XCALION Unum S2 Control Padel Racket 2027

The XCALION UNUM S2 is the 2027 update of the UNUM S1. Same idea, a very light control racket, now with quicker handling (Xcalion quote a 5% drop in perceived balance), more precision and a bigger sweet spot.

At 310g without the grip or wrist strap, it's one of the lightest rackets you can buy. It's built for players coming from round rackets who want something quick in the hands, easy at the net and forgiving when you're defending off the glass.

The face is Xcalion's own ALMA carbon at medium hardness, over a Black Medium EVA core. The feel is dry but responsive rather than soft and mushy, so you get more help in defence, more power and more precision than a traditional round racket of the same hardness.

Why Xcalion? They come from aerospace. ALMA carbon took 11 years of R&D at their technology centre in Madrid and is laid up by robot, not by hand. Xcalion say it gives up to 5x the impact resistance and up to 3x the durability of standard carbon while saving 30 to 50g, and the material is endorsed by the European Space Agency. Every model uses the same one-piece monocoque frame with no added plastic parts, and Xcalion's FLOW BALANCE idea uses that saved weight to put the balance where each model needs it.

Our honest take: if you want control first and a racket that never feels heavy late in a match, this is the one. If you want to hit through people, go up to the M2 or an Infinity.

• Weight: 310g without grip or wrist strap
• Plays like: a round, control racket
• Balance: medium-low
• Feel: medium
• Face: ALMA carbon
• Core: Black Medium EVA
• Surface: wear-resistant 3D XC texture
• Construction: one-piece monocoque frame, no added plastic parts
• In the box: the UNUM KIT, an interchangeable wrist strap, a padded grip and an overgrip
• Custom option: pick your design and colours and add a name, made to order
• Designed and made at Xcalion's Technology Centre in Madrid, Spain