorption — ideal for players with arm or shoulder sensitivities. All three share the same round shape and medium balance philosophy.
How does the Hack 03 24 compare to the Hack 04?
The Hack 04 is a diamond-shaped power weapon used by professional player Paquito Navarro. It generates significantly more ball speed but demands better technique and physical preparation. The Hack 03 24 is considerably more forgiving, offers better comfort, and performs more consistently for intermediate club players. Most players below advanced level will enjoy the Hack 03 more than the 04.
Is the Bullpadel Hack 03 24 good for padel elbow sufferers?
Yes — the Hack 03 24 is among the better choices for players managing padel elbow or arm sensitivity. The combination of a soft EVA core and the Comfort EVA Plus grip system significantly reduces vibration transmission to the arm. We recommend pairing it with an anti-vibration overgrip for maximum protection during play.
What stringing does the Bullpadel Hack 03 24 use?
Padel rackets, including the Hack 03 24, use a solid foam/rubber core — they are not strung like tennis rackets. The ball interacts with the perforated EVA face rather than strings. This is by design and is standard across all padel rackets regardless of brand or model.
Where can I buy the Bullpadel Hack 03 24 in the UK?
The Bullpadel Hack 03 24 is available on Amazon UK, which offers free Prime delivery and easy returns. You can find the standard, hybrid, and comfort variants all listed on Amazon UK. PDH Sports, Padel Nation, and other specialist UK padel retailers also stock the full Bullpadel range.
Does the Bullpadel Hack 03 24 come with a cover?
Yes — Bullpadel includes a protective cover with the Hack 03 24. For longer-term protection, particularly if you play frequently outdoors or transport your racket regularly, a dedicated padel racket bag is recommended. See our Best Padel Bags 2026 guide for options across all budgets.
Should I add a protector to the Bullpadel Hack 03 24?
Absolutely — a frame protector is a worthwhile investment for any padel racket, including the Hack 03 24. The carbon/fibreglass frame can chip on contact with the court surface or glass walls, especially during aggressive defensive play. See our detailed guide: Padel Racket Protectors: Are They Worth It?
