Selkirk AMPED Epic, The Perfect Pickleball Paddle? Read Our Review
Selkirk AMPED Epic, is it a perfect paddle? When it comes to pickleball paddles, there are a few brands that stand out from the rest. And one of these brands is undoubtedly Selkirk Sport.
Known for their innovative designs and high-quality materials, Selkirk has garnered a reputation for producing some of the best paddles on the market. Today, we’re going to be talking about one of their latest offerings – the Selkirk AMPED Epic.
We’ve taken this paddle for a test spin, and we’ll be sharing our thoughts, analysis, and verdict with you.
Brief Introduction to Pickleball
Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It’s played on a court similar to a doubles badminton court, with a net in the middle. The game can be played in singles or doubles format, using a solid paddle and a plastic ball with holes.
The Selkirk AMPED Epic Paddle: A Quick Overview
The Selkirk AMPED Epic is a wide-bodied paddle designed for players looking for power and control. It is made with Selkirk’s proprietary X5 polymer core and a FiberFlex fiberglass face. This paddle stands out due to its thickness and the use of advanced material technology that provides a unique blend of power and finesse.
Purpose of the Review
Our goal with this review is to give you an in-depth look at the Selkirk AMPED Epic paddle. We’ll cover everything from its construction and features to its usability and performance. By the end of this review, we hope to help you decide if this paddle is indeed the perfect fit for your pickleball needs.
Paddle Construction and Material
The Selkirk AMPED Epic is built with an X5 polymer core, which is much lighter than most polymer materials. This allows for a thicker paddle design without adding extra weight. The face of the paddle is made from FiberFlex – a strong and powerful fiberglass material known for delivering impressive shot force and spin potential.
Features of Selkirk AMPED Epic Paddle
Paddle Dimensions: Length, Width, Thickness
The Selkirk Amped Epic measures 15.75 inches in length and 8 inches in width. Its standout feature, however, is its thickness – at almost an inch thick, it’s beefier than most other paddles on the market. Despite this thickness, the paddle maintains a lightweight feel thanks to its X5 polymer core.
Unique Technology Used
Selkirk’s patent-pending X5 technology is at the heart of the AMPED Epic’s design. This new polymer material is lighter than most others, allowing for a thicker paddle design without the added weight. The face of the paddle utilizes FiberFlex technology, which is a strong and powerful fiberglass material that delivers impressive force and spin on shots.
Selkirk Amped Epic Features and Specs
| Feature | Spec |
|---|---|
| Core | X5 Polymer Honeycomb (9/16″ thick) |
| Face | FiberFlex Fiberglass |
| Weight | 7.2-8.4 oz |
| Length | 15.75″ |
| Width | 8.0″ |
| Grip length | 5.25″ |
| Grip circumference | 4.25″ |
| Sweetspot size | 9/10 |
| Technology | EdgeSentry, FiberFlex, X5, Comfort Grip |
| Skill level | Beginner to Pro |
| Swing speed | 15-20 mph |
Does Weight Matter?
Yes, it does. When looking for your next paddle understanding the weight is very important. The Selkirk AMPED Epic is considered a midweight paddle delivering balanced power and control.
| Weight Range | Power | Spin | Control | Agility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lightweight (7-7.3 ounces) | Best for agility and control | Good for spin | Good for touch shots | Beginner Intermediate 50+ Women Doubles Play |
| Midweight (7.3-8.3 ounces) | Good balance of power and control | Good for all-around play | Good for volleys | Versatile |
| Heavyweight (8.3-10 ounces) | Best for power | Good for blocking | Less forgiving on mis-hits | Singles Beginner Intermediate Advanced |
| Extra Heavy (10-13 ounces) | Maximum power | Not as good for spin or control | Very unforgiving on mis-hits | Advanced |
Usability and Performance
Control and Power: How does it fare?
The AMPED Epic scores high marks in both control and power. The thick design allows for solid impact on shots, while the light weight ensures precision control. However, it’s important to note that this paddle may take some getting used to because of its unique design.
Spin Potential: How well can you spin the ball?
Thanks to its FiberFlex face, the AMPED Epic offers exceptional spin potential. The fiberglass material grabs the ball well, allowing you to put a lot of spin on your shots. This makes it a great choice for advanced players looking to add another dimension to their game.
Comfort: How does the paddle feel in hand?
Despite its thickness, the AMPED Epic feels comfortable in hand. The grip circumference measures 4.25 inches, making it suitable for a wide range of hand sizes. At around 8 ounces in weight, it’s not too heavy, ensuring minimal strain on your wrist and arm during extended play.
Pricing and Value for Money
Price Comparison with Similar Paddles
At $150, the Selkirk AMPED Epic is priced at the higher end of the spectrum. But when compared with other high-end paddles, it’s fairly competitive, especially considering the advanced technology and high-quality materials used in its construction.
Evaluating the Paddle’s Value Proposition
While the AMPED Epic may seem pricey, it’s important to consider its value proposition. The unique combination of a thick yet lightweight design, coupled with exceptional control, power, and spin, makes this paddle worth considering. If you’re an advanced player looking for a paddle that can take your game to the next level, the AMPED Epic could be a good investment.
Is the Selkirk AMPED Epic Worth Your Money?
In our opinion, the AMPED Epic offers good value for money. Its unique features and top-notch performance make it a worthy purchase for serious pickleball players. However, it’s advisable to try it out first, especially if you’re not used to playing with a thick paddle.
Customer Support and Warranty
Details on the Manufacturer’s Warranty
Selkirk offers a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects on all their paddles, including the AMPED Epic. This is a testament to their confidence in the quality of their products and provides peace of mind for buyers.
Customer Service Experience
Selkirk is known for their excellent customer service. They are responsive and helpful, making it easy for customers to get any questions or issues resolved quickly.
Availability and Purchase Options
The Selkirk AMPED Epic is available for purchase directly from Selkirk’s website, as well as from various online retailers such as Amazon. This makes it easy for customers to compare prices and choose the most convenient purchase option.
Pros and Cons
The Highs: What We Loved about the Selkirk AMPED Epic
There’s a lot to love about the AMPED Epic. Its unique thick-yet-lightweight design, impressive power and control, and great spin potential all stand out. The high-quality materials and superior construction also contribute to its appeal.
The Lows: What Could Be Improved
On the downside, the AMPED Epic’s unique design may take some getting used to. Some players may find the thick design a bit off-putting at first. Additionally, its high price tag may be a barrier for some players, especially beginners or casual players who might not want to invest so much in a paddle.
Summary of Pros and Cons of the Selkirk Amped Epic
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Thickness can be a little off-putting | May be too heavy for some players |
| Powerful and controlled | Not as maneuverable as some other paddles |
| Durable and responsive | Edges can be damaged |
| EdgeSentry technology protects the edges of the paddle | Higher price tag |
| Comfort Grip provides a comfortable and secure hold | Thickness can be a little off putting |
Who Should Consider this Paddle?
The AMPED Epic is best suited for advanced players who are looking for a paddle that offers both power and control. Its spin potential also makes it a great choice for players who like to add spin to their shots. While beginners could certainly use this paddle, they may find it takes some time to get used to its unique design.
Alternatives to Selkirk AMPED Epic
Comparison with Other Selkirk Paddles
Selkirk has a range of other paddles in its lineup. For example, the Selkirk S2 has a larger face and shorter handle, making it a better option for volley players and doubles players. The Omni and Maxima versions, on the other hand, are long-board paddles that might appeal to players who prefer a longer reach.
Selkirk Paddle Comparison
| Feature | AMPED Epic | S2* | Omni** | Maxima** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core | X5 Polymer Honeycomb (9/16″ thick) | X5 Polymer Honeycomb (9/16″ thick) | X5 Polymer Honeycomb (9/16″ thick) | X5 Polymer Honeycomb (9/16″ thick) |
| Face | FiberFlex Fiberglass | FiberFlex Fiberglass | FiberFlex Fiberglass | FiberFlex Fiberglass |
| Weight | 7.3-7.7oz | 7.3-7.7 oz | 7.4-7.8 oz | 7.6-8.8 oz |
| Length | 15.75″ | 15.75″ | 16.0″ | 16.0″ |
| Width | 8.0″ | 8.25″ | 8.25″ | 8.25″ |
| Grip length | 5.25″ | 5.0″ | 5.25″ | 5.25″ |
| Grip circumference | 4.25″ | 4.25″ | 4.25″ | 4.25″ |
| Sweetspot size | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 |
| Technology | EdgeSentry, FiberFlex, X5, Comfort Grip | EdgeSentry, FiberFlex, X5, Comfort Grip | EdgeSentry, FiberFlex, X5, Comfort Grip | EdgeSentry, FiberFlex, X5, Comfort Grip |
| Skill level | Intermediate to Advanced | Beginner to Advanced | Beginner to Advanced | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Swing speed | 15-20 mph | 16-21 mph | 17-22 mph | 18-23 mph |
* Available on Amazon; ** Available on Just Paddles
How Does It Compare to Other Brands?
When compared to other brands, the AMPED Epic stands out due to its unique thickness and lightweight design. However, brands like Paddletek and Onix also offer high-quality paddles that are worth considering. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and playing style.
Recommendations for Different Player Types
For singles players who hit more groundstrokes, the AMPED Epic could be an excellent choice due to its long handle and smaller face. Volley players and those who play doubles might prefer the S2, while players who prefer a longer reach might find the Omni or Maxima to their liking.
Final Verdict
Summarizing the Selkirk AMPED Epic’s Strengths and Weaknesses
The Selkirk AMPED Epic is a versatile paddle that offers an impressive blend of power, control, and spin. Its standout feature is its thick-yet-lightweight design, thanks to the innovative X5 technology. On the downside, its unique design may take some getting used to, and its high price tag may be a deterrent for some players.
Our Personal Recommendation: Who is it Best Suited for?
We believe the AMPED Epic is best suited for advanced players who are willing to invest in a high-quality paddle that can enhance their game. If you value power, control, and spin and don’t mind spending a bit more for these features, the AMPED Epic could be a great choice for you.
Is the Selkirk AMPED Epic the Perfect Pickleball Paddle?
While there’s no such thing as the “perfect” pickleball paddle – as different players have different needs and preferences – the Selkirk AMPED Epic comes close. Its unique design, advanced technology, and superior performance make it one of the top contenders in the market today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Pickleball Paddle vs Amped
The Selkirk Vanguard Power Air is another popular pickleball paddle. It features a hybrid graphite and fiberglass construction, providing a combination of power and forgiveness. Compared to the AMPED Epic, the Vanguard Power Air has a slightly larger head size and an ergonomic handle, providing more control and comfort for players. It is also priced considerably higher.
How heavy is the AMPED Epic?
The average weight of the AMPED Epic is around 8 ounces, although this can vary slightly from paddle to paddle.
Is the AMPED Epic suitable for beginners?
While beginners can certainly use the AMPED Epic, they may find its unique design takes some getting used to.
What is the grip size of the AMPED Epic?
The grip circumference of the AMPED Epic is 4.25 inches, making it suitable for a wide range of hand sizes.
What pickleball paddle does Tyson McGuffin use?
Tyson McGuffin uses a signature Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta pickleball paddle.
What pickleball paddle does Anna Leigh Waters use?
Anna Leigh Waters uses a signature Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Pro pickleball paddle.
Maintenance Tips and Care Instructions
To keep your Selkirk AMPED Epic in top condition, avoid hitting hard objects or surfaces with it. Clean the paddle face regularly with mild soap and water, and store it in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid leaving it in extremely hot or cold environments as this can damage the materials.
Updates on New Releases and Models from Selkirk.
To stay updated on new releases and models from Selkirk, check their official website or follow them on social media. They often announce new products and updates through these channels.
