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Diadem does it again… punch, control, and a solid feel in the hand. In short, great performance and value. It is an evolution of their original ICON with some excellent innovation to deliver a super paddle that is currently listed just below that magic figure of $100.
And I have to say the white, XL version is cool looking without being a show-off. I have to give this paddle 4.5 balls out of 5.
- Elongated shape for power
- 3XL Core for exceptional touch
- Comfort max grip
- Japanese carbon fiber surface (precise shots with reliable spin)
- Expanded sweet spot for off-center hits
By the Numbers
| Length | 16.5” |
| Width | 7.2” |
| Thickness | 13.7mm |
| Grip Length | 5.5” |
| Grip Circumference | 4.125” |
| Weight as Tested | 8.28 oz |
Nuts and Bolts
- 3xL core: Two layers of polypropylene honeycomb, dampening film in-between, with carbon fiber in the frame
- RP2 technology grit paint on the face
- Long, well cushioned handle with substantial grip
- Low profile, replaceable protective edge guard
- It comes in a black version as well, and both in regular or XL length
- USA Pickleball approved
Game on… the Play Testing
Unwrapping the paddle I see and feel some great features that I look for; long handle, “sticky” comfortable grip, low profile edge protection, long face, and a substantial face grit, all presented in a sleek white design from top to bottom.
At 8.28 ounces, it is the heaviest paddle I have reviewed and tested, but that is a plus as I would discover. Although the grip is a bit smaller in diameter for my long hands, it still felt great. I knew I could easily upgrade it to increase the diameter if needed.
First Games: Finding the Feel
Like most paddles I test, it took me a couple of games to get the feel of the ICON V2 and appreciate it. With time, I realized this paddle is a powerhouse for punch and speed. The thin 3xL core delivered the pop I wanted without a ton of effort.
My serves combined speed with control, and it was clear that the Diadem foam injection edge technology provided the larger sweet spot that most players crave.
Precision at the Kitchen Line
For my slower, kitchen-line game, the paddle delivered touch and very good accuracy for dinks and drops.
The longer paddle truly enhances reach and power while maintaining excellent balance. Its heavier weight provides extra force without sacrificing control.
Spin and Surface: Comparing Grit
Over the course of two games, I noticed my backhand improved – both one-hand and two-handed approaches.
The surface offered enough grit for good spins, but not as good as the Diadem 18k Speed Pro.
Vibration Dampening: A Relief for Long Matches
During my second play session, which was outdoors compared to my first indoor session, I noticed even more pop and control, while the spin factor remained the same. I was using Diadem tournament balls. My serves had power and accuracy and the paddle just felt good in the hand.
Diadem advertises this paddle’s vibration dampening technology, and I have to agree—it really works. My hand and arm felt much better even after 90 minutes of play!
Overall, I really liked how I could deliver a punch to the ball, or that “dink touch” when needed.
The Final Score
Like the Holbrook Mav PRO I recently tested and reviewed, this paddle is hard to beat for $100. It had everything I like, minus a larger grip and off-the-chart spin, though those are minor points for the price (and I am picky about both).
My only issue is how the face grit will handle time and use – reading some player reviews there is some concern about face durability.
Pickle on my friends, pickle on…
