As a dedicated pickleball player, I’m always on the lookout for equipment that can elevate my game, especially paddles that strike the right balance between power and control. Enter the Engage Pursuit RX Lite Pickleball Paddle. Designed with extensive research and a proprietary graphite skin, this paddle promises to be both responsive and durable. After putting it through its paces in various games, I’m excited to share my experience.
One of the first things I noticed was its lightweight design, weighing in at 7.5 – 7.8 oz, which is perfect for quick reactions on the court. I’ve dealt with tennis elbow before, and I really appreciated the featherlight feel of this paddle, making it a joy to swing without straining my arm. The large sweet spot and the rough-textured surface definitely enhance ball control and allow me to put some impressive spin on my shots—something that was echoed by other users. For instance, a fellow player noted that the “great control” from this paddle made it a perfect backup for their needs.
However, I must admit that the Pursuit doesn’t pack quite the power punch that some heavier paddles do. A reviewer pointed out that while the control is fantastic, it may lack power compared to other paddles they’ve used. I found myself adjusting my swing to compensate, which wasn’t a dealbreaker but was something to keep in mind, especially in competitive scenarios.
One of the standout features of the Engage Pursuit is its proprietary graphite skin, which was specifically developed to work with the ‘black’ core—the softest core on the market. This combination helps elevate accuracy and responsiveness, which I found made a noticeable impact during gameplay. I felt much more confident placing the ball where I wanted it to go, and the vibrations dampened effectively, giving a more solid feel to each hit.
On the flip side, I did encounter some concerns regarding the handle. A reviewer mentioned the wrapping collapsing inward, which I also noticed during my play. While it didn’t hinder my performance drastically, it could affect comfort over a long match. Further, I received a paddle that seemed to have some wear, perhaps suggesting I received a refurbished model rather than brand new. This was slightly disappointing considering the investment, echoing some hesitation from another user regarding expected quality at a higher price point.
Another aspect I appreciated was Engage’s commitment to the community, donating a portion of profits to grow the sport. It’s heartening to know that as we enjoy our games, we’re also contributing to the sport’s future.
In terms of performance, the Pursuit paddle held its own during intense matches. I found its design to be highly beneficial, particularly the wide body shape, which offers a more forgiving surface area, making it easier to connect with the ball effectively. Another player echoed this sentiment, stating that the wider configuration expanded their sweet spot and made it “incredibly easy” to place shots.
Overall, my experience with the Engage Pursuit RX Lite Paddle aligns closely with the high rating of 4.5 stars. While it has some drawbacks, particularly regarding power and handle quality, its strengths in control, responsiveness, and community impact more than compensate. If you’re looking for a reliable, lightweight paddle that allows for great ball control and spin, I can confidently recommend the Pursuit. It’s an excellent choice for both new players and seasoned veterans looking to refine their game. Happy playing!
Discover your new favorite paddle with the Engage Pickleball Pursuit RX! >>