An interesting shift in paddle composition over the past couple of seasons has resulted in many paddle consumers asking "who should use a high density paddle?" A question no doubt brought on by the increasingly vast array of low and mid density core paddles it leaves one wondering why Viking and Wilson aren't producing more models in the high-density arena as in days past. The fact is, our customers are still calling for firm cores and lamenting the decreasing offering.
Feedback from paddle product development folks tell us that "market data" shows that players are interested in going lighter and softer for ease of swing and accuracy of shots. To some extent, this is probably true, especially for players new to the sport. With a relatively short overall length, the shock to the arm from hitting in particular a heavy, hard platform tennis ball can lead to some discomfort. The firmer the paddle core, the less shock-absorption the paddle provides. This is particularly important for paddle players who suffer from tennis elbow or who have in the past and want to protect their arm as much as possible.
That being said, not everyone needs or wants a soft core paddle. In fact, many players actually find a "mushy", dampened feeling off-putting when contact is made with the ball and yearn for the crisper pop that only a high density, firm core provides. Soft core paddles also result in a slower moving ball off the face of the paddle as a portion of the ball's energy is lost as it sinks into and releases from the softer center. With a firm, high density paddle, the ball deflects more quickly and maintains more of its energy for your return shot. As you might suspect, this tends to appeal to our intermediate to advanced players who have played for longer and have relatively well-established technique since it also means less margin for error with a ball moving at faster speeds.
Paddles like the Viking TT Pro Elite Lite (high density) and Viking OZ+ (Mid+ density) are great examples of two top-selling firmer core paddles. The Viking OZ+ has been around for years and has consistently been a top performer. Don't be pushed into the softer core market if it's not really what your game calls for. If you're up for speed, power and a crisper feel, by all means, go for it!
Addition: now available is the Wilson Juice Pro 2015...hey someone's listening to us! With a smaller head size, firm core for power and a no-grit zone above the handle, this slicer and dicer should be a great addition to the serious weapon cache on the court!
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Order today at 1-800-724-9439 or on-line at www.BellRacquetSports.com
Feedback from paddle product development folks tell us that "market data" shows that players are interested in going lighter and softer for ease of swing and accuracy of shots. To some extent, this is probably true, especially for players new to the sport. With a relatively short overall length, the shock to the arm from hitting in particular a heavy, hard platform tennis ball can lead to some discomfort. The firmer the paddle core, the less shock-absorption the paddle provides. This is particularly important for paddle players who suffer from tennis elbow or who have in the past and want to protect their arm as much as possible.
That being said, not everyone needs or wants a soft core paddle. In fact, many players actually find a "mushy", dampened feeling off-putting when contact is made with the ball and yearn for the crisper pop that only a high density, firm core provides. Soft core paddles also result in a slower moving ball off the face of the paddle as a portion of the ball's energy is lost as it sinks into and releases from the softer center. With a firm, high density paddle, the ball deflects more quickly and maintains more of its energy for your return shot. As you might suspect, this tends to appeal to our intermediate to advanced players who have played for longer and have relatively well-established technique since it also means less margin for error with a ball moving at faster speeds.
Paddles like the Viking TT Pro Elite Lite (high density) and Viking OZ+ (Mid+ density) are great examples of two top-selling firmer core paddles. The Viking OZ+ has been around for years and has consistently been a top performer. Don't be pushed into the softer core market if it's not really what your game calls for. If you're up for speed, power and a crisper feel, by all means, go for it!
Addition: now available is the Wilson Juice Pro 2015...hey someone's listening to us! With a smaller head size, firm core for power and a no-grit zone above the handle, this slicer and dicer should be a great addition to the serious weapon cache on the court!
Order today at 1-800-724-9439 or on-line at www.BellRacquetSports.com
