For the first time, padel star Agustin Tapia offers five versions of his AT10 racket to choose from. Last year featured four models, but the big news for 2026 is the introduction of the AT10 Lite — the lightest version yet. This article dives deep into the differences, performance, and ideal player profiles for each of these new rackets.
Agustin Tapia’s 2026 AT10 collection includes five rackets:
AT10 12K Alum Extreme (Hybrid mold)
AT10 18K Alum (Hybrid mold)
AT10 12K Lite (Hybrid mold, lightest model)
AT10 Attack 12K (Diamond mold)
AT10 Attack 18K (Diamond mold)
The new AT10 Lite is the standout addition, designed for players seeking a lightweight, easy-to-handle option.
Tapia tested over 20 combinations of carbons and cores across different molds (hybrid and diamond) before selecting his preferred core and two favorite carbon types. He also revisited the diamond mold, which he has used in the past and favors for its offensive capabilities.
AT10 12K Alum Extreme
Most sought-after model.
Uses 12K carbon and a specific core.
Offers a dry feel with high control.
AT10 18K Alum
Uses the same carbon and core as last year but feels different due to the new mold.
Improved air channel and option to add weights to the head.
AT10 12K Lite
Lightest model (approx. 354 g with setup).
Uses HR3 White EVA core, softer than the HR3 Black and MLDD cores.
Designed for players with arm pain or those preferring easy handling.
AT10 Attack 12K
Same materials as the hybrid 12K but with diamond mold.
Balance increases by 1.5 cm (from 25.2 to 26.7 cm).
More power but less maneuverability and control.
Features an almost all-white design with silver carbon finish.
AT10 Attack 18K
Same core as the hybrid 18K (MLDD).
Balance at 26.2 cm, intermediate between hybrids and Attack 12K.
Black design contrasting with the white 12K models.
All rackets share the same sandy roughness and 3D texture on the face.
Grip size varies: 12 cm on hybrids, 13 cm on diamonds (more aggressive).
Weight ranges:
Lite: ~354 g
Others: 360-375 g
Prices (with 10% discount via Gold Foret):
Hybrid 12K is the most expensive at €350.
12K models have less ball output but more power and control.
18K models offer a bigger sweet spot and more comfortable feel.
The Lite model combines stiff carbon with a soft core, resulting in intermediate ball output and softness.
Hybrids are more maneuverable than diamonds.
Diamonds have higher balance, making them harder to move but more powerful.
Hybrid 12K: Dry, firm feel; requires pronounced swings; large sweet spot; excellent control.
Hybrid 18K: Softer feel; ball sinks more; comfortable but less dry.
Attack 12K: Weakest in defense; smaller sweet spot; less maneuverable.
Attack 18K: Similar to Attack 12K but with more sweet spot and ball output.
Lite: Highest ball output among 12K models; extremely easy to handle; low balance reduces strain.
Hybrid 12K: Best volley performance; dry but reactive; perfect balance of maneuverability and control.
Hybrid 18K: Easier volley with less effort; bigger sweet spot; softer feel.
Attack 12K: Very offensive but harder to move; higher sweet spot.
Attack 18K: Softer than Attack 12K; high speed with less control.
Lite: Effortless volleying due to light weight and low balance; less effective at highest speeds.
Hybrid 12K: Most complete; good spin potential; dry feel.
Hybrid 18K: More aggressive; higher ball output but less control.
Attack 12K: Excels in overheads; high balance provides leverage; physically demanding.
Attack 18K: Softer and more forgiving than Attack 12K; still offensive.
Lite: Comfortable and soft; difficult to accelerate the ball.
Surprisingly, the Hybrid 12K produced the longest average smash distances due to its maneuverability allowing faster swings and better energy transfer. The Attack 12K, while powerful, requires more physical strength to maximize its potential.
Hybrid 12K Alum Extreme: Most balanced and complete; ideal for players seeking control, reactivity, and maneuverability.
Hybrid 18K Alum: Comfortable with a bigger sweet spot; suitable for players wanting easier handling.
Attack 12K: Best for aggressive players with physical strength; high power and offensive play.
Attack 18K: Softer and more forgiving offensive racket; good intermediate option.
AT10 12K Lite: Perfect for players needing comfort, easy handling, and reduced arm strain.
The 2026 AT10 lineup offers a racket for every type of player, from the lightweight comfort of the 12K Lite to the aggressive power of the Attack 12K. Understanding the technical differences and on-court performance can help you choose the racket that best fits your style and needs.