The international growth of padel is not only reshaping the global sports landscape but also driving innovation in equipment development. In this context, the Institute of Biomechanics (IBV) is leading the EFISPORT project, with a strong focus on improving the interaction between player, footwear and padel surface to enhance performance and reduce injury risk.
Padel involves constant changes of direction, short braking actions, lateral movements and explosive footwork. Achieving the right balance between grip, controlled sliding and stability is essential - and understanding this interaction is key to designing truly efficient products.
Padel-focused research
EFISPORT aims to develop new methodologies to comprehensively evaluate the efficiency between:
The player
Specific padel footwear
The playing surface
Advanced procedures are being developed to realistically simulate the physical-mechanical interaction between these three elements, alongside biomechanical, physiological and perceptive assessment tools.
This will allow footwear and padel surface manufacturers to design safer, more competitive products aligned with the evolving demands of international markets.
Performance and injury prevention
In a sport defined by lateral movements and rapid decelerations, controlling grip and impact absorption is crucial to:
Reduce joint and muscular injuries
Improve movement efficiency
Optimize footwear response on artificial turf courts
EFISPORT aims to provide validated, industry-transferable procedures that enable data-driven product development.
Direct impact on the padel industry
The project involves collaboration with companies operating in the footwear and sports surface sectors, ensuring rapid transfer of research outcomes to the market and strengthening competitiveness in a fast-growing global padel ecosystem.
Beyond its business impact, the initiative contributes to improving safety and quality in padel practice - a priority for both amateur and professional players worldwide.
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