Innovative Poach Series - The Poach Advantage and Poach Extreme are two of the most innovative pickleball paddles on the market today. The anchor of the line is the Poach Advantage which is a tradionally shaped pickleball racquet. It was the first paddle to have a hitting surface comprised of 6 layers of material. This "proprietary variable release" surface designed by Engage creates incredible ball responsiveness and power while maintaining a very soft feel on touch shots. The textured face produces exceptional spin while still meeting USAPA guidelines. Leveraging a unique uni-directional texture, the paddle gives players an exceptional ability to use topspin and backspin to "work" the ball.
Engage also brings innovation to the development of the core of the Poach paddles. They have created a core that behaves differently under different swing speeds. During faster swings, the core acts as a power paddle returning energy to the ball. During slower swings, the core acts as a control paddle absorbing energy and producing a softer touch. The chemistry used to create the polymer render it black, rather than the customary white, so Engage calls this core "Control Pro Black". The result is a paddle that produces great power, has a large sweet spot, and still has a fantastic soft feel for accurate placement of the ball. The paddle is also designed to flex producing less vibration, a softer feel and more power.
The next member of the Poach family is the Poach Extreme which uses all the same technology in the skin and core as the Poach Advantage, but in a blade or elongated shape. The longer hitting surface gives players a larger sweet spot positioned further toward the end of the paddle. The longer hitting surface gives players the ability to reach further and still make solid contact with the ball. It also enhances the player's ability to create spin.
Both the Poach Advantage and the Poach Extreme come in two weight classes.
Standard Weight - 7.9 - 8.3 oz
Light Weight - 7.5 - 7.8 oz
Both paddles have a medium 5 inch handle. The handle has recently been reinforced to handle the toughest play without breakage. The Poach Advantage is 8 inches wide and the Poach Extreme is 7 inches wide.
And through Black Friday, there is a little something off the purchase price for you. Get yours here.
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HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT GRIP SIZE.
Paddle manufacturers list several grip sizes for their paddles. Many times when you order a paddle, you can select what grip size you want. So, how do you know what is right for you? Well, here’s some tips to select the right grip size for you.
Hold the paddle like you normally hold it while playing.
With your opposite hands index finger, place it between the meaty part of your hand just below the thumb and the longest finger of the hand that's holding the paddle. It should fit comfortably in this gap.
If your finger doesn't fit then your grip may be too small.
If there is a very large gap, your grip may be too large.
If you don't have a pickleball paddle handy, you can also measure your grip size using a ruler. With your hand open and fingers extended close together, align the ruler with the bottom lateral crease of your palm and measure to the tip of your ring finger.
Keep in mind, it's easier to increase grip size on most paddles. If you're between grip sizes, use a trick I’ve used for years. Buy a size smaller grip and then use an overgrip wrap. A typical overgrip will increase a grip by 1/16 inch. Overgrips can easily be replaced when they get worn and dirty for a fraction of the cost of a replacement grip. A fresh, properly wrapped grip helps with moisture absorption, provides you with better paddle control and increased confidence.
Select the best grip that gives you the best control when hitting the ball. The paddle should not slip/twist in your hand when hitting the ball. If you do select a thick grip handle that is cushioned, you may also want to "overwrap" the handle. This may help in keeping sweat from absorbing into the grip and causing it to slip in your hands.
At https://pickleballtown.com/product-category/paddles/ all of our Engage line of paddles may be ordered in any grip size for no additional cost. The standard grip size is listed in each paddle specs. For the Selkirk line of paddles, the standard grip is 4 1/4. There is an additional charge of $5.00 for a thin grip of 4 inch, a double grip size (4 ½), or for the Selkirk Contour grip. Gamma, Head, and Paddletek all list the grip size in the paddle specs.
We also carry Gamma and Vulcan replacement grips and overgrips.
Shop now to find your perfect pickleball paddle. Or shop to refresh your favorite paddle with a new replacement grip or overgrip.
