UPDATE TO RELOAD REVIEW
Many people have asked me, both on Facebook and in person, if the Reload sheets can be used on other paddles. My answer has always been that they can, but they might not fit perfectly. To put this to the test, I placed a Reload sheets on top of a number of “standard shape” paddles that I had and found that they fit almost perfectly, leaving just a bit of space on the edges.
Anyway, I order an inexpensive paddle from Amazon during “Big Deal Days” just to see how it performed. Upon testing it, I found it completely lacking in power. It was essentially unusable. When I weighed the paddle, it came in at 7.2 ounces instead of the advertised 8.0 ounces. I took a picture of the paddle on the scale and sent it to Amazon, requesting a refund. They agreed and told me to keep the paddle, likely due to similar complaints from other customers.
Now, I had a paddle that I couldn’t use. Then, I had an idea. I took two Reload replacement sheets and applied one to each side of the paddle. The paddle’s weight increased to 8.6 ounces, heavier than what I’m used to but still manageable. Although there was a sliver of paddle face that wasn’t covered all around, it’s an area you shouldn’t be hitting the ball with anyway.
So, how did the “custom” paddle perform? It was fantastic. The additional weight provided a lot of power, yet it remained soft around the net. The composition of the replacement sheets also made the paddle quiet. Interestingly, the paddle didn’t feel either top-heavy or bottom-heavy, as the weight of the sheets was uniformly distributed across the face. This is a distinct advantage over applying weighted tape in specific areas.
What really stood out was the spin I could generate with the paddle. This supports Reload’s claim that their sheets ensure you always have fresh grit when you need it.
If you have a paddle that’s getting worn out and don’t mind adding some weight, try applying two Reload sheets and see the difference for yourself.
ORIGINAL POST
The Reload Pickleball System introduces a groundbreaking approach to maintaining optimal paddle performance. Featuring a patented design, it consists of a durable paddle base paired with a replaceable textured top sheet. But why is a replaceable surface necessary?
According to Reload, the grit on a paddle’s surface—crucial for generating spin—wears out quickly. Spin enhances ball control, enabling players to hit harder while keeping the ball in play and placing it more accurately, making returns more challenging for opponents. Reload’s study shows that pickleball paddles can lose 25% of surface grit in less than 10 days of play, and up to 50% of grit in 30 days, significantly reducing spin capability. By replacing the surface, players can maintain their paddles in top condition without needing to buy a new one every few months.
What’s in the Reload System?
A starter package includes a Reload paddle and two replacement sheets.
Once you have the paddle, additional sheets can be purchased separately. The sheets peel off the paddle easily using a pull tab, allowing for quick and easy replacement with new ones.
Performance
Here are the specifications of the Reload paddle included in the package:
- Paddle Base: T700/T800 Carbon Fiber with a Polypropylene core
- Length: 419mm (16.5″)
- Width: 190mm (7.5″)
- Grip Length: 140mm (5.5″)
- Grip Circumference: 106mm (4.17″)
- Weight: 8.2oz (±0.2)
- Swing Weight: 124 kg-cm² (±2)
- Twist Weight: 6.0kg-cm² (±0.1)
The Reload sheets are made of Unidirectional T700 Carbon Fiber with a custom high-performance and high-temperature 3M adhesive.
While the paddle specs align with many high-quality paddles on the market, playing with the Reload paddle reveals unique characteristics. One standout feature is its exceptionally soft feel around the net, attributed to the adhesive between the paddle and the surface sheets. Despite the soft feel, the paddle/sheet combination remains powerful and is fully USAPA approved.
The most significant benefit I found was the ability to generate extraordinary underspin on drives and returns of serve. Underspin, which keeps the ball low and difficult to handle, is crucial for many players. The Reload paddle excels in maintaining its spin capability (topspin, underspin and side spin) over time, even as the grit wears, thanks to this revolutionary innovation.
Other Information
The Reload paddle comes with a 6-month warranty covering major defects in workmanship and materials under normal use. Reload offers a lifetime warranty for delamination due to a crushed core. Additionally, Reload plans to introduce a recycling program where returning used Reload sheets earns you free rewards.
Cost
The initial Reload package is priced at $199, competitive with other high-end high-performance paddles. However, it comes with two extra sheets, effectively giving you two paddles for the price of one. By following this link and using the code USAPicklers, you can get 10% off your entire purchase, making the paddle cost approximately $180 for what is essentially two whole paddles due to their lifetime warranty on core crush and replaceable sheets for brand-new grit and spin performance: https://www.reloadpaddle.com/?bg_ref=96hBTvJR96&variant=45469608771805
Conclusion
The Reload Pickleball System offers a practical solution for maintaining peak paddle performance through its replaceable surface sheets. Its unique ability to sustain high levels of spin at any time makes it a valuable tool for serious players who want great performance and value. While the upfront cost is in line with premium paddles, the immediate and long-term savings on replacements and the potential for consistently higher performance make it an extremely attractive option.
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