Editorial assessment · 2026 model
The Cross IT Carbon 2026 is worth considering if you want an attacking racket with a softer core. Adidas pairs a diamond shape and high balance with 6K carbon and EVA Soft Performance. It suits an experienced club player who prepares early for volleys and overheads. If your racket already feels slow when you defend, try a lighter or more evenly balanced option alongside it.
Where to buy
In stock at Padel Market
Free delivery · 1-2 days
PadelFormat may earn a commission when you buy through selected links, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on product fit and editorial criteria, not commission levels.
The EVA Soft Performance core is one reason to consider this model if you want an attacking shape with some give at contact. Try the response on slower balls as well as full swings. The face and frame also contribute to the feel.
The extended handle is worth trying with your normal grip position. Move through a volley preparation and your usual backhand. Check whether the extra length helps you settle your hands or changes the distance to the face more than you like.
Spend part of a demo on low balls after the glass, body volleys and hurried resets. Those shots give you a useful check on whether you can keep the head under control. A few clean smashes tell you less about how the racket will fit the rest of your game.
Ask for the actual weight of the racket you will receive. Add your normal overgrip setup before comparing it with your current racket. Make that comparison late in a session as well as during the warm-up.
The Light is the comparison to make if handling comes first. Its round shape, even balance and lower published weight range point towards a different fit. Choose between them by trying the shots you struggle with most. The Carbon combines a diamond head and high balance with EVA Soft Performance; the Light uses a round head, even balance and EVA Soft Energy.
Consider an alternative if: You struggle to get your racket ready on low defensive balls or want the lightest possible handling.
Adidas
An older Adipower for experienced attackers who prefer a firm response. Its higher hitting area rewards prepared overheads, but defending low balls takes more care. Check the delivered price against newer options.
Adidas
A lighter Cross IT to consider for defence and quick exchanges at the net. Its round shape and even balance suit a handling-first shortlist. Try your finishing shots too before choosing it over a heavier racket.
Answer a few short questions and the chooser compares the whole catalogue for you.
Open the racket chooserResearched 2026-09-06 · Last updated 2026-09-06 · How we assess gear
