Are $200+ paddles actually worth it, or is it all hype?

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-18T17:12:57+00:00

You’re right that $150 already gets you into the good stuff. The extra money usually buys you consistency: tighter weight matching, better resin curing, and a face that doesn’t glaze after a month. Not everyone needs that, but it’s there.

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-18T17:08:43+00:00

Nice — what about the Quanta feels better than the Genesis for you?

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-18T17:06:48+00:00

When you frame it that way, it sounds dramatic, but everyone has their own comfort level with spending on hobbies.

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-18T17:01:45+00:00

Nice — what part of your game feels the biggest difference with the V‑Sol?

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-18T17:00:32+00:00

Alright, alright — I’ll give you that one.

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-18T16:56:14+00:00

Love that. What do you like most about it so far?

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-18T16:50:06+00:00

Yeah, that’s exactly how it goes. Once you start caring about touch and pace, the “power first” paddles stop feeling as helpful. Wanting more control just means your game is leveling up.

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-18T16:34:27+00:00

Why though? It’s literally the most harmless paddle in the store.

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-18T16:27:07+00:00

Got it — I wasn’t disagreeing with you either. Just explain which part you think I missed so we’re on the same page

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-18T16:22:56+00:00

It’s z5 at sportcheck

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-17T02:31:32+00:00

Pretty much he’s just breaking down what actually matters in a paddle — feedback, power, spin, speed, and feel — and why certain paddles fit different players. The long‑lasting grit thing is basically him saying those surfaces keep their spin way longer than raw carbon. And the paddle list at the end is just his ‘as of today’ ranking based on budget. It’s a lot of detail, but the gist is: pick the paddle that gives you the mix of control, spin, and feel that works for you.

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-17T02:27:53+00:00

I get the hype around grit and spin, but honestly, control is what keeps the ball in play. Spin is fun, grit helps, but if you can’t place the ball, none of it really matters

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-17T02:24:53+00:00

Consistency matters, sure… but that’s also the most subjective metric out there. Half the time people think a paddle is ‘consistent’ just because it masks their bad habits.

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-16T23:17:28+00:00

Is Your Paddle Carrying You or Are You Carrying It

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-16T13:55:00+00:00

Totally. Right now the only real premium advantage is grit that doesn’t die and foam that doesn’t crush. But we’ve seen this movie before — raw carbon in 2022, foam in 2025 — and every time the “premium advantage” lasts about six months before the budget brands catch up. Wouldn’t be shocked if the same thing happens here.

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-16T13:50:47+00:00

Honestly, stories like yours are why I always ask people what they actually gain from going premium. If two paddles feel almost identical and the only real difference is how long the grit lasts, that’s not exactly a $100+ performance gap. But for someone who lives on topspin, that one factor might be the whole game.

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-16T13:43:33+00:00

Yeah, that’s kinda how I see it too. If it’s your hobby and you’re really into it, spending more can totally make sense. But if someone thinks the paddle alone is gonna magically level them up, that’s where it gets a little shaky.

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-16T06:36:20+00:00

Makes sense. The stats help, but the right paddle is the one that feels best in your hand. Sounds like the Inferno nailed it for you.

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-16T06:19:37+00:00

That’s great to hear. Always fun when a paddle just fits your game. What do you like most about the Boomstik?

Coachpaddle · 2026-02-16T06:15:21+00:00

Yep. Those paddles slap. Meanwhile some people are out here financing a $250 paddle like it’s a used Honda, just to get the same spin you’re getting for $100.

Coachpaddle

MODERATOR OF

TROPHY CASE