If you’re an avid pickleball player seeking a next-level paddle, you’re not alone. High-end paddle technology has exploded in the last couple of years, answering that deep, persistent question: can the right paddle actually make a real difference in your game? At PickleballMate, we see this question pop up weekly among players in local clubs, Facebook groups, and even in casual sideline conversations at the courts. Let’s dive deep into how three of 2025’s most talked-about paddles stack up—and more importantly, which one fits your playing style and ambitions best.
The Real High-End Paddle Question: Feel or Firepower?
Most of us at PickleballMate and in the wider pickleball community have experienced the frustration of loving one aspect of a paddle—maybe its power or control—but feeling let down in others. High-end paddles are about dialed-in performance, but which attributes should you truly prioritize?
- Power for crushing drives when you have open court or need to go offensive.
- Spin when you love manipulating the ball, winning points with precision or wicked slices.
- Control & forgiveness for net play, third shot drops, and minimizing mishits.
- Feel—the elusive quality that just makes the paddle “right” for you in hand.
Engage Pursuit Pro1: The Spin & Versatility Powerhouse
Let’s start with the Engage Pursuit Pro1, one of the most buzzed-about advances in paddle technology. Engage is known for blending technology that supports both control freaks and aggressive attackers. The Pursuit Pro1’s standout features:
- Raw Toray T700 Carbon Fiber Face – creates unparalleled ball-grab for insane spin and soft touch.
- SpinCore Surface Technology – aids in top/side/backspin and drop shots, letting you control rallies against even the craftiest opponents.
- Power Flex Polymer Core (offered in 12.7mm and 15.2mm) – found to be highly adaptable whether you’re dinking or blasting drives.
- Balance & Forgiveness – Counter Balance tech distributes weight for smooth swings, exceptional reach (16.6” length), and high forgiveness off-center.
Who is this best for? Advanced recreational players who want a paddle that feels like an extension of their hand, with elite spin but also enough baseline pop to set up quick points.
Paddle Highlights: Engage Pursuit Pro1
- Length: 16.6” (excellent for reach/defense at net)
- Weight: 7.8–8.2 oz (comfortable mid-weight, great for extended play)
- Handle: 6” (ample for two-handed backhands but still quick for hand battles)
- Spin: 10/10 – seriously remarkable; if you obsess over serve or drop spin, this is a giant leap forward
- Best Play Style Fit: creative all-court players, spin-oriented competitors, and those striving for advanced cut/control discipline
Gearbox GX2 Hyper: Pure Stability, Pure Consistency
Moving on, the Gearbox GX2 Hyper comes from a brand revered for their aerospace-inspired paddle engineering. The GX2 Hyper stands apart for its distinct feel—imagine a seamless, rock-solid sensation with virtually zero dead spots. Here’s what that means for real play:
- Edge-less Carbon Fiber Construction – allows a larger, uninterrupted sweet spot and better weight distribution.
- Solid Polymer Core – ultra-durable, offers a crisp yet vibration-reducing play. Especially noticeable during quick firefights and when countering power hitters.
- Extended Sweet Spot – high forgiveness continues even slightly off-center, saving you on rushed wristy shots or volleys at the body.
- Consistent Response – balls pop off the face with the same feel, shot after shot.
Who is this best for? Players who crave reliability above all, defensive specialists, or those who often play extended dinking duels and love a paddle that stays “.” no matter where the ball lands on the surface.
Paddle Highlights: Gearbox GX2 Hyper
- Edge-Less Magic: No seam, no edge-guard, less mishits, consistent feel even under pressure
- Weight: Well-balanced for both singles and doubles play
- Vibration Dampening: If you’re nursing chronic elbow or wrist issues, this design shines in comfort
- Best Play Style Fit: aggressive baseliners, tournament junkies, anyone who values steadiness in volleys and resets
Selkirk LUXX InfiniGrit: Spin and Soft Touch Specialist
This paddle is making waves with its highly-acclaimed InfiniGrit surface—an innovation that makes it a top pick for players addicted to spin and net battles. If you spend your time gliding along the kitchen line or live for perfectly-placed dinks, this could be your match.
- InfiniGrit Textured Surface – possibly the grittiest mainstream paddle surface yet, maximizing spin on cuts and resets
- Polymer Honeycomb Core – delivers a soft, responsive feeling ideal for blocks, dinks, and defensive play
- Multiple Shapes – available in elongated, hybrid, and classic designs; pick the geometry that feels like home in your hand
- Control-Focused: Slightly less pure power than the Pursuit Pro1 but makes up for it in soft touch and quick kitchen exchanges
Who is this best for? Power-underspin or finesse players who spend a lot of time at the net and control points through patient, crafty play and spin manipulation.
Paddle Highlights: Selkirk LUXX InfiniGrit
- Textured Spin: Lets you carve angles and jabs out of nowhere
- Design Options: Multiple shapes to suit your grip and attack style
- Touch: Dinking and soft resets are where this paddle dominates
- Best Play Style Fit: advanced dinking/defensive specialists, those with a slice-driven game, anyone determined to control the kitchen zone
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Feature | Engage Pursuit Pro1 | Gearbox GX2 Hyper | Selkirk LUXX InfiniGrit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 9.5/10 | 9/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Spin | 10/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Control | 9/10 | 9/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Forgiveness | 9/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
| Best For | All-court, spin players | Baseline attackers, consistency seekers | Net/kitchen control masters, spin artists |
Picking YOUR Perfect Paddle—the Decision Points
Let’s break it down even further, because at PickleballMate, we see how personal paddle choice can be. Here are a few decision criteria based on real discussions in our community:
- If you struggle with defensive pop-ups or lack reliable power: The Engage Pursuit Pro1 gives you an edge in both offense and quick resets, letting you play fast AND precise shots—a rare combo for advanced players.
- If your priority is consistency shot-to-shot, especially on defense: The Gearbox GX2 Hyper is engineered for stability so you never doubt your contact point, even under pressure.
- If you want to out-spin your peers and win in protracted kitchen duels: The Selkirk LUXX InfiniGrit elevates every soft shot with that extra grip—awesome for “patience players” and slicers.
Bonus Advice: Don’t Ignore the Handle, Shape & Demo Factor
One thing we notice among experienced players is how much comes down to feel—especially grip diameter, handle length, and paddle shape. The 0.5″ difference in handle size can be make or break for two-handed backhands, and a slightly different shape can change your timing.
- If you can, demo paddles locally (or buy from retailers with hassle-free returns)
- Pay attention to how your hand fits the grip during aggressive hand battles at the kitchen
- Ask advanced players in your club for a quick hit—sometimes just five minutes can reveal if a paddle truly feels natural
Takeaways: Investing in Confidence
For many of us, the paddle is the only gear we carry that directly translates to day-to-day game improvement. Whether you’re gunning for a higher player rating, or just want to finally end that run of frustrating mishits, any of these paddles could be your path to confidence. At the high end, every option here represents a real investment not just in gear, but in your experience of the sport itself—and that’s something we believe is truly worth it.
If you’re looking for more in-depth paddle reviews, buyer guides, and advanced playing tips—visit our homepage and let us help you stay not just up to date, but ahead of the curve. And if you found this guide useful, share it with your pickleball crew! The right paddle isn’t just gear—it’s your new secret weapon.
