Review of the Radical Tour Raw Pickleball Paddle
As an avid pickleball player, I’m always on the hunt for gear that can enhance my game—especially paddles that offer a perfect blend of control and power. My previous paddle was starting to show wear, and I wanted something that could elevate my performance without sacrificing comfort. Enter the Radical Tour Raw, a paddle that hit the market with promising features, particularly its shorter handle for better maneuverability and the Raw Carbon Hitting Surface designed for optimal grip on the ball. I was excited to put it to the test on the court.
From the moment I picked up the Radical Tour Raw, I was impressed with its lightweight design, weighing in at only 225 grams (7.9 ounces). This made it easy to maneuver, particularly during fast exchanges at the net. The paddle features a length of 408 mm (16 inches) and a width of 198 mm (7 7/8 inches), which provided a good balance between reach and control. During my games, I found myself making shots I might have missed with my previous paddle, particularly volleys that required quick adjustments.
Pros and Cons
A couple of standout positives from using this paddle included its Handle Stabilizer Technology (HST) and the Comfort Grip System. The HST offered solid handle strength and dampening, which made a noticeable difference during play. I felt less uncomfortable vibrations, especially during those hard hits where you normally anticipate a jolt up your arm. The specially formulated PU material creating a softer feel really did enhance my comfort during longer matches; I played a few hours straight without feeling fatigue in my hand.
However, not everything about the Radical Tour Raw was perfect. One common concern I had while testing, echoed by others, was its control on softer shots. While it excelled in power, my drops and dinks required more finesse than I expected. I found myself needing to adjust my technique to avoid over-hitting those delicate plays. Additionally, while I appreciated the smaller grip size options (104 mm and 98 mm), I did notice that my personal preference leaned toward a thicker grip. This was a minor disadvantage, as I could easily adapt, but it’s something to consider for players who prefer a firmer grip.
Performance Reflection
The Radical Tour Raw’s Raw Carbon Hitting Surface did not disappoint. The grip on the ball was commendable, allowing for more spin and control than my previous paddle. It met my expectations for enhanced playability and power, enabling me to execute overheads and smashes with confidence.
Yet, I did notice that some of my usual shots required extra attention, particularly when approaching the net for quick volleys. The paddle’s weight and balance certainly played a role, but I found that with a little adjustment in my approach, I could still execute effectively.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I’d rate the Radical Tour Raw at a solid 4.5 stars. It combines lightweight versatility with unique technology designed to captivate a range of players. While it shines in many areas, like power and comfort, its performance on softer shots could benefit from a little finesse. For those looking for a paddle that can generate speed and spin with ease, this is a fantastic choice.
If you’re in need of a new paddle that brings both performance and comfort to your game, I definitely recommend giving the Radical Tour Raw a try. It has certainly earned a place in my gear bag!
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