The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 is ideal for control-oriented game builders who prefer a soft touch, defensive stability, and forgiveness off the glass. Conversely, the Oxdog Ultimate Pro 2026 is tailored for aggressive attackers seeking high power output for overheads and net play. While both rackets target advanced players and weigh 365 g, their shapes, cores, and playing characteristics diverge significantly.
Key Facts Comparison
| Feature | adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 | Oxdog Ultimate Pro 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Season | Not stated | 2026 |
| Shape | Round | Diamond |
| Balance | Even | Not stated |
| Weight | 365 g | 365 g |
| Frame Material | Carbon 6K | Not stated |
| Core (Manufacturer) | Soft | Medium+ |
| Player Level | Advanced | Advanced |
| Core Hardness (our assessment) | Soft | Medium |
| Power vs Control (our assessment) | 2 (Control-oriented) | 4 (Power-oriented) |
| Sweet Spot (our assessment) | Large | Small |
| Player Profile (our assessment) | Builder | Attacker |
Which one has more power?
When evaluating offensive capability, the Oxdog Ultimate Pro 2026 stands out. In our assessment, we rate the Oxdog a 4 out of 5 on our power versus control scale, placing it firmly in the power category. The manufacturer equips it with a diamond shape and a Medium+ core, which we assess as medium core hardness. This setup allows aggressive players to transfer energy efficiently into overheads, making it particularly effective for smashes, aggressive viboras, and fast net volleys.
In contrast, the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 is designed primarily for touch and placement. In our assessment, we rate its power versus control at a 2 out of 5, indicating a heavy focus on control. Its round shape and soft core absorb impact rather than repelling the ball with maximum speed. While advanced players can still generate power with proper technique, the racket is not built to maximize raw speed on attacking shots.
Which is easier to play and defend with?
Defending off the back glass requires maneuverability and margin for error. The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 excels in these situations. Featuring a round head shape, even balance, and a soft core, it provides high predictability during defensive transitions. In our assessment, the sweet spot is large, meaning off-center strikes still yield consistent depth when execution is rushed. This makes resetting the point or throwing accurate lobs far more manageable when under pressure.
The Oxdog Ultimate Pro 2026 presents a higher technical requirement in defense. Its diamond shape shifts mass away from the handle, and in our assessment, its sweet spot is small. Off-center hits while defending deep in the court may lose depth or control. However, players with sound mechanics will find that the medium core hardness (our assessment) provides precise feedback when blocking heavy shots at the net or countering aggressive groundstrokes. Note that while its weight is 365 g, the manufacturer has not stated its balance profile.
How do their core hardness and materials compare?
Material composition directly influences feel and arm comfort during play. The adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 combines a Carbon 6K frame with a soft core. In our assessment, we rate the core hardness as soft. This soft feel creates a cushioned impact, dampening vibrations and allowing game builders to feel the ball deeply on touch shots such as drop shots or chiquitas.
The Oxdog Ultimate Pro 2026 features a Medium+ core according to the manufacturer, which in our assessment translates to medium core hardness. The manufacturer does not state the frame material. The firmer response of the Oxdog provides a crisp, direct feel upon impact. While both models weigh 365 g, the Oxdog’s diamond shape paired with a firmer core produces a stiffer response compared to the round, cushioned feel of the adidas.
Who should buy which?
Choose the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 if you:
- Are a control-focused game builder who structures points from the right side or back court.
- Prefer a soft core feel with low impact feedback and high ball absorption.
- Value high error tolerance, thanks to a large sweet spot (our assessment), even balance, and round shape.
- Want a model featuring a Carbon 6K frame.
Choose the Oxdog Ultimate Pro 2026 if you:
- Are an offensive attacker who plays aggressively at the net and finishes points with smashes.
- Prefer a medium core hardness (our assessment) with direct, crisp ball feedback.
- Are comfortable managing a diamond-shaped racket with a small sweet spot (our assessment).
- Seek a 2026 season model built for high power output (rated 4 out of 5 in our assessment).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the power vs control rating for each racket?
In our assessment, the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 achieves a 2 out of 5 rating (emphasizing control), whereas the Oxdog Ultimate Pro 2026 achieves a 4 out of 5 rating (emphasizing power).
Are these rackets suitable for advanced players?
Yes. Both manufacturers specify their respective models—the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 and the Oxdog Ultimate Pro 2026—for advanced-level padel players.
What is the sweet spot size difference between the two models?
In our assessment, the adidas Metalbone Carbon CTRL 3.5 has a large sweet spot due to its round shape, whereas the Oxdog Ultimate Pro 2026 features a small sweet spot paired with its diamond shape.