Introduction
Most pickleball manufacturers release a modest trickle of new paddles each year. FLiK (formerly Body Helix) is not one of them. Instead, they continue to push into new materials and construction methods, often experimenting where other companies simply iterate.
Their latest release, the FLiK F3 Triple Core Series, arrives in three shapes — elongated, standard, and hybrid — and builds on the innovations from their previous models. For context:
- Falcon Elongated introduced a layered core of EPP foam and natural cork dwell pads beneath a carbon‑fiber face — a combination still unique in the market.
- F1 Elongated with TerraCoreXC™ added internal perforations, a design others have since imitated in their own ways.
Both of those paddles are now available under the FLiK name.
Below is the Hybrid paddle.
The new F3 Triple Core design incorporates three distinct foam densities within the paddle. While FLiK hasn’t yet released technical explanations, the structure suggests a clear intention:
- High‑density inner core: maximum power on sweet‑spot strikes
- Mid‑density ring: improved stability and forgiveness on off‑center hits
- Low‑density outer ring: reduced vibration and softer feel
This creates a graduated response system, expanding the effective hitting zone beyond what most paddles offer. Many players don’t realize how small the true sweet spot is on traditional paddles; the F3 aims to make clean, controlled contact far more consistent.
Specifications
The table provided by FLiK outlines the specs for each F3 model.
Note: twist weight and swing weight for the elongated version are still being finalized. “4‑layer CF” refers to four layers of carbon fiber in the face.
Performance Testing
I tested each paddle multiple times, rotating between them to confirm impressions. Here’s how they stack up.
Power
All three paddles are designed with control in mind, but provide adequate power. The elongated model delivers the most drive, likely due to its added length and leverage.
Dinking
These paddles are exceptionally quiet — among the softest‑sounding foam paddles I’ve used. Foam paddles can range from a muted boop to a sharp crack; the F3 line practically whispers at the kitchen line. The feel is plush and controlled.
Third‑Shot Drops & Resets
All three models excel here. They require minimal effort to produce smooth, accurate drops and resets.
For my game, the Hybrid stands out as the most reliable for both third‑shot drops and transition‑zone resets.
Spin
Spin performance varies slightly depending on play style:
- If you’re a power driver who likes to send low, fast screamers at your net opponents, the elongated paddle is the best fit.
- If you prefer topspin drives that arc high and drop deep, the standard and hybrid models offer better control.
Again, these opinions are based on my game.
For serves, all three generate excellent spin. The elongated favors penetrating, lower‑trajectory topspin serves, while the hybrid and standard models shine for deeper, more controlled topspin placements.
Indoor Play
I rally don’t like playing indoors, but I had a chance yesterday and put the paddles to the test. The main difference was in topspin, probably because the ball is softer. I was able to hit deep, topspin lobs, including on the serve, with all of the paddles. Again, I think that because the ball is softer than an outdoor ball, the amount of spin I was able to add was higher.
Bottom Line
No matter your style — power hitter, control player, or all‑court strategist — there’s an F3 model that will suit your game. Each paddle retails for around $190, and you can use this link for a 10% discount:
https://flikpickleball.com/?ref=Yf_7tRXqqls4Fe
Release Schedule
Friday, January 23rd – 2:00 PM Eastern
- Hybrid – Available for sale
- Elongated – Available for pre‑order
- Standard – Available for pre‑order
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