Model: AMPED Pro Air

Manufacturer: Selkirk Sport

Paddle Type: All-Court/Power

Spin: Very High

Player Level: Intermediate - Advanced

Thickness: 16mm

Weight: 7.8 - 8.2 oz.

Surface: Fiberglass

Dinks and Drops – While this paddle does fall into the all-court category, it leans towards the power side of the spectrum. I had to lock in on the right grip pressure and stroke to make sure my placement shots didn't fly high on me. While it took some getting used to coming from a softer raw carbon fiber paddle, the direct feedback the Pro Air offers allowed me to feel confident in my soft game as long as I was making good contact.

Speed ups and attacks – With such a maneuverable frame and top tier spin potential, quick flicks and last second attacks were a joy to hit with the whole AMPED lineup. The fiberglass hitting surface is a bit bouncy, so off-speed technical rolls took some focus to keep in bounds, but players going for those shots will likely be able to reign them in with some practice.  

Serves and Drives – True to its name, the AMPED Pro Air has pro tier power potential on serves and drives that made it easy to generate pace on serves and drives without the need to overswing. I never felt lacking for power or even like I needed to add weight to get any more oomph on my shots (though I may add some for stability at 3 and 9 o clock).

Counters and blocks – While the AMPED Pro Air isn't the most forgiving paddle outside the sweet spot, its maneuverability and pop make it a powerful asset in a firefight. This paddle without a doubt improved my handspeed, and I was confident that when I attacked my opponent, I'd be able to manage whatever pace came back to me. Some weighted tape on the perimeter would certainly increase the size of the effective sweet spot, and it may be worth it for players who can handle the added weight.