The Dunlop FX Start is a well-considered entry-level racket that prioritises comfort and accessibility without cutting obvious corners. The Pro EVA core delivers a soft, forgiving response that eases the learning curve considerably, while the Straight Holes system gives developing players a genuine accuracy advantage as they build their technique. At 360g with a medium balance and a 38mm frame, it sits in a sweet spot for beginners — light enough to swing freely, stable enough to feel solid. For someone picking up a racket for the first time or returning to the sport after a break, this is a reliable, honest choice that will serve them well through the early stages of development.

Pros

You get a noticeably soft, cushioned feel on contact, which makes extended sessions more comfortable and reduces the fatigue that beginners often experience when learning to time the ball correctly — this comes directly from the Pro EVA core rather than a firmer foam that would amplify mishit vibration.
Shots land more consistently where you intend them to, thanks to the Straight Holes system working with the hybrid shape's generously positioned sweet spot to reduce the penalty for slightly off-centre contact.
The lightweight graphite frame keeps the racket easy to manoeuvre in tight exchanges, so you spend less energy wrestling the racket and more time focusing on footwork and positioning.

Cons

Any player who has moved beyond the early stages of learning will quickly find this racket lacks the feedback, spin potential, and raw capability to support more demanding shot-making or competitive club play.

In Depth

The Face

Graphite

Graphite face construction.

The Core

Pro EVA

Foam core — the softest core material available. Excellent vibration absorption and a large effective sweet spot, making it the most forgiving option on off-centre hits.

Shape & Balance

Hybrid · Medium Balance

Enough forgiveness for defensive exchanges, enough head mass to generate pace when pushing forward. Medium balance keeps it manageable in both directions.

Who Buys This

Beginner · Control players

Players taking their first steps in padel, or returning after a long break. This racket prioritises forgiveness and ease of use — it won’t punish mishits harshly and doesn’t demand precise technique.

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