What are the rules for a padel racket?
Officials' detail · Court and scoring · 2 of 2Checked 15 October 2026
The paddle has no strings: a solid, perforated head, at most 45.5 cm long and 38 mm thick, with a cord of up to 35 cm worn on the wrist. The ball is 6.35 to 6.77 cm across and bounces 135 to 145 cm from 2.54 m; softer balls may be used above 1,000 m.
How it works
- Strings: none.
- Holes: 9 to 13 mm.
- Length: 45.5 cm at most.
- Width: 26 cm.
- Cord: compulsory, 35 cm.
- Ball: 6.35 to 6.77 cm.
- Bounce: 135 to 145 cm.
- High altitude: lower-bounce ball.
The glossary has the paddle, the padel racket cord, the ball, the change of balls, the attire and the court surface.
Tricky cases
The cord breaks during a point. Result?
The point is lost.
Can I throw my racket at the ball?
No. The point is lost.
When are balls changed?
After an announced odd number of games.
Can players wear swimwear?
No.
Why the rule exists
The cord stops a racket flying into other players or spectators in a tight space.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Paddle | 45.5 cm | L Padel racket |
| Cord | 35 cm | L Padel racket |
| Altitude | Lower bounce | L Ball |
From the rule book
International Padel Federation (FIP), Rules of Padel (2026), the rules on the padel racket, the ball, attire and Rule 17. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: FIP Rules of Padel 2026.