Rackets, shoes, balls — what you need and where to buy it in NZ.
For your first few sessions: court shoes and water. That's it. Hire a racket from the club. Don't buy gear until you've played at least 5 times.
Padel rackets are solid (no strings) with a perforated face. They come in three shapes:
| Level | Price (NZD) | Recommended Shape |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | $80 — $150 | Round |
| Intermediate | $150 — $300 | Teardrop |
| Advanced | $300 — $500+ | Any (preference-based) |
Court shoes or tennis shoes with non-marking herringbone soles. Padel involves constant lateral movement — running shoes don't provide the sideways support you need. Brands like Asics, Head, and Nike all make suitable options. Budget $100-200.
Most NZ padel clubs stock a small range of rackets and accessories. The advantage: you can hold the racket and sometimes demo it before buying.