The Adidas Metalbone Reserve 2026 is the special edition of the Metalbone family, developed with Ale Galán and created for the Reserve Cup. In this review we look at what is inside the racket, how it plays, how it differs from the other 2026 Metalbone models and from the 2025 Reserve, and which players it makes sense for.
For full specifications, price and availability, see the always up-to-date Adidas Metalbone Reserve EDT 2026 product page.
Technology and materials of the Metalbone Reserve 2026
| Component | Material / technology |
|---|---|
| Shape | Oversize diamond |
| Balance | High |
| Approximate weight | 360–375 g |
| Faces | 16K aluminised carbon |
| Core | EVA Soft Performance |
| Surface | Rough, with Spin Blade Decal |
| Structure | Octagonal Structure, Power Groove, Smart Holes Curve |
| Handle | Extra Power Grip |
The 16K aluminised carbon faces provide stiffness and stability for powerful shots without losing precision when it matters most. The EVA Soft Performance core offsets that stiffness with a slightly friendlier feel and better vibration damping than you might expect from an attacking racket. The Octagonal Structure reinforces the frame and spreads impact forces, and the Extra Power Grip adds momentum to keep your shots deep.
How the Metalbone Reserve plays: feel and spin
The high balance and head-heavy weight give the racket a clearly attacking character: it favours bandejas, víboras and smashes, and lets you dominate the net when you strike with good technique. The rough surface with Spin Blade Decal and the Smart Holes Curve pattern help grip the ball to add spin. In return, the sweet spot sits higher and is less forgiving than on a round racket: off-centre hits are noticeable.
Metalbone Reserve 2026 versus the other 2026 Metalbone models
| Model | Faces | Core | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metalbone 2026 | 16K aluminised carbon | EVA Soft Performance | Power, with a Weight & Balance system to customise weight and balance |
| Metalbone HRD+ 2026 | Carbon | EVA High Memory | The hardest version, for highly refined technique |
| Metalbone Reserve 2026 | 16K aluminised carbon | EVA Soft Performance | Special edition with Octagonal Structure and Extra Power Grip |
If you want maximum stiffness, the HRD+ is the most radical option. If you want to adjust weight and balance, the standard Metalbone 2026 offers that customisation. The Reserve is the special edition of the range, with an exclusive design and an attacking set-up.
Who is the Adidas Metalbone Reserve designed for?
Ideal profile:
- Advanced or competitive players who dominate the aerial game.
- Attacking players who are comfortable at the net and look to finish points.
- Players who put power and precision ahead of comfort.
- Fans who value special editions and exclusive design.
Not recommended for:
- Beginners or intermediate players: the stiffness and high balance can tire the arm.
- Defensive players looking for a softer, more forgiving racket.
If you are still defining your profile, read our guide to control vs power padel rackets.
Comparison: Metalbone Reserve 2026 vs 2025
The 2025 Reserve was an exclusive edition designed for the Reserve Cup. Comparing the official specification sheets of both editions, they share much of their configuration but are not identical on paper.
What they share according to the specification sheets
- Weight of 360–375 g.
- High (head heavy) balance and a sweet spot towards the top.
- 16K aluminised carbon faces.
- EVA Soft Performance rubber.
- Octagonal Structure, Low Poly, Smart Holes Curve and Spin Blade Decal technologies.
- An overall attacking orientation.
Published differences
| Feature | Metalbone Reserve 2025 | Metalbone Reserve 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Shape (specification sheet classification) | Diamond | Diamond Oversize |
| Level listed on the sheet | Pro | Advanced |
Verdict: the two editions share much of their published configuration, but they are not identical on paper: Adidas classifies the 2025 as Diamond and the 2026 as Diamond Oversize. Without a direct physical comparison, we cannot claim that they feel exactly the same.
Frequently asked questions about the Adidas Metalbone Reserve
What is the Adidas Metalbone Reserve?
It is a special edition of Adidas Padel's Metalbone line, developed with Ale Galán and linked to the Reserve Cup, with high-end materials and an exclusive design.
What is the difference between the Metalbone and the Metalbone Reserve?
Both share 16K aluminised carbon faces and an EVA Soft Performance core. The Reserve adds the Octagonal Structure, Extra Power Grip and an exclusive finish, while the standard Metalbone lets you customise weight and balance with the Weight & Balance system.
Which playing level is it recommended for?
Advanced and competitive players. It is not suitable for beginners because of its stiffness and technical demands.
How much does the Adidas Metalbone Reserve 2026 weigh?
Between 360 and 375 grams, a typical range for high-end diamond-shaped rackets.
Does Ale Galán use the Metalbone Reserve?
The racket was developed with Ale Galán and reflects his technical preferences and attacking style.
Not sure whether this racket suits your level? Get in touch and we will help you decide.
