Key Takeaways
- According to STIGA’s Matias, testing of the Cybershape design found “a 20% larger sweet spot compared to a traditional round racket”
- Rather than carbon alone, Matias said the racket’s overall feel also depends on foam density, adding “the stiffness is always a combination between the outer carbon and the density of the foam.”
- Players tested 6 different models and showed varying preferences, while Louis said the 18K Extra Hard “adds like a meter onto my smash.”
The science underpinning the hexagonal padel frame
The Cybershape racket was not designed simply for its appearance, according to STIGA representative Matias, who outlined the engineering concepts behind the brand’s distinctive geometry.
“I think a common misunderstanding is that think, oh, Sega, you did a nice job of sticking out. You did something that looks different. It does look different but that’s positive side effect. The main thing here is what it does,” said Matias.
After noticing that unusual shapes affected feel in table tennis, STIGA developed the concept further and worked with research institutions to validate it, Matias revealed.
“We have a 20% larger sweet spot compared to a traditional round racket. And this is scientifically proven. This is not me just saying things,” he added.
According to Matias, the real-world advantage becomes evident in cramped positions on court, where traditional frames can have difficulty making clean contact.
“Normally the sweet spot originates from from the middle of the of the racket head. But on a cyber shape we have been able to move up the sweet spot so it is centered higher up on the raet head and due to the shape is also bigger,” said Matias.
“Since the sweet spot is here, even if you’re close to the glass or close to the ground, you’re able to connect to the sweet spot and that gives you a sensation of more control,” he explained.
How the 18K and 3K carbon models differ
When discussing the range’s construction, Matias stressed that the outer carbon weave alone does not determine how stiff a racket feels during actual play.
“A common misunderstanding is that consumers and players are just looking at the the number of the K meaning that okay 3k must be soft 18k must be much harder. That’s only half of the truth because what makes a big difference is what type of foam that that you have within it,” he pointed out.
“The stiffness is always a combination between the outer carbon and the density of the foam,” Matias stressed.
| Racket Model | Weight / Balance | Key Target Player |
|---|---|---|
| 18K Lightweight | 345 g / Medium balance | Players wanting lighter handling or protecting joints |
| 18K Regular | 360 g / Medium balance | Broadest padel audience seeking all-round play |
| 18K Hard | Top-heavy balance | Fairly high-level players wanting extra offensive help |
| 18K Extra Hard | Medium balance | High-level players seeking firm feel and power absorption |
| 18K Extra Hard Adam Axelsson Edition | Medium balance / Dark green finish | Signature model inspired by Scandinavia’s top player |
| 3K | Medium to high balance | Competition and advanced players needing overhead pop |
Player feedback and impressions from the court
During match-play testing with Taylor, Aston and Hayden, Louis assessed the lineup with particular attention to the effect of foam density on overhead speed and recovery from the backcourt.
Discussing the racket he prefers for everyday use, Hayden emphasized the advantages of its balance.
“I play with 18K normal. Really nice racket. Perfect power and control. Mid balance. Feel like it’s not too topheavy. So, I need the maneuverability from the back more than the power,” Hayden said.
From the same testing session, he also identified his alternative choice: “Second favorite tried today is the 18K X hard. Felt like it packs that little bit of extra punch.”
For tournament play, Louis favored a firmer core that helped him finish overheads, saying: “My smash adds like a meter onto my smash.”
Louis also believed the 3K construction was an underrated option within the lineup, concluding: “Probably feels the nicest out of all the rackets, I would say.”
