Many might wonder: can a $99 paddle truly deliver top-tier performance? Let me share my insights.
Enter HUDEF, a paddle company renowned for its diverse range of offerings. Among them, stand two powerhouses: the 6.8 paddle and the Newera Pickleball Paddle. Each boasts distinctive features that set them apart.
The 6.8 paddle stands out for its innovative ‘thru-rod’ technology, engineered to optimize power. On the other hand, the Newera’s secret lies in its EVA foam core, promising both power and feel.
You can read my reviews here:
In HUDEF’s Pro series, you have the HUDEF Viva Pro Gen2 and the Viva Pro. Both of these are more “traditional” paddles that emphasize both power and control. You can read my reviews here:
So, what about the MAGE Pro paddle?
It’s intriguing how terminology in the pickleball world can sometimes diverge from its traditional understanding. While “hybrid” conventionally implies a slightly wider top, it now seems that the term now also denotes paddles with a rounded top. Personally, I’d lean towards describing it as elongated, aligning more closely with its physical shape.
However, when it comes down to it, performance speaks louder than semantics. In my assessment, I’ll focus on how this paddle’s design, whether elongated or hybrid, impacts its gameplay and overall effectiveness on the court.
Here are the specs:
● Thermoformed edges and injected with foam
● Face: T700 raw carbon fiber
● Paddle Shape: Hybrid
● Weight: 8.0oz(+/-0.2oz)
● Swing Weight: 116
● Twist Weight: 6.57
● Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
● Paddle Length: 16.50″
● Paddle Width: 7.40″
● Paddle Thickness: 0.63″(16mm)
● Grip Length: 5.35″
● Grip Circumference: 4 1/8″
HUDEF says that the paddle is created using advanced multi-stage cold and thermoformed technology in which the perimeter edges are thermoformed and injected with foam extending through to the handle, ensuring a solid and responsive construction. This is the first time I have heard of cold and hot thermoforming.
My paddle weighs exactly 8.0 ounces, but it has a swing weigh of 116, which is light. It felt lighter than 8.0 ounces to me.
The grip circumfere3nce is 4 1/8 inches, making it ideal for two handed backhands.
If I were compare this paddle to the other HUDEF paddles mentioned above, I would say that it has about the same control as the other Pro paddles, but a tad less pop. The 6.8 and Newera paddles definitely have more pop, but perhaps a bit less control.
I can also say that I could put a lot of topspin on my serves. As far as side spin, it is about the same as all the other paddles. I am personally moving away from trying to big side spin. I tend to hit faults as often as winners.
The only complaint that I have is the thickness of the edge. It you it the ball on the edge, it can result in a squirrely shot. The solution, of course, is not to hit the ball on the edge!
So, in summary, it is a great overall paddle for players at all levels, and for a price of $99 it is a bargain.
If you are interested in any of the paddles in this review, go to https://hudefsport.com?sca_ref=3696981.3xzdZeZCn4and use the code “Greg” at checkout for a 15% discount.
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