If you're a pickleball enthusiast, you've likely come across the name Selkirk and heard players mention paddle shapes like Invikta, Epic, S2, and more. In this article, we'll delve into the different paddle shapes offered by Selkirk, shedding light on what makes each unique and which one might be the best fit for your playing style.
Selkirk's Paddle Offerings
Selkirk's main brand currently offers four types of paddles: AMPED, Vanguard 2.0, Power Air, and the newly introduced LUXX Control Air. However, what sets Selkirk apart is its dedication to offering these pickleball paddles in various shapes that cater to the diverse needs of pickleball players.
Before we dive into the specific paddle shapes, it's helpful to categorize them into two families: STANDARD and ELONGATED.
STANDARD Paddle Shapes
The standard family comprises three members: S2 and Epic (Selkirk main brand) and Max (SLK brand). These paddles are characterized by their length of less than 16 inches and a width of 8 inches. They have a square shape that provides larger sweet spots and enhances speed and maneuverability during fast hand exchanges at the no-volley zone.
Epic
This Selkirk Epic paddle is often considered the best all-around option. It's ideal for first-time buyers and tennis players looking to improve their soft game.
S2
Offering the largest sweet spot and more consistency, the S2 is a favorite among dedicated pickleball players and table tennis enthusiasts.
Max
Similar to the Epic, the Max shape is a versatile option that excels in all court situations due to its slightly longer design.
If you prefer a larger hitting surface, the S2 is an excellent choice. However, if you favor a two-handed backhand, the Epic or Max shapes may be more suitable for your style of play.
ELONGATED Paddle Shapes
The elongated family includes Invikta, Tour, and XL. These paddles share a length of 16.5 inches and a width of 7.375 inches. While they sacrifice some speed and forgiveness, they provide extended reach and power.
Invikta
With a handle length of 5.25 inches and a standard-shaped paddle face, the Invikta is perfect for transitioning tennis players and aggressive pickleball enthusiasts. It offers extra reach, spin, and power, making it a popular choice for intermediate to advanced players.
Tour
The Tour is a specialty shape with a slightly smaller hitting surface and the longest handle, measuring 5.75 inches. Like the Invikta, it suits more advanced players, particularly those with two-handed backhands.
XL
Found in the SLK line, the XL shape features a grip of 5.75 inches. It closely resembles the Tour shape but has a square paddle face and a thinner taper at the throat, providing added comfort for two-handed users.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Selkirk offers a variety of paddle shapes to meet the needs of pickleball players at all levels. You can find all of Selkirk's current series of paddles (AMPED, Vanguard 2.0, Power Air, and LUXX Control Air) in the Epic, S2, and Invikta shapes, which cover the requirements of approximately 90-95% of players. Additionally, the Max and XL shapes in the SLK line should work well for the majority of players.
No matter your playing style or preferences, Selkirk has a paddle that suits you. So, go ahead and choose the paddle shape that complements your game and helps you excel on the pickleball court.
