Aladin from Total Padel is joined by three-time German padel champion Denise Höfer to playtest the new HEAD Radical range. The Radical series features teardrop-shaped rackets designed for players who prioritize control but still want the versatility to attack. This new lineup includes the Pro, Motion, and Team models, all featuring the new "Control Foam" core to enhance the sweet spot and the "Soft Butt Cap" technology to reduce vibrations and allow for customizable wrist straps.
The Radical Pro is the heaviest model in the range at 370g, featuring a double layer of carbon fiber on the hitting surface for enhanced touch. Denise notes that it is exceptionally solid for volleys, bandejas, and viboras, making it a perfect weapon for advanced and tournament-level players. However, its weight can be demanding in defense, requiring significant physical power to maneuver effectively during long rallies.
The Radical Motion is the lightest version at 355g and was the clear favorite during the test. It offers a double carbon surface similar to the Pro but in a much more manageable package. Denise highlighted its versatility, noting it was easy to handle for lobs and chiquitas in defense, while still providing plenty of speed for volleys and drop shots at the net. It is ideal for players who want a lightweight, high-performance racket that doesn't sacrifice control for speed.
The Radical Team weighs 360g and stands out as the most comfortable option due to its fiberglass hitting surface. This material choice provides a more forgiving feel and a larger sweet spot, making it the best fit for beginners or intermediate players looking to improve their consistency. While it lacks the raw speed and rigidity of the carbon models, it offers the highest level of tolerance, helping amateur players place the ball exactly where they want it.
The HEAD Radical range successfully covers the spectrum from entry-level comfort to professional-grade precision. The Pro model serves as a stable powerhouse for experienced players, while the Team model offers the necessary forgiveness for those still developing their game. The Motion emerges as the standout "all-rounder," providing a perfect balance of maneuverability and performance that will likely appeal to the broadest range of competitive padel players.