When it comes to Adidas padel rackets for 2026, two families define the brand’s performance spectrum: Metalbone and Cross It. Both target advanced players, but they approach the game from very different philosophies. One prioritizes structural stability, mass, and point-ending power; the other focuses on speed, control, and maneuverability.
Table of Contents
This hub guide breaks down Adidas Metalbone and Adidas Cross It 2026 as complete product families. You’ll learn how each line plays on court, which players benefit most from each design, and how the 2026 models within each family differ—so you can choose with confidence (or move on to a dedicated head-to-head comparison).
Family profile at a glance
Metalbone family (2026)
Power-driven line built around structural rigidity and adjustable balance. Flagship models like Metalbone 2026 and Metalbone Team Light 2026 deliver heavy ball speed, a very stable face and a firmer, more “pro” response.
Cross It family (2026)
Control-first line focused on speed and maneuverability. Models like Cross It Light 2026 and Cross It Team Light 2026 reward quick preparation, clean defense and placement-focused rallies with a more forgiving feel.
Adidas Metalbone 2026
The Metalbone family is built around structural rigidity and energy return. These rackets are designed for players who hit with conviction and want a solid platform for aggressive volleys, overheads, and point-ending acceleration.
What the Metalbone line feels like on court
- Heavier ball: more pace and penetration when you commit to the shot.
- Stability: the face holds its line better against big hitters.
- Firm response: more direct feedback—great for strikers, less forgiving for late contact.
Adidas Cross It 2026
The Cross It family represents Adidas’ most control-oriented direction for 2026. The line is built around round shapes and a head-light/even swing feel that helps players prepare early, defend cleanly, and keep the ball where they want it under pressure.
What the Cross It line feels like on court
- Fast handling: quick setup on blocks, counters, and defensive lobs.
- Forgiveness: more help on off-center contact, especially in scrappy points.
- Comfort: easier to manage over long sessions and frequent matches.
Metalbone 2026
Power-driven line focused on stiffness and stability. Expect stronger energy return, heavier ball speed in attack, and a firmer, more demanding response.
Cross It 2026
Control-first line built around round molds and head-light handling. Expect fast preparation, cleaner defense, and placement-focused rallies with a more forgiving feel.
Rule of thumb
Metalbone helps you finish hard. Cross It helps you arrive early. Pick the line that matches how you win points.
Want the full picture of the entire Adidas lineup beyond Metalbone and Cross It? Check out our complete guide: What’s new in Adidas padel rackets 2026.
Specs snapshot — Metalbone vs Cross It (2026)
| Aspect | Metalbone 2026 Line | Cross It 2026 Line |
|---|---|---|
| Main identity | Stability & power-driven construction | Agile control & maneuverability |
| Typical shape | Round (Team Light) / Diamond (Flagship) | Round |
| Balance feel | Head-light to Adjustable (Weight & Balance) | Head-light / Even |
| Face materials | Carbon Aluminized 16K (Flagship) / Composite + texture (Team Light) | Fiberglass (Team Light) / Carbon Aluminized 24K (Light) |
| Core family | Power-biased EVA (Flagship) / Soft Performance EVA (Team Light) | Soft Performance EVA / Soft Energy EVA |
| Weight focus | 360–375 g typical (Flagship); lighter handling in Team Light | Light range (345–360 g) |
| Best for | Attackers, strikers, players seeking stability and pace | Defenders, all-courters, placement players |
FAQs — Adidas Metalbone & Cross It 2026
Is the Cross It line powerful enough for advanced players?
Yes. Cross It is control-first, but advanced players can still generate strong pace through timing and clean contact. The difference is that Cross It doesn’t rely on mass and stiffness the way Metalbone does—so power feels more “earned” rather than “built-in.”
Is Metalbone Team Light easier to play than the standard Metalbone 2026?
Yes. Metalbone Team Light uses a round, head-light setup that makes preparation quicker and defense easier. The flagship Metalbone 2026 is more power-focused and firmer, which can feel more demanding if your timing isn’t consistent.
Which line is more arm-friendly for frequent sessions?
Cross It is generally more comfortable thanks to softer core options and a lighter, more maneuverable feel. Metalbone provides more stability and pace, but its structure can be more demanding for players sensitive to stiffness or fatigue.
What’s the practical difference between Cross It Team Light and Cross It Light?
Cross It Team Light prioritizes comfort and forgiveness with fiberglass and Soft Performance EVA. Cross It Light steps up to a Carbon Aluminized 24K face with Soft Energy EVA for a crisper, more precise response—better for advanced players who want sharper feedback at pace.
Can the Cross It line replace a power racket like the Metalbone 2026?
For many all-court players, yes—especially if your power comes from technique rather than a stiff, head-heavy build. But if your game depends on maximum smash pace and point-ending overheads, the Metalbone 2026 will typically feel more natural.
