The 2026 season has brought four of the most anticipated padel rackets to the spotlight: Agustín Tapia’s NOX AT10 Genius 18K Alum, Ale Galán’s Adidas Metalbone HRD , Juan Lebrón’s Babolat Technical Viper, and Arturo Coello’s HEAD Coello Pro. Each model reflects the playing style of its star, but the differences in balance, ball output, and control make them suitable for very different types of players.
Balance and feel
Three of the four rackets—Metalbone, Viper, and Coello Pro—feature a diamond shape, giving them a higher and more aggressive balance around 27 cm. Tapia’s AT10 stands out with a hybrid mold and a lower balance of 25.6 cm, making it easier to maneuver. Despite similar weights (363–366 grams depending on setup), the way each racket distributes that weight changes the sensation dramatically.
Materials and construction
The Metalbone uses 16K aluminized carbon, offering rigidity and reactivity, while the AT10 combines 12K aluminized carbon with sandy roughness for added spin. The Viper relies on 3K carbon, producing the stiffest feel, and the Coello Pro blends carbon fiber with fiberglass for a more solid response. All four rackets use their brands’ hardest cores, but Adidas’s is notably more reactive, giving the Metalbone extra ball output compared to the others.
On-court performance
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Defense: Tapia’s AT10 is the most versatile, with a large sweet spot and easy handling. The Viper demands more effort but rewards precise positioning with surgical control. The Coello Pro feels heavy in hand, while the Metalbone helps push the ball across but requires careful control.
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Volleys: The Metalbone delivers the fastest response, while the AT10 ensures safe and quick preparation. The Coello Pro feels like a shield, solid but demanding, and the Viper offers heavy offensive potential for players with strong technique.
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Overheads: The AT10 is the least tiring, ideal for long matches. The Coello Pro launches powerful flat shots, the Metalbone generates explosive speed, and the Viper transfers tip weight effectively for firm bandejas and viboras.
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Smashes: According to testing, the Viper provides maximum power for players with strong physical ability. The Metalbone helps those lacking raw strength, while the AT10 excels in spin smashes. The Coello Pro proves solid across levels, delivering consistent distance.
Who each racket suits
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Adidas Metalbone HRD : Best for players who value customization and explosive ball output.
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HEAD Coello Pro: Ideal for those seeking solidity and power, even if it demands more effort.
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NOX AT10 Genius 18K Alum: Perfect for versatile players who want balance and comfort across all shots.
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Babolat Technical Viper: Designed for advanced players with strong technique who prefer hard, controlled rackets.
Tapia and Coello in Buenos Aires, ranking, and results
WWWWWWLWWW Tapia and Coello have achieved a win-loss 24-5 record together in 2026. The last match they played was on the 17th of May lost to Chingotto (world no.3) and Galan (world no.3) 6-2 6-1 in the final.
