Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. It’s a mix of tennis and squash, played on a smaller enclosed court surrounded by glass and metal fencing. The walls are part of the game, so rallies last longer and points are more exciting. Unlike tennis, it’s almost always played in doubles, which makes it very social. Because the rules are simple and easy to pick up, people of all ages can start enjoying padel almost immediately.

The biggest difference is the court size — a padel court is about a third smaller than a tennis court and has walls you can use, like in squash. Rackets are solid with no strings, making them lighter and easier to handle. Serves are underhand, so games are easier to get started, and because the walls keep the ball in play, rallies last much longer. For beginners, this makes padel less frustrating than tennis and more fun right from the first hit.

Not at all. Most padel centres offer racket hire and sell padel balls at reception. This makes it easy to give the sport a try without buying anything up front. That said, once you start playing regularly you might want your own racket — they range in style from beginner-friendly control rackets to advanced power rackets. Having your own gear also makes it easier to play at different venues without relying on hire stock.

There’s no strict dress code for padel, so normal sportswear is fine. Breathable clothing and comfortable trainers are the basics. If you’re planning to play a lot, specialist padel or tennis shoes are worth investing in, because they give better grip on artificial turf and help reduce the risk of slipping or injury. A cap or wristbands can also help if you’re playing outdoors.