Adidas 2022 Collection: what's new in rackets for the three-stripes brand.

At the start of every year, it's the same story: all brands release their new collections with even more innovative technologies. But this time, the 2022 collection from Adidas has stood out thanks to numerous rather interesting racket reissues. Our team at Esprit Padel Shop has therefore taken a close look at these releases to bring you this concise summary of this year's new products. 

Metalbone and Adipower: the brand's flagships. 

Clearly, when talking about Adidas in padel, the Metalbone and Adipower rackets are the first that spring to mind. Many pro players use them, and they enjoy great success among amateur players. 

METALBONE 3.1: racket of champion Alejandro Galan 

Having recently become world number 1 and won the end-of-season Masters (a tournament that brings together the 8 best pairs of the year), Alejandro Galan has just finished an exceptional 2021 alongside Adidas. For 2022, the 3-stripes brand decided to reissue the Spanish champion's famous Metalbone, the Metalbone 3.1, which this year benefits from an Eva High Memory core to provide a firmer feel and therefore increase its power. 

Adidas has also produced palas inspired by the main model, such as the control version of the Metalbone, which will ensure better manoeuvrability for players. The Metalbone Lite 3.1 and Metalbone Lite Woman 3.1 are much lighter and more accessible variations, providing essential playing comfort for more casual players.

ADIPOWER 3.1: the most famous in the collection! 

As has been the case for years, the Adipower collection is one of the most sought-after, and for good reason—many professional players use it. Starting with the newly retired Sebastian Nerone, who sees his pala updated to the Adipower 3.1. Designed for powerful players thanks to its diamond shape, control is not overlooked, featuring an enlarged surface to provide a more forgiving sweet spot.

Its control version, the Adipower CTRL 3.1, features a round shape and enhanced precision to control every ball sent by the opponent. This is the pala chosen by Alejandro Ruiz, world number 7, to perform on the WPT circuit. In the same line as the CTRL, the Adipower Light 3.1 is a very manoeuvrable and lightweight racket used by Spanish player Marta Ortega, world number 14. 

Just like the Metalbone, the Adipower gets its own Light range, which are lighter and suitable for less experienced players. The Adipower Light 3.1 is therefore the power version, while the Light CTRL 3.1 is the control version. 

GREENPADEL: the eco-friendly innovation from Adidas

New for this year, Greenpadel rackets are palas made with recycled materials and flax fibre faces. By offering the Adipower and the Metalbone in Green versions, Adidas is launching products that have zero impact on the environment and is already beginning to shape the future of padel. Not yet high-performance enough for the professional level, these rackets nonetheless achieve surprising results at advanced level. We can therefore hope that other brands follow in the footsteps of Adidas in order, eventually, to equip all pro players with recycled rackets and set an example for other racket sports. 

The other Adidas ranges: to progress with complete confidence

Essnova 3.1

Also very popular last season, the Essnova makes its comeback with version 3.1. 2 new rackets are thus introduced alongside the classic Essnova 3.1. Packed with power, the diamond shape and its 3k carbon faces allow you to capitalise on padel's attacking shots such as the smash or volleys. If, however, you have a counter-attacking game, the Essnova CTRL 3.1 version will satisfy you with its round shape and low balance point. Worth noting is the great value for money of this range, designed for advanced players. 

RX Series 2022

The RX series from Adidas is suitable for intermediate players who play a few times a month and want to progress to the next level. This year, 3 rackets are reissued in this category. First of all, the RX300, offering a versatile playing style with its teardrop shape; the power / control ratio is balanced. Ideal for mastering all padel shots and improving at your own pace. The RX100 shares the same characteristics, with only the weight changing for increased manoeuvrability (-20g). The RX200 Light, for its part, is geared more towards women. 

Discovery Range

For beginners, Adidas has opted for 2 different rackets along with their variations. For power and explosiveness—moderate, of course, for beginners—the Adidas Match 3.1 is a great racket to start with. However, if you need maximum control to better master the balls, the Adidas Drive 3.1 will suit you better with its round shape. Both rackets come in a Light version, with a reduced weight that is ideal for women or teenagers. 

Thanks to this 2022 collection, Adidas shows that it is indeed one of the most influential manufacturers on the market. Their new Greenpadel innovation is a major step forward into what could be the future of rackets. What's more, all levels are catered for this year, and everything is available on our website, so feel free to check out the product pages for each item. 

By Pierre Mercier, editor at Esprit Padel Shop

Passionate about sport, especially tennis and basketball, he fell in love with padel and found his new sport of choice. Bringing all his expertise, he will offer you 2 types of articles throughout the year: the new collections released by the biggest brands as well as articles on the wider padel ecosystem.