Selkirk AMPED Epic Paddle Review
As an avid pickleball player and blogger, I’m always on the lookout for gear that can take my game to the next level. Recently, I had the opportunity to test the 2021 AMPED Epic Paddle, and I was quite eager to see if it lived up to its promise of enhanced power, control, and overall performance. With my background as an intermediate player, I hoped this paddle would address some of the challenges I’ve faced, particularly with spin and precision.
Upon first picking up the paddle, I noticed its impressive balance and feel. The long handle is perfect for two-handed swings, a technique I often use, while the generous hitting area gave me a good sense of confidence on the court. The Polypropylene X5 Core combined with the FiberFlex Fiberglass face really does amplify the performance, and I could feel that right from my first game. It felt as though my strokes had more pop, making that third shot drop much smoother.
In my sessions, the paddle excelled in generating spin—an area that several reviewers highlighted. One player mentioned that "it’s easy to create topspin," and I wholeheartedly agree. This aspect transformed my dinking game, allowing me to execute shots with precision that I hadn’t experienced before.
However, a couple of cons surfaced during my testing. Although many users appreciated the paddle’s lightweight design and smooth feel, some reviewers raised concerns about the paddle’s scratch resistance. I too found that after several rounds of play, there were noticeable scrapes that made me question its durability, especially with aggressive shots. Additionally, one player pointed out a core issue, mentioning a tendency for the paddle to crush under pressure. While I didn’t experience that myself, I remain cautious based on the feedback.
Another point of contention was the handle size. While I found the grip comfortable, I understand that it may feel a bit short for players with larger hands, as indicated in a review that mentioned it being "extremely too short." In my opinion, it would be great to see a larger grip option in future iterations.
Through several matches, the paddle performed remarkably well. The alignment with traditional paddle shape combined with new technology made my gameplay much more enjoyable and effective. As noted in the official product description, this paddle is marketed as "our most versatile, all-around paddle for the hard-core Pickleball player," and it holds true to that claim. For both aggressive players and those focusing on control, the 2021 AMPED does a commendable job in striking a balance.
In summary, the Selkirk AMPED Epic Paddle undeniably enhanced my overall game. With its excellent spin and control, I feel more confident executing strategic plays. Despite some durability concerns and handle size feedback from others, my experience remains overwhelmingly positive.
If you’re an intermediate player looking to up your game and are willing to handle potential wear over time, I would recommend giving the AMPED Epic a try. At an overall rating of 4.5 stars, it offers great value for performance-minded players, and I genuinely believe it can enhance your pick-up games just as it did for me.
Discover your perfect game with the Selkirk Sport Vanguard Pickleball Paddle! >>
