As a DUPR 4.3 intermediate-level pickleball player, I'm at a stage where control is crucial to my game. My primary focus is on whether a paddle can provide the level of control necessary to help me execute more consistent drops and dinks, ultimately improving my success at the net.

My Dupr Rating

The Blade X 16MM paddle initially left a strong impression on me. Aside from the slightly different paddle shape, it doesn't feel much different from the Ruby 16MM during use, so I would consider it a more affordable alternative to the Ruby.

Why Control Matters at the Intermediate Level? As you progress from a beginner to an intermediate player, the game becomes less about raw power and more about strategy and finesse. This is where control comes into play. Being able to accurately place the ball with dinks and drops can turn the tide of a game, especially when playing at a higher pace.

The Blade X 16MM paddle initially left a lasting impression on me, proving to be the ideal choice for a specific type of player. Whether you’re a casual player or a professional, this paddle is designed to suit your needs.

Read on to dive deeper into this unique paddle with a 100% Kevlar fiber surface and discover how it stands out in terms of both performance and value.

Blade X 16mm Control Specifications

• Price: $139.99 ( $126 with Discount Code: PAKLENEW )
• Shape: Hybrid (between elongated and square)
• Core: Narrow-cell Honeycomb Polypropylene
• Core thickness: 16mm
• Face: 100% Kevlar 
• Handle length: 5.5″
• Grip circumference: 4.25″
• Average weight: 8.1 -8.4 oz
• Swingweight: 115-120
• Thermoformed: Yes
• Total length: 16.5″
• Width: 7.5″

Buy if:

✅You want great control and spin:

This is one of the best touch paddles I've played with, while still generating big, consistent spin and drop.

✅You want a controllable paddle:

Beyond control and spin, you get loads of forgiveness and plenty of power.

✅You want a long handle:

The 5.5″ handle allows for more stable two-handed backhand control.

Don't need if

❌You need extra pop:

This paddle has an extremely soft feel and doesn't provide the extra pop needed for dinks.

❌You want pure power:

This has power but is more of a control paddle. 

Quick Summary

One of the most impressive aspects of the Blade X Control paddle is its spin performance, which truly stands out. In spin tests, it exceeded 2,100 RPM, putting it on par with paddles like the Six Zero Ruby. The spin feels larger and more stable than with most carbon fiber paddles. This feature allows me to hit heavy topspin shots, much like in tennis, making it an ideal choice for my game.

The control offered by the Hybrid Shape is also top-notch, coming very close to the control provided by widebody paddles. This is one of the best reset paddles I've used, making it easy to switch to defense when needed.

Another advantage is the paddle’s forgiveness, thanks to its shape. While there is some trade-off in reach and handle length, the larger sweet spot more than compensates. This is particularly generous during drops, where I experienced almost no errors.

The only downside is a slight reduction in power compared to carbon fiber paddles. However, this is expected. The Blade X still delivers powerful shots, allowing me to score and win matches—I just need to increase my swing speed to generate that extra power.

Performance

Power: 85/100

The Blade X offers a more controlled power output compared to most second-generation thermoformed paddles. This is largely due to its thicker core and Kevlar face, which provide a softer, more cushioned feel while increasing dwell time on the ball.

While it may not pack as much punch as some other carbon fiber paddles, it still benefits from the thermoforming process. I found it easy to add speed and depth to my shots, especially on long serves. My serve speed clocks in at around 53 mph, keeping it well within the effective range for thermoformed paddles.

The slightly elongated hybrid shape and thicker core contribute to increased speed on off-center hits. However, due to the reduced bounce and increased dwell time, generating power and speed at the net can be a bit challenging.

With this paddle, slower-paced shots are definitely more powerful and perform better than fast, aggressive hits. Compared to most thermoformed paddles, I prefer the Blade X for executing these types of shots. My Six Zero DBD is a stiffer thermoformed paddle, but the Blade X delivers more power in these scenarios.

Control: 95/100

The Blade X Control paddle truly excels in control. Its "hybrid" shape and larger sweet spot contribute significantly to this aspect. I found it particularly effective during resets, allowing me to slow down the ball and regain control of the point.

Thanks to its excellent spin capability, I was able to use topspin to manage all my shots, which greatly improved my touch game. My favorite shot with this paddle is the topspin third-shot drop. I even found myself consistently hitting high-quality topspin shots, which helped to neutralize my opponents' attacks at the kitchen line.

Its textured surface is relatively rough, allowing you to generate substantial spin on the ball. In my experience, it rivals some of the top-tier carbon fiber paddles like the Six Zero Black Diamond Power, Volair Mach 2 FORZA, and Ronbus R1 NOVA.

Spin: 90/100

With this paddle, I can achieve the precise spin I need for every shot, whether it's a consistent backhand flick or a sharply angled topspin that lands on my opponent's backhand side—often in the form of an "inside-out forehand."

Lately, I've been incorporating more topspin dinks into my strategy, and this paddle has proven to be perfect for that. Its combination of control and consistency makes it easy to execute those tricky dinks that leave opponents scrambling, allowing me to win more points and ultimately more matches.

Despite its softer nature, the paddle still delivers impressive bounce. The ball travels quickly off the surface, often catching opponents off guard. This speed is crucial during fast-paced rallies where the element of surprise can be a game-changer.

The detail of surface

Pop: 85/100

The core of the Blade X Control is engineered to provide a firmer, more solid pop compared to non-thermoformed paddles. This means that while the surface may be softer, the underlying structure ensures that the paddle still delivers enough force to drive the ball with precision. The clear feedback you get when striking the ball is a testament to the paddle’s construction, allowing for better shot accuracy and control.

Durability: 95/100

The paddle made using a thermoformed production method is durable and can withstand pressure. Since it is a one-piece design, there is no risk of breakage at the junction between the handle and the neck. So, you're covered in that aspect.

The final major concern regarding the durability of this paddle is the surface's longevity. Pakle Pickleball claims that their Kevlar fiber surface texture is more durable than pure carbon fiber. Time will tell, as the paddle hasn't been on the market long enough for a full assessment of the surface's durability. So far, early testing looks promising.

Value: 100/100

This paddle is very affordable, priced at just $126 with the code PAKLENEW. The Blade X excels in quality, innovation, and unique thermoplastic playability. It achieves an optimal balance between price and performance.

In contrast, paddles from major brands priced between $180 and $250 do not offer significantly better performance or feel to justify their higher cost.