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When I first laid eyes on the Tangerine Pickleball Paddle, I was immediately struck by its vibrant and unique design. Unlike many paddles that tend to blend in with mundane colors and typical patterns, the Tangerine paddle stood out with a pop of color and a sense of style that promised to add fun to my pickleball sessions. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, I was curious to see how it would perform on the court. Here’s my detailed, honest review after several weeks of play.
Pros
- Lightweight: At 7.6 oz, easy to maneuver.
- Durable: Polypropylene core and fiberglass surface.
- Control: Elongated face and large sweet spot.
- Designs: Colorful patterns available.
- Grip: Textured for comfort.
Cons
- No Cover: Paddle cover not included.
- Smooth Surface: Less spin control.
- Intermediate Level: May lack advanced features.
Design and Aesthetics
The Tangerine Pickleball Paddle is available in an impressive array of designs, each more eye-catching than the last. I opted for the “Alps” design, a vibrant mix of colors that brought a bit of joy every time I stepped onto the court. Whether you choose “Bar Harbor,” “Block Island,” “Kona,” or any of the other designs, you’re guaranteed a paddle that looks as good as it plays. This aesthetic appeal is not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good too. Having a paddle that reflects your style can add a personal touch to your game and make you feel more connected to your equipment.
Build Quality and Durability
One of the first things I noticed about the Tangerine paddle was its build quality. It’s constructed with a sturdy polypropylene honeycomb core and a fiberglass surface. This combination promises durability and longevity, which are crucial for any regular player. After several intense matches, my paddle showed no signs of wear and tear, maintaining its integrity and performance. The edge guard is firmly attached, protecting the paddle from accidental scrapes and drops, which can be quite frequent during a heated game.
Weight and Handling
Weighing in at just 7.6 ounces, the Tangerine paddle is incredibly lightweight. This was a significant upgrade from my previous paddle, which felt heavy and cumbersome after long sessions. The lightweight nature of this paddle makes it easier to maneuver, allowing for quicker reactions and more precise shots. The balance of the paddle is excellent, with no noticeable top-heaviness or uneven weight distribution, which means it feels natural in the hand and doesn’t strain the wrist during extended play.
Grip and Comfort
The grip on the Tangerine paddle deserves special mention. It features a textured grip tape that provides excellent traction and comfort. The handle fits snugly in my hand, and I never felt like I was at risk of losing my grip, even during the most intense rallies. The grip’s texture also helps absorb sweat, which is a huge plus in hot and humid conditions. The leather detail on the end of the handle adds a touch of luxury and enhances the overall feel of the paddle.
Performance on the Court
Power and Control
The elongated face of the paddle provides improved power without compromising control. The fiberglass surface contributes to this, giving my shots more spin and pop. I found it particularly effective when going for powerful smashes or precise drop shots. The paddle’s thickness also aids in delivering powerful shots while maintaining accuracy. Whether I was executing a hard drive or a soft dink, the paddle responded exactly how I wanted it to.
Sweet Spot
One of the standout features of the Tangerine paddle is its sweet spot. The large, forgiving sweet spot means that even off-center hits still travel with decent power and accuracy. This is especially beneficial for beginners or those still perfecting their technique, as it offers a bit of leeway for less-than-perfect shots. For more advanced players, it provides the confidence to go for riskier, more aggressive plays without worrying about mishits.
Spin and Pop
The fiberglass surface of the Tangerine paddle enhances its ability to generate spin, which is crucial for adding variety to your shots and keeping your opponents guessing. I noticed a significant improvement in my ability to put spin on the ball, which made my serves and returns more effective. The paddle also offers a satisfying pop on contact, making each shot feel crisp and controlled.
Beginner-Friendly Features
The Tangerine paddle is marketed as suitable for players of all skill levels, and I found this to be true. As a player with intermediate skills, I appreciated the paddle’s balance of power and control. However, I also let a beginner friend try it out, and they found it easy to use and helpful in improving their game. The lightweight design and large sweet spot make it an excellent choice for those just starting, while the performance features will keep more experienced players happy.
Comparision With Other Paddles
– Tangerine vs. SLK Neo 2.0
The Tangerine Paddle, with its sleek design and responsive feel, is comparable to the SLK Neo 2.0. Both paddles offer a balanced mix of power and control. The SLK Neo 2.0 features a multilayer fiberglass face and a responsive core, while the Tangerine’s unique blend of materials provides a different tactile feedback. The SLK Neo 2.0 excels in comfort and control, while the Tangerine stands out for its striking design and all-around performance.
ant to learn more about the SLK Neo 2.0? Be sure to read our comprehensive review.
– Tangerine vs. Onix Z5 Graphite
The Tangerine Paddle and Onix Z5 Graphite both cater to players seeking power and durability. The Onix Z5’s graphite face and nomex honeycomb core deliver substantial power and a large sweet spot, while the Tangerine offers a different feel with its unique construction. The Z5 is favored for its power and durability, while the Tangerine provides a more distinct, personalized experience with its vibrant aesthetics and balanced performance with less spin comparitively.
Want to learn more about the Onix Z5 Graphite? Be sure to read our comprehensive review.
– Tangerine vs. REV Pickleball Paddle
Comparing the Tangerine Paddle to the REV, both are designed for dynamic play. The REV paddle is known for its advanced carbon fiber face and exceptional spin, while the Tangerine focuses on a blend of power and control with its specialized material mix. The REV is more oriented towards players seeking high spin and precision, while the Tangerine offers a well-rounded performance with an emphasis on visual appeal and overall balance.
Want to learn more about the REV Pickleball Paddle? Be sure to read our comprehensive review.
Bottom Line
The Tangerine Pickleball Paddle is a fantastic choice for both beginners and intermediate players looking for a reliable and stylish paddle. Its lightweight design, combined with excellent control and power, makes it a versatile paddle suitable for various playing styles. The durability ensures that it will be a long-lasting addition to your pickleball gear, while the vibrant designs add a fun and unique touch to your game.
If you’re someone who loves pickleball not just for the sport but also for the camaraderie and fun, the Tangerine Pickleball Paddle is a perfect fit. It reflects a spirit of enjoyment and friendly competition, making every game a bit more colorful and exciting. Whether you’re playing in a casual match or a tournament, this paddle will help you step up your game while looking good doing it.
