Paddleshop Planker Paddle Review

The Planker paddle is marketed as a female-focused design, but in practice, it’s a well-balanced option suitable for any player, regardless of gender.

Specs:

  • Height: 16.45”
  • Width: 7.4”
  • Core Thickness: 16mm (14mm also available)
  • Face: 12K Ultra Weave Carbon Fiber with durable grit surface
  • Core: Gen3 Fusion Polymer Honeycomb
  • Weight: 7.9 – 8.0 oz
  • Grip Length: 5.5”
  • Grip Type: Black Ultra-Comfort Grip
  • Grip Circumference: 4.18” (slightly smaller than the standard 4.25”)
  • Swingweight: 115–118 (medium)
  • Twistweight: 5.8–6.5 (standard)

Design & Feel:

The 12K carbon fiber face sits in the middle of the 3K–18K range, offering a strong balance of power and control. Lower numbers tend to add pop, higher numbers favor finesse—12K hits a nice compromise.

The grip’s 4.18” circumference is just under the usual size, but I barely noticed a difference. If needed, you can always add an overgrip.

Performance:

This paddle leans more toward control than power. It shines in soft play—dinks, drops, and net exchanges are where it really stands out. The Gen3 core gives it a lightweight feel with enough pop to keep serves and drives lively. While it doesn’t pack as much punch as some power paddles, it makes up for it with consistency and touch.

Pros:

  • Excellent touch and control for net play and drops
  • Balanced 12K carbon face provides a nice mix of power and finesse
  • Lightweight feel with responsive pop on serves and drives
  • Comfortable grip size for most players, with option to customize
  • Clean, professional build quality

Cons:

  • Slightly less power than other paddles in its class
  • Grip circumference may feel small to players with larger hands
  • Not ideal for those who prefer heavy, power-oriented paddles

Verdict:

The Planker is a control-focused paddle that performs well for players who prioritize feel and placement over brute force. It’s well-built, balanced, and easy to adapt to—especially for intermediate and advanced players who want consistency in their soft game without sacrificing too much on drives. Regardless of the marketing, this paddle works for anyone looking for control and comfort.

How to purchase:

Here’s the good news – the paddle sells for $69.99. You can purchase it here: https://www.paddlesshop.com/shop/paddlesshop-planker-paddle/