The Adidas Metalbone HRD+ sits at the sharp end of the power racket market and carries the name of Alejandro Galán for good reason. This is a diamond shaped racket built for players who attack from the first volley and look to finish points with pace. It feels firm, fast through the smash and demanding in defence, yet its latest versions offer more stability than past models.
Design and technology
The Metalbone HRD+ is one of the most recognisable rackets in padel. The angular frame, textured face and striking cosmetics stand out straight away. Adidas uses a 16K aluminised carbon face and its High Memory EVA core, which is the firmest foam in the company's range.
The racket has a diamond shape and a high balance. Weight sits between 345g and 360g before any customisation. The Weight and Balance System lets players remove or add small screws in the head of the racket. That feature changes the balance point and gives a degree of tuning that few rivals offer.
An octagonal structure strengthens the frame and adds rigidity. A rough Spin Blade surface helps players grip the ball for viboras and kick smashes.
On court performance
The first thing you notice is the power. Few rackets produce such a heavy ball. Flat smashes fly off the face and kick smashes gain extra bite from the stiff construction and textured finish. Left side players who like to dominate overheads will feel at home almost at once.
At the net, the Metalbone HRD+ feels stable and solid. Punch volleys carry plenty of weight and blocking hard drives feels secure. The racket rewards clean contact and early preparation. If your timing is right, you can end points very quickly.
Can an attacking racket still offer control? Yes, though it demands good technique. The sweet spot sits high in the face and is smaller than many teardrop models. Strike the ball cleanly and placement is excellent. Miss the centre and the response drops away.
Defence is the area that asks the most from the player. The head heavy balance can feel slow during fast exchanges near the glass. Low balls need a full swing and lobs require careful timing. Intermediate players may find it tiring over a long match.
The latest versions of the HRD+ have improved this part of the game. They feel a touch more forgiving and more stable on off centre contact. Even so, this remains a racket for confident and advanced players.
Comfort and feel
This is not a soft racket. The firm core produces a crisp and direct feel that strong players will enjoy. Players with elbow issues or those who prefer a cushioned impact should look elsewhere.
The longer handle used on recent editions is a welcome change. Two handed backhands feel easier and there is more room for grip adjustments during play.
Durability has produced mixed opinions. Many owners report excellent build quality and several seasons of use. A small number of players have reported cracks around the face after a few months. The built in protector offers some help against light contact with the glass and fence, though no racket is immune from damage.
Who is it for?
The Metalbone HRD+ suits an advanced player with an aggressive style. It is an ideal choice for a left side player who likes to attack with overheads and finish points early. Strong intermediates can enjoy it too, though there will be a learning period.
Beginners should avoid it. The high balance, firm feel and small sweet spot make it less forgiving than many rackets in the same price bracket.
Verdict
The Adidas Metalbone HRD+ remains one of the finest power rackets on the market. It hits hard, feels stable and gives attacking players the tools to dominate at the net. It asks plenty from the user and does not hide technical flaws, yet skilled players will find huge rewards.
If your game centres on smashes, viboras and aggressive volleys, this racket deserves a place near the top of your shortlist. If you spend more time defending or prefer a softer touch, there are easier options available.
