Padel Racket Review - Black Crown Special Power 2022

What the reviewers say

The two hands-on video reviews agree on the main point: this racket is built for attack. Rafa Mas, tester for La Chiquita Pádel, calls the balance medium-high and the feel medium-hard, and recommends it to players who want to dominate the rival with powerful, spin-loaded shots. He also found the sweet spot generous in defence, saying it helps you play precise lobs and block the opponent's víboras and bandejas with control.

Carbosports is more cautious about who can handle it. Their presenter says you have to be well prepared to play it: it gives a lot of power, but you have to put that power into the ball yourself. Their on-court tester disagrees slightly on the balance, describing it as neutral and fine for both the right and the left side, and places the sweet spot in the centre of the face with a strong ball exit when you hit it there.

Zona de Padel's product description lines up with the attacking reading: the teardrop shape and high balance point put aggressive play first, while an enlarged sweet spot area is meant to soften off-centre contact. All sources credit the rough, sandy finish for extra spin.

Our take: Kaj's summary

The sources point to a racket that is easy to like for a player with a clean, fast swing and harder work for anyone still building one. The medium-hard feel and head-heavy balance mean late or short contact gets less help than on a softer, round model. Developing players should weigh that before the low clearance price tempts them.

In defence the reviewers are split. La Chiquita Pádel found the sweet spot wide enough for accurate lobs and blocks, but the weight in the head makes quick reactions at the back glass slower than on a balanced control racket.

Attack is where it earns its name. The high balance adds mass behind smashes and víboras, and the rough face grips the ball for kick smashes and sliced finishes. Carbosports stresses that the power comes from your arm, so a full, fast swing gets the most from it.

At the net it is stable on firm volleys and a bandeja with intent. On soft touch shots the firmer feel gives less cushioning, so short drops need a lighter hand.

How it compares

The Black Crown Special 2022 is the calmer sibling in the same line: a similar build with a more even balance and more forgiveness, the better pick for players who want control over punch. For a current attacking alternative, the Black Crown Special Pro keeps the teardrop, power-first idea with newer materials, at a higher price than a 2022 clearance model.