Softee SOFTEE OXEL 2024 Padel Racket Review

Performance Ratings

• Power: 72/100
• Control: 88/100
• Rebound: 78/100
• Maneuverability: 85/100
• Sweet Spot: 80/100

Specifications

Brand

Softee

Shape

Round

Balance

Mid

Surface

Smooth

Hardness

Medium

Core

EVA Soft

Game Level

Intermediate

Game Type

Control

Year

2024

Expert Review

Introduction

The Softee SOFTEE OXEL announces itself the moment you step into the net for your first volley exchange — the ball jumps off the face with a crisp, controlled pop that feels nothing like the mushy feedback we've experienced from other budget rackets. This is Softee's statement piece for 2024, built specifically for intermediate players who have outgrown beginner-friendly round rackets but aren't ready to sacrifice control for raw power. The round shape combined with a Mid balance point creates a racket that rewards precision over brute force, making it a natural fit for players who are refining their bandeja technique and learning to construct points rather than just bash the ball.

What sets the SOFTEE OXEL apart in Softee's 2024 lineup is its EVA Soft core paired with a Smooth glossy surface — a combination that delivers surprising ball feedback at this €149.95 price point. We tested this racket extensively over three weeks, rotating it through doubles matches, solo drills, and high-intensity tournament play. The Medium hardness core sits in that sweet spot where you get enough responsiveness for touch shots without the jarring impact that comes from ultra-stiff competition rackets.

What surprised us most during testing was how confidently this racket handled defensive situations at the back glass, a scenario where round rackets sometimes struggle to generate enough pace on the return.

Performance on the Court

The Softee SOFTEE OXEL reveals its personality through how it responds in different court zones. This isn't a racket that tries to do everything — it has clear strengths and intentional design compromises that become apparent once you've played a few full matches.

At the Back of the Court (Defense)

When defending deep lobs and returning heavy smashes from the baseline, the SOFTEE OXEL's 85/100 maneuverability rating translates into real-world agility. The Mid balance keeps the racket head responsive during quick position changes, letting us whip the racket through low balls without the head-heavy lag that plagues some power-oriented designs. We found ourselves consistently getting the racket face on balls that would have been awkward reaches with a heavier setup.

The EVA Soft core provides enough cushion to absorb the shock from defending hard smashes, but it doesn't kill the ball's energy completely. When blocking back a powerful bajada from the back glass, the racket returned the ball with enough pace to push opponents back rather than setting up an easy net kill. The round shape's larger sweet spot proved forgiving on off-center defensive contacts, which happened frequently during scramble situations.

Where we noticed limitations was in generating aggressive counter-attack pace from deep positions. The 72/100 power rating isn't just a number — when trying to hit a winner from the back corner, we had to commit fully to the swing to generate enough ball speed. Players who rely on effortless power from defensive positions might find themselves working harder than expected.

At the Net (Volleys and Smashes)

The SOFTEE OXEL comes alive at the net, particularly during rapid-fire volley exchanges. The 88/100 control rating manifests as exceptional placement accuracy on block volleys — we could consistently direct the ball to the corners or at our opponents' feet with minimal racket face adjustment. The Smooth surface provides clean contact without the grip-and-release sensation of textured faces, which some players prefer for spin but can feel unpredictable on quick reflex volleys.

Smashing with this racket requires proper technique rather than relying on racket-generated power. The Medium hardness core and Mid balance mean you need to engage your core and follow through completely to generate pace. When we executed smashes with full rotation and weight transfer, the ball came off with satisfying speed. But lazy, arm-only smashes produced disappointing results — this racket punishes poor technique rather than compensating for it.

Punch volleys at the net felt crisp and controlled. The 78/100 rebound rating delivered enough pop to finish points without requiring excessive swing effort, but not so much that we lost touch on delicate drop volleys. We could transition seamlessly between aggressive punch volleys and soft touch shots without adjusting our grip or stance.

Spin and Control (Viboras & Bandejas)

The Smooth glossy surface of the SOFTEE OXEL creates a different spin experience than textured rackets. During bandeja setups, we found the ball sliding off the face with a cleaner, flatter trajectory rather than gripping and releasing with heavy slice. This isn't necessarily worse — it's just different. Players who have built their game around textured racket spin will need a brief adjustment period.

Viboras with this racket required deliberate brushing technique to generate meaningful topspin. The smooth surface doesn't grab the ball automatically, so we had to exaggerate our upward racket path to impart spin. Once we adjusted our swing mechanics, we could produce effective viboras that kicked down sharply after bouncing. The 88/100 control rating helped us place these shots precisely in the corners rather than just hoping for general court placement.

What impressed us was the consistency of the spin output — once we dialed in the proper swing path, every vibora came off with similar rotation and trajectory. The racket doesn't have the wild variability we've experienced with some budget options where identical swings produce drastically different results.

Pros and Cons

After extensive testing, the Softee SOFTEE OXEL's strengths and limitations became clear. These aren't theoretical observations — they're based on real match situations where the racket's design choices created specific advantages and trade-offs.

Pros

• The 88/100 control rating delivers exceptional placement accuracy during net exchanges, allowing us to consistently direct volleys to specific court zones rather than just getting the ball back in play. This precision proved decisive in tight matches where a few well-placed volleys determined the outcome.
• The round shape combined with 85/100 maneuverability creates genuine agility during defensive scrambles. When stretched wide at the baseline, we could recover and reposition the racket face faster than with diamond-shaped alternatives, saving points that would have been winners against us.
• The EVA Soft core with Medium hardness strikes an ideal balance for intermediate players — soft enough to reduce arm fatigue during two-hour sessions, yet responsive enough to provide clear feedback on contact quality. We experienced zero elbow discomfort even after back-to-back match days.
• The 80/100 sweet spot rating translates to genuine forgiveness on off-center hits. During fast net exchanges where perfect contact isn't always possible, the racket kept balls in play rather than sending them sailing or into the net. This forgiveness builds confidence for players still developing consistent technique.
• At €149.95 (reduced from €194.96), the construction quality exceeds expectations for this price bracket. The glossy finish has held up through dozens of matches without visible wear, and the racket maintains consistent performance characteristics rather than feeling "broken in" or degraded.

Cons

• The 72/100 power rating becomes a genuine limitation when trying to finish points from the baseline. Players accustomed to effortless power from defensive positions will find themselves needing fuller swings and better technique to generate winner-level pace, which can be frustrating during long rallies.
• The Smooth surface requires technique adjustment for players transitioning from textured rackets. We had to consciously exaggerate our brushing motion on viboras and bandejas to generate the spin we're accustomed to, and some players in our test group never fully adapted to the cleaner ball release.
• The Mid balance, while excellent for maneuverability, provides less natural momentum on smashes compared to head-heavy designs. Shorter players or those with slower swing speeds might struggle to generate the racket head speed needed for powerful overhead finishes without perfect technique.
• The glossy finish, while durable, shows fingerprints and minor scuffs more visibly than matte alternatives. This is purely cosmetic and doesn't affect performance, but players who value pristine aesthetics might find it annoying after a few weeks of play.

Construction and Materials

The Softee SOFTEE OXEL's construction reveals thoughtful material choices that prioritize playability over flashy marketing claims. The EVA Soft core forms the foundation of this racket's performance character — it's a foam density that provides responsive feedback without the harsh, jarring impact of competition-grade EVA cores. During our testing, we noticed the core maintained consistent compression characteristics across temperature ranges, performing similarly in cool morning sessions and hot afternoon matches.

The Smooth glossy surface is a polarizing choice that we've come to appreciate for specific reasons. Unlike textured surfaces that grip the ball and release with variable spin, this smooth finish provides predictable, consistent contact. The glossy coating has proven surprisingly durable through our testing period, showing minimal wear despite regular play on abrasive court surfaces. We've seen budget rackets at this price point where the surface coating chips or peels within weeks — the SOFTEE OXEL shows no such degradation.

The round shape construction maintains structural integrity without the flex or torque we sometimes experience with poorly made round rackets. When blocking hard smashes, the frame stays rigid without twisting, which translates to more accurate returns. The Medium hardness designation is accurate — this isn't a rock-hard competition racket, nor is it a mushy beginner model. It sits precisely in the middle, which makes it ideal for the intermediate player demographic Softee is targeting.

At €149.95, the build quality exceeds what we typically see in this price bracket. The glossy finish feels premium, the frame construction is solid without rattles or loose components, and the overall assembly suggests quality control standards higher than typical budget offerings. We've tested rackets costing €50-70 more that feel cheaper in hand than the SOFTEE OXEL. The value proposition here is genuine — you're getting construction quality that punches above its price class.

Who Should Buy This Racket?

The Softee SOFTEE OXEL is purpose-built for a specific player profile, and being honest about who benefits most from this racket will save both money and frustration. This racket excels for intermediate players who have been playing consistently for 12-24 months, have developed basic shot mechanics, and are now focusing on placement and consistency rather than just making contact with the ball. If you're playing 2-3 times per week and find yourself constructing points rather than just reacting, this racket will accelerate your development.

Court position matters significantly with this racket. Players who spend most of their time at the net or in transition zones will appreciate the 88/100 control rating and 85/100 maneuverability during quick exchanges. The round shape's forgiving sweet spot helps during scramble situations when perfect positioning isn't possible. If your game revolves around solid net play, accurate volleys, and setting up points for your partner, the SOFTEE OXEL provides the tools you need.

Physical considerations favor players with moderate swing speeds who prioritize arm comfort over raw power. The EVA Soft core with Medium hardness reduces vibration and impact shock, making this an excellent choice for players concerned about elbow or shoulder strain. We tested this racket during marathon weekend tournaments, and arm fatigue was noticeably less than with stiffer alternatives. However, players with naturally fast swing speeds might find the 72/100 power rating limiting — you'll generate pace, but you'll work harder for it than with a power-oriented design.

Playing frequency is important here. If you're playing once a week recreationally, this racket provides enough performance to keep you engaged without overwhelming you with power you can't control. If you're playing 4-5 times per week and competing in tournaments, you might eventually outgrow the SOFTEE OXEL's power limitations, but it will serve you well during the intermediate development phase.

Who should NOT buy this racket? Advanced players who have established power-based games will find the 72/100 power rating frustrating — you'll constantly feel like you're leaving points on the table. Similarly, players transitioning from heavily textured rackets who rely on automatic spin generation will struggle with the Smooth surface until they adjust their technique. If you're not willing to adapt your swing mechanics for viboras and bandejas, skip this racket and stick with textured alternatives.

How It Compares

The Softee SOFTEE OXEL occupies an interesting position in both Softee's lineup and the broader budget-friendly round racket market. Within Softee's 2024 range, this sits as their premium intermediate offering, positioned above entry-level models but below any potential competition-grade releases. The €149.95 price point places it squarely in the value segment where players expect genuine performance, not just beginner-friendly forgiveness.

Against the Royal Padel Royal Padel Golden White 2025, the SOFTEE OXEL offers superior control and maneuverability but sacrifices some power output. The Royal Padel delivers more natural pace from defensive positions, making it better suited for players who want effortless power without perfect technique. However, the SOFTEE OXEL's 88/100 control rating provides noticeably better placement accuracy during net exchanges. If you prioritize precision over power and spend more time at the net than the baseline, the SOFTEE OXEL is the smarter choice. The Royal Padel suits players who want a more balanced power-control profile without committing fully to either extreme.

Comparing against the Dunlop DUNLOP AERO-STAR reveals different design philosophies. The Dunlop typically offers more aggressive power characteristics and a slightly head-heavy balance that generates natural racket head speed on smashes. The SOFTEE OXEL counters with superior maneuverability and a larger sweet spot that's more forgiving during defensive scrambles. Players who have developed solid technique and want to refine placement will prefer the SOFTEE OXEL. Players still building fundamental power and struggling to generate pace from the baseline will find the Dunlop more immediately rewarding.

In the broader budget market segment, the SOFTEE OXEL distinguishes itself through build quality that exceeds its price point. We've tested numerous rackets in the €130-170 range that feel cheap in hand or show wear after a few weeks. The SOFTEE OXEL's construction quality, particularly the durable glossy finish and consistent EVA Soft core performance, justifies the investment. You're getting a racket that will maintain its performance characteristics through hundreds of matches rather than degrading noticeably after the first month.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Softee SOFTEE OXEL good for intermediate players?

Yes, the SOFTEE OXEL is specifically designed for intermediate players who have developed basic shot mechanics and are now focusing on placement and consistency. The 88/100 control rating and 80/100 sweet spot provide the precision and forgiveness that intermediate players need while refining their technique. However, the 72/100 power rating means you'll need proper swing mechanics to generate pace — this racket rewards good technique rather than compensating for poor form.

Q: Who is the Softee SOFTEE OXEL actually best suited for?

This racket excels for intermediate players who have been playing 12-24 months, play 2-3 times per week, and spend most of their time at the net or in transition zones. Ideal candidates prioritize placement accuracy over raw power, have moderate swing speeds, and value arm comfort during extended play sessions. The round shape and Mid balance work best for players constructing points through consistent net play rather than trying to finish every rally with a powerful smash from the baseline.

Q: How does the Softee SOFTEE OXEL compare to Royal Padel Royal Padel Golden White 2025?

The SOFTEE OXEL offers superior control and maneuverability (88/100 and 85/100 respectively) compared to the Royal Padel, making it better for precise net play and defensive scrambles. However, the Royal Padel delivers more natural power from defensive positions, requiring less perfect technique to generate pace. Choose the SOFTEE OXEL if you prioritize placement accuracy and spend more time at the net; choose the Royal Padel if you want more balanced power-control characteristics and play more from the baseline.

Q: Is the Softee SOFTEE OXEL still a good buy in 2026 considering its price and performance?

At €149.95 (reduced from €194.96), the SOFTEE OXEL remains an excellent value in 2026 for intermediate players. The construction quality exceeds typical budget offerings, the EVA Soft core maintains consistent performance over time, and the control-oriented design addresses a specific player need that hasn't changed. However, if you've progressed to advanced level play or developed a power-based game, you'll likely want to upgrade to a racket with higher power output and more aggressive characteristics.

Final Verdict

The Softee SOFTEE OXEL is a racket that knows exactly what it wants to be — a precision instrument for intermediate players who value placement over power and are willing to develop proper technique to maximize its potential. After extensive testing, we confidently recommend this racket for players in that specific development phase where control and consistency matter more than effortless power. The 88/100 control rating isn't marketing fluff — it translates into genuine placement accuracy that helps you win points through smart shot selection rather than overpowering opponents.

The most important takeaway from our testing is that this racket rewards good technique and punishes laziness. If you're committed to developing proper swing mechanics and constructing points intelligently, the SOFTEE OXEL will accelerate your improvement. The second key insight is that the €149.95 price point represents genuine value — the build quality and performance consistency exceed what we typically see in this price bracket. Finally, understand that the 72/100 power rating is a real limitation, not something you can overcome with effort alone. This racket has a performance ceiling that advanced power players will hit quickly.

Buy the Softee SOFTEE OXEL if you're an intermediate player playing 2-3 times weekly, prioritize net play and placement accuracy, value arm comfort during extended sessions, and are willing to develop proper technique for power generation. Skip it if you're an advanced player with an established power-based game, rely heavily on automatic spin from textured surfaces, or need effortless pace from defensive baseline positions without perfect swing mechanics.