We are new to pickleball and needed a set that is lightweight and doesn't break down after first use - happy to report this set is perfect! Very well made and lightweight. We don't have much to compare it to (again, beginners here) but our impressions were above average for this set.
These are okay, but like the other aluminum honeycomb core paddles from GBS the paint/grit wears off fast and if you clang with another paddle they will get easily damaged. I play pickleball almost everyday and I am an intermediate to advanced player. I do like the sound they make like a little league bat but after a week or so of use that sound fades and you can start to see the honeycomb through the paddle face. They are pretty light weight and have a decent length handle on the paddle. They can take a lot of heat of a persons shot, making it easy to dink off a heavy shot right over the net and if you are a good player you might like them. I wish they were more durable.
I recently tried pickleball for the first time, and used these paddles to see if I could learn and enjoy the game. My instructor told me that this type of paddle is a "power paddle" that allows the player to hit the ball hard, but that the downside might be a loss of control and/or the ability to add spin. I had a great time and I was able to hit the ball well and learn how to play. I enjoyed several hours of fun. I also liked how this kit came with an extra paddle, balls, and some sweat-absorbing tape. I have played tennis and racquetball in the past and I really like that tape. I like having a complete kit so I can show my friends how to play, and they don't need a paddle to get started since I have an extra one. I was told that a "control paddle" can cost over $150, so I feel like this power paddle set is a good value for the price. I can tell that the quality is good and I am looking forward to more pickleball!
Let me tell you the USAPA Approved Aluminum Pickleball Set is quite a set of paddles. The grip feels great in the hand. the surface of the paddle is slightly abrasive for good ball control and you can hear the difference when it is being used. There is a nice clear metallic aluminum ring almost or similar to an aluminum baseball bat every time you hit the ball. It is quite satisfyingly to be playing or watching and to be able to hear the difference between the carbon fiber and the Aluminum paddle. This is my favorite set of paddles.
This is the set I would get again.
As a beginner, I've really enjoyed using this lightweight pickleball paddle for the past 1.5 weeks. Made of good quality materials, it has held up well to my mishits. The lighter weight provides great maneuverability and control for smooth strokes. While not the most powerful paddle, it generates enough pace for my needs. Overall, it's an affordable option that is well-suited for beginner and recreational level players.