Read the rubber name first

Most StarVie padel rackets name their core rubber, and that tells you how the racket feels before you hold it. Softer rubber is built for comfort and an easy feel. A harder rubber such as Pro Touch is built for more control and power.

• Ultra Speed Soft: ultra soft rubber in the Aquila Speed and Titania Speed, made for comfort and ball speed.
• Soft 30: soft density rubber in the Kenta Soft, Aquila Soft, Raptor Soft, Brava Soft and Astrum Soft.
• Pro 50: in the Kenta Pro and Titania Pro, for extra power and control.
• Pro Touch: a medium-hard rubber in the Triton, Raptor and Metheora Pro Touch models.

Round or teardrop?

Shape changes where the sweet spot sits. Round rackets such as the Kenta Soft, Raptor Soft and Astrum Soft are built around control, and StarVie says the Raptor Soft helps you play both defence and attack. Teardrop rackets such as the Triton Soft and Drax Soft suit players who want more power with control. The Triton Soft has a sweet spot balanced towards the tip, for players with a good level who want extra power in their shots.

Which StarVie for your level?

New to padel? The Titania Ultra Speed Soft Lite is made for players starting out, with a fibreglass head and a maximum weight of 365 g. Intermediate players can look at the Titania Pro, the Aquila Soft or the Exodus. Advanced players will find the Metheora Pro Touch, which StarVie designs for advanced players who want a balance of power and control.

The face material matters too. StarVie uses 3K carbon on many models, and 12K carbon on the Raptor Soft, Raptor Pro Touch and Drax Soft, which it says is more flexible than 3K. The Brava Soft and Astrum Soft use 15K aluminised carbon for a softer feel.

If you are moving up from a beginner racket, start with a round Soft 30 model such as the Raptor Soft, which StarVie aims at intermediate players. Compare it with other brands in padel rackets or browse all padel gear.