What Is Padel? A Beginner’s Guide to the Fastest-Growing Racket Sport

If you haven’t played padel yet, you’re missing out on one of the world’s fastest-growing (and most addicting) sports.

What is it exactly? Think of it as the perfect mix of tennis and squash—played on a smaller court with walls you can bounce the ball off of. It’s fast, fun, easy to learn, and always played in doubles, making it a super social game.

• The Basics: Padel is played in doubles on an enclosed court about one-third the size of a tennis court. The walls are in play, much like squash.

  
  

• Equipment: Players use solid, stringless rackets and low-compression balls.

  
  

• Scoring: Uses the same scoring system as tennis (15, 30, 40, game).

  
  

• Why It’s Popular: Easier to learn than tennis, less physically demanding, and incredibly fun with others. Padel is a very social sport as well.

  
  

• Fastest Growing Sport: Played by 25M+ people in 90+ countries

Close-up of a padel paddle: perforated face, carbon finish, and built for speed and control.

Ready to try it out?

Flyte is home to the first 4 padel courts in Marin County, and we’re inviting you to experience the sport for yourself at Padel Happy Hour—every Thursday from 5–8PM!

For just $35, you get 3 hours of open play and paddles are included—just show up and hit the court.

https://www.flyte-marin.com/programs/padel-open-play-happyhour

Play a few rounds, enjoy a drink, and connect with new people. Whether you’re trying padel for the first time or already love it, this is the perfect way to get in the game.