Padel vs Tennis what are the real differences and which one should you play

Padel and Tennis are two of the most popular racket sports in the world, but they offer very different playing experiences. Many players enjoy both, and the rapid growth of Padel has attracted Tennis players, beginners, and complete newcomers. Understanding how the two sports differ can help you decide which one suits your style, fitness level, and goals.

This guide explains the main differences between Padel and Tennis and includes links to equipment available at All Things Padel via https://allthingspadel.co.uk.

The court and playing environment

Tennis is played on a full-size open court, demanding strong footwork, power, and stamina. Space is a key part of the game, with long rallies driven by movement and technique.

Padel is played on a smaller 20m by 10m enclosed court with glass walls and metal fencing. The walls are part of the game and keep rallies going longer, creating new tactical angles not found in Tennis.

Players wanting to get started in Padel can browse beginner-friendly rackets at:
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-rackets

The enclosed court makes Padel feel faster and more reactive, while Tennis feels more physical and expansive.

Racket differences

Tennis rackets are large, strung, and designed to create power, spin, and precision.

Padel rackets are completely different. They are:

• solid EVA foam

• perforated with holes

• shorter and easier to manoeuvre

• available with fibreglass or carbon faces

• designed for compact swings and control

Fibreglass Padel rackets (best for beginners):
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-rackets?filter.v.surface=Fibreglass

Carbon Padel rackets (for experienced players or Tennis converts):
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-rackets?filter.v.surface=Carbon

Ball and bounce differences

Tennis balls use standard pressure and produce a higher, faster bounce.

Padel balls look similar but use slightly lower pressure, creating a lower and more controlled bounce. This suits the smaller court and wall rebounds.

Official Padel balls can be found at:
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-balls

Using Tennis balls on a Padel court changes the game dramatically and should be avoided.

Technique and stroke mechanics

Tennis strokes rely on long swings, heavy topspin, and explosive movement. The serve is a major weapon and requires significant practice.

Padel technique is compact and controlled. The sport rewards:

• positioning

• timing

• quick reactions

• smart use of walls

• teamwork

• touch and feel rather than pure power

Players transitioning from Tennis often need to shorten their swings to adapt to Padel.

Accessories to help with grip and comfort are available at:
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-accessories

Singles vs doubles

Tennis offers singles and doubles. Singles emphasises movement and stamina, while doubles focuses on net play and teamwork.

Padel is always played in doubles.
This creates a naturally social atmosphere and keeps all four players constantly involved.

For group play or families trying Padel, beginner rackets can be found at:
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-rackets

Physical demands and movement

Tennis requires covering a large court, explosive sprints, and high-intensity footwork.

Padel is more about:

• short, sharp steps

• anticipation

• positioning

• angles

• efficient movement

Padel provides a great workout but is noticeably lower impact, making it appealing for players of all ages.

Lightweight Padel rackets perfect for this quick movement style:
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-rackets?filter.v.weight=Light

Learning curve

Tennis requires time to master serves, topspin, slice, and footwork patterns.

Padel is widely known as one of the easiest racket sports to learn. Most beginners can rally within minutes, which is one of the reasons the sport is growing so fast.

Soft EVA beginner rackets ideal for learning proper technique:
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-rackets?filter.v.core=Soft+EVA

Which sport should you choose?

Tennis is ideal for players who enjoy:

• technical mastery

• physical challenge

• both singles and doubles

• powerful groundstrokes

Padel is ideal for players who want:

• fast-paced action

• long rallies

• teamwork and communication

• an easy learning curve

• low-impact movement

• strategic and reactive gameplay

Many players now enjoy both sports because they complement each other perfectly.

Why Tennis players are adding Padel

Tennis players often find Padel improves:

• volleying skills

• hand speed

• reaction time

• doubles teamwork

• tactical vision

Padel also places less strain on joints, making it a perfect additional sport.

Equipment suited for Tennis players transitioning to Padel is available at:
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-rackets

How All Things Padel supports players

All Things Padel offers curated equipment for beginners, intermediate players, and advanced competitors. Players benefit from:

• specialist product advice

• high-quality curated selections

• next day UK delivery

• reliable customer service

Explore all Padel categories:

Rackets
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-rackets

Balls
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-balls

Bags
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-bags

Accessories
https://allthingspadel.co.uk/collections/padel-accessories

Conclusion

Padel and Tennis each offer something unique. Tennis delivers athletic depth, powerful strokes, and a long-standing competitive tradition. Padel offers fast rallies, simple rules, and unmatched social enjoyment. Many players now choose to play both sports because they complement each other so well.

Everything you need to begin your journey into Padel can be found at https://allthingspadel.co.uk.