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If you’re past the beginner stage—and we know most of you are—you’ve likely already experimented with enhanced grips, overgrip wraps, or even lead or tungsten tape to boost your paddle’s performance. After all, we’re all searching for ways to level up within the rules, right? Well, here’s something new: Introducing the Slyce SpeedCap.
What is it? The Slyce SpeedCap, made of aluminum, replaces the plastic butt cap on your paddle handle. By redistributing the paddle’s balance toward your hand, it makes your swing faster and more agile without altering the paddle’s static or swing weight. That said, it’s not for everyone, and it does come with a higher price tag.
In this review, I’ll break down its benefits and why it might be a game-changer for you. Overall, I’m giving it a 4 out of 5 balls—but with a caveat.
The SLYCE Weighted SpeedCap is a fantastic upgrade for any pickleball paddle, adding a precisely balanced ounce of 6061 Aircraft Aluminum for enhanced power, speed, and control—turning every swing into a statement and leaving opponents stunned.
By the Numbers
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 1 oz (also available in ½ oz) |
| Dimensions | 1.4″ x 1.56″ |
| Color Combinations (Basic) | 14 |
| Designer Color Styles | 18 |
| Shape | 8-sided |
| Price | $29.95 – $35.95 |
Nuts and Bolts
- Handmade from aircraft grade 6061 aluminum
- Hand finished – baked on paint finish
- Made in Arizona
First Impressions and Installation
I discovered the SpeedCap through an Instagram post from Slyce, a high-end pickleball apparel and gear brand that now makes these weighted metal caps. As a gadget guy, I had to try one. The founder sent me a few and shared some great insights about their design.
Honestly, I probably wouldn’t have tried it otherwise given the $30 price tag, especially since it required dismantling a paddle.
The cap felt solid, with a smooth, durable finish. Installing it was easy—removing the grip and butt cap took under 10 minutes, and the new cap fit my Diadem 18K Speed Pro paddle perfectly. A few inches of electrical tape held it in place, and after adding a Lizard Skins overgrip, I was ready to play in under 15 minutes.
*This installation is using the Hesacore grip and Lizard Skins overgrip.
Game on… the Play testing
I took a few air swings with the paddle and immediately noticed a difference, though I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. The balance felt better, and my hand speed seemed faster.
Maybe Slyce was right—the SpeedCap was optimizing the paddle’s balance, making it less head-heavy.
Solo Drills: Putting It to the Test
As usual, I started with solo drills to test the product. I focused on wall drills—dinks and volley shots—since the Slyce speedcap is specifically designed to help with quick reaction volleys and speed-ups at the kitchen line.
With the faster head speed, I could maneuver the paddle more quickly, especially when switching from forehand to backhand. For us older players, that extra speed is a huge plus. It also gave me better control and power during speed-up shots. Time for some real game play.
Game Day: Rec Play Trials
Two days later, I hit the court for rec play with my usual 2-4 level players—some of whom are much quicker at the kitchen than I am. My first test came with serving in the 0-0-2 position. My topspin serve was noticeably faster, and the spin improved slightly. After six straight points, I couldn’t help but wonder: was the SpeedCap really helping, or was I just having a great serving day?
I continued testing with sideline drives, backhand paddle flips, and quick volleys at the kitchen. The SpeedCap was doing its job, and I could really feel the difference. One major perk, as noted by other reviewers, is the larger diameter of the buttcap. It allows you to cup it with your palm—much like gripping the end of a hammer—giving you more power in your shots.
Speed and Control
In short, the speedcap delivered exactly what it promised—greater control and faster swings. I liked it so much that I added it to two more paddles that I now rotate in play.
The Final Score
| Category | Rating (out of 5 balls) |
|---|---|
| Design/Build | 5 |
| Installation | 5 |
| Performance | 4.5 |
| Price Point/Value | 3 (would be 5 with a lower price) |
| Overall | 4 (1 oz weight) |
If you’re after a quicker, more controlled paddle swing for those fast kitchen exchanges and forehand/backhand flip shots, the Slyce SpeedCap could be just what you need. It made a noticeable difference for me, especially in improving spin by making it easier to twist and maneuver the paddle. The added bonus? A larger diameter cap that gives you better grip and leverage.
However, keep in mind the $30-36 price tag and ensure your paddle is compatible with the SpeedCap—though it fits most models. Also, if you’re prone to tennis elbow, heavier paddles can add strain. Pairing the SpeedCap with a Hesacore grip can help reduce impact and vibration. And the good news: the SpeedCap is reusable and can be easily installed on other paddles.
Pickle on, my friends, pickle on…
