Custom padel racket in a tournament: what the rules allow

A week before a league match or a club tournament, players ask us the same thing: can I bring my own racket if it has my own design on it? Here is what the rules of the International Padel Federation (FIP) say in the version that applies from 1 January 2026, how they reach LTA competitions in Great Britain, and where the answer depends on the organiser.

Which rules LTA padel competitions follow

The LTA’s 2026 referee and organiser guide says its sanctioned padel competitions, graded 1 to 5, are delivered under the Rules of Padel and the LTA Competition Regulations. For the rules themselves it links to the FIP Rules of Padel. That FIP document is therefore the text that counts for your racket.

What the FIP rules say about a custom padel racket

The rules set out dimensions and construction. They say nothing about colours, names or artwork. The main requirements:

Three more points matter for a personalised racket. Nothing may be attached to it unless it limits wear or vibration or distributes the weight, and such parts must be reasonable in size and position. The racket must not confuse or disturb the other players, so it may have no reflecting surface and no sound elements that could affect play. And it may carry no visible or audible device that gives the player instructions during a match.

On equipment in general, the rules say players may use the shoes, clothing and rackets they want, provided they comply with the rules.

What that means for your own design

• A name, logo or colour on the face is decoration. It adds no object or device and does not change the length or width of the racket.
• We apply designs as a full colour print with a UV resistant protective layer. It lies flat on the face and is not an added part.
• Do not stick reflective tape, mirror foil or loose extras on the racket afterwards. The ban on reflecting surfaces is written out in full.
• Choose a design that will not confuse the pair across the net, so no print that looks like a ball.

There is one grey area. The rule on attached objects talks about parts and devices, and a design is graphic. A referee may still see it differently, especially at a higher graded event. If you are unsure, ask before the draw is made.

Homologation, said plainly

The racket section of the rules opens by saying the game is played with a racket made in accordance with the FIP annex on racket homologation. We do not claim FIP homologation for our base racket, so do not assume it has it. If you play events where the referee or organiser asks for a homologated racket, a brand racket is the safe choice on match day. We compare the two honestly in custom padel racket vs brand racket.

Where a custom racket fits

• Club nights, box leagues and americanos at your venue.
• Company tournaments and team days. Ideas for the prize table are in padel tournament prizes.
• As a second racket next to your match racket, for training and friendly games.
• As a gift for a player who mostly plays socially.

Checklist before match day

1. Ask the organiser or the referee which racket requirements apply.
2. Check the wrist cord. Under the 2026 rules a pair loses the point immediately if a player breaks the safety cord or drops the racket.
3. Make sure nothing reflective or loose has been added to the racket.
4. Bring a spare racket if you are in doubt. The rest of the rules, from the serve to the scoring, are in padel rules and scoring.

Want a racket for club nights and friendly matches? Build it in the designer or see the options and prices on our page for players. From 1 racket, finished in the Netherlands, from €99.99 with your design on the face.

Open the designer and start your design →