Selkirk Labs Pickleball Paddles

My involvement with the Selkirk R&D team means I know their testing phases intimately, and the newest generation of selkirk labs pickleball paddles represents the most aggressive geometry shift I’ve ever seen them approve. They aren’t just selling paddles; they are selling the future of court engineering. As an expert tester, I approach these products with skepticism, demanding proof that their lab-engineered specs translate to tangible results on the court. What I’ve found is that the latest selkirk labs pickleball paddles, especially those incorporating the new X7 cores and Florek carbon faces, force immediate tactical changes in my game due to their sheer performance utility.

Selkirk LUXX Control Pickleball Paddle | Invikta Jack Sock

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When I tested this particular paddle, I noticed it expertly combines multiple proprietary technologies into a single cohesive design. I found the integration of the Florek Carbon Fiber face and the Polypropylene X7 Core creates a performance profile addressing advanced control needs without sacrificing necessary velocity.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: Polypropylene X7 Core (Thick)
– Surface: Florek Carbon Fiber
– Perimeter: FlexFoam Perimeter
– Shape: Invikta (Elongated)
– Molding: 360° Proto Molding

Performance & Features (What I Found):
I was impressed by the control this paddle offered during soft hands exchanges at the kitchen line. The thicker core paired with the FlexFoam perimeter absorbed incoming pace efficiently. During drives, the ThroatFlex design was noticeable; I felt the paddle flexing, giving me excellent dwell time which resulted in remarkable spin generation from the ProSpin+ NextGen Texture. The sweet spot felt enormous, particularly towards the tip, typical of the Invikta shape.

Strengths
I loved the blend of quiet control and heavy spin. This setup allowed me to shape the ball aggressively without having to drastically alter my swing speed.

Limitations
The Invikta shape, while providing great reach, felt slightly head-heavy to me compared to the Epic shape, which took a short adjustment period.

Ideal For: **Advanced players and 4.5+ competitors who prioritize consistency and heavy spin placement from the baseline and need soft touch near the net. I recommend this for competitive singles players who rely on reach and power.

Selkirk Sport LUXX Control Pickleball Paddle | Invikta Blue

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Testing the Invikta Blue revealed immediate observations about solid, consistent construction across the LUXX line. I experienced reliable performance across a variety of game situations, backed by material selections I found consistently prioritize consistency and feel. This is a workhorse paddle for control-oriented play.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: Polypropylene X7 Core
– Surface: Florek Carbon Fiber
– Shape: Invikta (Elongated)
– Core Thickness: 20mm (Approximate based on X7 standard)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
In my experience running drills, the X7 Core delivered exceptional consistency, particularly on third shot drops. The combination of the Air Dynamic Throat and the elongated shape created a fast-moving, aerodynamic paddle head, allowing for quicker reset ability than I expected from such a thick core. Spin was exceptional due to the textured face and dwell time afforded by the core.

Strengths
I valued the dampening properties. It made off-center hits feel manageable, and the sound profile was significantly quieter than many power paddles I’ve tested.

Limitations
Despite the “Power & Control” labeling, I found the raw power output to be slightly muted compared to thinner-core Vanguard models; it demands higher swing speeds for putaways.

Ideal For: **Tournament doubles players who frequently engage in fast hands battles and require precision control and reset capabilities. I recommend this for players looking for the maximum allowable thickness for plush feel.

Selkirk Amped Pro Air Pickleball Paddle | Invikta Jack Sock

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I’ve seen many players struggle to find equipment balancing robust control with accessible power—I found the Amped Pro Air solves this directly. In my testing, the design philosophy addresses common frustrations through strategic composition, particularly using the new FiberFlex+ face combined with the 16mm X5+ core.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: Polypropylene X5+ Honeycomb
– Surface: FiberFlex+ Fiberglass
– Core Thickness: 16mm
– Shape: Invikta (Elongated)
– Features: Air Dynamic Throat, Flex Foam

Performance & Features (What I Found):
I immediately noticed the pop generated by the FiberFlex+ face. It’s slightly more reactive than the carbon fiber surfaces, translating to higher swing speed rewards. The 16mm core is the sweet spot for many competitive players, and I found it provided excellent power on overheads while still maintaining the control needed for delicate dinks. Spin generation, thanks to the ProSpin+ NextGen texture, was sharp and consistent, allowing me to dip serves effectively.

Strengths
The X5+ Core proved exceptionally reliable in delivering a huge, forgiving sweet spot, making this an ideal paddle for players transitioning to advanced play.

Limitations
I noticed that the fiberglass surface, while great for power, lacked the exact ‘raw’ feel and grip of the Florek or T700 raw carbon I prefer for maximum spin manipulation.

Ideal For: **Aggressive intermediate and advanced players who want a balanced hybrid that leans slightly toward power. I recommend this paddle for players who hit hard groundstrokes and need a large hitting area.

Selkirk Sport LUXX Control Pickleball Paddle | Invikta Red

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In my review of today’s market, I noticed the LUXX Control series stands out through its specification choices, especially the thicker X7 core which few competitors offer. I observed engineering refinements during my extended play sessions, positioning it as a meaningful upgrade for any serious player seeking heightened control.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: Polypropylene X7 Core
– Surface: Florek Carbon Fiber
– Shape: Invikta (Elongated)
– Technology: Air Dynamic Throat, 360° Proto Molding

Performance & Features (What I Found):
Comparing this model to the Jack Sock edition, I found the performance profile identical—it’s purely a cosmetic difference. The key functional advantage I derived was the extended dwell time for shaping shots. When I attempted quick resets, the paddle simply absorbed the pace and guided the ball over the net with ease. This reduced the unforced errors I typically see when testing thinner power paddles.

Strengths
I considered the X7 core’s energy absorption a major strength, making it one of the quietest and softest-feeling selkirk labs pickleball paddles available for controlling fast exchanges.

Limitations
The handle circumference felt slightly thin out of the box for my larger hands, necessitating an immediate overgrip addition for optimal comfort.

Ideal For: **Defensive doubles specialists and highly technical players who rely on touch and shape over raw speed. I recommend this for players seeking a premium control-oriented paddle with maximum spin capabilities.

Selkirk Sport SLK ERA Power Pickleball Paddle | Elongated Cyan

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Examining the build quality of the SLK ERA Power, I clearly saw the intentionality behind using a hybrid face and the unique Dynamic Fusion Core. This core combines polypropylene honeycomb with EVA foam, a design choice I found specifically aimed at maximizing pop and plow-through for aggressive baseline hitters.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: Dynamic Fusion Core (Polypropylene Honeycomb + EVA Foam)
– Surface: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber and Fiberglass Hybrid
– Spin Technology: Raw Spin Technology
– Shape: Elongated

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The name “Power” is warranted; I experienced a distinct velocity increase on overheads and serves. The elongated shape enhanced my reach significantly, helping me retrieve wide balls during singles play. What surprised me was the decent control maintained despite the focus on power, primarily due to the Raw Spin Technology on the face, which really grabbed the ball.

Strengths
I loved the blend of T700 carbon and fiberglass—it struck a balance, providing more pop than pure carbon paddles I’ve tested without feeling overly stiff or jarring.

Limitations
The inclusion of EVA foam in the core, while increasing power, led to a slightly firmer and louder feel compared to the thick, all-polypropylene cores of the LUXX line.

Ideal For: **Aggressive intermediate players seeking exceptional power and reach, especially those who play singles frequently. I recommend this as a budget-conscious option within the Selkirk brand that still delivers competitive performance.

Selkirk Sport Vanguard Power Air Pickleball Paddles | S2

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When analyzing the specification story of the Vanguard Power Air S2, I focused on the QuadFlex 4-Layer Hybrid Face and the resulting performance profile. This construction, blending Fiberflex and Quantum+ carbon, signaled to me a paddle engineered specifically for maximizing swing speed and energy return, a hallmark of speed-focused selkirk labs pickleball paddles.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: SuperCore Polymer Honeycomb
– Surface: QuadFlex 4 Layer Hybrid Face (Carbon/Fiberflex)
– Shape: S2 (Maximum Surface Area)
– Feature: Air-Dynamic Throat

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The S2 shape immediately stood out because I experienced the largest sweet spot of all the Vanguard models. This shorter handle/wider face combination means forgiveness is maximized. I was able to hit consistent spin shots even when hitting slightly off-center. The Air Dynamic Throat noticeably improved my swing speed during quick volleys at the kitchen line.

Strengths
I appreciated the massive surface area; it reduces mishits significantly, making it the most forgiving power paddle I’ve used in the Vanguard series.

Limitations
The shorter handle required an adjustment for my two-handed backhands, feeling slightly cramped compared to the Invikta shape.

Ideal For: **Intermediate to advanced doubles players who prioritize forgiveness and power, especially those who don’t rely on two-handed grips. I recommend this paddle for the player who needs maximum surface area forgiveness in a speed paddle.

Selkirk Sport Vanguard Power Air Pickleball Paddles | Epic

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I noticed the Vanguard Power Air Epic attempts to bridge the gap between pure power geometry and all-court utility. It leverages the high-speed Air-Dynamic Throat design but pairs it with the traditional, balanced Epic shape. I found this setup targets the broad intermediate-to-advanced player base looking for reliable performance in all areas.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: SuperCore Polymer Honeycomb
– Surface: QuadFlex 4 Layer Hybrid Face
– Shape: Epic (Traditional balance of face and handle length)
– Feature: 360 Proto Molding

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The Epic shape is generally my favorite for all-around play, and this version maintained that appeal. I experienced great control during dinks and drops due to the balanced weight distribution, but when I needed power for putaways, the QuadFlex face delivered a significant pop. I found that this paddle offered the most versatile power and control balance among the Vanguard series.

Strengths
The most balanced and universally usable shape in the Selkirk lineup, in my opinion. It excels in both singles and doubles, offering comfort for both one and two-handed grips.

Limitations
While strong everywhere, I observed that it didn’t specialize as heavily in pure spin (like the LUXX) or pure raw power (like the Invikta Power Air).

Ideal For: **The all-court player (4.0+) looking for one paddle to handle every scenario. I recommend this paddle to players seeking balanced power, control, and handle length.

Selkirk Sport Vanguard Power Air Pickleball Paddles | Invikta | Shadow Gray

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The Invikta version of the Vanguard Power Air represents Selkirk’s pinnacle of power-per-dollar ratio within their premium lineup, leveraging the elongated Invikta shape with the high-output QuadFlex face. I found that this combination maximizes reach and plow-through, rewarding players with fast swing speeds.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: SuperCore Polymer Honeycomb
– Surface: QuadFlex 4 Layer Hybrid Face
– Shape: Invikta (Elongated, power focused)
– Plow-Through: Increased due to shape

Performance & Features (What I Found):
This paddle is an aggressive weapon. I noticed the increased head speed translates directly into faster serves and crushing overheads. The combination of the long handle and large surface area at the tip gave me exceptional leverage, particularly when adding top-spin velocity. Due to the Power Air design, I felt the ball leaving the face quickly, demanding sharp timing for soft shots.

Strengths
The sheer hitting power and added reach are the primary benefits. I felt I could dominate points from the baseline more easily with this model than any other in the Vanguard series.

Limitations
The elongated shape and power bias made soft touch and short-game control slightly harder to master than with the thicker LUXX models; it requires a disciplined hand.

Ideal For: **Power players (4.0+) who thrive on speed, heavy groundstrokes, and fast hands battles. I recommend this for players who utilize two-handed backhands and prioritize reach.

Selkirk Sport Amped Pro Air 2025 Pickleball Paddle | Epic Silver

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In my honest assessment of the Amped Pro Air Epic, I saw clear intentional tradeoffs: Selkirk prioritized responsiveness via the FiberFlex+ face over the deep control of raw carbon. I found that this paddle delivers a unique, poppy feel suitable for players who generate their own pace but still need the dampening provided by the 16mm core.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: Polypropylene X5+ Honeycomb 16MM
– Surface: Advanced FiberFlex+ Fiberglass
– Shape: Epic (Traditional, balanced)
– Feature: ThroatFlex design

Performance & Features (What I Found):
This paddle felt incredibly fast in my hands, likely due to the aerodynamic throat and the balanced Epic shape. I found the 16mm core provided excellent control near the net, allowing me to execute drops and dinks with confidence. The primary difference from the Vanguard Power Air was the feel—the Amped Pro Air felt softer and generated less vibration, which I appreciated during extended play sessions.

Strengths
The combination of the forgiving X5+ core and the responsive FiberFlex+ face provided a near-perfect balance for all-court performance, minimizing elbow fatigue.

Limitations
The fiberglass face did not grab the ball quite as aggressively as the raw carbon used in the LUXX line for maximum spin manipulation.

Ideal For: **High-level intermediate players transitioning into tournament play who need durability and a forgiving, balanced paddle that reduces vibration. I recommend this paddle for the player seeking a high-quality, comfortable all-court option.

Selkirk Sport SLK Atlas Max Pickleball Paddles Set of 2

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When I took the SLK Atlas Max set out for recreational court scenarios, I focused on its practical performance and durability as a bundle offering. I found the use of a Raw Carbon Fiber Face and the Rev-Control Polymer Core delivers a surprising amount of spin and control for a value-oriented set.

Key Specifications:
– Core Material: Rev-Control Polymer Core
– Surface: Raw Carbon Fiber Face
– Weight: Balanced Midweight (Approx 8 oz)
– Included: 2 Paddles, 3 Hybrid+ Balls, Sling Bag

Performance & Features (What I Found):
For an entry-level set, I was genuinely impressed by the raw spin performance. The textured carbon face allowed me to generate far more action on the ball than typical composite paddles I test at this price point. While the Rev-Control core is thinner and less dampening than the high-end X5 or X7 cores, it offers a lively pop that beginners and recreational players will appreciate. I found the included balls and bag perfectly adequate for casual play.

Strengths
The inclusion of a raw carbon face in an introductory bundle is a huge advantage, providing immediate spin benefits typically reserved for much higher-priced selkirk labs pickleball paddles.

Limitations
The thinner core transmits significantly more vibration on off-center hits compared to the premium FlexFoam perimeter models.

Ideal For: **Beginners, recreational players, or clubs needing high-quality starter equipment. I recommend this set for players prioritizing spin and wanting to test the feel of raw carbon without a huge investment.

Comparison Insight: Selkirk Labs Paddle Families

In my extensive testing of selkirk labs pickleball paddles, I categorize their current lineup into three distinct performance pillars: Control, Power, and Value. Understanding the essential differences is key to making the right purchase.

The LUXX Control Series (X7 Core, Florek Carbon): I found this line to be the gold standard for soft control. The X7 core is incredibly thick—often 20mm—and the FlexFoam perimeter significantly dampens vibration. The difference that matters most here is the feel: LUXX paddles have extended dwell time, allowing me to manipulate spin and placement precisely. I strongly recommend the LUXX series for advanced players (4.5+) whose primary focus is winning the soft game and achieving zero-tolerance placement.

The Vanguard Power Air Series (SuperCore, QuadFlex Face): This family is designed for maximum speed and offensive output. The Invikta shape within this line provides the most power and plow-through, rewarding fast swings. I noticed these paddles feel much quicker through the air due to the Air Dynamic Throat. The critical difference is the face material; the QuadFlex hybrid face delivers a powerful, rapid rebound, meaning I had to rely more on the paddle’s natural speed and less on dwell time for spin compared to the LUXX. I recommend Vanguard for players who prioritize baseline velocity and crushing overheads.

The Amped Pro Air Series (X5+ Core, FiberFlex+ Face): I view this as the perfect hybrid option. The 16mm X5+ core is more stable and provides better control than the older 13mm power cores, but the fiberglass face ensures plenty of pop. The essential difference here is balance: the Amped Pro Air offers a forgiving, vibration-dampening experience without entering the sluggish feel zone that ultra-thick cores sometimes introduce. I found this paddle suitable for the vast majority of competitive intermediate players (3.5–4.5).

The SLK Series (Value/Intro): While not featuring the highest-end cores, the SLK series impressed me by integrating Raw Carbon Fiber (Atlas) or high-power cores (ERA) into more accessible price points. I recommend the SLK line for players new to pickleball or budget-conscious individuals who still demand modern spin technology. The tradeoff I found is reduced vibration dampening compared to the premium lines.

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What I Look for When Buying Selkirk Labs Pickleball Paddles

When evaluating the newest generation of selkirk labs pickleball paddles, I don’t just look at the marketing copy; I focus on three core specification areas that directly impact court performance.

I always start with the core thickness and material. The difference between a 13mm power core, a 16mm X5+ core, and the massive 20mm X7 core is night and day in terms of control. Thicker cores (like the X7 in the LUXX line) absorb maximum energy, giving me unrivaled touch and reset ability, which is vital in high-level doubles. I assess how much energy the core returns versus how much it dampens, determining if the paddle is truly built for control or power.

Next, I evaluate the surface material and texture technology. Selkirk uses several, including Florek Carbon, FiberFlex+, and Raw Carbon. Florek, in my testing, delivers the best blend of control and spin depth, while FiberFlex+ offers more pure pop. I measure the depth and durability of the ProSpin+ NextGen Texture—if I can’t impart heavy top-spin that forces an opponent error, the paddle isn’t performing. I prioritize textured surfaces over smooth composites every time.

Finally, I weigh the geometry and weight balance. Selkirk is excellent at offering multiple shapes (Epic, S2, Invikta). I look for how the Air Dynamic Throat affects swing speed and how the FlexFoam Perimeter (when present) shifts the sweet spot. If I’m looking for maximum reach for singles, I pick the Invikta. If I need maximum forgiveness and handle comfort for doubles, I usually select the Epic.

Types Explained

Selkirk Labs broadly categorizes its advanced paddles into three types based on performance outcomes, and I tailor my recommendation based on a player’s preferred style.

The Control/Touch Type (LUXX X7) is characterized by ultra-thick cores (20mm) and high-density carbon surfaces. I recommend this type for defensive, placement-heavy players (e.g., dinkers and Banger-Blockers) who thrive on slowing down the game and hitting precise resets. This type excels at advanced strategy over brute force.

The Power/Speed Type (Vanguard Power Air) uses a combination of an elongated shape, an open throat, and reactive hybrid faces. I recommend this type for highly aggressive players, particularly those with a tennis background, who have fast swings and want immediate velocity payoff on drives, serves, and putaways. This design is less forgiving on off-center hits but provides massive offensive rewards.

The All-Court Hybrid Type (Amped Pro Air) typically features the reliable 16mm core thickness and a balanced shape. I recommend this as the best starting point for serious players because it offers the stability needed for dinking while retaining enough responsiveness for third-shot attacks. I find the hybrid type is the wisest investment for players unsure of their dominant style or those who switch between singles and doubles frequently.

When considering skill level and budget, I advise intermediate players to target the Amped Pro Air or SLK ERA line, as they offer premium features without the top-tier cost. Advanced players (4.5+) will see tangible benefits from the R&D invested in the LUXX series, justifying the higher price point through superior touch and dampening.

Final Verdict

My experience testing the range of selkirk labs pickleball paddles confirms their reputation as a leader in R&D and manufacturing quality. They are not content to simply iterate; the development of the FlexFoam Perimeter, the X7 Core, and the Florek Carbon face shows a commitment to engineering paddles that fundamentally change the way shots are played. I found that their premium lineup offers specialized tools—the LUXX for control fanatics and the Vanguard for power hitters—allowing players to perfectly match their equipment to their tactical needs. While the price point often sits at the top of the market, the consistency, spin durability, and proprietary technology I found justified the investment for serious players.

Key Strengths I Noticed:

• Proprietary Core Technology: The X7 and X5+ cores provide industry-leading stability, dampening, and dwell time, dramatically improving short-game control.
• Unrivaled Spin Performance: The combination of surface materials (Florek, Raw Carbon) and the ProSpin+ NextGen Texture allows me to generate exceptional, durable spin.
• Engineering Quality: The 360° Proto Molding and FlexFoam perimeter construction ensure structural integrity and a massive, forgiving sweet spot across the face.

Limitations I Experienced:

• Premium Price Point: The specialized technology, particularly in the LUXX and Vanguard lines, places them in the highest price bracket, which is prohibitive for recreational players.
• Learning Curve: The highly specialized nature of the thick-core control paddles (LUXX) demands precise technique and can feel slightly muted to players accustomed to budget paddles.

I recommend Selkirk Labs Pickleball Paddles for:

• Dedicated Competitive Players: Those actively playing in tournaments (3.5+ level) who need reliable, specialized performance.
• Players Seeking Control and Feel: Anyone who struggles with overhitting or inconsistency at the net should look directly at the LUXX series.
• Advanced Equipment Enthusiasts: Players who are willing to pay a premium for paddles that utilize the latest in material science and core innovation.

Common Questions About Selkirk Labs Pickleball Paddles

What Are the Selkirk Labs Pickleball Paddles That Professionals Use?

The professional players sponsored by Selkirk are often found utilizing the highest-end selkirk labs pickleball paddles, which typically fall into the LUXX Control series or the Vanguard Power Air series. Specific pros may have signature models (like Jack Sock’s Invikta), but they almost always utilize the specific R&D features—like the X7 Core and FlexFoam Perimeter—found in the Selkirk Labs premium developments.

How Does the Selkirk LUXX X7 Core Compare to the Vanguard SuperCore?

In my analysis, the X7 Core (found in the LUXX line) is significantly thicker (around 20mm) and designed explicitly for maximized control and dwell time. It focuses on absorption and dampening vibration. Conversely, the Vanguard SuperCore (typically 13mm) is thinner and designed for maximizing responsiveness, speed, and overall power output. The X7 is for soft hands; the SuperCore is for faster hands.

Is the SLK Line a Good Entry Point Into the Selkirk Brand?

Yes, absolutely. I recommend the SLK line, particularly models like the Atlas Max which include a raw carbon face, as an excellent entry point. It allows newer players to experience crucial modern paddle technologies, like deep spin textures and polymer cores, at a budget-friendly price point before making the substantial investment into the premium Vanguard or LUXX lines.

What Is the Benefit of the FlexFoam Perimeter Technology?

The FlexFoam Perimeter, originally developed in Selkirk Labs, is a proprietary foam injection method around the edge guard. I found that it accomplishes three critical tasks: it increases durability, slightly enlarges the overall sweet spot by stabilizing the edge, and dramatically reduces vibration transmission, leading to a much softer, more forgiving feel on impact.

Should I Choose the Epic or the Invikta Shape?

My recommendation depends entirely on your grip and needs. I found the Epic shape to be the most versatile and balanced, offering excellent control and comfort for single-handed grips and quick resets. I recommend the Invikta shape if you prioritize reach, frequently use a two-handed backhand, and need maximum plow-through power on your groundstrokes.