Spartus Apollo Review: The New Highest Spinning Paddle in 2024
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- Опубліковано 27 кві 2024
- Use code STSPICKLEBALL to save $13 on your order
You can purchase it here: bit.ly/3Wdriqt
In-depth analysis and review of the Spartus Apollo Pickleball Paddle. The new highest spinning paddle in pickleball. Accurate spin numbers, power rankings, sweet spot analysis, and control rankings. I hope you enjoy the passion I put into my reviews! If so, please consider subscribing for more detailed analysis, just like this!
#pickleball #pickleballpaddle #pickleballfun #pickleballkingdom
Thank you, STS, for this spot on accurate review of this Spartus Apollo paddle. I bought this based off of your review and it is my favorite paddle I have ever tried. Like you, I was most surprised that serves and drives had as much power as they did given the wide body design and this even competes with some elongated power paddles in that regard. It has improved my kitchen game a lot with hands battles and I'm putting more volleys away with this due to the added pop and stability of this paddle. I feel the added spin also helps make the power very controllable with my heavy topspin forehand. I watch all of your paddle reviews and every paddle I've tried I agree with your review of it. You are the G.O.A.T. pickleball paddle reviewer, in my opinion.
Wow that’s an incredibly nice comment. Honestly makes me really happy when my reviews translate well into your real world experience. That’s the best. I really appreciate you taking the time to share this and all of your kind words! Glad you’re loving the paddle!
This is such an incredible value for a wide body Gen2 paddle regardless if it has a Kevlar face or not. Thanks for the review!
100% agree!
Once again thanks for covering a paddle that has a ton of interest and very little reviewer attention. Definitely appreciate you comparative analysis and reviews. Thanks!
My pleasure man! Always nice to see you in the comments and in Discord! :)
I'm surprised none of the big 3 reviewers have even mentioned this paddle. I now have my perfect paddle thanks to you.
I’m sure they will cover it soon! They’ve been very busy! I appreciate the kind words though 😊😊🙏
Pickleball Studio said they were playing the paddle in the next two weeks and would do a review.
Big 3? Pickleball Studio, John Kew, and Pickleball Effect? STS is #1 voice though. Also prefer STS over JK reviews.
Dang thank you so much!
Thanks for the review! I appreciate the enthusiasm and comparisons to some of your favorite paddles with similar shapes and/materials to help us make the best decision when purchasing a new paddle
You’re very welcome!! Thank you for the feedback always love some positivity in the comments. I appreciate you!
Such a good review! Thank you for the comparison to all the paddles I either have or were considering, and for responding to my questions! You are the best!
You’re very welcome ☺️
Have one on order. What a value on this!
Insane.
Another salient review from you.
Great job.
Thank you for the kind words!!
Thanks for shining a light on this paddle, I had not heard about it until your review and I bought one directly because of your review! Thank you
You’re very welcome glad I can help!
My husband is getting me this paddle for Mother's Day! Can't weight. I love your vibe and really appreciate your humility and desire to help people wade through the paddle insanity.
Thank you!! I really love it and am passionate about it. Thank you for the kind words you’re gonna love this paddle.
Like it?
"weight"??? How about "wait"?? English is hard.
Thanks! Another great review of a top tier paddle.
I really appreciate that you show the usable grip length!!! It's so hard to tell from the measurements companies give to know how much space I'll have for a 2 handed back hand.
I'm a huge fan of high spin paddles and the super low swing weight + high twist weight on this paddle makes is really appealing. If I didn't already have 4 perfectly good paddles (XD), I'd be buying this one right now.
I wonder how much having a lower swing weight contributes to the higher pop (making it easier to generate force on a shorter swing).
It contributed a LOT to the pop. In general any paddle with lower swing weight is going to have great pop regardless of how sort of rigid or on the other hand how plush the face might be. Good question!
And thank you! Yeah I’ve always had some comments asking what the true usable length is so I figured it would be helpful to just let you see so you can decide for yourself from now on!
Solid review, great voice, to the point, not too much talking. Thanks.
You’re very welcome my friend 😊🙏
yes talking in reviews is very annoying.
Got mine yesterday and hit on it a bit. Definitely noticed improved spin/pop but I was surprised that the grittiness/feel on the face was far less coarse than I expected it to be. Felt like very fine grained sandpaper vs a rougher sandpaper. Wanted to make sure that was as it is supposed to be or if maybe I got a bad unit.
Great job encouraging a handle upgrade! Had a similar issue with my Centurion. Hope they upgrade the other paddle handles, too!
Thanks man 😊 appreciate you! And agreed!
Great review! What is your recommended lead tape set up for this paddle and will it help mute the pop a little bit?
It will slow your hand speed down a touch which will tone the pop down yes. I just do 2 3” strips of pre cut lead at the 4 and 8 o’clock positions 😊
Got this paddle to replace my Gen3 Perseus, based on your review. Used it for the first time last night and am very pleased with its performance. I value spin above all else since I can generate enough power on my own, and this paddle has insane amounts of spin. The pop was on par with the Perseus, too. Can't beat the price point, compared to $280.
I was also concerned about using a rubber eraser to clean off the significant amounts of ball dust, like I've done with all my carbon fiber paddles, so I emailed Spartus Support for clarification and they responded today:
"You can carefully use a paddle eraser or a damp cloth! Regards, Team Spartus."
Thanks for the great recommendation and price. I also got the Volair Mach1 Forza on your advice and used it until the Gen3 came out.
Love all of this! And thanks for sharing Spartus’s response for everyone to read in the comments section that’s very helpful. Enjoy your new paddle I’m very glad I could help guide you to something you love!
Yes - but only time will tell if the grit holds up. My Mach 1 Forza and Engage MX 6.0 pursuit pro are both around a year old and are still my top two spin paddles in my bag. I’ll wait 6 mo and then see what updated reviews say. BTW - love your reviews.
Thank you very much for the kind words. We shall see!! 😊😊
I bet the double 8in tungsten tape setup would make this a monster with how low the swing weight is
Honestly a great idea tbh
Just got mine today. Cannot wait to play with it this weekend.
You’re gonna love it!
Great review!!
Thank you! Cheers!
I’ve watched so many videos on this thing and can’t wait to get one!
It's a solid paddle!
Thank you for this review my friend with the amazing voice! I've been eyeing this paddle as my next Kevlar. I love the grippiness of my Ruby, but it has too much swing weight for me. This could be the ticket with the super low swing weight and wide body! Let's go!...Also, I do take off factory wrap and put on thinner over wrap on paddles to get them as close to 4" as I can. Do you feel the improvements with the handle will still feel comfortable with this thinner wrap? Thank you STS!
I do indeed the new improvements will make it totally doable without the main grip and with just an over grip. I think you found your new paddle!
Sweeeet!
Bought one after this and other reviews. Used your discount. Thanks STS! Great paddle overall, exactly what I was looking for and exactly as you described. Only downside is that the initial great spin went away very quickly (couple of weeks) and it’s completely smooth now. Seemed to lose that spin alot faster than my carbon fiber paddles. Still my favorite paddle overall despite now so-so spin.
Interesting even when the face smoothed out a touch on mine it still has great spin when I have tested it and measured the RPM. Glad you like it though! I think the smoothing out creates a bit of a placebo effect but the spin is still solid.
If you had to pick one to take to a tournament tomorrow, would you choose the apollo, the mach 2 forza, or the j2k??? I am about to upgrade to my first expensive paddle
I would take the J2K 😊
Any chance you could comment on how this would compare to a 2022 Engage EX 6.0 (Graphite). I love the control on my current paddle but could use more spin/pop. Debating between this, the Mach 2 Forza, or a Pursuit EX Pro 6.0.
The 2022 Engage is actually pretty underwhelming in comparison to the Apollo and the Mach 2 Forza. So if you love that paddle and want more pop and spin I’d get the Apollo or the 14mm Mach 2 Forza. Either will be a massive upgrade 100%.
Great review. I placed my order, and it's still hard to decide between this and the J2k, but I went with the Apollo.
Can’t go wrong either way. I think they are the top two Kevlar paddles in the space when you really factor in price and performance.
Definitely considering this paddle as it seems really hard to beat for the price.
Do you find the shape takes some getting used to? I tend to play hybrid or elongated (16.5") paddles. We're really only talking about moving a half inch or so around, but I'm concerned I'll be hitting everything at the top edge for the first week. 😕
No honestly a couple games and you’ll love the more standard shape. Huge sweet spot. Makes drops and dinks a breeze!
Thanks for the informative review!! Sounds like great bang for the buck!! I’m wondering how this compares to the new Ronbus R2 Fx. Same shape but more $$$. Have you tried them yet? Thank you!!!
I have! I have all of them and am slowly working on a review of them. They are quality paddles no doubt but I’d save the money and grab a J2K or an Apollo. Extremely relative performance in play 😊
@@stspickleball Thanks for the advice! 👍
Thanks for the review. One thing missing from pretty much everyone’s reviews that’s extremely important to know is for how long a frequent player can expect top-tier spin from their paddle before it wears smooth. Is there a way to project this info based on the time you spend testing the paddle?
Yeah this is something I’d love to look into tbh. I’ve been analyzing how I might do this but as a reviewer I’m always rotating paddles so I’m never using one totally consistently. But it’s top of mind as I know durability is extremely important.
Thanks, Need recommendation on J2K vs Apollo ?
J2K will have slightly more power and is a hybrid shape and thus will have a bit more swing weight slowing hand speed a touch. Apollo is a wide bodied paddle with a low swing weight, so it will have less power but faster hand speed at the net and will be poppier.
If you like a quick, agile, poppy paddle, with a larger sweet spot go for the Apollo.
If you like a paddle that does everything well with a bit more power and less pop I would get the J2K.
Mine arrives by the end of the month. Rocking the M2F 16 right now and it’s not going anywhere. That thing is a control beast against bangers like me.
Grabbed the Apollo for that pop pop pop at the net when playing against some groups of players that have those super fast hands at the net.
Great choices I couldn’t agree more tbh 😊😊
I just bought 3 paddles- the M2F 16mm, Spartus Apollo, and Mark One. I'm coming from the original CRBN 1 16mm, which I still like for drives and good control on a variety of shots, but I am really struggling in hands battles with the lack of pop. All 3 of these that I just recently bought should be an upgrade in the pop department. My style is heavy topspin/slice and I prioritize Spin #1, Pop #2, Control #3, and Power #4. Hopefully, extensive research and watching great reviewers like STS and others, I made some good choices with these 3 paddles. I know the M2F is very control oriented, but I'm thinking the pop is still likely higher than my original CRBN 1 16mm.
Very excited to hear your results I think you are going to love them.
Just got the Apollo, the spin is great! Getting used to different shape. I hope it last longer than my previous paddle Volair mach 1 Forzda which lasted 6 months , before the raw carbon surface wore out. I've been using paddle cleaner spray to clean it instead the eraser blocks.
Good stuff! Glad the spin stacks up to my review 😊. If you’re playing regularly I’ve noticed 6 months is about how long paddles last it seems but only time will tell!
Hey! When do you think you’ll do reviews on the new Joola gen 3s?
Soon. I’m in talks with Joola right now actually about it. I’ve hit them a bit on my own here and there but it’s going to be atleast a couple weeks sadly. Sorry for the delay!
my pre-sale should be shipping today 🥳
Woot!! Can’t wait for you to try it it’s an awesome paddle!
Ahhh I was a click away from getting the Ruby after seeing your review, but now after watching this idk! Money is not the issue, so should i just go with the Ruby for a better all round paddle?
If you want the best all around paddle I would personally recommend the J2K or the Apollo.
Just ordered! Are drives from the baseline lacking?
Depends on the person but for me they are not! 😊😊
I love all of the metrics of the Apollo, but I have played with the Thrive Azul and was very impressed with the power, pop and spin of that paddle. I realize that the two have different shapes and thus different inherent characteristics, but how would you compare the two? Is the Apollo at all close to the Azul in the power and pop categories?
More pop just less power than the Azul. If you value power I would go Azul for sure :)
Will they be coming out with hybrid or elongated shaped versions of this paddle?
Nothing announced yet 😊
Thanks!
Dang thank you!! And you’re very welcome my friend 😊
How does this compare to the Thrive Azul?!?! After watching your review amongst others, that is one I'm strongly considering.
Different shapes so performance won’t be the same. Azul will have more power. The Apollo is lighter in swing weight so it’s faster at hand battles.
Yep exactly this!
How does this compare to the CRBN 2X in terms of power and control ?
More pop, way more spin, a bit less control, and a touch more power 😊
Please review the new Mark pickleball paddle Mark OneX. I saw the specs and I like the longer handle. Please let us know and if you could get a discount code…thanks!
My discount code works for everything on their website! And I will look into it 😊
The M2F is about the same price as the Apollo with the current sale going on so disregarding the price would you recommend the Apollo over the M2F if I'm looking for a paddle favoring faster hands/power?
Also it would be nice to know if ones spin falls off significantly more than the other? I've never used a Kevlar paddle so I'm unsure on the lifespan compared to the M2F.
thanks for the review.
Oooo man that’s a tough one! Equal price I’d probably give the edge to the M2F just because of quality and durability. They play so similar!
@@stspickleball Appreciate the speedy reply and great reviews! will definitely use your code with whichever option I go with. 🙏
You rock! If you have any questions let me know!
Is the face grit spray on? How long will it last for?
No this is not spray on grit it is 100% kevlar so it will last way longer than spray on grit.
What are the best alternatives to the Luxx Invicta shape? Having spray on grit problems need carbon fiber or Kevlar.
Really any flat top edged elongated paddle would be fine. Unless you want something edgeless specifically. If you're ok with no flat top edge I would recommend the J2K personally :)
@@stspickleballthank you for the response. Not really worried about edgeless or not. I’m really asking in your opinion what could I swap to with a similar feel to the luxx?
I would grab the J2K it's soft and plush and still has some solid power to it. More all court leaning towards control I think you will love that paddle.
Liked. Curious about the banana in the background.
Honestly I just thought it looked cool 😎 all about the trendy aesthetic and bananas kinda go with sports. Don’t cramp! Eat a banana! 😂
@@stspickleball 🤣🤣🤣 Thanks.
Great review. My next paddle
Good choice! And thank you!
Love this paddle. Great spin, nice pop on the ball and Love the large sweet spot.
@@FrankRollberg it really is an incredible paddle especially for the price
@stspickleball sure is! At this price point, it's incredible!
What determines legal spin in Rec play?
They use a measuring device for grit, not for spin directly 😊
Which of these paddles has the most elonated shape. I need the reach.
J7K from Honolulu Pickleball
A lot of the metrics compare to M2F16. For pop/power & feel how does it compare to M2F 14?
I compared it to the 16 because this is a 16mm paddle but I do say in the video that in play it feels and plays closer and has much more relative pop to the Mach 2 Forza 14mm with just a touch more power.
@@stspickleball thank you. Helpful ! As I’m considering trying this out
@@fe0g any other questions I’m always here!
Does 4 rpm really make it “the king of spin”? 🤷🏼♂️ I’m actually surprised it’s not 100-300 rpm higher since the owner changed the peel ply. That being said, I’m waiting for my first batch replacement and really enjoyed the few games I got out of it.
Well in comparison to a mass majority of paddles being below 2000 rpm anything that sets a new record deserves a shoutout. Is it a bit dramatic? Sure. But it’s also deserving.
Can you compare this more to the 14mm M2F? I feel like I want to know the differences there more so than the 16mm m2f.
Honestly. It feels almost exactly the same as the M2F in play. If you’re interested in both I’d grab this and save the money.
Apollo vs M2F 14mm with current sale of $129 or skip and go Ruby?
Dang I missed this one. Apollo :)
@@stspickleball I got the Apollo last week and fell in love after playing with it.
Love this!! Happy for you!
What’s your go to paddle for play?
Since I’m a reviewer I have to rotate constantly to keep a solid feel between paddles for my reviews 😊
I’m advanced level trying to decided between the Apollo or Ballr - what are your thoughts?
Hmm at an advanced level I would go with the Ballr I think you're going to get more all court value out of it :)
@@stspickleball appreciate that! Thank you 😎🥂✨
@@stspickleball missed out on your giveaway awhile back - but I feel their paddle will set me apart from the other players
You prefer the J2K over the J2K Pro?
I do yes 😊
how does Spartus recommend cleaning the kevlar face?
They recommend using a paddle eraser which I know a lot of people are saying not to use. I use it just very lightly and have had no issues so far with a gentle pass over the face.
@@stspickleball oh interesting! Another UA-cam reviewer said Spartus recommended warm water and microfiber cloth
@@aaronmorgan8864 just messaged them and this is what the owner sent to me “Officially we're saying warm cloth but so far everybody who's been using a paddle eraser has said there's been no issues at all”
@@stspickleball ok cool. My guess is no one has done any kind of quantitative testing to see if the eraser actually damages grit on Kevlar or any other surface for that matter. I wish John Kew would 😂
Yeah I might need to grab a microscope and do a video on this 🤔
Is this tournament approved?
It is indeed!
@stspickleball do you know is thr vatic pro pism flash tourney as well?
It is indeed but I would personally recommend the Apollo over the flash 😊
Paid review? I ordered one FYI 😊
lol no I’ve never done a paid review nor will I
And you’re going to love it 😊
@@stspickleball wahoo
They dont ship to mexico 😡
Awwww I’m sorry!!