Adidas

Adidas Metalbone 2026 Ale Galán

Editorial assessment · 2026 model

The standard Metalbone 2026 is worth a look if you like attacking rackets but find hard cores too dry. Its Soft Performance foam gives it a livelier response than the HRD+ in the reviewed comparison. That can help you find depth without a full swing, though keeping a block or short volley down takes practice. The removable weights give you room to adjust the setup. Include defensive shots when choosing where to put them.

Best for
Experienced attackers who like a lively response and want to adjust the racket's weight and balance.
Main trade-off
Easy rebound can help you find depth, but it takes care when you want the ball to stay short.
Adidas Metalbone 2026 Ale Galán padel racket, product photograph supplied by Padel Market
  • ShapeDiamond
  • Weight345–360 g base, plus up to 11.2 g removable weights
  • BalanceHigh balance
  • LevelAdvanced

Where to buy

€304.95€390.00

In stock at Padel Market

Free delivery · 1-2 days

View at Padel Market

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Our assessment

The shots that decide the fit

In El4Set's comparison published by Padel Market, the standard Metalbone helped the tester generate pace with less acceleration. The same rebound made it easier to send defensive blocks and controlled volleys too long. A Reddit owner comparing the 2026 Metalbone with the 2026 Fenix also preferred the Fenix's less springy response. These are individual preferences, but they give you useful shots to compare during a demo: a short volley, a defensive lob and a prepared overhead.

Choosing between the standard and HRD+

The HRD+ has an EVA High Memory core. We would start with that version if you already like a firmer response and swing through your attacking shots confidently. Start with this standard version if you want a more reactive feel at moderate pace. Both belong on an experienced attacker's shortlist. A harder core alone is a poor reason to switch if you already control your current racket well.

Set up the racket you will play with

The published base range excludes the optional weights. Ask the seller for the individual racket's weight and check whether their measurement includes them. Then add your usual grip and protector before comparing it with another racket. Keep a note of the weight positions you liked; copying someone else's setup makes less sense than repeating one that suited your timing.

Consider an alternative if: You often send blocks and short volleys long, or prefer a firmer, less springy response.

Strengths

  • Gives useful rebound at moderate swing speeds, according to the reviewed comparison.
  • Removable weights let you adjust the setup instead of accepting one fixed configuration.
  • The longer handle offers extra grip space for players who want it.

Drawbacks

  • The lively response can make blocks and controlled volleys harder to judge.
  • Its head-heavy layout still needs timely preparation, even with the weights removed.

Specifications

Shape
Diamond
Balance
High balance
Weight
345–360 g base, plus up to 11.2 g removable weights
Surface
16K aluminized carbon
Frame
Carbon fibre
Core
EVA Soft Performance
Surface texture
Spin Blade Decal
Sweet spot
Higher, as specified by Adidas
Technologies
Weight & Balance System, Extra Power Grip, Power Groove, Low Poly, Octagonal Structure, Smart Holes Curve
Manufacturer code
AR1AA8U22
Barcode (EAN)
8435739405802

FAQ

Is the standard Metalbone 2026 a hard racket?
Its named core is EVA Soft Performance. The standard model felt softer and more reactive than the HRD+ in the reviewed comparison. If you dislike a springy response, compare them on blocks and touch shots before buying.
How much does the Metalbone 2026 weigh with all the weights fitted?
The base range is 345–360 g, with up to 11.2 g of removable weights. With all supplied weights fitted, that gives a nominal range of 356.2–371.2 g before any additional grips or accessories. The actual racket should still be weighed.

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