Selkirk SLK Atlas Paddle Review: Wide Body Control for Beginners
Bottom Line: The SLK Graphite Atlas Control Widebody Paddle is a solid option for new players seeking a control paddle. With its dual-layer graphite face and polymer PowerCore, this medium-weight paddle delivers consistent performance, a responsive touch, and robust power. Its extended handle provides greater reach, and a comfortable grip makes it suitable for prolonged play. Our playtesters were pleasantly surprised by the generous sweet spot, which aided in reactive play, making it forgiving on off-sweet spot hits. This paddle will not generate power or spin for you, which can be good when learning.
SLK Atlas Paddle Review: A Solid Start for Serious Beginners
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Are you new to the wonderful world of pickleball? Maybe you’re not a complete beginner; you’ve tried a few paddles, smashed a few drives, and even been a part of some prolonged and intense dink rallies. You don’t know the ropes, but you know where to find the ropes, and you’re eager to start climbing. If this describes you, the Selkirk SLK Atlas paddle might be just what you want. At just under $80, it’s about the best paddle you can get for under $100. It has a generous sweet spot that will allow you to get many more balls in the court, and its lightweight won’t cause elbow issues.
The SLK Atlas Pickleball Paddle offers a well-rounded performance with a focus on control and power. However, if you’re looking for a paddle that excels in spin, this might not be your first choice. It’s a great option for beginners and intermediate players, but advanced players like Brenton might find it lacking in the spin department.
SLK Play Tester Overview
How The Selkirk Atlas Performed on The Court
Spin: Good, But Not Great
The SLK Atlas offers a decent level of spin, thanks to its dual-layer graphite face. While the textured surface does grip the ball, it may not provide the aggressive spin that advanced players like Brenton Cashmore are accustomed to.
“It’s not bad for spin, but I’ve played with paddles that offer a bit more bite.”
Brenton
Peggy Palermo, a newcomer to pickleball, found the spin manageable but noted that it took some getting used to.
Serves: Precision On Point
The paddle’s medium weight range of 7.5 – 8.0 oz strikes a good balance, allowing for powerful serves without sacrificing control. You can generate enough speed to keep your opponent guessing while maintaining accuracy.
“The weight is just right for serves. I was able to get some good speed without losing control.”
Cassie
Dinks: The Sweet Spot
The SLK Atlas shines when it comes to dinks. The Polymer PowerCore offers a soft touch, making it easier to execute controlled, precise dinks. This is especially beneficial for players who rely on strategy over power.
“I felt like I had a lot of control during dinks. It felt like an extension of my hand, really.”
Peggy
Volleys: Quick and Responsive
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.
“The paddle is quick and responsive, just what you need for those rapid volleys at the net.”
Brenton
Drives: Control Over Power
When it comes to drives, the SLK Atlas leans more towards control than raw power. While the Polymer PowerCore does provide some backbone to your shots, don’t expect this paddle to send the ball flying with immense force. Instead, it offers a controlled, consistent drive that allows you to place the ball exactly where you want it.
“I initially thought this paddle would give my drives more power, but it’s actually more about control. I can place the ball better, and that’s a game-changer for me.”
Cassie
This orientation towards control could be a double-edged sword. If you rely on powerful drives to push your opponent back, you might find the SLK Atlas a bit lacking in this department. However, this could be a significant advantage for those who prioritize placement and strategy.
SLK Atlas Specs
| Dimensions | 15.5″ x 8.25″ |
| Weight | 7.75 oz |
| Grip Size (length/circumference) | 5.25″ / 4.25″ |
| Core | Polymer PowerCore |
| Face | Dual Layer Graphite |
| Skill Level | Beginner to Advanced |
Likes
Brenton – “I wouldn’t use this for tournaments, but this is a great upgrade from a $35 paddle. “
Cassie – “The lightweight and longer handle was a great combo for my game. I found I could reach shots that eluded me with other paddles.”
Peggy – “The SLK Atlas paddle exceeded my expectations for a $79 paddle. I loved how soft it was at the net. All my drinks were landing far inside the kitchen line.”
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 – “Like others have mentioned, you have to generate all of your own power with the SLK atlas. I found my lobs were landing a little short.”
Peggy – “I love the pink paint job. Unfortunately, the paint has started to chip a little on my test paddle after about 5 hours of play😞🥺”
Playtester Scores
Summary: A Balanced Performer with Room for Improvement
Strengths
- Excellent control for dinks and volleys
- Good power potential for serves and drives
- USAPA-approved and suitable for all levels
Weaknesses
- Spin potential could be improved
- It may not be ideal for players who prefer a more aggressive game
So, who is this paddle best suited for? If you’re a player who values control and power but can compromise a bit on spin, the SLK Atlas could be your next game-changer.
Ready to make your move? The court awaits.
I hail from the picturesque landscapes of Denver, Colorado, where the pickleball scene is as vibrant as our city's sunsets. The game has changed my life in ways I never thought a sport could. You see, before I got hooked, my closest encounter with a racket was a fly swatter.
As far as my coaching credentials go, well, it's a classic underdog story. I was once the guy who couldn't tell a pickleball paddle from a pizza peel, and now I'm proudly sporting the title of Master Teaching Professional from the IPTPA. If that doesn't give hope to all my fellow klutzes, I don't know what will!
My love for pickleball goes far beyond the court. I run the In2Pickle YouTube channel, which is a blend of pickleball tactics, bloopers (mostly mine), and heartfelt stories from players whose lives have been touched by the sport. If you're more into listening than watching, you can catch me chatting about everything pickleball-related on my Pickleball Therapy podcast. And if that isn't enough, I've also penned a book titled "Play Pickleball", where I share everything from basic rules to advanced strategies, and of course, anecdotes of my own hilarious mishaps.
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