Introduction
Hudef continues to push the limits of pickleball paddle innovation. After pioneering one of the first foam-core paddles (the Newera), Hudef is now among the first—alongside CRBN—to launch a paddle featuring a supercritical foaming honeycomb core: the Apex Pro 2.
This new construction promises a combination of lightweight power, consistency, and stability unlike anything Hudef has produced before.
Understanding the Different Types of Foam
Three types of foam are now seen in pickleball paddle construction: EVA, EPP, and Supercritical Foam. Here’s how they compare:
EVA Foam (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)
- Soft, flexible, and durable.
- Provides excellent shock absorption and molding ease.
- However, it can “pack down” over time and produces a trampoline effect, increasing ball speed.
- USAP bans EVA as a core material because of that effect, although it is still used in paddle perimeters for feel and vibration damping.
EPP Foam (Expanded Polypropylene)
- The industry standard for foam-core paddles.
- Durable, maintains shape, and offers excellent structural integrity.
- Less soft or springy than EVA—no trampoline effect.
- Delivers a solid, controlled response favored by many competitive players.
Supercritical Foam
- Not a material, but a process. A gas (like CO₂ or nitrogen) is infused into a base foam (EVA or PEBA) under supercritical conditions.
- Produces an ultra-fine, stable pore structure that’s lightweight, responsive, and energy-efficient.
- Environmentally friendly and long-lasting.
- Commonly used in high-end athletic footwear—now making its way into elite pickleball paddles.
Why It Matters:
USAP requires paddle faces and cores to be “rigid and non-compressible.” Traditional foams like EVA violate that rule. But supercritical foam, with its engineered stability, meets durability and performance standards—allowing Hudef to push the envelope legally and effectively.
Specifications
- Face: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
- Shape: Wide Body
- Weight: 8.2–8.4 oz (tested: 8.3 oz)
- Swing Weight: 109 (light)
- Twist Weight: 7.0 (high stability)
- Balance Point: 235 mm
- Core: Supercritical Foaming Polypropylene Honeycomb
- Thickness: 16 mm
- Dimensions: 15.9” x 7.95”
- Grip: 5.1” length / 4 1/8” circumference
- Warranty: 3-year core replacement
Performance
I’ll admit, when I saw my scale read 8.3 ounces, I was skeptical—it’s heavier than my usual preference. But that hesitation vanished the moment I hit my first ball.
The swing weight (109) feels remarkably light, likely due to the wide body design that redistributes mass for stability without sluggishness. The twist weight (7.0) adds forgiveness on off-center hits—a noticeable advantage at the kitchen line.
Soft Game
From the first dink, the Apex Pro 2 felt incredibly plush—almost pillow-like. Drops and resets were effortless, the ball sitting on the face just long enough for precise control. The foam core gives a unique sensation: soft on contact but powerful through release.
Power and Spin
Despite the soft feel, power was abundant. Serves and drives came off the face with pace and spin that rivaled any thermoformed paddle I’ve used. My topspin drives bit hard, and my side-spin serves kicked unpredictably—exactly what I want from a high-performance carbon face.
The blend of control, comfort, and pop is what sets this paddle apart. It’s powerful, but not wild; soft, but not mushy.
Bottom Line
Don’t let the weight fool you—this isn’t a heavy paddle. Thanks to its balanced design and advanced foam core, the Apex Pro 2 swings light and feels stable.
It’s best suited for intermediate to advanced players who appreciate a soft touch game but still demand power when it’s time to attack. Beginners might find it a bit too lively at first, but experienced players will love its refined responsiveness.
Pricing & Recommendation
At $149.99, the Hudef Apex Pro 2 is one of the best values in the high-performance paddle category. For comparison, CRBN’s supercritical foam paddles retail around $279.99—nearly double the price.
✅ If you’re ready to try one, use my link and the discount code GREG for 15% off:
https://hudefsport.com?sca_ref=3696981.3xzdZeZCn4
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