Introduction
Hold onto your paddles, folks, because what we’re about to dive into could revolutionize your game forever! Have you ever wondered why some pickleball paddles have that sleek, edgeless design while others don’t?
It’s not just about looking cool; it’s a game-changer—literally. Imagine having a paddle that not only turns heads but also gives you that extra edge (pun intended) on the court. The clock is ticking if you’ve been on the fence about making the switch. The future of pickleball is edgeless, and you don’t want to be left behind. So, are you ready to elevate your game to the next level? Let’s get into it!
The Rise of the Edgeless Movement
Edgeless paddles have been gaining traction, thanks partly to ProKennex, one of the first big paddle manufacturers to champion the edgeless design. Their Pro Speed II is a game-changer known for its lightweight design and maneuverability. Another standout is the Selkirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta, a paddle that ticks all the boxes for professional players, offering both spin and power.
“Edgeless paddles are popular among professional players, as they offer a wider hitting surface and a larger sweet spot.”
Lleyton Howard
The Aesthetic Appeal
Let’s face it: edgeless paddles look cool. The sleek design, often crafted from high-tech materials like carbon fiber or graphite, gives these paddles a futuristic vibe. But it’s not all about looks; the design serves a functional purpose, too.
Functionality: More Than Just a Pretty Face
Edgeless paddles maximize the playing surface, providing a larger sweet spot and more responsiveness throughout the paddle. This design reduces the chances of miss-hits and makes the paddle easier to maneuver. However, it’s worth noting that the absence of an edge guard makes them more prone to chipping and cracking.
“I was so psyched to get my hands on the edgeless Selkirk Amped Invikta. It plays like a dream, but, and it’s still hard for me to talk about this, I chipped it, badly, on my second day playing with it. 😭”
Cassie Montenegro
The Pro Perspective: Anna Leigh Waters
When a pro player like Anna Leigh Waters collaborates on a paddle design, you know it will be something special. Anna uses the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Anna Leigh Waters Edition, a paddle with a Bantam PolyCore interior for power, speed, control, and maneuverability. The UV-coated fiberglass textured surface adds spin and durability, making it a favorite among pros. Of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the legendary Tyson McGuffin and his finely honed paddle, the Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invicta (read our full playtester review here), which is one of the most popular models on the pro tour.
The Final Verdict
Edgeless pickleball paddles offer unique advantages regarding playing surface and responsiveness, making them a popular choice among professional players. So, if you’re looking to up your game, maybe it’s time to consider going edgeless.
Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this article, don’t forget to share it with your fellow pickleball enthusiasts. 🚀🏓
By day, I work in IT, troubleshooting network issues and deciphering error messages. But by evening, you'll find me on the pickleball court, trying to perfect that elusive spin serve or working on my still-not-quite-there drop shot.
I also contribute to a pickleball affiliate website, but let's be clear—I'm no journalist. I write articles sharing what I've learned, the mistakes I've made, and the gear I've tried. My aim is to help others navigate the learning curve a bit more smoothly than I did.
When I'm not behind a computer screen or holding a paddle, I love spending time with my family, hiking, and diving into a good science fiction novel. If you're ever up for a game or just want to chat about pickleball, feel free to reach out. I'm all ears and always looking to improve.
