Gamma Proves Beauty Isn't Skin Deep… When It Comes to Paddles

All paddle surfaces are not created equal.

When it comes to graphics, Gamma has found that good-looking design isn't only a matter of appearance; it also affects how a paddle plays.

This means that you should never have to choose between style and function. And now with Gamma's new paddle releases, you can own the best of both worlds.

The Mirage and Razor are here to bring together the best aspects of paddle technology and surface design.

This duo's most clever feature is all in the face, in that Gamma uses a direct print process rather than a screen print or a printed label during manufacturing.

Direct Printed Graphics

Chuck Vietmeier, Director of Product Marketing at Gamma, explains, '[Direct printing] not only gives us a clear, clean and high-end look, but it allows players to get the most response from the face of their paddle. Vinyl graphics in our opinion do not allow for proper ball feedback.'

Gamma dug into customer research to find out what players were seeking in their equipment at high levels of play. Aside from determining that polymer core paddles were clearly the top choice when it came to trends, they found many players craved a responsive feel and softer sound.

Smooth Poly Core

This resulted in the paddles utilizing Gamma's new 'Sensa Poly Core' for increased control, while offering variation in surface materials and weight.

Chuck says that the new polyester core in the Gamma paddles make them a more comfortable option for players at all levels of play. “The core is so responsive that allows a player to hit more accurate shots with less effort.”

The Mirage uses a composite face while the Razor has a graphite surface.

The Perfect Face/Weight Combo

Chuck explains the graphite-faced Razor 'allows for a lighter, more maneuverable paddle with lots of pop and ball feedback. It has more more power without sacrificing control and feel.'

The Mirage weighs in at a heavier 8.0 oz, with the Razor sitting at 7.6 oz.

These paddles do have a standard edge guard unlike Gamma's original series with their patented flush edge guard, but the face overlap is minimal (~1/8') and only serves to broaden the sweet spot within the paddles.

One thing Gamma has brought back is their popular updated honeycomb grip from the 2.0 line, offering high traction and increased comfort thanks to the cushioned design.

USA-Made and US Open Success

We know many of our customers care about where paddles are manufactured, which is why we're also happy to report that Gamma paddles are produced wholly within the USA.

All of the paddles are, of course, USAPA approved so you can take them to your next tournament.

A top player who's been making use of Gamma's line is 5.0 player Lucy Kitcher. Lucy took home several gold medals at the 2017 US Open and originally met Gamma reps at the tournament last year.

Gamma felt “her passion and drive to excel in the sport of pickleball matched [theirs],” and from there on out an ideal partnership was formed.

Pro Player Lucy Kitchner Shares Her Pick

Lucy formerly used Gamma's Phaser 2.0 and is now playing with the Mirage due to its balance between touch and power. She notes that players coming from a tennis background may prefer the Razor for its more fast-acting graphite surface.

'Gamma shares the same passion for pickleball as the players,' Lucy says. 'They've expanded into pickleball because they enjoy the game and have been in and amongst the players asking questions and looking to provide them with what they want.

'They've already been on the front lines with grips, ball carts and nets, and are now are producing top-notch paddles that will suit recreational players as well as the pros.'

Finding the Magic Fit

We loved Lucy’s response when we asked her how players could determine the right paddle for them amid the new lineup.

“It's like Harry Potter: The wand chooses the wizard! You really have to try them and see which one feels right.”

We agree! Wizards—er, players, that is—know there’s nothing quite like trying a paddle for yourself.

We'll take this moment to gently remind readers that here at PickleballCentral, we give all customers a 30-day, 100% satisfaction guarantee.

After purchasing any paddle from us you're free to try it out for those 30 days to ensure it's a match. If it isn't, just give us a call and we'll exchange it for one that serves you better.

Lucy rounds out her admiration for Gamma by adding, “Gamma has been pleasant and flexible to work with and has given me the tools I need to play my best. I'm hoping to be a positive representation of the high quality brand they are. I'm grateful for their support and hope they feel the same about my efforts to share their product line with others.”

Try out the new Gamma paddles and feel their responsiveness for yourself after checking out the lineup.