The Complete Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0 Paddle Review
Key Takeaways:
- Design & Aesthetics:
- Modern graphics and a sleek profile make it visually appealing.
- Resonates with contemporary design sensibilities.
- Shape & Feel:
- An elongated shape offers a more extended reach and a more prominent sweet spot.
- A comfortable handle ensures a firm grip.
- Power & Control:
- Delivers considerable power with each swing.
- Offers precise placements, allowing for strategic gameplay.
- Durability:
- Constructed with QuadCarbon face and X5 honeycomb core for enhanced longevity.
- It stands up to rigorous gameplay without signs of wear.
- Overall Verdict:
- It is a reliable choice for both seasoned players and newcomers.
- Strikes a balance between aesthetics, power, control, and durability.
Weight and Color Options for the Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0
When it comes to pickleball paddles, I think personalization and comfort are key. I’m a designer by trade and I like to bring my designer’s eye to my pickleball paddle test drives. (You can read more about me here). After due consideration and hours on the court, Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0 doesn’t disappoint.
Weight Variants:
- Lightweight Option: Ideal for players who prioritize quick reflexes and rapid hand movements. It provides the agility needed to react swiftly during those high-paced volleys. This is my choice – though as I’m aging and admittedly slowing down a little, I’m starting to appreciate other options as well.
- Mid-weight Option: A perfect blend of power and control. It’s the sweet spot for players looking for a balanced feel during gameplay, offering both agility and impactful shots. If you like to make your opponents run, I recommend this option.
- Heavyweight Option: Suited for those who love to dominate the court with powerful shots. It provides additional force behind each swing, making it a favorite for aggressive players.
Color Variants:
I like the multiple options here.
- Graphite Grey: A classic choice that boasts sophistication and elegance. It’s the go-to color for players who prefer a muted yet stylish look.
- Royal Blue: A vibrant option that stands out on the court. For those looking to make a statement with their paddle choice, this is the one!
- Crimson Red: A fiery hue that mirrors the passion and energy of the sport. A definite eye-catcher during matches.
- Emerald Green: A refreshing shade that’s both lively and chic. It adds a touch of vibrancy to your gameplay.
Handle Dynamics of the Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0
The handle of a pickleball paddle plays a pivotal role in a player’s experience. It influences the overall feel, control, and comfort of the paddle during gameplay. Here’s what Selkirk chose for the Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0 handle.
Grip Size:
- Small Grip: Measuring around 4 1/8 inches in circumference, the small grip size is perfect for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a tighter grasp on the paddle. This size allows for quicker wrist action, beneficial for imparting spin and executing deft shots. I hold a pen and a stylus a lot at work and I think that adds to my comfort with a small grip which I why I’ve made this my choice.
- Medium Grip: With a circumference of roughly 4 1/4 inches, this grip size is the middle ground. It’s a universally comfortable size, suitable for a broad spectrum of players. It offers a harmonious blend of comfort and control.
Handle Length:
- Standard Length: The Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0 comes with a standard handle length of 5 inches. This length provides ample space for both one-handed and two-handed backhands, ensuring versatility in shots. It also allows for a good range of motion and adaptability during rapid exchanges.
Grip Texture and Feel:
- Cushioned Comfort: The handle of the Vanguard Epic 2.0 is wrapped in a cushioned grip material, ensuring hours of comfortable gameplay. The texture is non-slip, guaranteeing a firm hold even during intense, sweaty matches.
- Tactile Response: The tactile nature of the grip ensures players can feel the ball’s impact, aiding in better shot placement and control. Often I know if I’ve hit the ball well the moment I make contact.
I think choosing the right grip size is crucial. It affects wrist strain, shot accuracy, and overall playing experience. The Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0, with its variety in grip sizes and optimal handle length, seeks to cater to a wide array of player preferences.
Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0 Tester Overview
How Vanguard Epic 2.0 Performed on The Court
I asked three other Pickleballologists for their impressions of the Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0. Here’s what they had to say.
**Lleyton beat me using the paddle, by the way. He made me promise to include that in my review. 😉
Spin:
The Canvas – The QuadCarbon Face
The paddle’s textured QuadCarbon face reminds me of the grainy texture of a sketchbook. It grips the ball, allowing me to sketch out spins, loops, and whirls in my shots. Each contact feels controlled and precise, letting me craft the trajectory on serve returns and in play.
But innovation and sport are never stagnant; there’s always a next level to reach for. While the Vanguard Epic 2.0 is an impressive spin partner, I sometimes wonder if a touch more texture would make those spins even more mesmerizing. But then again, it’s about the artist as much as the tool, right? If you’re looking for a paddle to bolster a struggling spin game, this might not be it. Read my post on mastering the basics of spin for more detail. And if you’re really a pickleball nerd like I am, it can be fun to follow the deep discourse on spin and specifics in threads such as this on Reddit.
Serves:
In pickleball, a serve is the crucial opening move, setting the stage for the rally. Using the Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0, I noticed a marked improvement in my serve consistency and power. The paddle’s QuadCarbon face offers a responsive touch, while its weight balance provides the needed momentum. It’s a bit like choosing the right tool in the garden – with the Vanguard Epic 2.0, my serves are both effective and reliable.
The serve is where this paddle shines for me. I can generate speed and stay in control, making my serves more effective.
Lleyton Howard
Dinks:
Dinking, that strategic soft game played close to the net, is an essential skill in pickleball, and the right paddle can make all the difference. Dinking looks so easy, like putting in golf. But in reality, I find it can be the most frustrating part of the game. With the Vanguard Epic 2.0, I’ve found the control and touch I need for consistent dinks. The paddle’s QuadCarbon face provides a soft yet reactive feel, allowing for precise placements and quick responses. The Epic 2.0 offers the nuance and precision required to dominate the dink game effectively.
Drives:
When it comes to driving the ball – those hard, low shots that challenge your opponent’s reflexes – the Vanguard Epic 2.0 truly shines. Its well-balanced weight ensures that the paddle isn’t just quick but also packs a punch, allowing for aggressive, yet controlled drives. The QuadCarbon face provides a firm, crisp response upon ball contact, ensuring that each drive is both powerful and accurate. It’s not pure power; you’re not going to hammer a nail in with a single swing. But it will make the job easier overall. With the Epic 2.0, each drive is both assertive and on-point.
Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0 Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Skill Level | Beginner to Pro |
| Paddle Shape | Epic |
| Material | QuadCarbon Face |
| Average Midweight | 7.7oz – 8.2oz |
| Average Lightweight | 7.3oz – 7.8oz |
| Height | 15.75″ |
| Width | 8.0″ |
| Handle Length | 5.0″ |
| Grip Circumference | 4.25″ |
| Sweetspot Size | 9 |
| Surface Area | Largest |
Likes Brenton says:
“The Vanguard Epic 2.0’s balance and weight are spot on, providing precision with every shot.”
“Its QuadCarbon face offers a tactile feel, enhancing touch and control during play.”
“The long handle paired with its grip circumference offers an intuitive, comfortable hold, especially during extended rallies.”
Dislikes Brenton Says:
“Despite its advertised large sweet spot, I occasionally wished for a bit more responsiveness near the paddle’s edges.”
“The broad surface area took a bit of adjustment, especially when transitioning from smaller paddles.”
“While the paddle performs admirably, the price point might be a consideration for some, weighing its features against the investment.”
Summary of the Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0 Paddle Review
The Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0 paddle stands out as a formidable tool for both beginners and pros. Its balanced weight, ranging from a lightweight 7.3oz to a midweight 8.2oz, caters to a variety of player preferences. The paddle’s QuadCarbon face promises tactile feedback, which shines particularly during dinks and controlled plays. The size, with its ample 8.0″ width and 15.75″ height, may require a brief adjustment period for some, but offers a generous sweet spot.
Ergonomics haven’t been overlooked, as the 5.25″ long handle and 4.25″ grip circumference make for a comfortable and intuitive hold, suitable for extended play sessions. Yet, like every product, it has its areas of contention. Some players might yearn for edge responsiveness, and the transition from smaller paddles can be noticeable due to its broad surface area. Additionally, the price point might give potential buyers pause, leading them to weigh its premium features against the cost.
In conclusion, the Vanguard Epic 2.0 is a commendable offering from Selkirk, presenting a blend of power, control, and design, albeit with a few caveats to consider. For more on the Selkirk line see our review here.
Check out these competitors to the Vanguard Epic 2.0. Offerings from Selkirk and other top-shelf brands.
Epic 2.0 Overall Strenghts
- Versatile Weight Range: Suits both power and finesse players.
- QuadCarbon Face: Delivers superior touch and responsiveness.
- Ergonomic Handle: Ensures comfort during extended play.
- Large Surface Area: Offers a generous sweet spot for consistent shots.
Epic 2.0 Overall Weaknesses
- Edge Responsiveness: Inconsistent feedback at the paddle’s edges.
- Size Transition: Adjustment period for those used to smaller paddles.
- Price Point: May be considered high for some players.
- Weight Variability: Some players might find the specific weight they prefer out of stock or less common.
The Selkirk Vanguard Epic 2.0 is Best Suited for:
- Players Seeking a Balance of Power and Control: With its versatile weight range and QuadCarbon face, this paddle delivers both hard-hitting smashes and finesse shots with precision.
- Intermediate to Advanced Players: Its features cater to those who have a grasp on the game and are looking to elevate their play. The large sweet spot and ergonomic design can also be forgiving for beginners, making it a good choice for those transitioning from a starter paddle.
- Prolonged Play Enthusiasts: The ergonomic handle ensures comfort during extended play sessions, making it a fit for players who engage in lengthy matches or practice sessions.
- Players Valuing Premium Build and Technology: Given its price point, it’s a choice for players who see value in investing in advanced paddle technology and materials for enhanced performance.
In my college days, I could be found acing serves on the tennis court, honing my skills and leading my team to victory. But life has a funny way of serving up surprises, and following a back injury, my tennis days came to a halt.
Yet, in the midst of adversity, pickleball emerged as my beacon of hope. The sport gave me a chance to continue my love for racquet games, and without the physical stress that tennis put on my body. I've traded the sound of a tennis ball's pop for the unique clink of a pickleball on a paddle, and honestly, I've never looked back.
Now, I'm not just creating beautiful designs and innovative visuals; I'm also mastering the art of the dink shot and the thrill of the slam in pickleball. My journey serves as a testament to the fact that no matter what curveballs life throws your way, there's always a way to adjust your swing. Let's connect on and off the court!
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