Many UK padel clubs hire out rackets, usually for a few pounds per player, so you do not need your own to start. Balls are a different story: most venues sell them rather than lend them, so plan to buy a tube or bring your own. Always check with the venue when you book, because policies vary.
Racket hire
Racket hire is common at UK padel venues, especially at pay and play sites, leisure centres and dedicated padel clubs. A few examples of how it works:
- Park Sports in London offers racket hire at its Lammas Park venue for £5 per hour per player.
- Better, which runs many UK leisure centres, says rackets and balls can be rented for a small fee at its centres.
Some clubs include racket hire for beginner sessions and lessons, while others charge per player. Hire rackets are usually round, beginner-friendly models, which is exactly what you want for your first few games.
Balls
Balls are less often included. Many venues sell tubes of balls at reception instead of lending them, and some booking systems let you add a tube when you book. Padel balls look like tennis balls but have slightly lower pressure, so do not bring old tennis balls. Our guide to padel and tennis balls explains the difference.
How to check before you go
- Look at the venue's website or booking page for "racket hire" or "equipment".
- Check the booking app when you reserve a court. Many show hire options at checkout.
- If in doubt, call or message the venue. They get this question all the time.
What to bring to your first game
- Trainers with good grip. Non-marking sports trainers are fine to start. See the best padel shoes when you are ready to upgrade.
- Comfortable sports clothing you can move and stretch in.
- Water. Even a friendly hour is thirsty work.
- A tube of padel balls, unless the venue has confirmed they are included.
- Cash or a card for racket hire if it is paid on the day.
For a fuller checklist, read everything you need to get started.
When should you buy your own racket?
Hire rackets are fine for your first few sessions. Once you are playing regularly, your own racket makes sense: you get used to its weight and feel, and it soon works out cheaper than paying for hire every time. Our guides on choosing a beginner racket and how many rackets you need will help.
If you are going on your own, you do not need to bring a partner either. See do you need a partner to play padel, and read the rules for padel balls if you are buying your own.
The bottom line
You can usually hire a racket at a UK padel club, but you will often need to buy balls. Check when you book, bring trainers and water, and buy your own racket once you are hooked.
Related questions
How much does it cost to hire a padel racket?
It varies by venue. Many UK clubs charge a few pounds per player, and Park Sports' Lammas Park venue, for example, charges £5 per hour per player.
Can I use tennis balls for padel?
It is better not to. Padel balls have slightly lower pressure than tennis balls, which suits the smaller court and the walls.
Do I need special shoes for my first padel game?
No. Comfortable trainers with good grip are fine to start. Padel shoes are worth buying once you play regularly.