Being new to pickleball, this year, I wanted to upgrade my cheap aluminum paddle to a carbon fiber one, but I did not want to spend over $100. Like most people, I went online and searched YouTube and Google.
Throughout my search I couldn't believe how many paddle companies are USAP approved. With different paddle shapes, handles, material and length I was overwhelmed with which paddle to go with. Then during my first visit to Camp Pickleball in Plainville Connecticut, I asked to try a demo paddle. They let me try a Joola Scorpeus 3 14mm and I was impressed until I asked them how much they cost. She said, around $300! I couldn’t believe how much one paddle was and anything over $150 was more than what I wanted to spend.
I noticed that most companies paddles seem to have similar dimensions and materials with a variety of prices. But why are some paddle companies charging $200-$300 while others were selling theirs for $80-$150.
Then one day, while I was at Target with my family, I decided to go to the sports equipment isle to look at what they had and I saw a Joola and a Franklin paddle on sale for 50% off. I was excited at first but still questioned as to why they were on sale from $99 to $49. I did have $50 cash from Christmas and my father's birthday was around the corner at that time so I bought them both. These paddles were made of fiberglass, but the Franklin had more of a sand paper like feel to the face, which I wasn’t a fan of. So, I bought the Franklin paddle for my dad's birthday and kept the Joola Seneca for myself. I was feeling good about my purchase at that time, because of the discounts, but kept looking online. After trying the paddle I was somewhat happy but I was not fully convinced that $50 for this paddle was the right purchase for me. I felt like $50 was still a good chunk of money to put into a different paddle. Then I came across Vatic Pro.Their reviews and prices had me quickly returned my Joola paddle to Target and that when purchased my first carbon fiber paddle from Vactic Pro. Their prices were $89.99 plus tax, with a coupon code and shipping was included. While many other companies were still well over the $100 or more for their paddles Vatic Pro keeps theirs paddles affordable. Was it worth it? Yes, but why?
The reason why I went with a wide paddle is to have more control. It has a larger wide body face which helps beginners and recreational players to have more control and spin. I played yesterday in my first open play at Camp Pickleball and noticed the difference right away. As a beginner I’m not looking to hitting the ball as hard as possible but want to work on my control, mechanics, fundamentals and get some spin on the ball. I was extremely happy with my purchase and recommend it to my family and friends. After trying pickleball for fun and learning more about the sport, I am thinking that I might be more of a balanced player on the court. For now...
Since I have bought this paddle, I have noticed how much response, spin and control I have in my game. If you are looking for a budget friendly paddle get the Prism Bloom 16mm or the Prism Flash 16mm. If you are in Connecticut and would like to assess the paddle, feel free to reach out to me to schedule a time to play.
When you are ready to buy from Vatic Pro use my name jonathantorres as a coupon to help save $10 on your purchase. When you do, please let me know what paddle you went with, where you are from and what is your favorite places to play pickleball.
Camp Pickleball in Plainville Connecticut
