What color should padel balls be: the evolution of one of the bases of the sport

Discover the historical evolution of padel balls, together with the current varieties and their impact on the game

One of the main details when practicing a sport is the necessity to understand its regulations and abide by them. While one of the most recognized features of padel is that it derives many of its principles from tennis, one of these is the iconic color of the balls used in both sports.

In this article, we’ll delve into the history behind the color of the official balls, and some thrilling variations.

Allowed colors for padel balls according to regulations

On page 11 of the official regulations of the International Padel Federation, the ball is discussed. Regarding its color, it is stated that “The ball must be a rubber sphere with a consistent external color of white or yellow”

This clarification includes the historical original color, since in the early days of the sport the balls were originally white to differentiate them from the traditional green color of the court. Today, this remains in the regulations as an official color, even though it’s no longer in use in official tournaments and competitions.

Head ball on an official padel court
Head ball on an official padel court

The color of the balls in racket sports

The advent of color television drastically changed the broadcasting and regulations of sports. That’s why in 1972 the International Tennis Federation decided to change the ball’s color from white due to the difficulty of tracking it on TV, as it easily blended with the court lines.

White ball in a traditional tennis match
White ball in a traditional tennis match

Following a study, it was determined that fluorescent yellow was better both for the players and for spectators, allowing easier tracking without straining the eyes.

Arturo Coello playing with an official World Padel Tour ball
Arturo Coello playing with an official World Padel Tour ball

Today, many brands are known for providing top-notch padel balls. Some of our favorites include:

Head Padel Pro S Balls

Head Padel Balls
OFFER: €5.50
RRP: €6.50

Head Padel Pro S Balls

The Head Padel Pro S balls are the official balls of the World Padel Tour. They provide a clean, light, and fast bounce and good control. They also have a pleasant texture. A brand classic that remains a favorite among players.

Bullpadel Premium Balls

Bullpadel FIP Next Pro Balls
OFFER: 4,50 €
RRP: 6,00 €

Bullpadel Premium Balls

The Bullpadel Next Pro balls provide great game speed, which accelerates the pace of the matches. Additionally, they offer high durability due to the high-density rubber core.

It is a ball for players with more experience, since with little force, the ball is released at high speed, making the game much faster and dynamic.

Adidas Speed RX Balls

Dunlop Pro Padel Balls
OFFER: 4,40 €
RRP: 6,00 €

Adidas Speed RX Balls

The Adidas Speed ​​Pro RX balls are an established axis in the sport, a consecrated model of the brand and a favorite among players since it reduces vibrations and achieves a uniform flight.

Made with 50% felt with wool that stands out for its high quality rubber and its fast recovery.

Other colors of padel balls

Colors over time have been changing and altering when it comes to unofficial competitions, an example of this are the orange balls, so popular in versions of padel where they play on fluorescent courts.

Nox Pink Balls AECC
Nox Pink Balls AECC

Just like the Nox pink padel balls, they are becoming more and more well-known, as these balls, when purchased, help with donations against breast cancer.

Today, whether you prefer the classic white ball or want to add a touch of color to your matches, you can undoubtedly find options to meet your needs and express your own style on the court.