Power paddles are built to amplify your offensive game. They typically have a thinner core and a smaller sweet spot than control paddles.
Power paddles are best for players who want to generate more power on their shots and have an all around more aggressive play style.
● Selkirk Vanguard Power Air
● SLK Omega
● SLK Evo Power
Control paddles are designed to take the pace off the ball, making it easier to execute softer shots like drops, dinks, and resets. They are typically lighter and have a larger sweet spot than power paddles.
Control paddles are best for players who want a stable and forgiving paddle that will help them feel more in control of the ball and improve the accuracy of their shots.
● SLK Evo Control
● SLK Latitude
Hybrid paddles are designed to offer the best of both worlds, offering a balanced mix of power and control. They are typically midweight, with a core thickness that falls between a power and control paddle.
Hybrid paddles are best for players who want a balance of power and control that will give them a good feel and forgiveness on a variety of shots.
● SLK Halo
● SLK Evo Hybrid
● Selkirk Vanguard 2.0
In general, thicker paddles offer more control and forgiveness on shots, while thinner paddles are designed for speed and power. When it comes to making a decision on whether you should get a thick or thin paddle, two factors to consider are your playing style and your skill level.
Your playing style: If you are an aggressive player who likes to hit hard shots, including lots of drives from the baseline and reflex volleys at the net, then you might want to consider a thinner paddle. If you are a more defensive player who likes to control the ball, be more consistent, and force errors from your opponents,then you might want to consider a thicker paddle.
Your skill level: If you are a beginner, you might want to start with a thicker paddle to enhance control and consistency as you get started. As you improve, you can move to a thinner paddle if you want more power.
Lightweight paddles (7.5-7.8oz) are easier to maneuver and swing, which can be helpful for players looking for more control and increased hand speed. They are also a good choice for players who are prone to arm injuries.
Midweight paddles (7.8-8.4oz) offer a nice balance of power, control, and maneuverability. They are a good choice for most players, including beginners and intermediate players.
Heavyweight paddles (above 8.4oz) offer more power, but they are less maneuverable. They are a good choice for players who are looking to hit hard shots, but they may not be the best choice for control or for players who are prone to arm injuries. *Note - most paddles are sold at lightweight and midweight ranges. Those who prefer a paddle that weighs 8.4oz or more often achieve this by adding lead tape or tungsten strips to their pickleball paddle.
The sweet spot on a pickleball paddle is the area on the paddle face where the ball will travel with the most power and accuracy when it is hit. The sweet spot is typically located in the center of the paddle face, but it can vary depending on the paddle's shape and construction. Some paddles have a larger sweet spot than others, which means that they are more forgiving if you hit the ball off-center.
Well designed Pickleball paddles will last the average recreational player up to 5 years, but if you are getting a lot of court time, there will likely be a time before then when you need to get a new paddle.
It’s damaged. The number one reason for getting a new paddle is if your current paddle is damaged. If it has cracks, chips, or other damage, it’s most likely no longer good to use.
It’s losing performance. If you notice that your paddle is not as responsive as it used to be, or if the ball is not traveling as far or as accurately, it might be time for a new paddle.
Your playing style has changed. If you have become a more aggressive player, or if you are looking for more power or control, you’re likely ready to try a different paddle.
Paddle technology advancements. The playability of pickleball paddles is improving quickly with each passing year. Trying new pickleball technology may help to improve your game!
There are a few signs that can indicate that your pickleball paddle is delaminated:
Soft spots: If you press on the surface of the paddle and feel any soft spots, the layers of the paddle may be separating.
Bubbling or peeling: If you see any bubbling or peeling on the surface of the paddle, the paddle has likely been exposed to physical or chemical damage, and is now delaminated.
Changes in sound: If you notice a different sound coming from the paddle when you hit the ball compared to the sound it made when you originally purchased, it’s likely been delaminated.
Changes in performance: If you notice that your paddle is not performing as well as it used to, this could also be a sign of delamination.
If you are looking for more power or control on your shots, and are okay with sacrificing some hand speed and paddle maneuverability, then lead tape can be a good option. Typically, adding weight towards the top of the paddle adds swing weight and power to your shots, and adding weight towards the handle will provide more stability and control. If you are concerned about the weight or flexibility of the paddle, then you may want to avoid using lead tape.
The best pickleball paddle for players getting started on the court is the SLK Latitude 2.0. The paddle is designed to give you more control, more spin, and a large sweet spot at an unbeatable price.
The price of a pickleball paddle can vary depending on the materials used and the features provided. In general, pickleball paddles range in price from around $50 to $200+.
● Paddles on the more affordable end are typically made with composite materials, such as fiberglass or nylon. They are lightweight and easy to swing, but they may not offer as much power or control as more expensive paddles.
● Mid-range priced paddles are typically made with graphite or carbon fiber materials. They’ll generally offer a good balance of power, control, and weight.
● High-end paddles are typically made with high-quality, high-performance materials, such as carbon fiber or titanium.
The importance of maintaining your pickleball paddle cannot be overstated. As the primary equipment for playing this popular sport, caring for your paddle will help to ensure optimal performance and durability.
Check out our top tips for caring for your pickleball paddle and the steps you can take to elongate its lifespan: https://www.selkirk.com/pages/paddle-care-guide
Selkirk Pickleball Paddles
Selkirk’s mission is to design the best pickleball paddles for ALL players, beginners to pro! We have been manufacturing pickleball paddles since 2014 and are constantly innovating through research and development, so you know you are getting the best paddles on the market. Our paddles have limited lifetime warranties, so you can rest easy knowing you have made a great selection.
