The Xspak carbon fiber paddle presents itself with a clean and sleek appearance, which is perfect for stealthy players. It provides a positive experience for users at all parts of the courts, as its versatility is a key factor in the design.
Players using this paddle can have a balance between control and power, with the opportunity to tip the scale in whichever aspect of play they choose. As someone who played tennis for a long time before pickleball, this paddle was a great transition into a similar but new game.
First Impression
My first impression of the paddle was immediate appreciation for the design and simplistic style. When it comes to this paddle, what you see is what you get. I first saw the paddle after searching for a balance between power and control, and found that the dimensions on this paddle would suit my play style well.
I liked the sleek appearance of the paddle when I found it online, and was excited to see if it would look similar in person. The paddle was the same in person as it was online, if not better.
The design is aesthetically pleasing for players who do not care to bother with the extra flair of appearance and instead let their play do the talking.
Playability
The XS Xpsak is a paddle that allows players to have a balance between control, spin, and power. This paddle is perfect for intermediate players and advanced players who prioritize control.
Control
The control of the paddle is one of the most notable aspects. It allows players to place the ball at any spot on the court. It allows stealthy players to initiate dinks, extend rallies, and put away high balls at the net. Check out the grit on this paddle.
Placement is very important in my game, and this paddle allows players to place the ball at any and all spots of the court. The control of the paddle specifically adds players who favor the net aspect of the game. Dinks, drops, and precise placement at the net are commonly found when this paddle is used.
Spin
The paddle provides impressive spin. When I use this paddle, I see the ball spin quickly. The paddle allows players to put quick spin on the ball (I typically get tons of spin on the ball when returning, which is very difficult for many players to respond to).
This paddle has helped to add spin to my game at all parts of the court, and I have found it easier to efficiently dink. The texture has held up well, and it is consistent across the paddle face.
Power
Power is an aspect of this paddle this is moderately rated. I found that this paddle had decent power potential, but not as much as more expensive paddles. The paddle has more aspects of control over power because of its core, however, players can still get explosive plays out of the paddle.
Drives, overheads and high volleys allow players to show off the power and pop of the paddle. Overall, the paddle receives a positive review on the power aspect, but it is not the main focal point of the design.
Cost Implications
The cost is typically $100, but it is currently on sale on Amazon.com for under $70. For the latest price, you can check the price below. What’s crazy is this brand also offers coupons sometimes that gets this paddle even cheaper.
For the quality of this paddle, this is considered to be a good price. Comparable paddles are typically over $100. The price point of this paddle is impressive, because its specifications are comparable with elite paddles which typically range from $150-$250.
The control, spin, and power that players are able to get on their paddles are great for the price.
Alternatives
An alternative for players who are looking for a power focused paddle is the Joola Perseus Ben Johns Pro 4 which I wrote a comprehensive review about or the Vatic Pro Prism Flash 14mm or 16mm which retails for around $100 before the $10 discount code: bepickleballer.
This would benefit players who are looking to get more power on there shots than the XS Xspak would provide.
You could also look at an alternative fiberglass Xspak paddle, and it has a nice design, but the playability isn’t great. I would personally not purchase this Xspak pickleball paddle, and if you want a budget option, perhaps check out the best budget pickleball paddles.
Let’s look at the premium Xspak’s paddle’s specifications.
Paddle Specifications
The XS Xspak paddle specifications are listed below:
- Average Weight: 8.0 oz
- Paddle Length: 16.5 in
- Paddle Width: 7.4 in
- Core Thickness: 16mm
- Handle length: 5.5 in
- Grip Circumference: 4.35
- Swing Weight: 112
- Twist Weight: 6.6
- Paddle face material: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
- Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
- Edge Guard: low-profile
- USAPA Approved: Yes
As a tennis player, I liked the 5.5 in handle length, and found that it helped me hit two-handed backhands smoother than on shorter handle length paddles that I have used. I also feel that the paddle face material and core material aid in the control aspect of the paddle and make for a great all-around play style.
Conclusion
I would recommend this paddle to players who are looking to combine style with finesse. The paddle’s sleek look allows for aesthetic shots to happen from all parts of the court. The ball spins in a way that surprises opponents and allows players to put difficult shots away.
This paddle is a great buy for players who are looking to upgrade each part of their game, especially those who are focused on control and appearance of the paddle. This USAPA-approved paddle aids players in engaging in play that is worth bragging about. I think this paddle is also a good idea for those who have a background in playing tennis, this paddle helped me to bring skills that I had from both games together. I think this paddle is a great buy for most players!
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