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HEAD – Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle

HEAD – Radical Elite
$60.00
Brand: HEAD
Category: Paddles
  • Core

    OTC Polymer Honeycomb with Extended Powercore

  • Surface

    Fiberglass

  • Weight (Standard)

    8.1 oz.

  • Skill Level

    Beginner to Intermediate

  • Year

    2022

HEAD Radical Elite: Offers On Amazon

HEAD Radical Elite: Our Review

First Impressions

As a seasoned player in the pickleball scene, my attention was quickly drawn to the HEAD Radical Elite paddle due to its affordability and competitive performance, even when compared to higher-priced paddles. The aesthetic appeal, especially the color scheme, also received positive nods right from the get-go.

Comparative Analysis

When placed side-by-side with pricier options, the HEAD Radical Elite held its own remarkably well. I noticed little to no difference in gameplay, despite the substantial price disparity. Moreover, it emerged as a superior choice compared to other brands like the SLK by Selkirk, where it seems a premium is charged for the brand name.

Design and Build

The elongated shape of the HEAD Radical Elite made it easier to hit balls close to the ground or stretch for distant balls, a feature I found quite advantageous. The sweet spot is forgiving and large, reducing the paddle’s tendency to twist when hit off-center—a feature that both beginners and intermediate players would find beneficial. The grip was comfortable and well-received among my peers, fitting well in both large and small hands without feeling bulky.

Performance

Despite its smooth surface, which may not assist with spinning the ball, I didn’t find this to be a major hindrance during gameplay. The paddle offered good power without requiring an overswing, and its maneuverability was top-notch. The solid sound when the ball hit the sweet spot, and the good rebound on shots were aspects that enhanced my playing experience.

Durability

After several months of intensive use, playing multiple times a week, the HEAD Radical Elite showcased notable durability and well-crafted design. Its performance remained consistent over time, affirming its reliability for regular players.

Conclusion

From my extensive experience, the HEAD Radical Elite comes highly recommended as a great entry-level and intermediate paddle. Its good balance, weight, and power have resonated well with the player community. The large sweet spot and comfortable grip further add to its appeal. If you are a novice looking to start strong or an intermediate player aiming to upgrade your paddle, the HEAD Radical Elite is certainly worth considering.

HEAD Radical Elite: Specs

Overview

Year 2022
Skill Level Beginner to Intermediate
Pros 🟢 Large-sweet-spot
🟢 Soft-feel
🟢 Tennis-style-grip
🟢 Value-priced
Cons 🔴 Low-spinability
🔴 Power-lacking

Properties

Core OTC Polymer Honeycomb with Extended Powercore
Surface Fiberglass
Medium Weight 8.1 oz.
Edge Guard ¼” overlapping paddle face

Size

Paddle Length 16″ (408 mm)
Paddle Width 7-7/8″ (199 mm)
Core Thickness 5/8″ (16mm)

Grip

Grip Length 5.5″
Grip Style Ergo Grip
Grip Circumference 4 1/4″

HEAD Radical Elite: Video Reviews


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