Update 1: It might not actually be core-crushed. I think I had to adjust now that it’s past its break-in period. Using a microfiber cloth to wipe it down every now and then also helps maintain the surface. Changing from 3 stars to 4 stars for now. // Original Review: It’s a good paddle to start with (decent spin and pop, good for ball-placement players), but as you play more (I’d say within 40 matches), you’ll feel that the pop and spin that the paddle used to provide is greatly reduced. The sweet spot also becomes smaller, increasing the likelihood of mis-hits. Good deal when on sale, but don’t expect it to be a paddle that will last long enough for competitive play in leagues and tournaments. This still uses an older, Gen2 or Gen3 honeycomb polymer core (not a Gen4 foam core), which tend to (and will eventually) break once used enough times - look up “core crushing” or “core collapse.” Handle grip can be a bit on the smaller side, so using some sort of overgrip helps a lot, especially if your hands sweat a lot. This paddle is for newer pickleball players. And after about a month of playing consistently, you’d need to play with a different paddle.
