Padel balls explained: types, pressure and when to replace them

Padel balls look like tennis balls but are not the same. They run at lower internal pressure and are slightly smaller, so they bounce lower and travel a little slower — which suits a game played inside walls, with lots of volleys and long rallies.

A tennis ball bounces too high and too fast off the glass and makes padel feel chaotic. For real padel, buy balls made for padel.

Almost all match balls are pressurised: packed in a sealed can that keeps their internal pressure until opened. They play livelier and are what clubs and tournaments use.

Pressureless balls get their bounce from a thicker rubber core instead. They last longer and do not go flat in storage, but they feel heavier and harder on the arm. They suit training, ball machines and coaching baskets more than matches.

Many brands make several models of the same ball: a faster version with a livelier feel for attacking players and warm conditions, and a control version that sits up a little slower for longer rallies. Speed also changes with conditions: balls fly faster in the heat and at altitude, and feel heavier in cold, damp weather.

If your club plays at high altitude, look for balls labelled for altitude; their lower pressure stops them flying.

A pressurised can starts losing pressure the moment it is opened. Most club players find a can feels noticeably flatter after two to four hours of play, and serious players open a fresh can for every match.

A simple test: drop the ball from shoulder height onto a hard floor next to a new one. If it bounces clearly lower, it is time for a new can.

Fresh balls make the biggest difference for newer players, who need predictable bounce to learn. If you are just starting, our guide to padel rules for beginners covers the rest. Browse every padel ball we stock.