Looking to step up from that basic Amazon paddle without spending a fortune? I’ve got just the thing for you! This paddle is a game-changer with its lightweight design, gritty surface, long handle, and sleek, elongated shape—all packed with incredible value.
Holbrook delivers a superb value paddle with great control and spin performance for under $100. I have to give this paddle 4 balls out of 5.
- 16mm Dual Reactive Honeycomb Core: Reduces vibrations and enlarges the sweet spot.
- Enhanced Spin: Optimized for superior spin performance.
- Elongated Design: Extends reach for better play.
- Two-Handed Backhand Support: Ideal for powerful two-handed backhands.
By the Numbers
| Length | 16.5” |
| Width | 7.5” |
| Thickness | 16mm |
| Weight | 5.6” |
| Grip Length | 4.25” |
| Grip Circumference | 7.84 oz as tested |
Nuts and Bolts
- Core is dual reactive polypropylene honeycomb
- T700 3K carbon fiber face for spin grit
- Long, well cushioned handle with substantial grip
- Protective edge
- US Pickleball-approved
Game on… the Play Testing
Out of the box, the paddle is not pretentious, rather it offers a simple but rugged, clean appearance and a moderately sophisticated look. The long, well cushioned grip, better than average grit, and it’s lighter weight have me anxious to get it on the court.
It is my second “thick” paddle to try in the past few months so I want to see how it might differ.
Indoor Court First Play Test: Power vs. Control
Holbrook promotes the paddle as providing power and control. My first play was on an indoor court and I felt the control but not quite as much power. But to be fair, I had been playing with a power-packed paddle a day before, the Diadem Edge 18K Speed Pro.
I fell in love with the low weight of this Holbrook paddle and the grip. I noticed right away it offered control and very good spin on serves and drops, but not a lot of power. And I didn’t expect it to, being 16mm. The paddle allowed me very good aim and accuracy, although I noted a smaller sweetspot than expected.
I had better control for all shots, most notably, my backhand, as compared to another “thick” control paddle I had been using on and off – the 19mm Carbon Pickle PRO.
Outdoor Court Second Play Test: Speed Vs. Control
During my second play test, I was on an outdoor court and tried some power serves. Without having a thermocore center, it couldn’t deliver that speed, but again offered very good control and finesse for the dinks and drops, and to be honest, enough power to deliver some nice drives and banger shots.
The smaller sweetspot was not as noticeable this time, maybe due to more playtime with it and acclimation. I noticed some great similarities to the Diadem ICON paddle I have been testing in terms of power and control.
Level 1 and 2 Players’ Reactions
I allowed some level 1 and 2 players to try it out for a game or two and they noticed the improvement to their game, citing better accuracy and power. Both had been using $35-50 Amazon paddles. They both gave it a resounding two thumbs up.
Like me, one player specifically noted less vibration to the hand and this is to be expected from a 16mm paddle which will absorb impact while delivering control.
The Final Score
It is hard to beat the paddle for the price if you are looking for a control and touch paddle with a long, very nice grip. Holbrook has worked diligently to integrate innovation and technology into a light control paddle to deliver a great value for those improving players looking to upgrade. Players who are solid 3.5+ players will want more power.
Pickle on my friends, pickle on…
