Pickleball is a popular sport that requires a combination of speed, agility, and technique. To play the game at your best, it is essential to have the right equipment, including a high-quality paddle. Selkirk is one of the leading brands in the pickleball paddle market, known for producing paddles that are both durable and performant. In this buying guide, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the top 5 Selkirk paddles, to help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next paddle.
Before we dive into the list of the top 5 Selkirk paddles, it is important to understand what to look for in a paddle. When choosing a paddle, you should consider factors such as weight, grip size, and material. The weight of the paddle affects the control you have over the ball, while the grip size and material will impact the comfort of the paddle.
Selkirk provides a diverse selection of paddles that cater to players of all levels.
These include the SLK line (made in China, suitable for beginners to intermediates, with a one-year warranty), Selkirk (USA-crafted for intermediate to advanced players, with a lifetime warranty) and Selkirk Labs (experimental program offering high-end paddles).
The SLK range of paddles is perfect for those just starting out in pickleball.
Prices range from $50 to $100 and the company is soon introducing a new series, the Evo paddles, which come with white edge guards, and provide impressive performance for the cost.
Selkirk's collection includes six shapes: Epic, Invicta, and S2.
Epic paddles have a wider face and handle, Invicta is more traditional in design, and S2 is longer and narrower.
Additionally, there are two lines: Amped and Vanguard 2.0.
Amped is designed for power and control, offering more spin and force, while Vanguard 2.0 is better for touch and feel, and has a larger sweet spot.
Selkirk Labs is the experimental arm of the brand and is responsible for the Power Air paddle.
The Project Zero Zero Two, priced at $333, includes the paddle, carrying case, and metal welcome card.
Customers who leave feedback on the paddle receive a $77 digital gift card that can only be used on the Selkirk Labs website.
The SLK Evo is designed for beginners to intermediate players and is the most cost-effective option from Selkirk.
It is soon to be released with all-white edge guards and reliable performance.
This paddle is backed by a one-year warranty.
The SLK Halo & Omega Max paddles are optimized for experienced players.
These paddles provide power and control, come in a variety of shapes, and generate moderate spin.
They are included by a one-year warranty and range from $90 to $150.
The Amped line provides a balanced combination of control and power.
The Vanguard 2.0 has a soft feel, is 16mm thick, and is priced at $200.
Compared to the Amped line, it has a larger sweet spot and allows for more finesse.
Selkirk Labs is a branch of the company that produces high-end paddles.
The Power Air, the result of Project Zero Zero Two, is 13mm thick, edgeless, generates high spin and power, and costs $250.
A $333 package includes the paddle, carrying case, and metal welcome card.
Ava Lee offers two paddles (with smaller grip sizes) - Vanguard 2.0 Epic & Mach 6.Both of these paddles are great options for those who prefer a smaller grip size and still want to experience Selkirk's quality.
At the top of our list, we have the Selkirk Amped paddle. This paddle is considered the best all-around option, and is suitable for players of all skill levels. The Selkirk Amped is made from fiberglass and polypropylene, making it both lightweight and durable. The paddle also features a comfortable grip, allowing you to play for extended periods without experiencing any discomfort.
For beginners, we recommend the Selkirk Sports SLK Latitude paddle. This paddle is designed specifically for new players, and is characterized by its wide body and light weight. The Selkirk Sports SLK Latitude is also made from high-quality materials, making it a great choice for those who are just starting to learn the game.
When looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle, Selkirk is a brand that you can trust. The top 5 Selkirk paddles listed in this buying guide are all top-performing paddles that will provide you with the best possible playing experience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, there is a Selkirk paddle to suit your needs.
The Selkirk Amped S2 Midweight Pickleball Paddle is a well-designed paddle that offers a great balance of power and control. Its increased surface area allows for a larger sweet spot, which makes it more forgiving for players who might not have perfect shot placement. The standard shape of the paddle also adds to its ease of use and comfortable grip. In my experience playing with this paddle, I found that it performed well in both attacking and control play, making it a versatile choice for players of all skill levels. Overall, I highly recommend the Selkirk Amped S2 Midweight Pickleball Paddle for any player looking to improve their game.
The VANGUARD POWER AIR INVIKTA is a high-performance pickleball paddle developed by Selkirk Pickleball. It is known for its top-end power and ability to provide great reach and surface area. The paddle uses the VANGUARD POWER AIR technology which was developed to provide full control of the court, with performance power and maximum spin. It is perfect for attacking play, with its power and spin capabilities. However, it may not be the best choice for control play, especially up close. The handle is comfortable to grip, the overall look of the paddle is very professional, and it gives a great feel while playing. It is a great option for advanced players who have better technique and control over their shots.
The Selkirk Amped Epic Lightweight Composite Pickleball Paddle is the perfect choice for intermediate to advanced players looking for a powerful yet controlled paddle. It has a FiberFlex Fiberglass face and a thicker Polypropylene X5 Core that provides optimal ball cushioning, giving you a consistent striking surface and great spin control. The paddle also has a longer handle for two-handed swings, along with a traditional paddle shape for a comfortable grip. The Amped Epic is also made in the U.S.A. and has bold new graphics for 2021. If you're looking for power and control, the Selkirk Amped Epic Lightweight Composite Pickleball Paddle is the perfect paddle for you.
The Selkirk Vanguard 2.0 S2 Pickleball Paddle is a top-of-the-line pickleball paddle designed for both experienced and novice players. It features a low-profile, lightweight and durable edge guard technology for a well-balanced, solid paddle. The handle length is 4-1/2" with a medium 4-1/4" circumference, wrapped in Selkirk's moisture-absorbing Geo Grip. This paddle is also equipped with a unique bi-directional, cross-weave carbon fiber technology, providing ultimate consistency, accelerated ball velocity, an extra large sweet spot, and superior spin and power. The broad face of the S2 model gives it the perfect combination of power and control, making it an ideal paddle for all skill levels. With its cutting-edge design and superior performance, the Selkirk Vanguard 2.0 S2 Pickleball Paddle is a must-have for any pickleball enthusiast.
The Selkirk VANGUARD 2.0 Mach6 Lightweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for players looking for a balance of power and control. It features low-profile, lightweight and durable edge guard technology for a well-balanced and solid paddle. The paddle is designed with proprietary bi-directional, cross-weave carbon fiber technology to provide an impressive blend of power and control. Additionally, the paddle is equipped with EdgeSentry� technology to provide increased stability and control. The paddle is light and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for players who want to improve their game. With its impressive features, the Selkirk VANGUARD 2.0 Mach6 Lightweight Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for any level of player.
The Selkirk Amped Omni is a great pickleball paddle for those looking for a control-focused paddle. With its elongated shape and short handle, it provides a comfortable grip that allows players to confidently perform advanced shots. Developed with the help of SelkirkPro and US Open Champion Glen Peterson, the Omni is crafted with a revolutionary FiberFlex Fiberglass face and patent pending thicker X5 core for added power and durability. It also features a 4-1/4" handle which allows players to use a ping pong-style grip and place a finger against the back of the face. The Selkirk Amped Omni is the perfect paddle for players who want to take their game to the next level.
If you're just starting out, I highly recommend the SLK Evo Hybrid & Soft. It is lightweight, soft, and comfortable Therefore, it is ideal for beginners who wish to get a head start on their play without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, it is a tough paddle, allowing you to use it repeatedly over many years. The SLK Evo Hybrid & Soft is ideal for golfers players who desire a large sweet spot and a thicker core. The SLK Rev-Soft Core technology absorbs impact to provide players a softer feel while still delivering the necessary court power.
The Selkirk SLK Halo XL Pickleball Paddle is designed to help players dominate on the court, with an elongated shape and handle for increased reach and spin. It features a T700 Raw Carbon Fiber face, a Rev-Core Power Polymer Core, and an SLK Faux Leather Grip. The paddle weighs between 7.6-8.2 ounces and has a handle length of 5.75 inches and a paddle length of 16.4 inches.
All of the beginner paddles we propose are fairly priced. Pickleball paddles are currently available for as cheap as $10 and as much as $250. Our recommendations are not the newest or least expensive pickleball paddles on the market. This list's items are somewhere in the middle of the spectrum.
That being said, if you want to play pickleball on a semi-regular basis and are looking for a paddle that will grow with you.
So you want an excellent paddle but don't want to spend a bunch on it. Please continue reading since this is the list for you.
As a list for beginners, we've kept the technology of these paddles simple. As a new and upcoming sport in popularity, brands are constantly pushing the limit. As a beginner you're not gonna need a crazy carbon composite, space grade, with extended cores and enhanced dinking capabilities.
These features come more in handy for advanced players who already know what there playstyle preference is and our fighting for tiny edges.
As a beginner who's still get used to the intricacies of dinking you probably don't need that special grip for some extra top spin.
First, you need to decide what kind of paddle you want to use as a beginner.
Paddles come in two main types: wooden, aluminum, and composite. Most wooden paddles cost less than composite paddles, but they don't last as long.
Paddles made of composite materials, like carbon fiber, are usually more expensive and made of different materials.
But they're also more durable and usually do a better job.
It is crucial that the paddle be of the right weight and balance. You can get more oomph from a heavier paddle, but more control can be had with a lighter one.
Another significant factor is the size of the paddle. While a larger paddle will provide more reach, a smaller one will be easier to control.
It's also important to consider the grip. Pickleball paddles come with a variety of grips, so it's important to find one that works for you. Trying out a few paddles before making a purchase is recommended if you're on the fence about which grip to get.
An edge guard helps extend the life of a pickleball paddle. Furthermore, it protects the paddle in the event of a fall or collision with the floor.
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