Padel is often described as a mix of tennis and squash. Here is how the three compare for new players.
The court
Padel is played on a smaller, enclosed court where the walls stay in play. Tennis has no walls and a larger court. Squash is played in an enclosed room with all four walls.
The equipment
Padel uses a solid, stringless racket and a slightly smaller, lower-pressure ball. Tennis rackets are strung, and squash rackets are lighter and strung with a smaller ball.
The format
Padel is usually played as doubles, which makes it social and less physically demanding on any one player. Tennis is often singles, and squash is usually one on one.
Which is easiest to start?
Many beginners find padel the quickest to enjoy, because the walls keep the ball in play and rallies happen from the first session. Try a beginner session and see for yourself.
Ready to try? See where to play padel in the UK.