The Kuikma Hybrid Metal offers exceptional value with its innovative Metal Biaxial Core technology, providing a balanced blend of control and power. Ideally suited for intermediate players looking for a versatile, forgiving racket with good ball release and comfort, it delivers performance that exceeds expectations at its budget price point.
Power
7.5/10
Control
8.0/10
Defense
7.6/10
Offense
7.4/10
Maneuverability
8.3/10
Padel Racket Review - Kuikma Adult Padel Racket Hybrid Metal
Tactical right side player who is not afraid of using every trick in the book to "disturb the rhytm" of the opponent.
Our mission is to help you choose the right padel racket with clear, in-depth reviews that make it easy to level up your game.
We start with official specs, then break down each racket's key properties. Finally, we bring together trusted video and written reviews—summarised into one consistent, easy-to-read overview.
The Kuikma Hybrid Metal stands out as a remarkable budget-friendly option that punches well above its weight class. What immediately caught my attention during research was the innovative Metal Biaxial Core technology – a metal mesh woven with fiberglass positioned in the racket's throat that generates superior ball exit while maintaining excellent control. This unique construction, combined with the Shock Block System that reduces vibrations by up to 38%, creates a racket that offers comfort and performance typically found in much more expensive models. At under €100, it represents one of the best value propositions in the padel market today.
How it plays..
Balanced Performance With Surprising Feel
On court, the Kuikma Hybrid Metal immediately impresses with its balanced character and forgiving nature. Weighing in at 365g (±5g) with a neutral balance point, it sits comfortably in the hand without feeling unwieldy. The teardrop shape provides a generous sweet spot in the upper third of the racket face, while the combination of soft EVA foam core and the Metal Biaxial Core technology creates a surprisingly responsive feel on contact. Players will appreciate how this racket absorbs impact through the elastomer insert in the handle, making longer sessions more comfortable while still providing good feedback on where the ball meets the face.
Defense
Reliable Protection From The Back
From defensive positions, the Hybrid Metal performs admirably, particularly for its price point. The soft EVA core and fiberglass construction provide enough flex to maintain control when under pressure, allowing for consistent depth on defensive shots. The racket excels at absorbing pace from opponents' attacks, giving players time to set up their shots rather than feeling rushed. While not specifically designed as a defensive specialist, it handles lobs well, with enough surface area and forgiveness to help players execute high, deep clearances when pushed back. The balanced weight distribution helps maintain control during extended defensive exchanges.
Attack
Sufficient Power For Intermediate Attacks
On offense, the Hybrid Metal delivers respectable performance without being exceptional. The metal mesh technology does provide better ball exit than you might expect from a budget racket, generating decent power for attacking opportunities. Players with good technique will extract satisfactory power from smashes, though advanced players might find it lacking the explosive potential of premium models. The sweet spot, enhanced by the teardrop shape, ensures that moderately paced attacks stay consistent and controlled. This isn't a power monster, but rather a balanced performer that rewards good technique with reliable offensive output.
Netplay
Confident Control At The Net
The net is where many intermediate players will truly appreciate the Hybrid Metal's qualities. Its maneuverability shines in quick exchanges, allowing for fast reactions and positioning. The balanced weight and neutral balance point make transitions from defense to attack smoother, without the pendulum effect of more head-heavy designs. Volleys feel crisp and responsive, with enough control to direct the ball accurately. The vibration dampening system proves particularly valuable here, absorbing impact during rapid exchanges and reducing fatigue during extended net play. While not offering the pinpoint precision of premium models, it provides more than enough control for developing players.
Our Advice for New Players
A Forgiving Platform For Growth
If you're just starting your padel journey, the Kuikma Hybrid Metal offers tremendous value as your first "serious" racket. The forgiving sweet spot and comfortable feel will help build confidence as you develop your technique. You'll appreciate the vibration reduction that prevents the harsh feedback often experienced with entry-level rackets. The balanced characteristics mean you won't be fighting against the racket's natural tendencies as you learn different shots. At under €100, it represents an excellent investment that won't hold you back as your skills progress, allowing you to experience many of the technologies found in more expensive models without the premium price tag.
Our Advice for Intermediate Players
Perfect Balance For Developing Players
For intermediate players, this racket hits a sweet spot in terms of performance and value. You'll appreciate how it doesn't pigeonhole you into a specific playing style, instead offering balanced performance that adapts to your developing game. The Hybrid Metal provides enough power for attacking when opportunities arise while maintaining the control needed for defensive situations. Its versatility makes it ideal if you're still discovering your preferred playing style or position. The Metal Biaxial Core technology offers a taste of premium performance without the investment, making this an excellent choice if you play regularly but aren't ready to commit to a high-end model.
Competitive level
Consider Your Competitive Needs
If you're an advanced player, the Hybrid Metal likely falls short of what you need for competitive play. While it offers impressive performance for its price point, it lacks the specialized characteristics that define high-end rackets. You'll likely notice limitations in power generation during aggressive play and may miss the precise control offered by premium models. That said, it could serve as an excellent training or backup racket, particularly if you're concerned about damaging your main tournament racket during practice sessions. Its balanced characteristics make it versatile enough for drilling various shots, even if it doesn't have the specialized performance you'd want for competitive matches.
Research & References
Our mission is to help you choose the right padel racket with clear, in-depth reviews that make it easy to level up your game. We start with official specs, then break down each racket’s key properties. Finally, we bring together trusted video and written reviews—summarised into one consistent, easy-to-read overview.
Excellent value for money at under €100
Innovative Metal Biaxial Core for better ball exit
Good vibration reduction with Shock Block System
Versatile and forgiving for intermediate players
Balanced combination of control and power
May lack power for advanced players seeking aggressive play
Not suitable for professional competitive play
Limited spin capabilities compared to premium models
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Skill Level
Intermediate
Court Position
Both
Play Style
Balanced
Best at: Maneuverability (8.3/10)
Average: 7.8/10
Decathlon NL
€99.99
ViewThe Kuikma Hybrid Metal is more affordable (€99) with Metal Biaxial Core technology, while the PR990 series has more carbon fiber for greater power and targets higher skill levels.
It's suitable for beginners to intermediate players, offering good forgiveness, balanced performance, and excellent value, making it ideal for developing skills.
Metal Biaxial Core is a metal mesh woven with fiberglass in the racket's throat that generates better ball exit and offers improved resistance to flexion for energy transfer.
Yes, Kuikma (Decathlon's padel brand) offers excellent value for money with innovative technologies and quality construction across all price points.
It weighs 365g (±5g), has a teardrop/hybrid shape, neutral balance, 38mm thickness, and features soft EVA foam core with fiberglass and Metal Biaxial Core technology.
It's best for versatile, all-court players who want a balanced racket offering good control, decent power, and excellent maneuverability for both defensive and offensive play.
The Shock Block System uses an elastomer insert in the handle to reduce vibrations by up to 38%, providing enhanced comfort and reducing arm fatigue during play.
Weight
Medium (356–370G)
Balance
Balanced (Even)
Touch
Medium
Core
Soft
Surface
Medium
Texture
Rough
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