The Ultimate Offensive Padel Racket?
At Padel Smash Academy, we take pride in testing and reviewing the best padel gear on the market, and today, Cesc & Julian are putting the Cork Premium Power II to the test. This racket is designed for advanced and professional players, offering high balance, immense power, and minimal vibration, thanks to its diamond shape and innovative cork construction.
So, does this racket live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the review!
First Impressions: A Racket Built for Power
From the moment you hold the Cork Premium Power II, you can feel the weight distribution. At approximately 375 grams, this racket has a top-heavy balance, which means one thing – power is the name of the game.
🔥 Julian’s First Take:
"This racket generates power on its own! You put it on cruise control, and it just goes. You can feel the weight at the top, and it delivers incredible force with minimal effort."
🔨 Cesc’s Thoughts:
"This feels like a hammer! I loved it on defense—it absorbs impact well and allows me to return shots with ease."
The diamond shape of the racket means a higher sweet spot, making it ideal for aggressive offensive play. But does it maintain control? Let’s find out.
Handcrafted Excellence – The Legacy of Cork Padel
Did you know it takes 8-10 days for a single Cork racket to be handcrafted? That’s right! Each racket is meticulously made in Portugal, the world’s largest cork producer. This unique material isn’t just a cool aesthetic choice—it plays a crucial role in vibration absorption, making it a great option for players with shoulder, elbow, or wrist issues.
🌳 Fun Fact: The Cork brand logo features a stork, symbolizing a fascinating natural relationship. Storks nest on cork trees, and their dung acts as a natural fertilizer, enriching the trees from which these rackets are crafted. It’s an eco-friendly cycle that makes every Cork racket even more special!
On-Court Performance: Power That Speaks for Itself
1. Baseline Defense: A Wall of Strength
Cesc instantly loved how this racket performed on defense. The combination of Cork, Carbon 24K, and Black EVA Soft Laminated Gum ensures that each shot packs a punch without losing stability.
🛡️ Cesc: "In defense, this racket is an absolute beast. It absorbs impact and redirects shots with little effort. The power is undeniable."
2. At the Net: Precision Meets Control
Julian felt that volleying required a bit more effort compared to other rackets, but the top-heavy balance made overhead shots and smashes devastatingly powerful.
⚡ Julian: "At the net, I needed a little extra effort to control my volleys, but when it came to aerials, this racket was an absolute beauty."
3. Power vs. Control: Who Is This Racket For?
Both Cesc & Julian agreed: this racket is not for beginners. The high balance and immense power make it a perfect choice for high-intermediate to advanced players who love an aggressive game.
✅ Ideal for: Offensive players who want extra power on their shots
⚠️ Not recommended for: Beginners or players looking for a control-focused racket
Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?
The Cork Premium Power II is a high-performance padel racket designed for players who demand power without compromising on comfort. With its top-heavy balance, vibration absorption, and explosive energy, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to dominate the game.
Pros:
✅ Incredible Power – The weight at the top delivers unmatched shot force
✅ Minimal Vibration – Thanks to Cork’s natural shock absorption
✅ Handcrafted Excellence – Unique, high-quality build
Cons:
❌ Not Ideal for Beginners – The power can be tough to control
❌ Requires Adjustment at the Net – Volleys may take extra effort