Short Answer
No — padel is not expensive to get into compared to many other sports. Most beginners can start playing padel with minimal upfront cost by renting equipment and playing socially.
What Costs Are Involved When Starting Padel?
The cost of padel depends on how often you play and whether you buy or rent equipment. For beginners, most costs are flexible and optional.
Court Hire
Court hire is usually the main cost. Padel courts are typically hired per hour and shared between four players, keeping individual costs relatively low.
- Cost is split between players
- Social sessions are often cheaper
- Memberships can reduce long-term costs
Equipment Costs
Beginners do not need to buy equipment immediately. Most clubs offer racket and ball hire.
- Racket hire available at many clubs
- Entry-level rackets are affordable if buying
- Comfortable sportswear is sufficient to start
Lessons and Coaching
Lessons are optional. Many beginners start through social play and add lessons later if they want to improve faster.
Padel Compared to Other Sports
Compared to tennis, golf, or gym memberships, padel is often more affordable for beginners — especially when costs are shared.
- No expensive court bookings for individuals
- Lower equipment investment at the start
- Pay-as-you-play flexibility
How to Keep Padel Affordable
- Rent equipment initially
- Join social or off-peak sessions
- Play doubles to split court costs
- Delay equipment upgrades until needed
Is Padel Worth the Cost?
For most players, padel offers excellent value. It combines exercise, social interaction, and enjoyment in a way that few sports match.
If you’re new to padel, start with: How Do I Get Started Playing Padel? and explore what equipment you really need in What Equipment Do You Need to Start Playing Padel? .