We explain in simple words what each blade technology does HEAD 2026 and how your shot changes if it is not present. If you want to see an applied case, check the review of HEAD Extreme 2025. To explore models, visit the collection shovels HEAD or see more technical content on the padel blog.
Auxetic 2.0
What does it do
HEAD place material auxetic on the bridge and a central bar inside the grip. Upon impact, the structure adapts and transmits energy from the face to the hand with fewer losses.
Solid contact and immediate response even when the ball comes fast.
If your shovel does not have it
- Less “reading” of the impact in fast exchanges.
- MMore variation in the output if you don't center it perfectly.
Power Foam
What does it do
Quick return foam (usually based on EVA) that pushes the ball with less arm travel.
MMore speed in smashes and vipers at medium-high intensity with the same gesture.
If your shovel does not have it
- You need a longer swing to achieve the same power.
- The deep shot requires more technique or perfect timing.
Explore more at shovels HEAD.
Extreme Spin (rough 3D)
What does it do
Decal 3D with a rough finish that increases the grip of the ball and transfers spins better.
The lifts come out higher and the slices bounce lower and stop earlier.
If your shovel does not have it
- Straighter trajectories: less spin enters the ball.
- The defensive slice requires more technical precision.
UD Carbon HS (unidirectional fiber)
What does it do
Carbon layer with fibers aligned in a single direction within a CFRP composite. Provides rigidity and a clean response with a fastball.
The bump feels “dry and crisp” when accelerating; the face does not bend too much.
If your shovel does not have it
- Mmore flexion in tense volleys; Some of the energy is lost.
- Greater variation in direction if you impact off-center.
Optimized Sweet Spot
What does it do
Specific drilling per mold that increases the area with good output and control (less loss of coefficient of restitution outside the center).
If you don't center perfectly, the ball maintains useful direction and speed.
If your shovel does not have it
- Smaller useful area: runouts come out slower or deviate.
- Mmore vibration near the frame.
SmartBridge
What does it do
Bridge designed for each model that reduces twists when hitting off-center.
The head remains stable: the trajectory does not open when the center is missed.
If your shovel does not have it
- MMore “turning” of the face in side impacts and steering dispersion.
- Extra effort of the forearm to correct the plane.
Tailored Frame
What does it do
Classic tubularless construction: the rubber extends towards the edge to uniform response across the entire face.
Less “loose points” in the toe and heel; homogeneous blow.
If your shovel does not have it
- Areas with less response near the frame.
- Power drops in extreme impacts.
Soft Cap +
What does it do
Bottom cap with soft material and interchangeable cord. Reduces vibration that reaches the hand and improves low grip.
MMore comfort and less risk of blisters in long sessions.
If your shovel does not have it
- MMore vibration at the base of the fist in fast play.
- Without option to customize the cord from origin.
Anti Shock Skin Padel
What does it do
Lpolymer sheet that protects edges and top face against scratches and knocks; It is replaced when it wears out.
The shovel maintains its aesthetic and functional condition better, especially near walls or bars.
If your shovel does not have it
- Increased risk of chips and microcracks in the frame.
- Shorter lifespan if you compete often.
Quick summary
- Auxetic 2.0: crisp and stable contact. Without it: more irregular output if you don't center.
- Power Foam: power with less effort. Without it: you need more swing.
- Extreme Spin: visible effects. Without it: straighter trajectories.
- UD Carbon HS: firm face at high speed. Without it: flex and lose direction.
- Optimized Sweet Spot: larger useful area. Without it: slow/off centering.
- SmartBridge: less torque. Without it: the face “turns” more.
- Tailored Frame: homogeneous response. Without it: loose areas near the frame.
- Soft Cap+: less vibration in the grip. Without it: more fatigue/blisters.
- Anti Shock: More frame life. Without it: chips before.
