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Adidas

Adidas Drive 3.4 (2025)

Editorial assessment · 2025 model

The Drive 3.4 is worth considering as a first racket when its delivered price makes sense beside the Drive 2026. It has the same main published ingredients: a round head, even balance, fibreglass face and EVA Soft Performance core. The weight range is also unchanged at 360–375 g. Choose it if that setup suits you and the offer is good. The newer year alone is a weak reason to spend more.

Best for
Beginners and occasional players comparing an older round racket with current entry-level options.
Main trade-off
An older-model offer can make sense, but the weight and rebound still need to suit you.
  • ShapeRound
  • Weight360–375 g
  • BalanceMedium balance
  • LevelBeginner

Where to buy

No current retailer price

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Our assessment

When the older Drive makes sense

Start with the total cost, including delivery, and check the exact model. A large percentage discount tells you little if the newer Drive costs a similar amount. Both generations list the same shape, face material, core and weight range. Choose between them on the offer and the racket you can try, without assuming either is better on court because of its year.

A soft racket can still feel too lively

One Reddit owner who had played for a year found the Drive 3.4 too bouncy and slower to move than they wanted. That describes one player's experience; it does not change the manufacturer's even-balance specification. If you can try the racket, include short volleys and controlled lobs. Check whether you can judge the depth as well as you can keep the ball in play.

Consider an alternative if: You have tried a Drive 3.4 and found it too lively or slow to move, or want a substantially lighter racket.

Strengths

  • The main published specifications are easy to compare with the 2026 Drive.
  • Its fibreglass face and EVA Soft Performance core make it a candidate for players who prefer softer constructions.
  • A fixed setup suits occasional players who want to pick up the racket and play.

Drawbacks

  • The 360–375 g range can feel substantial if you are used to a lighter racket.
  • At least one owner found the response too bouncy for their developing game, so soft materials should not be read as automatic control.

Specifications

Shape
Round
Balance
Medium balance
Weight
360–375 g
Surface
Fibreglass
Core
EVA Soft Performance
Sweet spot
Central, as specified by Adidas
Technologies
Structural Reinforcement, Smart Holes Lineal
Colourway
Black
Check current offersWhat do these specs mean?

FAQ

Do I need to replace the Drive 3.4 when I improve?
Keep it while it does the job you need. Consider a change when you can name a recurring problem with its weight, response or handling and compare an alternative on court. There is no useful upgrade deadline based only on months played.
Is the Drive 3.4 the lightweight version?
This is the standard model at 360–375 g. Drive Light is a separate version. Match the full name and year when you compare prices.

Alternatives

Adidas Drive padel racket, product photograph supplied by Padel Market

Adidas

Adidas Drive (2026)

A straightforward first racket with a round head, fibreglass face and soft EVA core. Check the 360–375 g weight range before buying. Compare its delivered price with the older Drive 3.4.

Shape
Round
Weight
360–375 g
Balance
Medium
Face
Fibreglass
View racket
€80.00In stock · Padel Market

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Researched 2026-09-06 · Last updated 2026-09-06 · How we assess gear