Gearbox GX5 Carbon Fiber Paddle Review: Control Everything
Key Takeaways:
- Spin Master: The Hyberbite Spin Tech does bite the ball on contact, allowing for killer spins.
- Powerhouse: Despite its control-oriented name, this paddle packs a punch, especially on groundstrokes and volleys.
- Precision Control: The solid span technology and edgeless design make for a larger sweet spot and pinpoint accuracy.
- Surprisingly Agile: Don’t let the “heavyweight” tag fool you; this paddle is nimble at the net.
- The Gearbox GX5 Carbon Fiber Paddle is a top control paddle that offers a balanced game, excelling in spin, serves, dinks, volleys, and drives. It best suits players looking for a well-rounded performer that caters to various playstyles.
Weight and Color Options
The Gearbox GX5 series offers a range of options to suit different playstyles. Available in both “Power” and “Control” variants, the paddle comes in two weight options: 7.8 oz and 8.5 oz. For those who prioritize power in their game, the GX5 Power is available in green (7.8 oz) and blue (8.5 oz). “The heavier option gives me the extra oomph I need on my groundstrokes,” says Brenton. On the flip side, if control and accuracy are your forte, the GX5 Control comes in red (7.8 oz) and orange (8.5 oz). Cassie, a 3.5 player, found the 7.8 oz red paddle to be “just the right weight for finesse shots and quick net play.”
Grip Size and Handle Length
Another standout feature of the GX5 series is its slim grip, available in two sizes: 3-5/8 inches and 3-15/16 inches. The standard handle length is 4 3/4 inches, making it a great fit for players with smaller hands. “The slim grip allows for excellent wrist movement, making it easier to generate spin,” notes Peggy. For those who prefer a thicker grip, alternatives like the Gonex Pickleball Paddle are available, but our playtesters found the GX5’s grip size to be more than adequate for a variety of shots.
These options make the Gearbox GX5 series incredibly versatile, catering to a wide range of players with different preferences and playstyles. Whether you’re a power player or a control artist, there’s a GX5 paddle that’s just right for you.
Gearbox GX5 Play Tester Overview
How Gearbox GX5 Performed on The Court
Spin: 8/10
The Gearbox GX5 Carbon Fiber Paddle is a spin artist’s dream. The carbon fiber face of the paddle offers excellent grip, allowing for a variety of spins on serves and groundstrokes. “The spin capabilities are off the charts,” says Brenton, a 4.5 rated player. “I could really feel the ball bite and curve, making it difficult for my opponents to predict the ball’s path.” Cassie, a 3.5 player, also noted, “My topspin lobs have never been better.”
Serves: 7 / 10
When it comes to serving, this paddle allows you to serve with both power and finesse. The heavier weight contributes to a more forceful serve, while the carbon fiber face adds the necessary spin. Peggy, a 3.5 rated player and former tennis player, mentioned,
The serve is where this paddle shines for me. I can generate both speed and spin, making my serves more effective.
Peggy Palermo
Dinks: 7.3 / 10
The paddle performs exceptionally well in the soft game, particularly when it comes to dinks. “The control is phenomenal,” says Cassie. “I can place my dinks exactly where I want them, making it easier to set up the point.”
The paddle’s wide face and medium weight make it a strong contender for volleys. It’s easy to maneuver, allowing for quick, responsive actions at the net, which is crucial during fast-paced exchanges.
Drives: 8.2 / 10
The paddle’s heavyweight nature and solid span technology combine to offer powerful drives. “I can hit deeper shots without exerting too much energy,” says Peggy. “It’s like the paddle does half the work for you.” Brenton adds, “The drives are powerful and incredibly accurate. It’s the best of both worlds.”
Gearbox GX5 Specs
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Paddle Weight | 8.5 oz (average) |
| Paddle Face Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Paddle Core | Solid Span Technology (no honeycomb) |
| Paddle Shape | Standard |
| Edge Guard | Edgeless |
| Grip Size | 4″ (may feel closer to 4.25″) |
| Handle Length | Standard |
| USAPA Approved | Yes |
| Manufacturer’s Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Likes
Brenton – “Light but still incredibly solid feeling. This might be my new go-to stick”
Cassie – “The control is great; I stopped spraying shots long. However, I’m used to a little more pop, so I might not always use this one.”
Peggy – “The 7.8oz 3-5/8in option was perfect for my smaller hands.”
Dislikes
Brenton – “I really had a hard time generating spin on my serve. This paddle will feel different if you’re used to a grippier face.”
Cassie – “Maybe it’s the dampener system, but this paddle felt numb to me. It was comfortable but I didn’t feel like I could sense the ball on the paddle as well”
Peggy – “With so many options, make sure you measure before buying. I accidentally got the one with the wider grip and had to return it.”
Summary
The Gearbox GX5 Carbon Fiber Paddle is a well-rounded performer that excels in spin, serves, dinks, volleys, and drives. Its strengths lie in its ability to offer a balanced game, catering to various playstyles. This is the top control paddle we’ve reviewed in the edgeless paddle category and our second-best pick for carbon fiber edgeless paddles.
Strengths
- Exceptional spin capabilities
- Powerful serves and groundstrokes
- Precise control for dinks and volleys
- Good maneuverability despite its heavyweight nature
Weaknesses
- The lack of an edge guard may concern some players, although our playtesters did not find this an issue.
Best Suited For
- Players looking for a balanced game with a slight edge in control and spin. Whether you’re a power player or a finesse player, this paddle has something to offer.
I've always been someone who takes care of their health by eating well and staying active. My lean build is a testament to my dedication to tennis, which has kept me in great shape over the years. Although I'm a bit hesitant about pickleball, I'm looking forward to trying something new and keeping up my fitness.
As someone who has been deeply involved in tennis for most of my life, it's hard to imagine playing anything else. However, I understand that pickleball has a growing following, and I'm willing to give it a try. Who knows, maybe I'll even come to enjoy it as much as I love tennis.
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