Excellent review, also appreciate your honesty and integrity. You are an excellent teacher and communicator and I have learned so much from watching your videos and your podcasts. I have been playing with the Tempest Wave for a couple of years and just upgraded to Tempest Wave 2. Would love to see a review on the 2! You are truly an inspiration and will always be a fan!
I ordered an 002 the day they were released, and was told there would be a 4-7 week wait. After 4 plus weeks I had no word on my order, and heard nothing from Labs, but had gotten like 20 marketing emails from Selkirk trying to sell me other paddles! I bailed and bought an Engage Pursuit for half the cost instead, which plays very well for me.
Barrett thank you for your honest heartfelt review. You are such a great ambassador for the sport and always such a positive presence. For a positive person it can be incredibly difficult to be critical, even if it is warranted. I appreciate that you toughed it through and shared what you truly thought of the paddles. In the end honesty always benefits everyone it touches.
Thank you for your honest review. It takes courage to do that. I agree with you, even though I haven’t try this paddle. I started playing with Selkirk based on a good paddle review I saw from you like three years ago. Because I didn’t have any paddle sport experience and I needed control over power I decided to try Selkirk. I still have my first epic paddle, great quality, great control, durability ($150). And then I was naive enough to buy the $200 vanguard epic, but I immediately didn’t like the quality. I honestly don’t think that any paddle in the market right now is actually worth $200. But sadly we keep paying high prices for non durable paddles, and lots of them are half of qualities of what they claim.
Barrett, thanks for this honest review. You really confirmed my suspicions that the Labs thing was much ado about nothing. While I mostly agree with you about paddle tech being stagnant right now, I do wonder if you've tried out the recent Gearbox CX paddles. I was a bit skeptical about Gearbox but kept hearing about them. Then the CX series came out and I heard they had a similar feel to poly core paddles. I tried the CX14H and loved it because it was familiar but different in a good way. It's just so good with the soft game that I can only describe it as buttery, but it has plenty of put away power as well. I believe that Gearbox has the most innovative paddles. In my opinion, they are to pickleball what large head drivers are to golf.
Your honesty is priceless and is a reflection of who you are, a true gentleman. Thank you. It is a disgrace for a company to charge these prices to do their fake R&D.
5 years ago I "medaled" with a $69.00/Head radical. I use Paddletek now but only because I couldn't find a Head product with power I liked... $333.00/ RD "experience"? What, do they come out n have Tyson Mcguffin have lunch with you??
I just started playing pickleball about a month ago. My sports/games background is basketball, baseball, ping pong, chess and football. You are my favorite pickleball instructor/advisor on youtube. Keep doing what you are doing. Thanks!
Good review. I agree the feedback process needs work. Many times you referenced the price. The case retails for $88, and they gave me a $50 gift certificate with mine, so there is $138 there. This puts the cost the same as vanguard series. I have a 001. One of the reasons it is so soft is that it has three layers of carbon if I am not mistaken. I hope any of this information is helpful.
Thank you for sharing your honest evaluation. Integrity, number one! I live in Idaho, the birthplace of Selkirk and probably the most used paddle here in the Boise area. I've tried these paddles, but have not purchased one. Basically due to their price and my love of the Gearbox GX series. But, I'm just rambling. Keep doing what your doing and staying true.
I just purchased a new Selkirk S2 Amped paddle and I really like it. It was $149.00 I’m an avid golfer and an equipment junkie. I did loads of research on paddles before I purchased the Selkirk. Like golf there’s tons of good paddles out there and the technology seems more similar than dissimilar. Often it comes down to brand loyalty IMO and what looks appealing. My other paddle is a Paddletek and I absolutely love it. I just wanted a second paddle for our vacation home and I like to try different things. $300 plus for a paddle is high but like golf equipment; it’s personal. I’d pay it if I were really drawn to it or if a friend or even a you tube personality I trusted touted it to me. I began playing seriously about six years ago and my first two years I played with a $79 paddle. The Paddletek was a big upgrade. I think that like golf it takes about 5- 7 years for a technology to emerge that takes the equipment to a noticeably higher level. Thanks for your honest appraisal
You have to be yourself and follow your conscience. As far as the 002...I played against someone who has one and he is a Selkirk fan. I noticed a difference in his serve. More pace than with his previous Invikta, but not enough to justify that cost. Also he hit some of those serves long. In the end as long as he loves it...I guess it all doesn't matter. I think where your game can improve from a paddle swap is going from a $30-$50 paddle to something in the $100 and up range. Ultimately, you have to feel good about your purchase. Keep up the content!
So as far as this RND Experience. Step 1: Fill out a form and answer some questions on their membership site.' Step 2: Wait for an email that says you are accepted. 1-5 days Step 3: To complete your membership you have to buy one of their 2 current projects. Step 4: The projects are within the $300 range. You will receive the paddle, the $88 dollar case that you have to get (this is why its $333), you will get a metal certification with a prompt that states the ideals of selkirk and its mission, and to tell you this is certified. The V2 does not have forgiveness for mishits, it has a smaller sweet spot that has a pronounced pop when correctly hit. The V2 has a trampoline feel to it and has power. The Dinking aspect is up and down. It has a smiley face, but overall its great on drives but it has a big pop to it. That being said, It feels like the marketing for this is.... Make it exclusive, buy into the idea to become exclusive and you will receive a quality product that not many will have the chance to buy.
Thank you for your honesty in your review. I was playing with the Vanguard Invikta and was thinking of buying the Project 002 paddle but was put off by the price. Was happy to see this review.
Good review. You provided insight on paddle and value. The sound issue was a little confusing to follow. Would like to hear examples if that’s possible. A little heavy on the “I’m honest and can’t be comprised “ portion. Some folks dwell on their integrity too long makes me wonder. Say it once and let it go. Thanks for the continued Pickleball support.
Consumer feedback is actually a pure benefit to the company, not so much to the customer. In no way does it make sense for a customer to pay more money for the "experience" to provide honest feedback to the company so that it can produce a better product. Selkirk is, and has been from the beginning, the king of marketing. Their products are great but the gimmicks are dishonest.... sadly, they seem to work... Most companies offer incentives to motivate consumers to provide feedback and participate in surveys/questionnaires. Lets be clear and honest.... You're not being made part of a Research and Development team; you're being asked to pay more money to fill out a survey at the end of your purchase... The only way you're contributing to the R&D is by helping to fund it.... I agree with your review and believe that maintaining honesty and integrity is most important above all. A good product will sell itself.
The reason you don't see great innovation in paddles is because USAPA hasn't changed the specs that are allowed for a paddle to be approved. The manufacturers are limited by the specs. If the specs for approval were changed there are plenty of companies that would innovate.. So until that happens you will only see very small changes and marketing gimmicks to sell paddles..
As a Texan, have you tried the Pello paddles? When I was 'accepted' into the Selkirk Club, and found out the paddles were 333, I contacted the Selkirk people and had an interesting conversation. I didn't buy a paddle but the customer interaction was amazing.
The R&D feedback from this paddle led to the development and launch of the Power Air paddle. I'm wondering if you've had a chance to try it, and curious of your thoughts on that one in particular
Shouldn't Selkirk be paying their paddle testers for the information we provide them from our R&D experience?! In the real world, R&D is an expense for the company, not their customers. We're supposed to pay retail for the finished product.
I’m so proud and relieved that Kitch gave a brutally honest review of this- let’s call it what it is- marketing ploy. With this release along with the SLK omega, Selkirk has taken steps in diminishing inclusivity and set a precedent for other companies to make their high-end products unavailable to the average income. One of the major reasons why pickleball is so popular is because of it’s accessibility. Reasonably fair-priced equipment has allowed most people to make the best decision possible based on their play style and aesthetic preferences. Selkirk has prided itself on being the forefront of state-of-the-art design but they’ve exaggerated and exploited that perspective by releasing this gimmicky package at a ridiculously high price point. This is the main reason why tennis courts are being converted to pickleball courts. Because tennis rackets have become increasingly more expensive above their actual worth. I hope Selkirk’s customers see through this and not let them get away with it.
Been playing for 3 weeks and spent $50 on my first paddle knowing nothing about what I was buying except I liked the color. This is helpful for my next one as my playing evolves.
I like your honesty and transparency. I have a vanguard epic 2.0 which I love atound the net and great control, but it does lack power. Thinking that the Invicta shape might be a little more aggressive or the Pursuit MX6.0. Tough to have it all, right?
Wow Selkirk has figured out a way to charge their consumers a premium to fill out marketing surveys by calling it an R&D Experience. I’ve been using a Prince Response Pro for over a year, based on your review. While I try other paddles when I can, I don’t notice a lot of differences, with the exception of longer paddles giving a bit more reach.
I think the "lab" thing is simply a marketing angle. If it was all about getting feedback from users on beta models, then they wouldn't be charging ridiculous amounts of money. Beta users are often PAID to test things and provide feedback. Selkirk has always been great at marketing though, so it all makes sense.
I have been playing PB since June of 2021 and to be quite honest I really can't tell much if any difference between any of the different $100-$200 paddles! I've tried gear box, spectrum, onyx, crbn, electrum and some I don't even remember the name of. Much like golf clubs it has WAY more to do with the user not the paddle! Don't get me started on balls there are some that are definitely softer but as a whole if the ball is ROUND you can play competitive pickle ball!
Great review. You mentioned the aerodynamics with the 'smiley face'. I'm surprised that no one has released a paddle yet with holes throughout like they do with paddleball paddles. Would that violate an equipment requirement of some type?
Wow... +$330 for a high end paddle! Paddle + R&D, metal plate, and case. Oh yes, and the smiley face hole. Based on your review, if you had to buy this for full price and knowing all this info.... it sounds like it would be a pass. Thank you for your input on this project 001 & 002.
The hole in the 002 paddle isn't for aerodynamics, it's to increase the flexibility. The handle is connected to the face through 2 narrow arms which act as torsional springs. This flexibility increases the contact time with the ball, which in turn, increases the amount of spin you can impart. I'm guessing they did this to get around the stiffness spec, which doesn't measure the stiffness between the *handle* and the paddle face.
@@michaelboano7183 I'm a mechanical engineer, and if I wanted to sneak in a little flexibility, that's exactly how I'd do it. My first reaction on seeing the paddle was that the throat looks really flexible. In fact, Selkirk now advertises the cutout as "ThroatFlex for more power and dwell time".
Great review, Barrett. Maybe that paddle needs some lead tape to increase its power. Just a thought. It’s still to expensive. Thanks for truthful reporting. Stay true to your beliefs. No fake new here 😁.
Another reviewer contacted Selkirk about the 001 to make sure they didn't get a dud and was told they are already working on updating it. So my question is will those who got the 001 and aren't happy be getting the updated version in an straight up exchange like the warranty? (Oh, you didn't need to spend so much time on your integrity. The other reviewers I've settled on because they use the paddles for weeks and have zero paddle affiliations are the same way and say it in under a minute. That's the reason I follow you as well. Maybe you did it because of your ties to Selkirk in the past.)
Not really sure what Selkirk is thinking with the labs project. I didn't like the 002 at all. It can spin but that is about it and anything off the small sweet spot will be completely dead. I just got a Joola CFS 16mm and am I loving it so far.
Nice review! Since you were a designer, I’m surprised you were into the marketing elements around this one - the naming conventions, accent pieces like the card, etc. 🤷♂️
Pickleball Studio does great spin tests. The 001 has terrible spin. The 002 has the highest spin tested. But they are also just honeycomb paddles that rely on grit to generate spin and it will inevitably wear off. My CRBN has MUCH less spin than it did when new and I've only been using it for 2 months.
I have lost respect overall for Selkirk, and we're a big S town here (or used to be, there is a lot more competition now). Just standing next to someone playing with that paddle was painful... the whole "experience" sticks in my craw, if you want to pay top dollar for a paddle that sounds awful and has a zilch sweet spot enjoy. I used to have beta testers when I designed but I didn't charge them top dollar and make them join a "club"!! Would I pay $90 for that case, their valuation? yeah.... no. Nicest paddle I've tried lately is the Joola Hyperion and I'm not a fangirl. Selkirk is responsible for the overall raising of paddle prices. The other manufacturers are grateful.
First, I appreciate your honesty. I have used Selkirk paddles for several years, and I really like them. Beyond that, I like the company’s attitude toward customers. And that’s where it begins to get sketchy. As a Selkirk paddle owner, I am barraged with advertising for paddles, an exclusive “lab” club, clothing, and now a TV channel. It’s a bit much. I feel like I “liked” something on Facebook, and now the sharks have smelled blood (or cash) in the water. When news of the two new paddles you reviewed came out, my first thought was, “Oh, The Onion is having fun with pickleball players. Who pays $333 for a paddle?” Then I realized that it was real. I live in a 55+ community in Arizona; for most of us, this is a second or third home. We are not impoverished. And we take our pickleball very seriously. But we also realize that, past $150, you don’t get more for your money. The fact that Ben Johns was (until he jumped to Joola) winning tournaments with a paddle that was selling for less than half of the Selkirk 001 or 002 wasn’t lost on us. What was missing was someone with credibility-like yourself-who was willing to say that the emperor’s clothes are missing, that Selkirk and it’s “lab” and metal cards and smiley faces on paddles are just smoke and mirrors. In my opinion, they should go back to making good paddles and selling them at reasonable prices. The “lab” and everything else may be a bridge too far that will bring down a company that was doing something well. So, again, thanks for your honesty, your information, and your expertise.
I'm guessing the money needed to pay their sponsored athletes, and to make those goofy-a** commercials, has to come from somewhere. Unless you're paying to be in tournaments, taking the sport THAT seriously, sure go ahead and spend more than $120 on a paddle. But even then, for $333 (oddly specific amount), one of the accessories in the box should be $200 in cash.
I don't understand.. You said you played with people that you usually play with and were missing your drives and no reduction of texture on the face.. Yes the price is more than any other paddle but if it helps you win than isn't it worth it.. If you consider the price you have to pay in other sports for the highest level of equipment $333 is a steal.. Tennis, Golf, Baseball ec...
It's because I see your integrity and honesty show through that I trust and respect your thoughts. You have character and that is valuable to everyone as they play this game and watch your videos. Thank you for all of that because it does matter! Appreciate all you do for the game of pickleball.
I tell everyone you’re my personal RUclips pickleball coach/guru. With this honest review you’ve officially sealed the deal….we’re now lifelong friends. 😂Thanks for being a straight shooter!
Finally. Glad you are brave enough to say it. I've been speaking the truth since the Vanguard release but people didn't believe and the emperor has no clothes syndrome still went on.... now they went too far
what nerve to expect you to pay them to provide valuable information to theoretically make them more money in the long run. if this were legit, there would have been an application process and a limited number of people would get to try them for free at the cost of helping them with R&D. pretty backwards
Great review. I am a 3.5 player and I purchased the 001 online. It was used twice for under $150. I love the paddle. I am way better at dinking. I agree the power is slack but my game has definitely improved. Maybe Selkirk should try to market them to intermediate players.
Definitely dinking has improved & control sacrificing some power, for now I’ll take more control over power as I progress to being a better all around consistent player.
The 003 is amazing. Best paddle by far for spin and control but, not as much speed but, that is not my game. Im no fan of the price, and all the glitz though. I would prefer they make the price $250 and eliminate the other glam. I hear the 004 is coming…
Like many people here I am a Selkirk fan as is my wife. She prefers the Invicta where as I prefer the Epic. I too filled out the form for Selkirk Labs was accepted, but never purchased a paddle and will not. While I love my paddle, but to pay more than double what I paid for my Epic, just won't happen. Thank you for the review, I think you saved a lot of people a lot of time and money.
People I know who have tried this paddle or bought the paddle do not like it. Even the main pickleball store, that most of us pickleball players here in our city use, does not like the paddle, says do not buy it. The store especially does not like the worthless metal card (a joke, Ahh hahahaha. Oh! Oh! Ahh hahahaha). Anyway, the store told me that my choice, the Joola Ben Johns CFS 16mm paddle, was what the store recommends as being now the best paddle. And this paddle is only $219. I love the paddle, received it this week and used it twice. By the way, the spin on different paddles can be proven, has been proven, even with this new Selkirk paddle, by pickleball paddle reviewers on RUclips. And yes, this new paddle does have great spin, the highest the reviewers have found (using cameras to count the spins, which is time consuming for the reviewers), but these guys do not like the paddle overall.
Right on for the Labs part. They should have much more granular feedback and allow collaboration from every participant so that if someone says something, others can agree or disagree and add their comments. And their developers would be part of that discussion and add responses or rationale or ask more detailed questions to get to the heart of the matter. Bravo for pointing out the core issue.
The whole Pickleball paddle market is getting way out of hand and it started with Selkirk. Now companies like Engage can sell you a completely graphite paddle for $200.
Next time wear noice cancelling headphones. You have to compare it to the most common paddle like the Z5 or yours . I admire your integrity! I’m 71 and getting addicted to Pickleball!!!
your video is so true, If you buy 2 003 project paddles , Selkirk will not give you a 77 dollar gift card according to Selkirks Relations manager Kelii Ferguson, Do not be tricked into buying these paddles
Great Review! I'm Kelly from SpoxFit, which mostly focuses on sports equipment. Do you have interest to test our new released pickleball paddles? We are happy to send you a free sample as a test if you wish. Looking forward to your reply!
There is no “R&D experience” after you buy a paddle. The paddle has already been developed and sold. I can’t believe Selkirk thought they could get away with selling paddles for this price just because they let you fill out a survey.
You get a $50 gift card with the project orders , I guess if your getting the paddles for free you won’t get a gift card , still a few bucks more then most paddles but a great experience being able to have access and participate in the R&D experience.
Well done, Barrett! Honesty is the only way to make a great and believable review, if only for your own integrity. On a side note, I’m impressed you are still playing with the Prince Response Pro. As much as I loved mine, the interior felt like it was breaking down and Paddletek wouldn’t replace it. I bought a second one (I still liked the paddle) and it didn’t feel the same. It was kind of dead inside. I didn’t hold that against Paddletek, though, and tried out a Tempest Wave Pro that I like as much as the Prince. Just wondering if you should get the same feel (mostly) from paddle to paddle I bought a second one (different color) and they play exactly the same. I’m kind of puzzled as to why there was such a disparity in my Princes. It might be that the second one was that “camo” paddle they made but who knows. Weird.
Thanks Jake, good to see you again. My 4th Prince Response Pro just arrived in the mail today. I'm surprised that I'm still using it as well. I don't know what it is. It just fits my game perfectly. That's really strange though. Every Prince I've ever had has been fine. I'm puzzled as well.
Las paletas de Padel, han evolucionado con el tiempo, no veo cambios significativos en las actuales de Pickleball , si mucho marketing. El tema del ruido será un aspecto a mejorar. Buena reseña y honesta. Es posible que puedan variar en el ancho?
Pueden variar en ancho, pero solo para paletas alargadas. Las paletas no pueden ser más anchas de lo que son ahora porque causarán demasiada resistencia. ¡Gracias por ver!
Great video, great review and great integrity!! Thanks for all you do for the Pickleball community and us viewers! I have played with a Paddletek Tempest Pro since I started playing. I love the paddle! I decided to look at the elongated paddle market for a backup paddle and I love to spin the ball. So, I did my research and I decided on the Electrum E and I love it as well. And yes, I get a lot more spin, with good control and descent pop.
I bet at least 95% of players would play just as well with a $35 Champion paddle as whey would with a $150+ paddle of any brand if they didn't know which was the more expensive one. I was talking to a Gear Box rep yesterday and he said they were running about $200 now. As long as suckers are willing to pay that much for paddles, they will continue to inflate ridiculously. I use a fairly expensive paddle because of the unique shape and I love it, but I have never paid more than $80 for one.
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Excellent review, also appreciate your honesty and integrity. You are an excellent teacher and communicator and I have learned so much from watching your videos and your podcasts. I have been playing with the Tempest Wave for a couple of years and just upgraded to Tempest Wave 2. Would love to see a review on the 2! You are truly an inspiration and will always be a fan!
I ordered an 002 the day they were released, and was told there would be a 4-7 week wait. After 4 plus weeks I had no word on my order, and heard nothing from Labs, but had gotten like 20 marketing emails from Selkirk trying to sell me other paddles! I bailed and bought an Engage Pursuit for half the cost instead, which plays very well for me.
What? I got mines right away! Dunno what you're talking about.
yep. selkirk is a rip
Your honesty and integrity make me value your videos even more. Bravo, well done.
Really appreciate it! Thank you!
Barrett thank you for your honest heartfelt review. You are such a great ambassador for the sport and always such a positive presence. For a positive person it can be incredibly difficult to be critical, even if it is warranted. I appreciate that you toughed it through and shared what you truly thought of the paddles. In the end honesty always benefits everyone it touches.
Thank you for your honest review. It takes courage to do that. I agree with you, even though I haven’t try this paddle. I started playing with Selkirk based on a good paddle review I saw from you like three years ago. Because I didn’t have any paddle sport experience and I needed control over power I decided to try Selkirk. I still have my first epic paddle, great quality, great control, durability ($150). And then I was naive enough to buy the $200 vanguard epic, but I immediately didn’t like the quality. I honestly don’t think that any paddle in the market right now is actually worth $200. But sadly we keep paying high prices for non durable paddles, and lots of them are half of qualities of what they claim.
Barrett, thanks for this honest review. You really confirmed my suspicions that the Labs thing was much ado about nothing. While I mostly agree with you about paddle tech being stagnant right now, I do wonder if you've tried out the recent Gearbox CX paddles. I was a bit skeptical about Gearbox but kept hearing about them. Then the CX series came out and I heard they had a similar feel to poly core paddles. I tried the CX14H and loved it because it was familiar but different in a good way. It's just so good with the soft game that I can only describe it as buttery, but it has plenty of put away power as well. I believe that Gearbox has the most innovative paddles. In my opinion, they are to pickleball what large head drivers are to golf.
Your honesty is priceless and is a reflection of who you are, a true gentleman. Thank you. It is a disgrace for a company to charge these prices to do their fake R&D.
5 years ago I "medaled" with a $69.00/Head radical.
I use Paddletek now but only because I couldn't find a Head product with power I liked...
$333.00/ RD "experience"?
What, do they come out n have Tyson Mcguffin have lunch with you??
I just started playing pickleball about a month ago. My sports/games background is basketball, baseball, ping pong, chess and football. You are my favorite pickleball instructor/advisor on youtube. Keep doing what you are doing. Thanks!
Good review. I agree the feedback process needs work. Many times you referenced the price. The case retails for $88, and they gave me a $50 gift certificate with mine, so there is $138 there. This puts the cost the same as vanguard series. I have a 001. One of the reasons it is so soft is that it has three layers of carbon if I am not mistaken. I hope any of this information is helpful.
Thank you for sharing your honest evaluation. Integrity, number one! I live in Idaho, the birthplace of Selkirk and probably the most used paddle here in the Boise area. I've tried these paddles, but have not purchased one. Basically due to their price and my love of the Gearbox GX series. But, I'm just rambling. Keep doing what your doing and staying true.
I just purchased a new Selkirk S2 Amped paddle and I really like it. It was $149.00
I’m an avid golfer and an equipment junkie. I did loads of research on paddles before I purchased the Selkirk. Like golf there’s tons of good paddles out there and the technology seems more similar than dissimilar. Often it comes down to brand loyalty IMO and what looks appealing.
My other paddle is a Paddletek and I absolutely love it. I just wanted a second paddle for our vacation home and I like to try different things.
$300 plus for a paddle is high but like golf equipment; it’s personal. I’d pay it if I were really drawn to it or if a friend or even a you tube personality I trusted touted it to me. I began playing seriously about six years ago and my first two years I played with a $79 paddle. The Paddletek was a big upgrade. I think that like golf it takes about 5- 7 years for a technology to emerge that takes the equipment to a noticeably higher level. Thanks for your honest appraisal
You have to be yourself and follow your conscience. As far as the 002...I played against someone who has one and he is a Selkirk fan. I noticed a difference in his serve. More pace than with his previous Invikta, but not enough to justify that cost. Also he hit some of those serves long. In the end as long as he loves it...I guess it all doesn't matter. I think where your game can improve from a paddle swap is going from a $30-$50 paddle to something in the $100 and up range. Ultimately, you have to feel good about your purchase. Keep up the content!
So as far as this RND Experience.
Step 1: Fill out a form and answer some questions on their membership site.'
Step 2: Wait for an email that says you are accepted. 1-5 days
Step 3: To complete your membership you have to buy one of their 2 current projects.
Step 4: The projects are within the $300 range. You will receive the paddle, the $88 dollar case that you have to get (this is why its $333), you will get a metal certification with a prompt that states the ideals of selkirk and its mission, and to tell you this is certified.
The V2 does not have forgiveness for mishits, it has a smaller sweet spot that has a pronounced pop when correctly hit. The V2 has a trampoline feel to it and has power. The Dinking aspect is up and down. It has a smiley face, but overall its great on drives but it has a big pop to it.
That being said, It feels like the marketing for this is.... Make it exclusive, buy into the idea to become exclusive and you will receive a quality product that not many will have the chance to buy.
Thank you for your honesty in your review. I was playing with the Vanguard Invikta and was thinking of buying the Project 002 paddle but was put off by the price. Was happy to see this review.
No prob, thanks for watching!
Good review. You provided insight on paddle and value. The sound issue was a little confusing to follow. Would like to hear examples if that’s possible. A little heavy on the “I’m honest and can’t be comprised “ portion. Some folks dwell on their integrity too long makes me wonder. Say it once and let it go. Thanks for the continued Pickleball support.
Consumer feedback is actually a pure benefit to the company, not so much to the customer. In no way does it make sense for a customer to pay more money for the "experience" to provide honest feedback to the company so that it can produce a better product. Selkirk is, and has been from the beginning, the king of marketing. Their products are great but the gimmicks are dishonest.... sadly, they seem to work... Most companies offer incentives to motivate consumers to provide feedback and participate in surveys/questionnaires. Lets be clear and honest.... You're not being made part of a Research and Development team; you're being asked to pay more money to fill out a survey at the end of your purchase... The only way you're contributing to the R&D is by helping to fund it....
I agree with your review and believe that maintaining honesty and integrity is most important above all. A good product will sell itself.
The reason you don't see great innovation in paddles is because USAPA hasn't changed the specs that are allowed for a paddle to be approved. The manufacturers are limited by the specs. If the specs for approval were changed there are plenty of companies that would innovate.. So until that happens you will only see very small changes and marketing gimmicks to sell paddles..
As a Texan, have you tried the Pello paddles? When I was 'accepted' into the Selkirk Club, and found out the paddles were 333, I contacted the Selkirk people and had an interesting conversation. I didn't buy a paddle but the customer interaction was amazing.
The R&D feedback from this paddle led to the development and launch of the Power Air paddle. I'm wondering if you've had a chance to try it, and curious of your thoughts on that one in particular
Love this guys values and heart. Will continue to follow. Thanks for your virtues.
Thank you for being honest and true to yourself. This took strength on your part. Congratulations!!
And thank you for watching!
Shouldn't Selkirk be paying their paddle testers for the information we provide them from our R&D experience?! In the real world, R&D is an expense for the company, not their customers. We're supposed to pay retail for the finished product.
Thanks for your honesty. I'll stick with my 14E & CX11 Gearbox's. Try reviewing the "Cheetah" "Predion" E10. Kevlar construction.
I’m so proud and relieved that Kitch gave a brutally honest review of this- let’s call it what it is- marketing ploy. With this release along with the SLK omega, Selkirk has taken steps in diminishing inclusivity and set a precedent for other companies to make their high-end products unavailable to the average income. One of the major reasons why pickleball is so popular is because of it’s accessibility. Reasonably fair-priced equipment has allowed most people to make the best decision possible based on their play style and aesthetic preferences. Selkirk has prided itself on being the forefront of state-of-the-art design but they’ve exaggerated and exploited that perspective by releasing this gimmicky package at a ridiculously high price point. This is the main reason why tennis courts are being converted to pickleball courts. Because tennis rackets have become increasingly more expensive above their actual worth. I hope Selkirk’s customers see through this and not let them get away with it.
Been playing for 3 weeks and spent $50 on my first paddle knowing nothing about what I was buying except I liked the color. This is helpful for my next one as my playing evolves.
Thanks for your honesty bro!!!
My pleasure. Thanks for watching.
I like your honesty and transparency. I have a vanguard epic 2.0 which I love atound the net and great control, but it does lack power. Thinking that the Invicta shape might be a little more aggressive or the Pursuit MX6.0. Tough to have it all, right?
Wow Selkirk has figured out a way to charge their consumers a premium to fill out marketing surveys by calling it an R&D Experience. I’ve been using a Prince Response Pro for over a year, based on your review. While I try other paddles when I can, I don’t notice a lot of differences, with the exception of longer paddles giving a bit more reach.
Great review, Barrett! Thanks for using the 002 against me!
I think the "lab" thing is simply a marketing angle. If it was all about getting feedback from users on beta models, then they wouldn't be charging ridiculous amounts of money. Beta users are often PAID to test things and provide feedback. Selkirk has always been great at marketing though, so it all makes sense.
I have been playing PB since June of 2021 and to be quite honest I really can't tell much if any difference between any of the different $100-$200 paddles! I've tried gear box, spectrum, onyx, crbn, electrum and some I don't even remember the name of. Much like golf clubs it has WAY more to do with the user not the paddle! Don't get me started on balls there are some that are definitely softer but as a whole if the ball is ROUND you can play competitive pickle ball!
Great review. You mentioned the aerodynamics with the 'smiley face'. I'm surprised that no one has released a paddle yet with holes throughout like they do with paddleball paddles. Would that violate an equipment requirement of some type?
Yes, no holes are allowed in what is considered the playing surface.
Thank you for keeping it real!
My pleasure. Thanks for watching!
Wow... +$330 for a high end paddle! Paddle + R&D, metal plate, and case. Oh yes, and the smiley face hole. Based on your review, if you had to buy this for full price and knowing all this info.... it sounds like it would be a pass. Thank you for your input on this project 001 & 002.
if you care about how a paddle sounds, that alone may stop you. Tinny!!
The hole in the 002 paddle isn't for aerodynamics, it's to increase the flexibility. The handle is connected to the face through 2 narrow arms which act as torsional springs. This flexibility increases the contact time with the ball, which in turn, increases the amount of spin you can impart. I'm guessing they did this to get around the stiffness spec, which doesn't measure the stiffness between the *handle* and the paddle face.
Very Interesting but what is basis for your statement?
@@michaelboano7183 I'm a mechanical engineer, and if I wanted to sneak in a little flexibility, that's exactly how I'd do it. My first reaction on seeing the paddle was that the throat looks really flexible. In fact, Selkirk now advertises the cutout as "ThroatFlex for more power and dwell time".
@@lobocnc I did not look closely at your prior post. In your first post u explained the science quite well. Thank you for your input.
Thanks for your honesty 🏓🙏🏼❤️
Great review, Barrett. Maybe that paddle needs some lead tape to increase its power. Just a thought. It’s still to expensive. Thanks for truthful reporting. Stay true to your beliefs. No fake new here 😁.
Another reviewer contacted Selkirk about the 001 to make sure they didn't get a dud and was told they are already working on updating it. So my question is will those who got the 001 and aren't happy be getting the updated version in an straight up exchange like the warranty? (Oh, you didn't need to spend so much time on your integrity. The other reviewers I've settled on because they use the paddles for weeks and have zero paddle affiliations are the same way and say it in under a minute. That's the reason I follow you as well. Maybe you did it because of your ties to Selkirk in the past.)
Not really sure what Selkirk is thinking with the labs project. I didn't like the 002 at all. It can spin but that is about it and anything off the small sweet spot will be completely dead. I just got a Joola CFS 16mm and am I loving it so far.
Nice review!
Since you were a designer, I’m surprised you were into the marketing elements around this one - the naming conventions, accent pieces like the card, etc. 🤷♂️
Thank you for your honesty. Curious how the spin compares to the CRBN paddles?
Pickleball Studio does great spin tests. The 001 has terrible spin. The 002 has the highest spin tested. But they are also just honeycomb paddles that rely on grit to generate spin and it will inevitably wear off. My CRBN has MUCH less spin than it did when new and I've only been using it for 2 months.
@@Wesquire thanks
I haven't played with those yet, but definitely need to soon.
Admirable honesty
Thanks!
Love your honest review and keeping your integrity 👍 👏
Thanks!
I have lost respect overall for Selkirk, and we're a big S town here (or used to be, there is a lot more competition now). Just standing next to someone playing with that paddle was painful... the whole "experience" sticks in my craw, if you want to pay top dollar for a paddle that sounds awful and has a zilch sweet spot enjoy. I used to have beta testers when I designed but I didn't charge them top dollar and make them join a "club"!! Would I pay $90 for that case, their valuation? yeah.... no.
Nicest paddle I've tried lately is the Joola Hyperion and I'm not a fangirl.
Selkirk is responsible for the overall raising of paddle prices. The other manufacturers are grateful.
Thank you my friend
First, I appreciate your honesty. I have used Selkirk paddles for several years, and I really like them. Beyond that, I like the company’s attitude toward customers.
And that’s where it begins to get sketchy. As a Selkirk paddle owner, I am barraged with advertising for paddles, an exclusive “lab” club, clothing, and now a TV channel. It’s a bit much. I feel like I “liked” something on Facebook, and now the sharks have smelled blood (or cash) in the water.
When news of the two new paddles you reviewed came out, my first thought was, “Oh, The Onion is having fun with pickleball players. Who pays $333 for a paddle?” Then I realized that it was real.
I live in a 55+ community in Arizona; for most of us, this is a second or third home. We are not impoverished. And we take our pickleball very seriously. But we also realize that, past $150, you don’t get more for your money. The fact that Ben Johns was (until he jumped to Joola) winning tournaments with a paddle that was selling for less than half of the Selkirk 001 or 002 wasn’t lost on us.
What was missing was someone with credibility-like yourself-who was willing to say that the emperor’s clothes are missing, that Selkirk and it’s “lab” and metal cards and smiley faces on paddles are just smoke and mirrors. In my opinion, they should go back to making good paddles and selling them at reasonable prices. The “lab” and everything else may be a bridge too far that will bring down a company that was doing something well.
So, again, thanks for your honesty, your information, and your expertise.
Finally someone speaking the truth! Thanks
Appreciate the brutal honesty
Wow, have ever demoed the nupipo pro carbon?
I have not.
Now that’s what I call integrity
I'm guessing the money needed to pay their sponsored athletes, and to make those goofy-a** commercials, has to come from somewhere.
Unless you're paying to be in tournaments, taking the sport THAT seriously, sure go ahead and spend more than $120 on a paddle.
But even then, for $333 (oddly specific amount), one of the accessories in the box should be $200 in cash.
I don't think any paddle is worth $333. Plus it sounds awfully loud.
They threw in the metal plate as if you were getting a good deal lol
That metal plate is like certificate of authenticity. 🙄🙄🙄
@@wheetypeedy omg that’s so
Cool…not
I don't understand.. You said you played with people that you usually play with and were missing your drives and no reduction of texture on the face.. Yes the price is more than any other paddle but if it helps you win than isn't it worth it.. If you consider the price you have to pay in other sports for the highest level of equipment $333 is a steal.. Tennis, Golf, Baseball ec...
Honest review 👍
Thanks for your honesty. You might have just received your last free paddles! Haha
It's because I see your integrity and honesty show through that I trust and respect your thoughts. You have character and that is valuable to everyone as they play this game and watch your videos. Thank you for all of that because it does matter! Appreciate all you do for the game of pickleball.
I tell everyone you’re my personal RUclips pickleball coach/guru. With this honest review you’ve officially sealed the deal….we’re now lifelong friends. 😂Thanks for being a straight shooter!
I really appreciate your brutally honest review. You saved me $300 as I had filled out the application, got “accepted” and was ready to purchase.
Finally. Glad you are brave enough to say it. I've been speaking the truth since the Vanguard release but people didn't believe and the emperor has no clothes syndrome still went on.... now they went too far
what nerve to expect you to pay them to provide valuable information to theoretically make them more money in the long run. if this were legit, there would have been an application process and a limited number of people would get to try them for free at the cost of helping them with R&D. pretty backwards
What a joke, 350 with taxes. Selling false hope and dreams to the people
Great review. I am a 3.5 player and I purchased the 001 online. It was used twice for under $150. I love the paddle. I am way better at dinking. I agree the power is slack but my game has definitely improved. Maybe Selkirk should try to market them to intermediate players.
Definitely dinking has improved & control sacrificing some power, for now I’ll take more control over power as I progress to being a better all around consistent player.
Selkirk values the case at $88 and the stupid card at $33. So if you do the math they are valuing the paddle at $212.
Don’t forget a $50 Selkirk gift card included not mentioned , having received a purchased 001 Epic Paddle , little better deal then thought.
The 003 is amazing. Best paddle by far for spin and control but, not as much speed but, that is not my game. Im no fan of the price, and all the glitz though. I would prefer they make the price $250 and eliminate the other glam. I hear the 004 is coming…
Watching this video because I see alot of local players with Selkirk paddles. But what does RND /R&D mean? Why speak in code.
Great review. Thanksfor the honesty.(there was no way i was going to spend that $ anyway even for the spinniest paddle)
Thanks!
I bought the Epic and am happy with the paddle.
Thank you for saying what you feel.
I"m glad you made this
Like many people here I am a Selkirk fan as is my wife. She prefers the Invicta where as I prefer the Epic. I too filled out the form for Selkirk Labs was accepted, but never purchased a paddle and will not. While I love my paddle, but to pay more than double what I paid for my Epic, just won't happen. Thank you for the review, I think you saved a lot of people a lot of time and money.
People I know who have tried this paddle or bought the paddle do not like it. Even the main pickleball store, that most of us pickleball players here in our city use, does not like the paddle, says do not buy it. The store especially does not like the worthless metal card (a joke, Ahh hahahaha. Oh! Oh! Ahh hahahaha). Anyway, the store told me that my choice, the Joola Ben Johns CFS 16mm paddle, was what the store recommends as being now the best paddle. And this paddle is only $219. I love the paddle, received it this week and used it twice. By the way, the spin on different paddles can be proven, has been proven, even with this new Selkirk paddle, by pickleball paddle reviewers on RUclips. And yes, this new paddle does have great spin, the highest the reviewers have found (using cameras to count the spins, which is time consuming for the reviewers), but these guys do not like the paddle overall.
Right on for the Labs part. They should have much more granular feedback and allow collaboration from every participant so that if someone says something, others can agree or disagree and add their comments. And their developers would be part of that discussion and add responses or rationale or ask more detailed questions to get to the heart of the matter. Bravo for pointing out the core issue.
The whole Pickleball paddle market is getting way out of hand and it started with Selkirk.
Now companies like Engage can sell you a completely graphite paddle for $200.
Next time wear noice cancelling headphones. You have to compare it to the most common paddle like the Z5 or yours . I admire your integrity! I’m 71 and getting addicted to Pickleball!!!
your video is so true, If you buy 2 003 project paddles , Selkirk will not give you a 77 dollar gift card according to Selkirks Relations manager Kelii Ferguson, Do not be tricked into buying these paddles
Do you have to post this on every video and post? Move on.
@@johnnyhentsch Why bother you? You move on!!!! bumbye u learn!!!!
Excellent honest review. makes me pleased I decided on the Prince pro after seeing your review. much appreciated.
Your honesty is appreciated. Enjoy your vids find them helpful. Thanks
Has Selkirk paddles become better? Would any of there paddles now be good for a beginner?
Great Review! I'm Kelly from SpoxFit, which mostly focuses on sports equipment. Do you have interest to test our new released pickleball paddles? We are happy to send you a free sample as a test if you wish. Looking forward to your reply!
Feel free to contact me through my website, thanks.
There is no “R&D experience” after you buy a paddle. The paddle has already been developed and sold. I can’t believe Selkirk thought they could get away with selling paddles for this price just because they let you fill out a survey.
You get a $50 gift card with the project orders , I guess if your getting the paddles for free you won’t get a gift card , still a few bucks more then most paddles but a great experience being able to have access and participate in the R&D experience.
Well done, Barrett! Honesty is the only way to make a great and believable review, if only for your own integrity.
On a side note, I’m impressed you are still playing with the Prince Response Pro. As much as I loved mine, the interior felt like it was breaking down and Paddletek wouldn’t replace it. I bought a second one (I still liked the paddle) and it didn’t feel the same. It was kind of dead inside. I didn’t hold that against Paddletek, though, and tried out a Tempest Wave Pro that I like as much as the Prince. Just wondering if you should get the same feel (mostly) from paddle to paddle I bought a second one (different color) and they play exactly the same. I’m kind of puzzled as to why there was such a disparity in my Princes. It might be that the second one was that “camo” paddle they made but who knows. Weird.
Thanks Jake, good to see you again.
My 4th Prince Response Pro just arrived in the mail today. I'm surprised that I'm still using it as well. I don't know what it is. It just fits my game perfectly. That's really strange though. Every Prince I've ever had has been fine. I'm puzzled as well.
Carbon fiber is the future.
I agree with you. The price is ridiculous. I use a $149.00 Paddletek and I like it a ton. Great review. 👍🙂
Thanks for watching!
Sorry for the ignorant question but I truly don’t know what R & D means. What does that mean?
Research & Development
Las paletas de Padel, han evolucionado con el tiempo, no veo cambios significativos en las actuales de Pickleball , si mucho marketing. El tema del ruido será un aspecto a mejorar. Buena reseña y honesta. Es posible que puedan variar en el ancho?
Pueden variar en ancho, pero solo para paletas alargadas. Las paletas no pueden ser más anchas de lo que son ahora porque causarán demasiada resistencia. ¡Gracias por ver!
@@PickleballKitchen si, perdón debí decir grosor. No ancho. Las de Padel crecieron en grosor o profundidad.
Great video, great review and great integrity!! Thanks for all you do for the Pickleball community and us viewers!
I have played with a Paddletek Tempest Pro since I started playing. I love the paddle! I decided to look at the elongated paddle market for a backup paddle and I love to spin the ball. So, I did my research and I decided on the Electrum E and I love it as well. And yes, I get a lot more spin, with good control and descent pop.
I bet at least 95% of players would play just as well with a $35 Champion paddle as whey would with a $150+ paddle of any brand if they didn't know which was the more expensive one. I was talking to a Gear Box rep yesterday and he said they were running about $200 now. As long as suckers are willing to pay that much for paddles, they will continue to inflate ridiculously. I use a fairly expensive paddle because of the unique shape and I love it, but I have never paid more than $80 for one.