I appreciate the honesty about the Selkirk paddles 👍 I will watch more episodes of your podcast as long as you keep being honest like this. Very refreshing
Love the format of this video! It’s great to hear about the paddles that are coming soon but also information about paddles that weren’t worth producing a video for. Excellent work. I see a podcast in the making!
What is missing is paddle tech is durability testing. You would have to bread down the average numbers of hits per game. What percent of that is hard vs dinks. Then machine test and see after x number of hits core and surface changes. If a paddle comes to the market that advertises durability, with the same price and performance and could prove they are more durable it would be great. Side note, I hate this power trend. There needs to be a limit of ball speed with a certain about force exerted.
Durability testing surely is a metric that is glossed over a bit. But it’s very hard to get an accurate sense of the durability over time as you’d have to hit thousands of balls to really understand how it breaks down. I like your input a lot though I’m going to put some thought into it.
@@stspickleball super curious to see how the Flare Prime X will compare to the Ripple R2 once it’s available. The era of wide body power paddles is here!
Like this kind of content from you. A short 20 minute video that just goes over some highlights of interesting paddles that you don't have time or desire to do a full review. Always enjoy your videos. Keep it up. Also, not sure if you have hit any of the Crbn trufoams yet, but if you have, how does it compare to the ripple?
Love your vids man! I currently bounce between the M2F 16 and the pulsar fx r2 16 Love them both and actually feel the pulsar is the softer of the two paddles. I’m interested in trying a hybrid or elongated shape. I like super soft pillowy paddles with big sweet spots. Anything out there in those shapes you’d recommend?
Hey thanks for the compliment! First thing that comes to mind is the Honolulu J2K. It’s hard to find an elongated paddle that’s super soft and pillowy. But the J2K has a wonderful feel off the face 😊
i really love this format of stream-of-consciousness/ riffing that not just another hour long podcast about some random tournament in the southwest i don't care about (lol). meta for me also includes the all-courts trying to balance power v control (chorus)- can you make something powerful but retain a plush feel? hello 'titanium' and hello foam injected cells- lookin at you spartus olympus if it doesn't break. i don't blame selkirk for going after the incompetent paddle standards and other companies trying to take advantage. selkirk's entitlement, i feel, comes from their roots as PB's 1st 'brand', their essence being control paddles and product consistency. Ironic that their biggest hit was the Power Air (morphing into the Luxx) and if i were them, id have leaned into tweaking the Power Air more than jumping into the mid-tier price range, offering basic carbon fiber that's been out for the last year (original halo). Like, can you imagine if a year ago they tweaked the power air with foam? Like, Labs was supposed to be this really exciting avenue for innovation but they really don't do anything with that program. [EDIT 9/25/24 Selkirk Vanguard Pro is out- this is what i feel selkirk should be doing! albeit $230!!!!]
I know it’s kinda old news at this point, but any thoughts on the Proton Series 1? I’ve been contemplating getting one now that they’re actually available as a “long-term” paddle I don’t have to replace, but I’m apprehensive given the current regulation environment.
I have heard information from some higher ups assuring me they won’t be delisted, but I’d still be wary with any paddles that could be questionable until everything settles, especially for that price point. They are solid paddles. I have a couple of them, but I just can’t personally back them yet as everything is so up in the air right now.
Great video! Enjoyed the paddle talk. Was curious about the Halo Pro. For an affordable kevlar option, have you tried the Body Helix X-4 Kevlar? It seems comparable to the Ruby.
The body helix is a wonderful paddle. Thinking of doing a dedicated review on it if I can find some time. I actually should have included that paddle in this video. Always so much to cover. I really like that paddle though.
Everytime I watch your videos, I can't help but to think about Ricky Bobby in Talladega Nights not knowing what to do with his hands in an interview, LOL! Love it
LOL yeah eventually when I set up a room and a small studio for UA-cam I’ll position my camera so my hands aren’t creeping into the bottom but for now it’s Talladega vibes for sure lol.
Yeah carbon fiber tends to be poppier in general. It’s a good paddle! Thrive does a great job. Not an outlier or exciting really but a good paddle for sure.
I have a J2K. It’s great but the power/pop isn’t as great as the stability and spin is. If I wanted something that’s still easy to control, has spin, but has some more power/pop what would you suggest? Others have suggested the Ruby, Shapeshifter, and the Mark One.
I and a PB friend have both found really good control and still some good power and pop with the B&B Shogun. Although I’ve not seen the stats in comparison to the J2k (which is a really good paddle). You may want to wait for the Ronbus Ripple, they’re testing as great power paddles with great spin and good control.
I haven’t actually. Given how underwhelming Selkirk has been lately I wouldn’t expect too much but I’m always open minded and when they nail one I’m going to give them high praise of course 😊
Interesting podcast. I’m still using Volair M2F from one of your reviews. Im still sold on this paddle but it is really amazing how many new paddles that I may have to try in the future. Truly appreciate all your great work. I was unaware of the Selkirk letter. I’ve tried unsuccessfully to find it. Could you provide a link for a curious mind? Thanks
I know its an older paddle that came out a while ago, but a review of the 11SIX24 YSF would be great to see. During the whole time I've been using it, its been a really consistent paddle with the best quality to price ratio.
Pretty soon players will have to wear body armor with all these hot paddles. The one thing i am hating on with almost all new paddles is the handle length. Not every player swings with a 2 handed backhand. But yet the handle lengths are all becoming 5.5 and now 6" handles. For me, i can't handle 5" or more. The long handles mess with my backhand flick. It just makes the paddle top heavy, then you add lead to the bottom and suddenly your swinging a 8.5oz club. And thus, tennis elbow or wrist pain. Just sucks for the non power players out there. JMO
Have you noticed or heard of the Ronbus R1 Ripple increasing in power over time? Would be a turn off for me if it gets any hotter than what people are saying it is
And I love all of them! So many great podcasts out there. Figured I’d start doing some meta updates and doing my own take on a fun paddle ramble and my thoughts being a reviewer. I’ll hone it in over time. Hope you enjoyed it!
I have a 6.0 Ruby and a DBD and a hudef gen 2. Even though I’m sure there are paddles that may be “more advanced” or “better”, I feel like the difference at this point would be negligible to my game.
Fair take! I think this is a realistic mindset 😊 wear out what you have and grow in the sport and then see what’s available with a better understanding of what you need / enjoy when it’s time for a new one!
Great new format Sir. Hear you are a video game fanatic. Any chance you play Rocket League ? In regards to paddles, very interested in your professional opinion between the new Neonic Flare 16mm Titanium wide body ( actual std shape 16 x 8 inches ) and the also new Ronbus R2 14mm Ripple. Would love your comments Sir. I know you are a paddle aficionado, but I think a review on the Pickleball Balls ( especially in very warm climates, like Arizona where you are ) would be wonderfull. Thank you and keep up the wonderful work Mr. Willy Wonka. Saludos from Panama.
Haha love this comment. Made me smile. I’ve played rocket league from time to time indeed! Never honed in on the crazy top end aerials. Fun game though! I can’t speak too much on them yet. The Flare is more linear and the Ripples are gen 3 and super hot off the face that’s all I can say right now. Thanks!!
@@stspickleball Thank you very much for your prompt reply. If you want to ever get better at Rocket League my 23 year old second son is the Captain of the EA Sports team at Florida Tech University in Melbourne Florida and has gone to the Olympics to represent our country Panama in Rocket League ( Incredible the 21st century ! ). He is a student athlete in the University. And off course, also plays Pickleball. Keep up the wonderful work Sir, really enjoy it ! Saludos from Panama.
Oh please don’t get me wrong…. I watch and like all your videos, and it seems you have similar taste in paddles I do, I just thought you might have liked it, but I get it…. Pickle on!
I’m a 4.0 player. I have tried Joola Perseus gen2 and 3 along with the Anna Bright Scorpius, Selkirk Luxx, Engage 6.0 Pro Irvine, Mach 2 Forza. None are perfect for me. I like the control of Mach 2, and the dynamic feel of the Perseus gen 2. I do like control and spin of Mach 2, but want more power. What is your suggestion
Another great content Steven, I love this style of segment kinda like a podcast but chill ,Ripple, the Flare are fire 🔥🔥🔥🔥, the Versix Vector XL paddles are interesting they have a longer handle similar to the Pickleball Apes Pro Line Energy and as the Gruvn Lazr 16x & 16s, the Versix Vector XL are they All Court leaning towards control or power, so between the Vector XL or Gruvn Lazr 16x, so have a blessed, wonderful, positive, productive, peaceful and safe week and weekend
I purchased the Versix Vector XL used your discount code so the price is $129.99 w/your discount code it went down to $117.99 which is so budget friendly, and continue on making great content and reviews Steven and have a blessed, wonderful, positive, productive, peaceful and safe weekend
I was global in CSGO and recently circled back around to PubG (don’t judge me it’s fun sometimes) I used to play a ton of Tarkov and got Kappa multiple wipes in a row. Been thinking about playing some story driven games too but I’ve always been online and competitively driven 😊 wbu man?
I feel like im always desperately looking for my "soulmate paddle". Double black diamond not enough power and handle length. Same with ruby. I got a J7k and the sweet spot just too thin for me. Sigh. Hoping the ripple is next but does anyone have recommendations what to do?
Good job! Best paddle video among the recent releases.
Thank you! I appreciate it. 😊
I appreciate the honesty about the Selkirk paddles 👍 I will watch more episodes of your podcast as long as you keep being honest like this. Very refreshing
I appreciate that!
Love the format of this video! It’s great to hear about the paddles that are coming soon but also information about paddles that weren’t worth producing a video for. Excellent work. I see a podcast in the making!
Thanks for the feedback! I appreciate this!
What is missing is paddle tech is durability testing.
You would have to bread down the average numbers of hits per game. What percent of that is hard vs dinks. Then machine test and see after x number of hits core and surface changes. If a paddle comes to the market that advertises durability, with the same price and performance and could prove they are more durable it would be great.
Side note, I hate this power trend. There needs to be a limit of ball speed with a certain about force exerted.
Durability testing surely is a metric that is glossed over a bit. But it’s very hard to get an accurate sense of the durability over time as you’d have to hit thousands of balls to really understand how it breaks down. I like your input a lot though I’m going to put some thought into it.
And we appreciate you Steven! Keep doing what you do!
Always 😊😊
Love the first episode dude!
Also been playing with the Flare and it’s really good!
Thanks man! Yeah the Flare is super solid I’ve been enjoying it a ton!
@@stspickleball super curious to see how the Flare Prime X will compare to the Ripple R2 once it’s available.
The era of wide body power paddles is here!
It is and it’s very exciting tbh!
Like this kind of content from you. A short 20 minute video that just goes over some highlights of interesting paddles that you don't have time or desire to do a full review. Always enjoy your videos. Keep it up.
Also, not sure if you have hit any of the Crbn trufoams yet, but if you have, how does it compare to the ripple?
They are sending me some very soon. I’m stoked to get some playtime with them! Thanks for the feedback 😊
Love the conversational feel of this
Thank you! Glad it’s well received I was a bit nervous trying something new.
Love your vids man!
I currently bounce between the M2F 16 and the pulsar fx r2 16
Love them both and actually feel the pulsar is the softer of the two paddles. I’m interested in trying a hybrid or elongated shape. I like super soft pillowy paddles with big sweet spots. Anything out there in those shapes you’d recommend?
Hey thanks for the compliment! First thing that comes to mind is the Honolulu J2K. It’s hard to find an elongated paddle that’s super soft and pillowy. But the J2K has a wonderful feel off the face 😊
I'm hopeful that the NEXUS ProStar lives up to the hype. More control is my goal.
i really love this format of stream-of-consciousness/ riffing that not just another hour long podcast about some random tournament in the southwest i don't care about (lol). meta for me also includes the all-courts trying to balance power v control (chorus)- can you make something powerful but retain a plush feel? hello 'titanium' and hello foam injected cells- lookin at you spartus olympus if it doesn't break. i don't blame selkirk for going after the incompetent paddle standards and other companies trying to take advantage. selkirk's entitlement, i feel, comes from their roots as PB's 1st 'brand', their essence being control paddles and product consistency. Ironic that their biggest hit was the Power Air (morphing into the Luxx) and if i were them, id have leaned into tweaking the Power Air more than jumping into the mid-tier price range, offering basic carbon fiber that's been out for the last year (original halo). Like, can you imagine if a year ago they tweaked the power air with foam? Like, Labs was supposed to be this really exciting avenue for innovation but they really don't do anything with that program. [EDIT 9/25/24 Selkirk Vanguard Pro is out- this is what i feel selkirk should be doing! albeit $230!!!!]
Very well said on all accounts. I’m impressed!
Thanks for your video. Do you have any information about new CRBN?
Not yet! They have kept it all super tight. They said they will be getting me one soon though.
Would love if you could cover the current trend of Gen 3 paddles
I will when the ripple drops I know that was kind of left out here ish but when the ripple drops we will deep dive into gen 3!
I’ve been with Selkirk since 2021. The last paddle I’m playing from them is the vanguard control Epic. I just ordered my 11six24 MAC!!!
The Monarch All Court is a wonderful paddle at a great price. Nice choice!
I know it’s kinda old news at this point, but any thoughts on the Proton Series 1? I’ve been contemplating getting one now that they’re actually available as a “long-term” paddle I don’t have to replace, but I’m apprehensive given the current regulation environment.
I have heard information from some higher ups assuring me they won’t be delisted, but I’d still be wary with any paddles that could be questionable until everything settles, especially for that price point. They are solid paddles. I have a couple of them, but I just can’t personally back them yet as everything is so up in the air right now.
Great video! Enjoyed the paddle talk. Was curious about the Halo Pro. For an affordable kevlar option, have you tried the Body Helix X-4 Kevlar? It seems comparable to the Ruby.
The body helix is a wonderful paddle. Thinking of doing a dedicated review on it if I can find some time. I actually should have included that paddle in this video. Always so much to cover. I really like that paddle though.
@@stspickleball Awesome to hear!
Everytime I watch your videos, I can't help but to think about Ricky Bobby in Talladega Nights not knowing what to do with his hands in an interview, LOL! Love it
Enough of the hand talk. You overdue it dude! I mean come on.
LOL yeah eventually when I set up a room and a small studio for UA-cam I’ll position my camera so my hands aren’t creeping into the bottom but for now it’s Talladega vibes for sure lol.
I can’t see the Talladega nights thing now🤦🏻♀️😂
Do you mean unsee? 😂
lol what
Any comments on thrive surge compared to azul and other offerings ? Did you try it ? Good all around paddle ? Better than DBD?
Surge is poppier and has some rigidity to the face. Azul is still my favorite it just feels a bit more plush off the face but still has solid power.
@@stspickleball surge is poppier ?! That’s crazy considering it’s carbon fiber; control any good ? ; demo paddle on the way
Yeah carbon fiber tends to be poppier in general. It’s a good paddle! Thrive does a great job. Not an outlier or exciting really but a good paddle for sure.
@@stspickleball hmmm that sounds more like the blackout. I May need to look into the minute details. Thanks
I have a J2K. It’s great but the power/pop isn’t as great as the stability and spin is. If I wanted something that’s still easy to control, has spin, but has some more power/pop what would you suggest? Others have suggested the Ruby, Shapeshifter, and the Mark One.
I would recommend a Volair Mach 2 Forza 14mm for you 😊
@@stspickleballApollo? Would that fit the criteria better than those i listed?
@@Tal1311six24 Monarch
Yes and as another commenter said the Monarch All Court from 11six24 would be a solid pick aswell although I do prefer the Mach 2 Forza personally
I and a PB friend have both found really good control and still some good power and pop with the B&B Shogun. Although I’ve not seen the stats in comparison to the J2k (which is a really good paddle). You may want to wait for the Ronbus Ripple, they’re testing as great power paddles with great spin and good control.
Did you try the updated Selkirk Holo Max Control? Would love your thoughts on that one.
I haven’t actually. Given how underwhelming Selkirk has been lately I wouldn’t expect too much but I’m always open minded and when they nail one I’m going to give them high praise of course 😊
Interesting podcast. I’m still using Volair M2F from one of your reviews. Im still sold on this paddle but it is really amazing how many new paddles that I may have to try in the future. Truly appreciate all your great work.
I was unaware of the Selkirk letter. I’ve tried unsuccessfully to find it. Could you provide a link for a curious mind? Thanks
I believe Pickleball Studio posted a link to it in their podcast ep that discusses it.
Thank you for the feedback! I appreciate you as well. Yes PBStudio has it linked I believe. Here it is we.tl/t-nNplcToSGz
I know its an older paddle that came out a while ago, but a review of the 11SIX24 YSF would be great to see. During the whole time I've been using it, its been a really consistent paddle with the best quality to price ratio.
Super solid paddle! I may circle back on it eventually!
Pretty soon players will have to wear body armor with all these hot paddles. The one thing i am hating on with almost all new paddles is the handle length. Not every player swings with a 2 handed backhand. But yet the handle lengths are all becoming 5.5 and now 6" handles. For me, i can't handle 5" or more. The long handles mess with my backhand flick. It just makes the paddle top heavy, then you add lead to the bottom and suddenly your swinging a 8.5oz club. And thus, tennis elbow or wrist pain. Just sucks for the non power players out there. JMO
Fair enough! There are quite a few options for you though!
Looking forward to your review of the ripple. I just bought a R1 Pulsar FX. Hoping the ripple isn’t too much better. 😂
FX is much more linear in comparison to the Ripple. Ripple is exponential off the sweet spot. I’ll talk more about it in the review.
@@stspickleball Thank you!
Is the ripple louder than the Joolas or Bantams? I heard someone say they are too loud. Something to be concerned about?
Interesting I find them to be muted more like the mod and the gearbox paddles. Not quite as muted but more muted than normal pp core
@@stspickleball thanks! Super helpful.
Have you noticed or heard of the Ronbus R1 Ripple increasing in power over time? Would be a turn off for me if it gets any hotter than what people are saying it is
I’ve been playing nonstop with my R2 and haven’t noticed much of a difference in power over time. I’ll keep you posted over time!
Great video. Would you make a video comparing Gearbox and Ripple?
I will compare the gearbox to the ripple in my upcoming ripple review!
You still a big fan of the Baller Paddle?
Still a great paddle indeed! Although I’d look into the Versix Vector if you’re in that price range.
Lots of paddles podcasts out there. But yeah, people buy them.
And I love all of them! So many great podcasts out there. Figured I’d start doing some meta updates and doing my own take on a fun paddle ramble and my thoughts being a reviewer. I’ll hone it in over time. Hope you enjoyed it!
I have a 6.0 Ruby and a DBD and a hudef gen 2. Even though I’m sure there are paddles that may be “more advanced” or “better”, I feel like the difference at this point would be negligible to my game.
Fair take! I think this is a realistic mindset 😊 wear out what you have and grow in the sport and then see what’s available with a better understanding of what you need / enjoy when it’s time for a new one!
Would you review Mark pickleball Kevlar paddles?
Solid paddles. Very well made. I may circle back to them eventually!
Great new format Sir. Hear you are a video game fanatic. Any chance you play Rocket League ? In regards to paddles, very interested in your professional opinion between the new Neonic Flare 16mm Titanium wide body ( actual std shape 16 x 8 inches ) and the also new Ronbus R2 14mm Ripple. Would love your comments Sir. I know you are a paddle aficionado, but I think a review on the Pickleball Balls ( especially in very warm climates, like Arizona where you are ) would be wonderfull. Thank you and keep up the wonderful work Mr. Willy Wonka. Saludos from Panama.
Haha love this comment. Made me smile. I’ve played rocket league from time to time indeed! Never honed in on the crazy top end aerials. Fun game though! I can’t speak too much on them yet. The Flare is more linear and the Ripples are gen 3 and super hot off the face that’s all I can say right now. Thanks!!
@@stspickleball Thank you very much for your prompt reply. If you want to ever get better at Rocket League my 23 year old second son is the Captain of the EA Sports team at Florida Tech University in Melbourne Florida and has gone to the Olympics to represent our country Panama in Rocket League ( Incredible the 21st century ! ). He is a student athlete in the University. And off course, also plays Pickleball. Keep up the wonderful work Sir, really enjoy it ! Saludos from Panama.
That’s badass!! I wouldn’t say no to a couple lessons haha
@@stspickleball Let me know and will make it happen with pleasure. Saludos from Panama.
I’m surprised you didn’t like the Halo Pro Max. I thought it played better the both the Ruby 14mm and the j2k 14mm
I’m just a dude with an opinion. Keep that in mind and play what You enjoy. I appreciate you taking the time to comment though.
Oh please don’t get me wrong…. I watch and like all your videos, and it seems you have similar taste in paddles I do, I just thought you might have liked it, but I get it…. Pickle on!
Heck yeah man! 😊 I appreciate you!
Have you played with the Master Athletics P3? I feel like it fits the unique bill and pushing innovation.
These don't get USPA approved I think..Not that it matters to us Rec Players.
@@kimleith1378 it was approved with a list date of 11/15/2023.. lol
Interesting paddle indeed with the weighting options and vibration dampener. I’ll look into this thank you!
No the drama is not to be expected, nor should it be accepted by us pickleball players.
Fair take I like this mindset
They lied to us about titanium 😭. Polyester...
How so?
@@kimleith1378you should watch the latest episode of pickleball pursuit which they talked about Titanium lol
Haha !! Titanium is marketing gimmick lol
Neonic has pictures of the Flare on their main page so I assume you’re fine to unsheathe it.
@@IKabobI yeah true! I noticed that after posting the video and I was like dang I could have showed it off haha
Can you do a review on the head boom radical paddle???
Selkirk ... fashion before performance. High priced luxury goods that look better than they play.
I’m a 4.0 player. I have tried Joola Perseus gen2 and 3 along with the Anna Bright Scorpius, Selkirk Luxx, Engage 6.0 Pro Irvine, Mach 2 Forza. None are perfect for me. I like the control of Mach 2, and the dynamic feel of the Perseus gen 2. I do like control and spin of Mach 2, but want more power. What is your suggestion
Wait for the ripple R2
@@stspickleball Thank you for your suggestions.
Got any paddles you wanna sell?
I don’t I love all of them equally 😝 ish
@@stspickleball if you wanna get rid of that gruvn s....... i'll be waiting
Carbon pickle pro series anyone?
Another great content Steven, I love this style of segment kinda like a podcast but chill ,Ripple, the Flare are fire 🔥🔥🔥🔥, the Versix Vector XL paddles are interesting they have a longer handle similar to the Pickleball Apes Pro Line Energy and as the Gruvn Lazr 16x & 16s, the Versix Vector XL are they All Court leaning towards control or power, so between the Vector XL or Gruvn Lazr 16x, so have a blessed, wonderful, positive, productive, peaceful and safe week and weekend
I purchased the Versix Vector XL used your discount code so the price is $129.99 w/your discount code it went down to $117.99 which is so budget friendly, and continue on making great content and reviews Steven and have a blessed, wonderful, positive, productive, peaceful and safe weekend
Saying Paddle “Meta” makes me think you play competitive video games, because that’s where I learned the term
Always have and likely always will! Haha
@@stspickleballhaha, what games do you play?
@@stspickleball You look like you play Rocket League
Hahaha why is that 😂
I was global in CSGO and recently circled back around to PubG (don’t judge me it’s fun sometimes) I used to play a ton of Tarkov and got Kappa multiple wipes in a row. Been thinking about playing some story driven games too but I’ve always been online and competitively driven 😊 wbu man?
Selkirk... They are so far behind everyone else now. I don't get it. Very reactive company.
Agreed
They are losing
I feel like im always desperately looking for my "soulmate paddle". Double black diamond not enough power and handle length. Same with ruby. I got a J7k and the sweet spot just too thin for me. Sigh. Hoping the ripple is next but does anyone have recommendations what to do?
Ripple R2 might be your key if you want a pretty hot wide body.
@@stspickleball yeah I've heard good things. What's the handle length? I'm excited for your review. Seems too good to be true from what I hear yknow?
Handle length is 5.5” but you can tape up to 5.75” 😊 so pretty standard!
J7k pro