I signed up at a local tennis / pickleball store recently for a demo series. I get to check out 2 demos a week to use and see which one I like best. I plan on trying out and using as many as possible, and I'll be reviewing each one here. So all you who take part in the fastest growing sport in America can get help figuring out which paddle to use.
Before my second review, a suggestion: If you are a "newbie"- don't spend big dollars on a paddle. Spend some time developing your game with a cheap paddle- until you develop what style you have (or want to have) it's better to wait and then buy with confidence when you have some game. Paddles can get up way beyond $100, so wait to make your investment.
The Selkirk Vanguard Invikta Midweight 2.0 is VERY different from the normal size and shape paddle, like the one I previously reviewed. As you can see in the photo below the paddle surface is slightly narrower and longer than normal. I wanted to try this as this paddle can increase reach, and I've heard that this helps pickleballers who previously played tennis like I did.
In my opinion... here is the plus: It DOES seem to increase my reach, I did get to balls that I might not get a good hit on and that felt great. Plus that little extra leverage the paddle seemed to provide did seem to help me get better returns on tough to reach shots.
Here is the negative. When you try to hit an overhead smash you can't easily get "on top" of the ball..so instead of accurately hitting it at an opponent's feet it ends up heading for their chest- I had to apologize twice for that! I do think this is a problem I could minimalize as I get used to this paddle, so I haven't ruled it out as a choice for me long term...
Stay tuned for more reviews....and if you ever need a "fourth" - I am available after 10am every day!