Padel, in plain English.
Padel (pronounced pa-DEL) is a doubles racquet sport played on a small, enclosed court with glass walls. It looks a bit like tennis, feels a lot like a giant squash, and is — according to almost everyone who tries it — the most fun you'll have on a court.
The court
About a third the size of a tennis court (20m × 10m), surrounded by glass walls and metal mesh. The walls are in play — think of it like a giant 3D chess board.
Always doubles
Padel is played 2-vs-2. That's part of the magic: you'll always have a partner, and you'll always have someone to high-five.
Underhand serves
The serve must be hit underhand and bounce in the service box. No big-power tennis serves here — anyone can rally on point one.
Walls are your friend
After the ball bounces on the floor, it can hit the wall and stay in play. This is the part that hooks tennis and pickleball players for life.
Tennis-style scoring
15, 30, 40, game. Best of three sets. If you've watched tennis, you're already 80% of the way there.
Padel racquets
Solid, stringless, perforated paddles. Lighter and smaller than a tennis racquet, with more control and less power. Loaners available for your first session.
Coming from another racquet sport?
Tennis player?
You already know the scoring. Forget the topspin forehand — padel rewards placement and angles. Your volley game will translate beautifully.
Pickleball player?
You'll love the soft-game and dinks at the net. Plus: way longer rallies, way more strategy. The court is also outdoors with real fresh air.
Squash player?
Walls? Glass? You're going to be dangerous. Just remember the ball must bounce on the floor first before hitting the wall.
Ready to give it a try?
We run free intro sessions every weekend. No equipment, no experience, no excuses.