Padel racket hardness: what does 3K, 12K or 15K mean?
Have you seen padel rackets with labels like 3K, 12K, or 15K and wondered what they mean? These values refer to the type of carbon used in the racket's surface and determine its hardness, power, and control . Let's explain it simply.
What do 3K, 12K and 15K mean on a padel racket?
The number followed by “K” indicates the amount of carbon filaments per thread used in the outer layer of the blade:
- 3K: 3,000 filaments per strand → denser, harder and stronger carbon.
- 12K: 12,000 filaments → medium-high hardness, with a good balance of power/control.
- 15K or 18K: finer and more elastic fibers → more comfortable hit and greater ball exit speed.
In summary, the higher the "K" number, the more flexible and comfortable the paddle feels; the lower the number, the harder and more powerful it is .
Hard padel rackets vs soft padel rackets
The hardness of the paddle directly influences the feel of the shot and performance:
| Guy | Advantages | Disadvantages | For whom |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hard rackets (3K, 6K) | More power and precision. Greater durability. | Lower ball speed. They require good technique. | Advanced or professional players. |
| Medium rackets (12K) | Balance between power and control. | Versatility, but without excelling at one extreme. | Intermediate players in progress. |
| Soft rackets (15K, 18K) | More comfort, better ball exit, less vibration. | Lower power in strong shots. | Beginner players or players with physical discomfort. |
What difficulty level is right for you based on your skill level
- Beginner: soft rackets (15K or 18K), more comfort and control.
- Intermediate: 12K, balance between ball exit speed and precision.
- Advanced: 3K or 6K, greater power and firmness in the blows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, a hard or a soft padel racket?
There's no single answer. Hard tires provide power, soft tires offer comfort. It depends on your style and skill level.
Does the type of rubber affect the hardness?
Yes. Soft EVA rubber makes the padel racket softer, while Hard EVA or Black EVA rubber makes it firmer and more powerful.
What type of carbon do professionals use?
Most people opt for carbon rackets between 3K or 12K because of their stability, power and precision in fast shots.