2024 SLK Evo Power MAX Pickleball Paddle by Selkirk Sport | G9 Power Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle with SpinFlex Surface and Rev-Hybrid Polymer Core

This was a great choice for me as a recreational player. A big step up from the cheap paddles I have had in starter sets. I was able to get much more control and a forgiving sweet spot from XL model I choose. It is nice that it comes in an array of color choices and two shape choices. As a taller player, I like the extra reach of the XL. The old back isn't as flexible as it once was. :)The paddle surface offers great control and consistent grip across the surface. The sweet spot is forgiving. I found the sweet spot to be wide and long but a bit more forward on the paddle than expected but also larger than expected. Minor adjustment but you know when you nail one on the sweet spot, great power transfer and pop.My paddle weighed in at 213grams on my digital kitchen scale. That is a good weight for me as I am not too discerning on weight, I actually like a bit of weight and wouldn't want one much lighter. I wanted to give 5 stars but have to take one away because of the grip tape. Two strikes, white and slippery. I will be switching it out eventually. I also will go with a tape with a bit more padding. The edges get to me a bit with this tape. This is a tough one as it is very subjective.Overall a great choice!

If you're just getting started with pickleball, this paddle from Selkirk's budget-friendly SLK brand should be at the top of your consideration list.You can easily spend $160 to well over $300 on intermediate to pro paddles, but newbies usually need a more forgiving and evenly-balanced product. The elongated shape of this paddle is designed for added reach and power. Consider the XL version if you value a more balanced paddle with a larger sweet spot and shorter head.There are cheaper paddles available, but most use inferior materials instead of polymer, which is increasingly becoming the most-favored. A key feature of polymer cores is their ability to reduce noise during gameplay, making them an excellent choice for players who frequent sound-sensitive areas. Unlike cheaper aluminum or wooden cores, the plastic blend used in polymer paddles dampens sound, ensuring a quieter playing experience without sacrificing performance. Note that, to reduce cost, this paddle uses a wrapped pine wood handle instead of tightly-bound foam plates often found in more expensive units. However, this should not be a resiliency concern unless you live in a very humid climate like Florida.Unlike Selkirk-branded paddles that are made in the US, SLK paddles are made overseas.I found this to be a very capable paddle on the court for the casual or beginning player who prefers power instead of finesse. And is a solid entry-level paddle that will not disappoint.My rating system:5 Stars = Knocks it out of the park. A great value!4 Stars = Excellent product. A solid buy.3 Stars = It provides some value, but perhaps not as advertised.2 Stars = A little dubious, so do your research. Read the critical reviews!1 Star = Avoid this product and look elsewhere.

SLK is one of the leading pickleball paddle producers, and I always wanted to own one of their paddles.This 2025 Evo Control XL is a game changer for me. I started playing in my office a few months back and have got a good hold on the game.It was time to up the level and hence I wanted to switch to a branded paddle which helps me improve my control and power.This paddle has really helped me to scale my game.I am able to hit the shots with full power while maintaining control.The extended grip is nice and comfortable.The paddle is lightweight and doesn't cause stress to the hand or arm.The look and feel of the paddle is also superb.The only downside is that it doesn't come with a bag. I have bought cheaper paddles and they have always come along with a bag to carry them.I was expecting the same from a big brand in the pickleball industry like SLK.Overall, this is a great paddle for beginner or intermediate players who wants to up their game and replace their cheap paddle with a branded one, without breaking the bank.

I'll start by saying what this is not, which is a top of the line paddle that offers the best of the best. For that, you'll have to spend quite a bit more as this is also not priced to be a premium offering. That said, I'm really impressed with the quality of this paddle, and it's turned my onto the Selkirk brand.The paddle is very light which is a bit surprising for a mid-range paddle. It feels good in the hand and has good balance. I find the power, spin control, and overall touch are very even in this paddle. It doesn't have as much pop as some other top end paddles I'm used to playing with, but it's got plenty. Frankly, for a beginner or mid-tier player this is probably an excellent option as it will allow you to get reps to build muscle memory before moving into the world of really peppy paddles, which can be really challenging to use at first. Overall, for the price, this is an excellent option for a mid-tier paddle.

If you've been playing pickleball with a beginner paddle and are ready to upgrade, but don't want to spend a fortune, this paddle is a great option. It gives you a little more control as you hit the ball, and it has a slight texture on the surface to enhance the spin. I got the elongated paddle, and there was a bit of an adjustment period for me in my game. I was sometimes a little bit "late" in hitting the ball. Once I got used to it, though, it was fine. No matter what you do, the white handle is going to get grimy-looking. I just order overgrip tape and change it out every couple months.