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As an avid pickleball player, I am always on the lookout for equipment that can enhance my game. When I first heard about the OWL Pickleball Paddle, with its claims of revolutionary design and 50% less noise, I was intrigued. After using it extensively, I am ready to share my detailed, honest review.
Pros
- Excellent control and accuracy
- Superior noise reduction
- Comfortable grip and good handling
- Effective vibration dampening
Cons
- Surface material may wear out quickly
- Edge guard tape doesn’t adhere well
- High price point
First Impressions
Upon unboxing the OWL Pickleball Paddle, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design and premium feel. The paddle arrived in a well-presented package, although I was a bit disappointed that it didn’t include a carry bag, which I consider essential for carrying such an investment.
The paddle’s construction feels robust, and the materials used suggest a high-quality product. The grip, known as the OWL Flight Grip, felt comfortable in my hand right from the start. The paddle has a standard size of 15.8 inches in length and 7.9 inches in width, with a grip size of 4.6 inches, which suited my hand perfectly.
Design and Build Quality
The OWL Paddle is constructed using a Polypropylene Honeycomb core and a Proprietary Acoustene™ Composite surface. This unique combination aims to reduce noise and enhance playability. The paddle weighs approximately 7.9 ounces, making it light enough for quick maneuverability but still substantial enough to provide a solid hit.
One of the standout features of this paddle is its noise reduction capability. The proprietary Acoustene™ Composite material truly lives up to its claim, making the paddle significantly quieter than many others I have used. This is a big plus for those who play in noise-sensitive environments or simply prefer a less disruptive game.
Performance on the Court
– Control and Spin
Control is one of the most critical aspects of any pickleball paddle, and the OWL Paddle excels in this area. The larger sweet spot on the paddle surface made it easier to hit consistent shots, even when my contact with the ball wasn’t perfect. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners who might struggle with precision.
The paddle also offers excellent spin capabilities. The surface texture allowed me to generate significant spin on my shots, which added a new dimension to my game. Whether I was executing dinks, lobs, or power shots, the paddle responded well, giving me confidence in my control over the ball.
– Power
While the OWL Paddle is not the most powerful paddle I’ve used, it provides sufficient power for most play styles. Players who rely heavily on power shots might find it lacking compared to some high-end power paddles, but for my game, which focuses more on control and precision, it was more than adequate.
– Vibration Dampening
One of the highlights of the OWL Paddle is its vibration dampening capability. The layered construction of the paddle effectively absorbs vibrations, which is particularly beneficial for players with arm or elbow issues. During extended play sessions, I noticed significantly less fatigue and discomfort in my arm, allowing me to play longer without strain.
– Noise Reduction
As mentioned earlier, the noise reduction feature of this paddle is a significant advantage. The paddle produces a muted sound upon impact, which is a welcome change from the typically loud pop associated with pickleball paddles. This makes it ideal for indoor play or for those who have neighbors sensitive to noise.
Durability and Maintenance
While the OWL Paddle excels in many areas, durability is one aspect where I have some reservations. The surface material, which resembles a carpet-like texture, shows signs of wear after several weeks of intensive play. Although this doesn’t affect the performance immediately, I am concerned about the long-term durability of the paddle.
The paddle comes with a protective edge guard tape, which you have to apply yourself. This process was straightforward, but I noticed that the adhesive on the edge guard wasn’t as strong as I would have liked. After a few games, part of the edge guard started to peel off, which was disappointing. A stronger adhesive or a pre-applied edge guard would have been preferable.
Cleaning the paddle is relatively simple. A soft brush, as recommended by the manufacturer, works well to remove dirt and debris from the surface. However, I wish the package had included a specific brush or clearer instructions for maintenance.
Comparing Different Models
The OWL Paddle comes in several models, including the Limited Edition – Founder’s Edition, Control Series – CX, Control Series – CXE with an elongated handle, Power Series – PX, and Power Series – PXE with an elongated handle. I had the opportunity to test the Founder’s Edition and the Control Series – CXE.
– Limited Edition – Founder’s Edition
This model impressed me with its balance between control and power. It is very quiet, as advertised, and provides excellent spin and touch. However, the durability of the surface material remains a concern. The paddle is also very lightweight, making it easy to maneuver, but not the best option for those looking for maximum power.
– Control Series – CXE
The elongated handle on the CXE model offers a different playing experience. It provides better leverage for serves and overhead shots, and the added length can be beneficial for players who prefer a two-handed backhand. The control and spin capabilities are similar to the Founder’s Edition, but the longer handle gives it a slight edge in versatility.
Customer Service Experience
While the product itself is impressive, my experience with OWL’s customer service was less satisfactory. I had a few questions regarding the application of the edge guard and the best cleaning methods for the paddle. The responses I received were vague and not particularly helpful. Given the premium price point, I expected a higher level of customer support.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the OWL Pickleball Paddle offers a combination of innovative features that can significantly enhance your pickleball experience. Its superior control, noise reduction, and vibration dampening make it a standout choice for players of all levels. However, the durability of the surface material and the issues with the edge guard are areas that need improvement.
Would I recommend the OWL Pickleball Paddle? Yes, especially if control and noise reduction are high on your priority list. However, if you’re looking for a paddle that delivers maximum power or if you have concerns about long-term durability, you might want to consider other options.
Despite its few shortcomings, the OWL Paddle has become a valuable addition to my pickleball gear, and I look forward to seeing how it performs over the coming months. If the company addresses the durability and customer service issues, this paddle has the potential to be one of the best on the market.
