The shape determines your playing style.

• Round: Ideal for control and precision. It has the sweet spot in the center and is more manageable. Perfect for beginners or defensive players.
• Diamond: Pure power. The weight is towards the head, which helps with smashes, but requires more technique.
• Teardrop: The perfect balance. It is the most versatile shape, offering a medium balance between power and control.

You need a racket that absorbs vibrations well.
Look for rackets with:

• Soft rubber (Soft/Foam): They cushion impact better.
• Lightweight: To avoid straining the joint.
• Low balance: Where the weight is close to the grip.
• Recommendation: Avoid very stiff or head-heavy (diamond) rackets until you recover.

It's not that one is better, they are different:

• Fiberglass: It's more elastic and economical. It provides more ball rebound without much force (great ball exit) and is more comfortable. Ideal for beginners and intermediate players.
• Carbon (12K, 18K...): It's stiffer, lighter, and more resistant. It offers more power and precision if you have good technique, but it's less "forgiving" if you hit off-center.

Soft Padel Racket: The ball sinks deeper into the rubber and is propelled out (spring effect). It's comfortable and helps you defend from the back of the court.

Hard Padel Racket: The ball doesn't deform as much. It gives you precise control and a lot of power on the smash if you hit it hard, but it requires you to provide the strength.

Less than 360g (Light): Very maneuverable, ideal for preventing injuries or for players who move the racket quickly at the net.

More than 370g (Heavy): Provides more power in the shot, but tires the arm more.

Tip: If in doubt, choose a lighter one; you can always add weight with overgrips or protectors, but you cannot remove it.