Body Helix FLIK Gen 3 Paddle Review

Introduction

Body Helix, a company known for its innovative approach to paddle technology, has recently unveiled the FLIK Gen 3 Pickleball Paddle. This review delves into what makes the Gen 3 designation noteworthy and evaluates the performance of this new paddle.

Understanding “Gen 3” Technology

Despite an exhaustive search, there isn’t a clear-cut definition of “Gen 3” in pickleball paddles. However, several key characteristics seem to define this generation, and the FLIK Gen 3 incorporates all of them:

  • Next Generation Propulsion Core Technology (Propulsion Core): This technology creates a “catapult effect,” enhancing the paddle’s responsiveness to your playstyle. It offers explosive power for drives, counters, and speed-ups, while maintaining control for dinks, drops, and resets. This type of core may have been controversial, similar to issues faced by Joola.
  • Advanced Vibration Dampening: Integration of vibration-dampening foam or silicone gel within the honeycomb core reduces impact shock, providing a smoother feel upon ball contact. This feature is particularly beneficial for reducing joint strain during play.
  • Honeycomb Core: The Gen 3 paddles utilize a polypropylene honeycomb core made with high-temperature thermal compression technology.
  • Foam Edge Wall for Enhanced Stability: A foam edge wall is injected around the paddle’s perimeter to increase stability.

What is Meant by “The Power of One?”

I may have figured out why “The Power of One” is printed on the FLIK Gen 3 paddle. I believe it is a reference to FLIK, the “hero” in the movie “A Bug’s Life.” This movie tells the story of a small ant named Flik who takes on the big, mean grasshoppers who are extorting and terrorizing his colony. Flik finds a group of other small bugs, and together, they band together to defeat the grasshoppers. So, perhaps, “The Power of One” represents the strength of many small companies uniting to challenge the big, money-hungry bullies in the pickleball world. This includes organizations like USAP, which continuously raises rates and enforces obscure rules, and the PPA, which charges exorbitant fees and focuses on power paddles that harm the game. See my blog post called “CONCERNS ABOUT USA PICKLEBALL” which discusses my gripes about USAPA.

What is “FLIK Approved”?

FLIK approval is a certification specific to Body Helix paddles. While some FLIK paddles are also USAP approved, others are not, to keep costs low and expedite the release of new models. Recreational players can opt for the FLIK-approved paddles, while players in sanctioned events will need the USAP-certified versions. The design and performance of both types are identical, with the primary difference being the certification.

Gen 3 FLIK Specifications

  • Shape: Standard
  • Paddle Size: 16.0 x 7.7″
  • Core Thickness: 16mm
  • Handle Length: 5.25″
  • Handle Circumference: 4.25″
  • Weight: 8.1 oz
  • Surface: Blue Kevlar

Paddle Technology

  • Black X-Core PP Honeycomb
  • 1 Layer of Kevlar
  • 2 Layers of T700 Raw Toray Carbon
  • Gen 3 Construction
  • 360 Ring Around the Core for a Bigger Sweet Spot
  • Solid Polyurethane Handle

Performance

Gen 3 technology promises enhanced power and control. In testing, the FLIK Gen 3 lived up to its promise of power. Initial serves went about 2 feet past the baseline with minimal effort, indicating the paddle’s potency. Generating topspin and underspin was straightforward, though mastering side spin serves will require time and practice.

The paddle excelled in dinks and third-shot drops, requiring little effort and offering a soft feel, likely due to the anti-vibration handle.

Pricing

A noteworthy update: starting in 2025, the UPA-A will require paddle brands to pay $100,000 annually and $5,000 per paddle for certification and regulation. All currently approved USA Pickleball paddles will be phased out for UPA events (PPA Tour and MLP). The adjusted fees are now expected to be $20,000 annually and $4,000 per paddle. I’m not sure how this is going to wind up eventually; however, this significant cost increase has forced at least one smaller company out of business, Triple J Pickleball.

Body Helix offers two price points for the same paddle: the FLIK Approved paddle at $140 and the USAP Approved paddle at $180. Recreational players do not need a USAP-approved paddle, making the FLIK Approved version a cost-effective choice.

If you’re interested in the FLIK Gen 3 paddle or other products from Body Helix, you can purchase them with a 10% discount at this link: https://flikpickleball.com/?ref=Yf_7tRXqqls4Fe

Bottom Line

The Body Helix FLIK Gen 3 Pickleball Paddle offers advanced technology that enhances both power and control. While the new certification fees may impact pricing and availability, the FLIK Gen 3 remains a compelling option for players looking for cutting-edge performance.