At FILA South Africa, we have watched Padel explode from a niche curiosity to a national obsession. As we head into 2026, the game is getting faster and more competitive. In this guide to upgrading your court rotation, you will learn:

• Why specific footwear geometry prevents injuries on synthetic turf.
• How to match your racket shape (diamond vs. round) to your playing style.
• The essential apparel tech that keeps you cool during high-intensity rallies.

If you thought Padel was just a 2025 fad, check the waiting list at your local club. With over 25 million players globally and new courts opening from Cape Town to Umhlanga every week, the sport has cemented itself as the social anchor of the modern weekend.

But as the level of play rises, so do the demands on your gear. You can no longer get away with running shoes and a heavy racket. 

2026 is about precision, agility and equipment that respects physics. Here is the definitive loadout for dominating the glass this year with FILA Sport.

Padel Racket Shapes for Beginners vs Pros

 A racket acts as an extension of your arm. Choosing the wrong shape kills your control and fatigues your wrist.

• The Forza 2.0 Pro empowers power players who rely on the smash (remate) and aggressive net play. Its diamond shape shifts the weight toward the top, generating maximum leverage for explosive power.
• The Leggero 2.0 serves the precision players who win points through placement and patience. The rounder shape offers a massive sweet spot, giving you total control over the bandeja and defensive lobs.

Can I Wear Running Shoes for Padel? 

No. Running shoes are designed for forward motion, while padel demands lateral braking.

The Lorenzo Padel Shoe solves this with energised rubber and pivot points.

It features a specialised outsole with a pivot point that allows you to rotate quickly without locking your knee. The energised rubber midsole absorbs the shock of those hard landings, giving you grip when you need to sprint and slip when you need to slide.

What Clothing Should I Wear for Padel in Summer?

Padel courts act as sun traps. Trapped heat leads to fatigue, which leads to unforced errors. Moisture management means you stay focused even if you are sweating buckets. 

The Women's Padel Limited Edition Gemma Skort (on sale for R399.99) combines breathable fabric with a secure fit, ensuring you aren't adjusting your kit mid-point. 

For men, the Milan Golf T-Shirt (R649.99) crosses over perfectly to Padel because its structured collar adds a touch of club elegance while the technical fabric wicks sweat faster than standard cotton.

What Accessories Do I Need for Padel? 

The difference between a good game and a great one often lies in the details. Grip matters more than strength. Sweaty hands lose points. 

Women's Eva Ankle Grip Socks (R199.99) ensure your feet stay planted inside your shoe, preventing blisters. Premium Overgrip T500A (R179.99) keeps the racket secure in your hand, even in high humidity.

The Fabio Backpack Padel Bag (R1,399.99) protects your investment. Throwing a R5,000 racket into a gym duffel is a recipe for tears. The Fabio Backpack Padel Bag (R1,399.99) features a dedicated, padded compartment that shields the racket face from impact.

FILA has been on the court since the 70s. We engineer for the game, for real players. Shop our Padel collection online now.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is padel still growing in 2026?
Yes. Padel remains the fastest-growing sport globally, with more than 25 million players worldwide. New courts continue opening across South Africa and internationally, making it a long-term sporting movement rather than a passing trend.

2. Can I wear running shoes for padel?
No. Running shoes are built for forward motion, while padel requires constant lateral movement and rapid direction changes. Proper padel shoes include pivot points and specialised outsoles that support rotation and reduce knee strain.

3. What is the best racket shape for beginners?
Beginners typically benefit from a round racket shape. It offers a larger sweet spot, better control and greater forgiveness on off-centre hits, helping players develop technique with confidence.

4. Is a diamond shaped padel racket better for power?
Yes. Diamond shaped rackets shift the balance towards the head, generating more leverage for smashes and aggressive net play. They suit experienced or attacking players who rely on explosive shots.

5. What clothing should I wear for padel in summer?
Lightweight, breathable technical fabrics are essential. Padel courts trap heat, so moisture-wicking apparel helps regulate body temperature and reduce fatigue during high-intensity rallies.

6. Do padel socks make a difference?
Yes. Grip-focused sports socks help stabilise your foot inside the shoe, reduce friction and prevent blisters. They improve overall comfort and movement control during quick lateral transitions.

7. How often should I replace my padel overgrip?
Overgrips should be replaced as soon as they lose tackiness or begin to feel slippery. Frequent players may change their overgrip every few matches to maintain secure handling and control.

8. What bag should I use for my padel racket?
A dedicated padel bag with a padded racket compartment is recommended. It protects the racket face from impact damage and helps organise footwear, apparel and accessories separately.