Kuikma PR990 Hybrid Soft — Full Review
The PR990 Hybrid Soft remains one of the best value-for-money rackets in the market. Comfortable, forgiving and easy to handle, it offers a natural mix of control and ball exit — ideal for intermediate players who want quality without premium prices.
Verdict
With a soft touch, generous sweet spot and excellent forgiveness, the PR990 Hybrid Soft feels like a premium racket sold at mid-range price. Maneuverability is impressive and consistency from the back is much better than expected at this budget. The main limitation is raw overhead power — it needs technique and body to accelerate.
PadelCritic Scores (0–10)
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent comfort — soft and filtered touch.
- High forgiveness with a generous sweet spot.
- Predictable, easy ball exit.
- Outstanding value for money.
Cons
- Limited overhead power.
- Less crisp feedback than premium carbon frames.
On-court performance
Back of the court
Helps recover low balls and maintain depth with minimal effort. The elastic EVA Soft core makes off-centre shots more controllable.
At the net
Clean volleys with predictable ball exit. Very stable for the price and forgiving on late contacts.
Overheads
Solid bandejas with easy control. For x3/x4 smashes, it lacks head mass and stiffness — power relies more on technique.
Comfort & vibrations
Extremely comfortable, ideal for players with elbow sensitivity. Vibrations are minimal.
Who it’s for / not for
Great fit if…
- You’re an intermediate player wanting comfort and stability.
- You’re upgrading from an entry-level racket.
- You want the best value-for-money option available.
Skip it if…
- You’re a heavy attacker needing maximum power.
- You prefer crisp, firm, dry feedback.
Alternatives
| Bullpadel Ionic CTR | Firmer feel, more control. | Less comfort. |
|---|---|---|
| NOX X-One Evo | Comfortable, beginner-friendly. | Less stability. |
| Royal Padel RP 850 Whip Hybrid | Maximum comfort and damping. | Higher price bracket. |
30-second take
- Comfortable and very forgiving.
- One of the best sub-€150 rackets available.
- Perfect for developing players who want consistency without arm pain.