Beginner · 6 min
Padel for kids: a parent's guide
Best ages to start, kit, coaching, and the UK clubs and programmes that take junior padel seriously.
Last updated: 8 May 2026
Key takeaways
- Most kids can start meaningful padel from age 6; serious programmes start at 8.
- Junior rackets (240–290g) and low-pressure red/orange balls are essential to start.
- The LTA's junior padel pathway is still emerging - expect more dedicated programmes by 2027.
Padel is great for kids: easier to rally than tennis, naturally social, and physically less demanding to start. But the UK's junior padel scene is still young, and finding the right setup takes a bit of research.
Best age to start
| Age | What's realistic | Setup |
|---|---|---|
| 4–5 | Mini-padel coaching | Foam balls, mini-rackets, fun-first |
| 6–7 | Group lessons, basic rallies | Red balls, 240g racket |
| 8–10 | Real matchplay, social events | Orange balls, 270g racket |
| 11+ | Adult-format play, competitive | Green/yellow balls, junior performance racket |
Junior kit checklist
- Lightweight junior racket (240–290g).
- Court shoes - herringbone or omni sole; no tennis shoes or trainers.
- Low-pressure balls (red for youngest, orange for 8–10s).
- Wrist strap - required for all junior rackets.
Coaching pathway
Look for clubs running structured junior programmes - not just ad-hoc kids' sessions. The best programmes include weekly group coaching, regular social matchplay, and a clear progression to the adult format around age 12.
Safety on court
- Always supervise younger kids - the metal mesh can pinch fingers, and stray smashes are a real risk.
- Insist on proper court shoes - slips on damp artificial grass are the most common junior padel injury.
- Warm up. Yes, even at 7 years old.
UK programmes worth knowing
Padium, Rocket Padel, We Are Padel and many LTA-affiliated tennis clubs now run dedicated junior programmes. The LTA's national junior padel pathway is gradually building - by 2027 there should be a clear competitive structure for under-16s.
Frequently asked questions
What age can a child start playing padel?
From around age 4 with mini-padel sessions. Meaningful group coaching usually starts at 6, and competitive matchplay at 8–10.
Do kids need a special padel racket?
Yes. Adult rackets are far too heavy and the wrong balance for kids under 11. Junior rackets weighing 240–290g are essential.