Padel FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Everything You've Wanted to Know About Padel (But Were Afraid to Ask)

From "What even is padel?" to "Why do I keep hitting the back glass when I mean to smash?", we've compiled the most common questions from thousands of new and experienced players across the United States.

Quick Navigation:

• Basics & Getting Started
• Rules & Gameplay
• Finding Courts & Clubs
• Equipment & Gear
• Learning & Improving
• Costs & Membership
• Padel vs. Other Sports

Basics & Getting Started

What is padel?

Padel is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It's played in doubles on an enclosed court about 25% smaller than a tennis court, with walls (glass and mesh) that are part of the game. Think of it as tennis meets squash meets "holy cow this is fun."

Key features:

• Always played in doubles
• Walls are in play (ball can bounce off them)
• Underhand serves only
• Scores like tennis
• Strategy over strength

How do you pronounce it?

"PAH-del" (like "paddle" but with an "ah" sound)

Some say "pah-DELL" (Spanish pronunciation), but in the U.S., most people say PAH-del.

Either way works. What matters is getting on the court, not perfect pronunciation.

Where did padel come from?

Padel was invented in 1969 in Acapulco, Mexico by Enrique Corcuera. He built a smaller tennis court at his vacation home and added walls to keep balls from flying into his neighbor's yard.

The sport exploded:

• 1970s: Spread to Spain and Argentina
• 1990s-2000s: Became massive in Europe and Latin America
• 2020s: Finally hitting the United States hard
• Today: 25+ million players in 110 countries

Fun fact: It's the #2 sport in Spain (after soccer) and the fastest-growing sport globally.

Is padel hard to learn?

Nope! It's actually one of the easiest racket sports to pick up:

Difficulty to start playing:

• Padel: ⭐⭐ (Easy)
• Pickleball: ⭐ (Easiest)
• Tennis: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate)
• Squash: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Hard)

Difficulty to master:

• All of them: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very hard)

Most people can rally and have fun in their first 30 minutes. By game 3-4, you'll understand positioning and wall play.

What age can start playing padel?

Kids: As young as 5-6 (with junior programs) Teens: Perfect age—fast learners Adults: Any age Seniors: 60s, 70s, even 80s play regularly

The beauty of padel: Less running than tennis, more strategy than strength. Multi-generational play is common!

Can I play padel alone?

Technically: Yes, singles padel exists (smaller court) Realistically: Padel is designed for doubles

If you're solo:

• Join drop-in sessions (club pairs you with others)
• Use WhatsApp groups (most clubs have them)
• Sign up for open play (show up alone, get matched)
• Take lessons (coach + you)

Over 90% of padel is played in doubles. It's more fun that way!

Rules & Gameplay

How do you score in padel?

Exactly like tennis:

• Points: 0 (love), 15, 30, 40, game
• Deuce at 40-40 (must win by 2 points)
• First to 6 games wins the set (must win by 2 games)
• Tiebreak at 6-6 games
• Best of 3 or 5 sets

If you know tennis scoring, you're already set!

Can the ball hit the wall?

YES! This is what makes padel unique:

Legal wall play:

• Ball bounces on ground → hits wall → you hit it back ✅
• Your shot bounces in opponent's court, then hits their wall ✅
• Ball bounces off wall multiple times before you hit it ✅

Illegal:

• Ball hits wall BEFORE bouncing on ground ❌
• Ball hits ceiling or lights ❌

Do you serve underhand or overhand?

Underhand ONLY. This is a rule, not a suggestion.

Proper serve:

• Drop ball, let it bounce once
• Hit it below waist height
• Racket face below wrist at contact
• Aim diagonally to opponent's service box

Why underhand? Levels the playing field. Serve is about placement, not power.

Can you volley in padel?

Absolutely! (Except when returning serve)

In fact, volleys are the key to winning. The team at the net usually dominates. Get comfortable volleying—it's the most important skill in padel.

What happens if the ball goes out of the court?

If ball bounces in your court and flies out over the fence:

• You can run around and hit it back (before second bounce)
• This is legal and awesome to watch
• Called "bajada de pared" or wall exit
• Crowd loves these points

If ball goes straight out without bouncing:

• Point to opponent
• Ball is out of play

How long is a typical padel game?

Social match: 45-90 minutes Tournament match: 60-120 minutes Quick game: 30-45 minutes (one set to 6)

Factors:

• Player skill (beginners = longer rallies = longer games)
• Format (1 set vs. best of 3)
• Deuce games (can extend things)

Finding Courts & Clubs

How many padel courts are there in the United States?

As of October 2025: We've verified 120+ clubs with 525+ courts across 20+ states.

States with most courts:

1. Texas (20+ clubs) - Austin leads with 6 facilities
2. California (13 clubs) - Bay Area and SoCal
3. Florida (15+ clubs) - Miami, Orlando, Tampa
4. Arizona (7 clubs) - Phoenix and Tucson
5. New York (6+ clubs) - NYC and Long Island

Fast-growing markets: Utah, Colorado, Charlotte NC, El Paso TX border region

Where can I play padel near me?

Use our court directory! We've mapped every facility in the U.S. with:

• Exact addresses
• Phone numbers and websites
• Indoor vs. outdoor
• Membership vs. drop-in options
• Beginner programs
• Court counts

Filter by state, city, or zip code to find your nearest courts.

Do I need to be a member or can I just show up?

Depends on the club:

Drop-in Friendly (Most clubs):

• Book courts online (Playtomic, PlayByPoint, CourtReserve)
• Pay per hour ($20-60/court split among 4 players)
• Walk-ins sometimes accepted
• Examples: Padel Alley (AZ), The Padel Courts (LA), most public facilities

Members-Only:

• Private clubs require membership
• Examples: Golden Point Padel (Brooklyn), Banner House (Dallas)
• Usually higher-end facilities

Hybrid Model (Common):

• Members get priority booking and discounts
• Non-members can book too (pay more, less advance booking)
• Examples: Alma Padel (IL), Bay Padel (CA), most clubs

Check our directory for each club's policy!

Are padel courts indoor or outdoor?

Both! About 60% outdoor, 40% indoor in the U.S.

Indoor courts:

• Play year-round
• Climate-controlled
• No weather cancellations
• Slightly more expensive usually

Outdoor courts:

• More common
• Beautiful settings (some have amazing views!)
• Weather-dependent (rain = closed)
• Often cheaper

Some clubs have both: Padel39 (Austin), Padel Club Palm Beach (FL), The King of Padel (San Antonio)

How much does it cost to play?

Court Rental (Split Among 4 Players):

• Budget clubs: $40-60/hour → $10-15/person
• Mid-range: $60-100/hour → $15-25/person
• Premium clubs: $100-140/hour → $25-35/person

Memberships:

• Basic: $50-100/month (discounts on court time)
• Standard: $100-200/month (free courts, perks)
• Premium: $200-400/month (unlimited play, amenities)
• Luxury: $400+/month (Reserve Padel, Padel N9NE, etc.)

Per-session comparison:

• Padel: $10-25/person for 90 minutes
• Pickleball: Often free (public courts) or $10-20
• Tennis: $15-40/person for courts
• Squash: $20-40/person

Bottom line: More affordable than golf or skiing, comparable to tennis.

Equipment & Gear

What equipment do I need to play padel?

Absolute essentials:

1. Padel racket (not tennis racket!)
2. Padel balls (not tennis balls!)
3. Court shoes (non-marking)
4. Athletic clothes
5. Water bottle

That's it! Everything else is optional.

Can I use a tennis racket?

No. Completely different equipment:

Tennis racket: Strings, long handle, oval head Padel racket: Solid face with holes, short handle, perforated surface

They're not interchangeable. But the good news? Padel rackets start at $50 and clubs rent them for $5-15.

How much does a padel racket cost?

Beginner: $50-120 (perfectly good) Intermediate: $120-200 (better materials) Advanced: $200-400+ (carbon fiber, pro models)

Our recommendation: Start with rentals or a $80-120 racket. Upgrade after 6 months if you're playing regularly.

What's the difference between padel balls and tennis balls?

Padel balls:

• Lower pressure (10.9-11.6 PSI)
• Slightly smaller bounce
• Designed for wall play and smaller court

Tennis balls:

• Higher pressure (14 PSI)
• Bounce too much for padel
• Will annoy your opponents

Can you use tennis balls in a pinch? Emergency only. Buy proper padel balls ($5-10 per can).

Do I need special shoes?

YES. This is important:

✅ Court shoes: Tennis, padel-specific, squash shoes ✅ Non-marking soles: Required by all clubs ✅ Lateral support: Prevent ankle injuries

❌ Running shoes: Too much forward grip, not enough lateral support ❌ Basketball shoes: Usually fine but overkill ❌ Street shoes: Club will kick you off court

Investment: $70-140 for quality court shoes. Your ankles will thank you.

Learning & Improving

How long does it take to learn padel?

To play a fun game: 1-2 sessions (seriously!) To play competently: 10-15 games To play well: 3-6 months of regular play (2x/week) To play competitively: 1+ year

Padel's secret: Low barrier to entry, high ceiling for mastery. You'll have fun immediately and can improve forever.

Should I take lessons or just play?

Both! But here's the optimal path:

Week 1: Take beginner clinic (30-60 min) → Learn basic rules and serving

Weeks 2-4: Play socially (focus on consistency) → Get comfortable with wall play

Month 2: Take group clinic (technique focus) → Improve specific shots

Month 3+: Mix of playing + occasional private lessons → Fine-tune strategy and positioning

Most U.S. clubs offer free or low-cost ($20-40) beginner clinics. Start there!

What's the best way to improve?

1. Play More (Duh)

• Frequency beats intensity
• 2x/week → faster improvement than 1x/month

2. Play With Better Players

• You level up faster
• Learn by watching and asking
• Most experienced players are happy to help

3. Watch Professional Padel

• Premier Padel tour (streaming)
• World Padel Tour videos
• YouTube: Tons of free tutorials

4. Focus on One Thing at a Time

• Week 1: Serve consistency
• Week 2: Net positioning
• Week 3: Back wall returns
• Don't try to fix everything at once

5. Record Your Games

• Phone on tripod at courtside
• Watch yourself = instant improvement
• Humbling but effective

Are there padel leagues and tournaments?

YES! The U.S. padel scene is exploding:

Local Leagues:

• Most clubs run weekly/monthly leagues
• Skill-based brackets (beginner to advanced)
• Americano format most popular
• Examples: RGV Padel Club (TX), Bay Padel (CA), Charlotte Padel Club (NC)

Regional Tournaments:

• Multi-club competitions
• Age divisions (juniors, seniors, open)
• Prize money growing
• Check: USPA tournament calendar

National Events:

• U.S. Padel National Championships
• Professional tours coming to U.S.
• Major venues: USTA National Campus (Orlando), various clubs

How to find: Check our directory for clubs running leagues and tournaments.

Padel vs. Other Sports

How is padel different from pickleball?

Biggest differences:

Which is better? Neither! Both are fun. Padel is more strategic, pickleball is more accessible. Many clubs offer both!

How is padel different from tennis?

Key differences:

Tennis players love padel because it's familiar but fresh. The serve is easier, the court is smaller (less running), and the walls add a fun new dimension.

How is padel different from platform tennis (paddle tennis)?

They're DIFFERENT sports! This confuses people:

Platform Tennis (Paddle Tennis):

• Played on elevated platform
• Wire screens around court (not glass)
• Spongy rubber ball (not pressurized)
• Popular in Northeast U.S.
• Winter sport (heated courts)

Padel:

• Ground-level court
• Glass walls and metal mesh
• Pressurized ball (like tennis)
• Global sport (110+ countries)
• Year-round play

Don't get fooled: 5 facilities in our original search were platform tennis, not padel. They're related but distinct sports.

Is padel easier than tennis?

To start: YES To master: NO

Easier aspects:

• Underhand serve (vs. tennis overhead)
• Smaller court (less running)
• Doubles focus (shared workload)
• Forgiving for beginners (walls help keep rallies going)

Harder aspects:

• Wall angles take practice
• 3D strategy (where will ball bounce off wall?)
• Net play is more important
• Reads and anticipation matter more

Tennis players transitioning: Usually good at padel within 5-10 games.

Can tennis players play padel?

Absolutely! Tennis players often become great padel players quickly:

Advantages you have:

• Racket control
• Understanding of spin
• Court positioning instincts
• Scoring system (same)

What you need to learn:

• Underhand serving
• Wall angles and bounces
• Closer net play
• Relying on partner (if you play singles tennis)

Estimated adjustment: 3-5 games to feel comfortable, 10-15 games to play well.

Finding Courts & Clubs

Where can I find padel courts?

Use our comprehensive directory! We've verified 120+ clubs across the United States:

Search by:

• State or city
• Indoor vs. outdoor
• Drop-in vs. membership
• Beginner programs
• Amenities (bar, pro shop, wellness)

Top padel cities:

• Austin, TX (6 facilities)
• Miami, FL (10+ facilities)
• San Francisco Bay Area (6 facilities)
• Phoenix, AZ (5 facilities)
• Los Angeles, CA (8+ facilities)
• San Diego, CA (5 facilities)
• New York City (5+ facilities)

Are there padel courts in my state?

Probably! We have verified clubs in:

Heavy Concentration: Texas, California, Florida, Arizona, New York, Illinois, Georgia, Colorado

Growing Markets: New Jersey, Maryland, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Tennessee

Emerging Markets: Utah, Nevada, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Massachusetts

Coming Soon: Kentucky, South Carolina, New Mexico, Louisiana

Check our directory for your specific state!

What's the closest padel court to me?

Use our location-based search:

1. Go to our directory
2. Enter your zip code or city
3. See clubs sorted by distance
4. Filter: Indoor/outdoor, amenities, membership type

We'll show you exact addresses, phone numbers, and booking info for every club.

Do all padel clubs require membership?

No! About 70% of U.S. clubs allow non-member court bookings:

Public access clubs:

• Book online (Playtomic most common)
• Pay per hour
• Walk-ins sometimes available
• Examples: Most Racket Social Club locations, Padel Alley, Cube Padel

Members-preferred clubs:

• Non-members can book but pay more
• Members get priority and discounts
• Examples: Alma Padel, SLC Padel Club, Padel39

Members-only:

• Must join to play
• Usually luxury/private clubs
• Examples: Golden Point Padel (Brooklyn), Banner House (Dallas)

Our directory shows which clubs accept drop-ins!

Costs & Membership

How much does padel cost?

Per Session (Court Rental Split 4 Ways):

• Your cost: $10-35 per person for 90 minutes
• Total court: $40-140/hour depending on club and time

Membership Options:

• Social player (2-4x/month): Pay per session works
• Regular player (2x/week): Membership saves money
• Obsessed player (4+x/week): Unlimited membership essential

Equipment:

• Starter: $70-150 (shoes + budget racket)
• Regular: $300-500 first year
• Enthusiast: $500-1,000+ annually

Compared to other sports:

• Less than golf ($2,000-5,000/year)
• More than basketball (often free)
• Similar to: Tennis, recreational hockey

Is padel expensive?

Short answer: Not really.

Cost breakdown for regular player (2x/week):

Pay-per-play route:

• 8 sessions/month × $20/person = $160/month
• Annual: ~$2,000

Membership route:

• $100-150/month membership
• Unlimited or heavily discounted courts
• Annual: $1,200-1,800

Plus equipment: $300-500 first year, $200-300/year after

Total annually: $1,500-2,500 for regular play

Compared to:

• Golf: $3,000-6,000/year
• Skiing: $2,000-5,000/year
• Gym membership: $600-1,200/year
• Crossfit: $1,800-3,000/year

Padel is mid-range for sports/fitness hobbies.

What's included with membership?

Typical membership benefits:

Bronze/Basic ($50-100/month):

• Discounted court fees (30-50% off)
• Priority booking (5-7 days advance)
• 1 guest pass/month
• Free rental rackets

Silver/Standard ($100-200/month):

• Heavier court discounts (50-70% off)
• More advance booking (7-14 days)
• 2-4 guest passes/month
• Access to members-only leagues
• Pro shop discounts

Gold/Premium ($200-400/month):

• Unlimited court access (free bookings)
• Maximum advance booking (14+ days)
• Unlimited guest passes
• Wellness amenities (sauna, cold plunge)
• Coaching discounts
• Exclusive events

Platinum/VIP ($400+/month):

• Everything above
• Concierge service
• Locker rental
• Bar/food credits
• Examples: Padel N9NE ($349 Plus membership), Reserve Padel (luxury tier)

Each club is different - check specific benefits in our directory!

Practical Questions

What should I bring to my first game?

Absolute essentials:

• ✅ Court shoes (non-marking)
• ✅ Athletic clothes (shorts, shirt)
• ✅ Water bottle
• ✅ Towel (optional but nice)

Don't need:

• ❌ Racket (rent at club)
• ❌ Balls (club provides for first session)
• ❌ Any padel knowledge (you'll learn!)

Bonus items:

• Sunscreen (outdoor courts)
• Change of shirt (you'll sweat)
• Positive attitude (mandatory)

Can I just watch a game first?

Absolutely! Most clubs welcome spectators:

Where to watch:

• Drop by any club (viewing areas common)
• Watch from café/bar if club has one
• Best clubs for spectating: Reserve Padel (Miami), Padel Haus (NYC), Padel39 (Austin) - great viewing areas

Even better: Ask if you can join a beginner clinic. Most clubs offer free intro sessions where you watch AND play.

How do I find people to play with?

Solo player? No problem:

1. Club Drop-in Sessions

• "Open Play" or "Social Play" times
• Show up alone, get paired with similar skill
• Most popular solution

2. WhatsApp Groups

• Almost every club has one
• Post "Looking for game Tuesday 7pm"
• Very active in padel community

3. Playtomic App

• Book open slots
• Join existing games
• Match with players your level

4. Beginner Clinics

• Meet other newbies
• Form regular groups
• Friendships start here

5. Leagues

• Organized play
• Paired with partner
• Play different opponents weekly

Padel is incredibly social. You'll make friends fast.

What if I've never played any racket sport?

Even better! No bad habits to unlearn.

Complete beginner path:

1. Watch one YouTube video (5 minutes) → "What is Padel" by RSPA

2. Book beginner clinic (60 minutes) → Learn serve, basic hits, rules

3. Play social game (90 minutes) → Apply what you learned

4. Play 3-5 more games (weeks 2-4) → Get comfortable with walls

5. You're now a padel player! → Congratulations 🎉

No racket sport experience? You'll probably pick it up faster than tennis players who keep trying to serve overhand.

Is padel a good workout?

Surprisingly good!

Calories burned: 400-800 per hour (depending on intensity)

Fitness benefits:

• Cardio: Quick bursts, sustained movement
• Leg strength: Lunges, lateral movement
• Core: Rotation on shots
• Arms/shoulders: Swinging, serving, volleys
• Reflexes: Quick reactions at net
• Mental: Strategy and focus

Compared to:

• More intense than: Yoga, walking
• Similar to: Basketball, tennis
• Less than: Running, HIIT classes

Plus: It's FUN, so you'll actually do it (unlike that gym membership you're not using).

Can kids play padel?

Absolutely! Padel is family-friendly:

Junior Programs (Ages 5-17):

• 80+ clubs in our directory offer junior clinics
• Age-appropriate instruction
• Smaller courts for young kids (some clubs)
• Summer camps at many facilities

Why kids love it:

• Easy to learn (hitting balls off walls = fun)
• Social (make friends)
• Non-intimidating (everyone's learning)
• Success comes quick (keeps them engaged)

Family play:

• Kids 10+ can play with adults
• Multi-generational games common
• Many clubs have family memberships

Examples with strong junior programs:

• Padel Alley (Tucson)
• Padel Club Austin
• Dripping Springs Racquet Club
• The Pad Tucson

Health & Fitness

What are the health benefits of padel?

Physical benefits:

• ✅ Cardiovascular fitness
• ✅ Improved coordination
• ✅ Leg and core strength
• ✅ Better reflexes
• ✅ Weight management (burn 400-800 cal/hour)
• ✅ Flexibility from reaching and lunging

Mental benefits:

• ✅ Stress relief (hitting balls is therapeutic)
• ✅ Strategic thinking
• ✅ Focus and concentration
• ✅ Social connections
• ✅ Competitive outlet

Research shows: Racket sports are linked to longer life expectancy and better mental health than running or gym workouts. The social aspect matters!

Is padel hard on your body?

Easier than: Tennis (less running), squash (less intense) Harder than: Pickleball (faster pace), yoga (obviously)

Common padel injuries (and prevention):

Ankle sprains:

• Prevention: Proper court shoes, strengthening exercises

Knee strain:

• Prevention: Warm up properly, compression support

Padel elbow (like tennis elbow):

• Prevention: Proper technique, don't over-grip racket

Shoulder issues:

• Prevention: Don't over-smash, strengthen rotator cuff

Good news: Padel has lower injury rate than tennis or squash due to smaller court and less extreme movements.

Can seniors play padel?

YES! Padel is perfect for 60s, 70s, even 80s:

Why seniors love it:

• Less running than tennis
• Strategy over strength
• Social aspect
• Doubles format = shared effort
• Lower impact than running

Senior-friendly clubs:

• Many offer "55+" programs
• Morning senior hours
• Modified formats (shorter games)
• Examples: P1 Padel (Las Vegas), Alma Padel (Chicago area)

Health benefits for seniors:

• Cardiovascular without extreme stress
• Balance and coordination
• Social engagement (combat loneliness)
• Mental sharpness (strategy and tactics)

Over 50 clubs in our directory specifically mention senior programs!

Club & Court Questions

How do I book a padel court?

Most common methods:

1. Playtomic App (Most Popular)

• Download app (iOS/Android)
• Search for club
• Select date/time
• Book and pay
• 85% of U.S. clubs use Playtomic

2. PlayByPoint App

• Similar to Playtomic
• Growing in U.S.
• Club-specific apps
• Used by: Padel Club Austin, many others

3. Club Website

• Direct booking
• Some use CourtReserve, proprietary systems
• Examples: Paddles Up (Long Island)

4. Phone Call

• Old school but works
• Good for questions + booking
• Smaller clubs: Often prefer this

Booking windows:

• Members: 7-14 days advance typical
• Non-members: 3-7 days advance
• Varies by club

What are court booking fees?

Hourly rates (per court, not per person):

Budget-friendly ($40-60/hour):

• Off-peak hours
• Public facilities
• New clubs building membership
• Examples: Pick and Paddle ($50/hr padel), Padel Life ($40-60 range)

Mid-range ($60-100/hour):

• Most established clubs
• Prime time hours
• Examples: Alma Padel, Cube Padel, most clubs

Premium ($100-140/hour):

• Luxury facilities
• Indoor climate-controlled
• Examples: Padel N9NE, Reserve Padel, Padel Haus

Split 4 ways: Even premium clubs = $25-35/person for 90 minutes. Very reasonable.

Can I cancel a booking?

Depends on club, but typical policies:

24+ hours advance:

• Full refund (usually)
• Or full credit toward future booking

12-24 hours advance:

• 50% refund
• Or credit minus fee

Less than 12 hours:

• No refund
• Full charge

Members vs. non-members:

• Members often get better cancellation windows
• Example: Padel Quattro (Brownsville) - Members: 6hr window, Non-members: 12hr window

Check specific club policy when booking!

What if it rains?

Outdoor courts:

• Usually close in rain
• Refund policy: Most clubs give full credit
• Some covered courts: Can handle light rain

Indoor courts:

• Play regardless of weather
• This is the main advantage of indoor facilities

Weather-dependent states:

• Consider indoor clubs in rainy/snowy climates
• Examples: Conquer Padel (Tempe), Padel Pals (Mesa), Racket Social Club (Denver)

Tournament & Competitive Play

What's a padel rating system?

Similar to tennis NTRP or pickleball DUPR:

USPA Levels (Common in U.S.):

• 1.0-1.5: Complete beginner
• 2.0-2.5: Beginner (understands rules, can rally)
• 3.0-3.5: Intermediate (consistent, uses walls)
• 4.0-4.5: Advanced (strategic, good all-around)
• 5.0+: Expert/tournament level

How to get rated:

• Play in USPA-sanctioned events
• Self-assess (many clubs use honor system)
• Coach assessment
• Playtomic: Tracks your level automatically based on match results

How do I enter a tournament?

Step-by-step:

1. Find tournament (USPA calendar, club announcements)
2. Check skill division (enter appropriate level)
3. Register online (usually $40-100 entry fee)
4. Find partner (or sign up solo for pairing)
5. Show up and compete!

Tournament formats:

• Round-robin (play multiple matches)
• Bracket play (single elimination)
• Americano (partners rotate)

First tournament tips:

• Enter beginner/intermediate division
• Don't stress—everyone's nervous
• Focus on fun and learning

Major U.S. tournaments: Check USPA calendar—events happening monthly at clubs nationwide.

Do I need a partner for tournaments?

Options:

1. Bring Your Own Partner (Recommended)

• Play with someone you know
• Chemistry matters in doubles
• Practice together beforehand

2. Club Will Pair You

• Most tournaments offer pairing
• Based on skill level
• Great for: Meeting new players

3. Join WhatsApp Group

• Find partner before tournament
• Many clubs have partner-finder groups
• Post your level and availability

Women's-only, men's-only, mixed: Most tournaments offer all categories.

Social & Community

Is padel a social sport?

EXTREMELY. This might be padel's biggest selling point:

Why padel is social:

• Always doubles (built-in social)
• Smaller court = easier conversation
• Between-point chat is normal
• Clubs have bars/lounges (Reserve Padel, Padel39, many others)
• WhatsApp communities are huge

Common scenarios:

• Meet for padel at 6pm
• Play for 90 minutes
• Grab drinks/food after at club bar
• Suddenly it's 10pm and you have new friends

Many players say: "I came for the sport, stayed for the community."

Can I play padel as a date activity?

100% yes! Actually popular for dates:

Why it works:

• Active but not too intense
• Communication required (talking is built in)
• Fun even if you're bad
• Post-game drinks at club bar
• Group date: Double date = perfect foursome

Advice:

• Both beginners? Perfect. Learn together.
• One experienced? Teach and be patient.
• Competitive couple? Keep it friendly (seriously).

Clubs perfect for dates: Any with bars/cafés (Padel39, The Padel Courts LA, Bay Padel, Alma Padel)

Are there professional padel players?

YES! Padel has professional tours:

Major tours:

• Premier Padel (backed by Qatar Sports Investments)
• World Padel Tour (WPT)
• Prize money: Top events offer $100,000-500,000

Famous players you should know:

• Arturo Coello (current #1, Spain)
• Alejandra Salazar (women's legend)
• Juan Martín Díaz (GOAT, now coaching at Reserve Padel!)
• Fernando Belasteguín (most titles ever)

U.S. players emerging: The American padel scene is growing fast with younger players training seriously.

Watch pro padel: YouTube, Premier Padel streaming, World Padel Tour

Logistics & Planning

How long should I book a court for?

Typical bookings:

First time: 60 minutes

• Enough to learn and play
• Won't exhaust you
• Cheaper to try it out

Regular sessions: 90 minutes

• Most common booking length
• Time for warm-up + 1-2 sets
• Sweet spot for most players

Serious practice: 2 hours

• Full match or intensive practice
• For: Regular players, tournaments prep

Quick hit: 30-45 minutes

• Warm-up or light practice
• Rare but some clubs allow

What time of day is best to play?

Depends on your preference:

Morning (7-10am):

• Cooler (outdoor courts)
• Less crowded
• Often cheaper (off-peak rates)
• Great for: Early risers, retirees

Midday (10am-3pm):

• Cheapest rates (off-peak)
• Hottest (outdoor courts)
• Good for: Flexible schedules, indoor courts

Evening (5-9pm):

• Most popular (after work)
• Most expensive (prime time)
• Best for: Social play, leagues
• Book early: Fills up fast

Weekend (anytime):

• Prime rates all day usually
• Most social atmosphere
• Book well in advance

Pro tip: Some clubs offer "community hours" with free or discounted play (like Park Padel SF - Mon-Thu 1-3pm free!)

Can I bring my own drinks/food?

Club policies vary:

Usually allowed:

• ✅ Water bottles
• ✅ Sports drinks
• ✅ Energy bars/snacks

Usually not allowed:

• ❌ Alcohol (unless club has no bar)
• ❌ Full meals
• ❌ Glass containers

Many clubs have bars/cafés:

• Support the club!
• Examples: Padel Alley (terrace bar), The Pad Tucson (café + bar), Alma Padel (café)

Check club rules before bringing outside food.

Are courts heated/air conditioned?

Indoor courts: Almost all are climate-controlled

• Temperature: 60-72°F typical
• Humidity controlled
• Play year-round comfortably

Outdoor courts:

• Natural temperature
• Some have: Shade structures, fans
• Winter: Many close or have reduced hours
• Summer: Early morning/evening preferred

States where indoor matters:

• Cold climates: Colorado, Utah, Illinois, Northeast
• Year-round play vs. seasonal outdoor

Hot climates: Many outdoor courts + evening hours (Texas, Arizona, Florida)

Advanced Questions

What's the difference between Premier Padel and World Padel Tour?

Both are professional tours:

Premier Padel:

• Newer (launched 2022)
• Backed by Qatar Sports Investments
• Higher prize money
• Partnership with FIP (official governing body)
• Growing in U.S. presence

World Padel Tour (WPT):

• Established longer
• Traditional tour
• European focus
• Strong brand recognition

For U.S. players: Both are relevant, Premier Padel is growing faster globally.

Can you play padel professionally in the U.S.?

Getting there! The U.S. professional scene is emerging:

Current state:

• Regional tournaments with prize money
• USPA sanctioned events
• Growing purses ($1,000-10,000 events)

Path to pro:

1. Develop high-level skills (4.5+ rating)
2. Enter regional tournaments
3. Compete in national events
4. International: Play in Europe/South America
5. Premier Padel qualifier events

U.S. is 5-10 years behind Europe but catching up fast. Infrastructure is being built!

What's the highest level of padel in the U.S.?

USPA National Championships

• Annual event
• State qualifiers
• Age divisions (juniors, adults, seniors)

Club Championships:

• Inter-club competitions
• Examples: RGV Padel Club hosts international tournaments

Exhibition events:

• Pro players visiting U.S. clubs
• Growing frequency
• Reserve Padel hosts pro exhibitions

Facility highlight: Padel 9 in El Paso has the ONLY Premier Padel-certified court in the United States!

Unique Situations

Can I build a padel court at home?

Technically yes, but:

Space needed:

• 46 ft × 82 ft minimum
• Plus: Clearance around court
• Flat surface required

Cost:

• DIY approach: $40,000-60,000
• Professional install: $60,000-100,000+
• Permits: Required in most areas

Alternatives:

• Portable courts: Exist but expensive ($30,000+)
• Share with neighbors: Split costs
• Reality: Joining a club is way cheaper

Few people have home courts in the U.S. (unlike in Spain where it's common).

Is padel played in the Olympics?

Not yet, but there's a strong push:

Current status:

• IOC recognition: Working on it
• Pan American Games: Padel included (2023 Santiago)
• European Games: Featured sport

Prediction: Padel likely in Olympics by 2032 or 2036 if growth continues.

Why it should be:

• Global participation (110+ countries)
• 25+ million players
• Exciting to watch
• Gender equity (equal men's/women's competition)

What's "golden point" in padel?

A scoring variation used in some leagues:

How it works:

• At deuce (40-40) → next point wins the game
• Receiving team chooses which side to receive
• Speeds up matches significantly

Why clubs use it:

• Prevents endless deuce games
• Time management for court bookings
• More action, less grinding

Not universal: Check your league/tournament format. Traditional deuce is still most common.

Why do some clubs have "coming soon" for months?

Welcome to permitting hell:

Reality of opening a club:

• Permits: 3-12 months (sometimes longer)
• Construction delays: Supply chain, weather
• Inspections: Multiple rounds
• Example: Mesa Padel Club announced Fall 2025, actually opening December 2025

Our directory notes:

• ✅ Opening dates when confirmed
• 🔜 "Coming soon" when date is uncertain
• ⛔ Inactive when abandoned

Advice: Don't count on "coming soon" clubs until they have confirmed opening dates!

Finding the Right Club for You

What should I look for in a padel club?

Beginners should prioritize:

1. Beginner clinics offered (free intro sessions)
2. Equipment rentals available
3. Friendly community (read reviews)
4. Drop-in friendly (no membership required)
5. Close to home (you'll go more often)

Regular players want:

1. Membership value (if playing 2+x/week)
2. League play available
3. Multiple courts (less wait time)
4. Quality courts and maintenance
5. Social events and tournaments

Competitive players need:

1. High-level players to practice with
2. Tournament hosting
3. Professional coaching
4. Video analysis tools
5. Relationship with USPA

Use our directory filters to find clubs matching your priorities!

What's the difference between budget and luxury clubs?

Budget/Mid-Range Clubs ($10-20/person/session):

• Outdoor courts (usually)
• Basic amenities
• Pay-per-play model
• Still great! Courts are courts
• Examples: Padel California (Oceanside), Camelback Padel (Phoenix)

Luxury/Premium Clubs ($25-40+/person/session):

• Indoor courts with A/C
• Wellness amenities (sauna, cold plunge, massage)
• Restaurants/bars on-site
• Locker rooms with luxury products
• Concierge service
• Examples: Reserve Padel, Padel N9NE, XCEL Padel, Padel39

The padel is the same. Luxury clubs offer lifestyle experience around the sport.

Which is better? Depends on what you value! We've had amazing games at bare-bones outdoor courts and luxury indoor clubs.

Random But Important Questions

Why do padel rackets have holes?

Engineering reasons:

• Reduce air resistance (faster swings)
• Less weight without sacrificing strength
• Better aerodynamics
• Vibration dampening

Fun fact: The holes are carefully designed. Count and placement affect the racket's performance!

Can you play padel in the dark?

With lights, yes! Most courts have lighting:

Outdoor courts:

• LED lights (most common now)
• Night play very popular
• Often cooler than daytime

Indoor courts:

• Lit all the time (duh)
• Optimal lighting design

Some clubs have amazing night vibes with colorful LED lighting!

What's "padbol"?

Padel + Football (soccer) = Padbol

• Played on padel court
• Use feet instead of racket
• Rare in U.S. but growing

Where to find: Eco's Sports Park (Puerto Rico) has padbol courts!

Why is it called a "pala" not a "racket"?

"Pala" is Spanish for paddle/racket. Since padel originated in Spanish-speaking countries:

• Spain calls it "pala"
• Argentina calls it "paleta"
• U.S. says: Racket, paddle, pala (all accepted)

Doesn't matter what you call it as long as you're using it!

Can you play padel on a tennis court?

Kind of, but not really:

Improvised padel (for fun):

• Use tennis court with portable walls
• Temporary setups exist
• Not the same experience

Real answer: No. Padel needs enclosed court with proper walls. The walls are fundamental to the game.

Building proper court: See our equipment guide for court specifications.

Still Have Questions?

Can't find your answer?

Try these resources:

Official Organizations:

• USPA (United States Padel Association): padelusa.org
• FIP (International Padel Federation): fip.global

Ask a Club:

• Call any club in our directory
• Most have friendly staff who love answering questions
• Many offer: Free intro clinics where you can ask anything

Online Communities:

• Facebook: "Padel USA" groups
• Reddit: r/padel
• Instagram: Follow @usapadel
• WhatsApp: Most clubs have community groups

Watch & Learn:

• YouTube: "What is Padel" videos
• Premier Padel matches (streaming)
• Club social media: See real games in action

Want to suggest a question for this FAQ?

Contact us! We're constantly updating based on what players actually want to know.

Submit a question and we'll add it to the FAQ.

The Answer to the Most Important Question

"Should I try padel?"

YES.

Here's why we're so confident:

If you like:

• Being active (but not running marathons)
• Social sports (meeting people)
• Strategy games (chess on a court)
• Trying new things
• Sports that are actually fun

You'll love padel.

The worst case scenario:

• You spend $15 on a rental session
• You have fun for 60 minutes
• You decide it's not for you
• You're out the cost of two fancy coffees

The likely scenario:

• You try it once
• You immediately want to play again
• Three months later you own a racket
• Six months later you're reading equipment reviews at 2am

The proof: Over 25 million people worldwide play padel. The U.S. went from 50 courts in 2020 to 525+ courts in 2025. This isn't a fad—it's the real deal.

Ready to Play?

Your Next Steps:

1. Find a court using our directory
2. Book a beginner clinic (free at many clubs)
3. Show up with court shoes and an open mind
4. Try it for 60 minutes
5. Report back how addicted you are

We'll see you on the court. 🎾

FAQ updated monthly based on player questions. Last updated: October 2025. Have a question not listed? Contact us