The PCKL Pro Series 13 & 16 are finally here. We had the opportunity to test drive the Pro Series 13 a few weeks before its launch. During this time, we’ve come to fully understand how the PCKL team has been able to entirely reinvent their Pro Series paddles to maximize performance.
We had a chance to test drive this latest release from PCKL, and we believe that it's an excellent paddle for players of all backgrounds looking for a new paddle that could take their game to the next level.
Use code UNION at checkout for 15% off.
The Specs
| Thickness | 13mm and 16mm |
| Weight | 7.8 oz and 8.1 oz |
| Length | 16.25” (5.5” handle) |
| Width | 7.5” |
| Grip Circumference | 4.2” |
| Core | Polypropylene Honeycomb |
| Paddle Face | Toray T700 Raw Carbon Fiber |
Overview
Looking at the stats, it quickly becomes apparent that PCKL ran with some of the original Pro Series model specs and tweaked the formula to account for the addition of the raw carbon fiber face. When we talked with PCKL’s CEO, Mike Gottfried, he explained that a lot of the research and development of this paddle was inspired by direct feedback from players.
“We needed real feedback and validation from other people, not from ourselves. Yes, we play pickleball, but that’s not good enough. We want people who are representative of the groups, the players, and the communities out there. Not only to be able to have feedback and input but also be excited about and be advocates for what we were putting out there.”
Mike Gottfried, CEO of PCKL
Spin It To Win It
The Pro Series 13 really leans into the upgraded raw carbon fiber face, which allows for maximum control and spin. The Toray T700 Raw Carbon Fiber technology is becoming an industry staple, as we see it in several other paddles, including the Volair Mach 1 and Franklin Signature Carbon STK.
While other paddles rely on fiberglass facing to enhance their overall power, it comes at the loss of a smaller sweet spot and less control. Carbon fiber is often applauded for its reliability in putting serious spin on the ball, but at the loss of some power.
However, with the Pro Series 13, we were surprised to find that the balance between the thinner 13 mm honeycomb core with the raw carbon fiber face enhanced the spin of the paddle while still maintaining a ton of pop. The paddle’s face notably increased the amount of spin we put on drop shots and stayed consistent with drives down the line.
Giving Your Game An Edge
The Pro Series 13 was constructed using thermoforming to ensure durability, and its foam-injected edge guard will keep your paddle going through hours of rigorous play. These technologies help prevent issues like dreaded paddle delamination, which will cause you immediate disqualification in most tournaments.
We love paddles that use edge guards because, beyond protecting the paddle from delamination, they also help maintain a consistent sweet spot. The foam injection in the Pro Series 13 locks your edge guard in place, which helps fight against warping and distributes shot impact evenly for a touch more pop.
Getting A Grip
The Pro Series 13 uses a very similar corded grip as the initial Pro Series, which we found incredibly comfortable and soft in hand while playing. Throughout multiple sessions with the paddle, we didn’t notice much slipping or wear on the grip specifically. Swapping out the grip should be easy enough for players who prefer non-corded grips.
One noticeable upgrade in the Pro Series 13 is the extended handle length at 5.5 inches, an improvement on the Pro Series’ 4.7 inches. If you love your two-handed backhands, we can assure you that they feel incredible coming off of this paddle.
Pros
- Raw TT700 Carbon Fiber face adds control and increases spin
- 13 mm polypropylene honeycomb core maximizes pop
- Elongated 5.5” grip increases stability and control of two-handed shots
Cons
- The corded grip could be less preferable to some players
- Weight is evenly distributed; some players might want something more handle/top heavy.
Conclusion and Comparison
PCKL’s top-of-the-line Pro Series 13 paddle exceeded our expectations, making it one of our new go-to paddles for open play. This paddle won’t just improve your casual game, but we also see it as completely viable for pro-level play.
We like to compare it to the Volair Mach 1 in terms of performance – both are great raw carbon fiber midweight paddles. The Pro Series 13 has the upper hand when it comes to a more comfortable grip circumference, as the Mach 1 leans towards the thicker side at 4.45” for the 16 mm model.
Should I Buy The PCKL Pro Series 13?
The PCKL Pro Series 13 is an excellent midweight paddle option for intermediate to pro pickleball players. It’s proven itself in terms of quality and performance for its current MSRP, giving players a lot of value for their spending.
If you’re looking for a more beginner-friendly model, PCKL still has you covered with its Launch Series. However, for players looking to move on to something truly spectacular to improve their game, the Pro Series 13 is by far PCKL’s best pro-level paddle.
We had a chance to test drive this latest release from PCKL, and we believe that it's an excellent paddle for players of all backgrounds looking for a new paddle that could take their game to the next level.
Use code UNION at checkout for 15% off.
