OWL Paddle Review: A Game Changer on the Court
As a pickleball enthusiast who regularly participates in local leagues, I’ve always been on the lookout for gear that can enhance my game. I recently had the chance to test the OWL Paddle, and I’m excited to share my experience. My main focus was to find a paddle that offers great control, reduced noise, and solid performance—especially as I’ve been dealing with a bit of tennis elbow recently.
From the get-go, I was impressed with the OWL Paddle’s build and design. It’s known for being one of the quietest paddles in the market, and it indeed lived up to that claim. The sound upon impact with the ball is significantly quieter than the traditional paddles I’ve used in the past, making for a more pleasant experience on the court—especially in a community setting.
Performance Highlights
One of the first things I noticed was the paddle’s control. Moving through my usual drills, I felt more in tune with my shots. The larger sweet spot really comes into play here, allowing for more accurate off-center hits. I could easily generate spin and power that would usually require more effort with my older paddles. David Meguiar, a fellow player, mentioned that the paddle has "a lot of pop with little noise," which I completely agree with!
The paddle is also incredibly lightweight, weighing in at around 7.6 ounces. This makes it easy to maneuver, and I appreciate not having to sacrifice strength for a lighter grip. As one reviewer put it, it provides "good control, spin, and power," all of which resonate with my playing style.
However, there are a few aspects that could use improvement. The adhesive protective edge guard that comes with the OWL Paddle has drawn mixed feedback from users. While I didn’t experience issues personally, other players noted that the tape doesn’t stick well and peels off after a few sessions. This could affect the paddle’s durability over time, which is a concern, especially given its premium price point.
Durability Concerns
Speaking of durability, I had some initial skepticism. While the paddle feels sturdy, a few users made comments about how fast the outer material can wear down. Buckeye Micro’s review highlighted that he felt unsure about the longevity of the carpet material. After just a few sessions, I can confirm that the paddle still feels robust, but I’ll keep an eye on how it holds up over a longer period.
The Verdict
In summary, my experience with the OWL Paddle has been predominantly positive. The blend of control, reduced noise, and lightweight construction makes it a solid choice for players at various levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans. It’s reassuring to know that this paddle is approved for all USAP sanctioned events, making it a great option whether you’re just starting out or heading into competitive play.
While there are some drawbacks, particularly related to material durability and the edge guard tape, they don’t overshadow the overall utility and performance of the paddle. If you’re a player looking to elevate your game and you appreciate a quieter paddle, the OWL Paddle could be the right fit for you.
Recommendation: If you’re aiming to maximize your performance while minimizing noise, I highly recommend giving the OWL Paddle a try. It has certainly earned its place in my gear bag, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it performs in future matches.
Serve up your game with this amazing pickleball paddle designed for champions! >>
