The popularity of pickleball has surged in recent years, becoming one of the fastest-growing sports. Its appeal lies in the enjoyable gameplay, social aspect, and accessibility to players of all ages. As more individuals join the courts, having the appropriate paddle gear becomes crucial for both enjoying and enhancing skills in this fantastic activity.
Understanding the top paddle brands in the market is crucial when choosing the right one. Champion has established itself as a prominent manufacturer of quality pickleball paddles, suitable for both recreational and competitive players.
If you are looking for a Champion Pickleball Paddle, then read this editorial product review article. In this article on “Champion Pickleball Paddles Review”, we are going to discuss the information about the top four models of Champion Pickleball Paddle with their pros and cons. After that, we are going to guide you regarding the selection of any model of Champion Pickleball Paddle according to your skill level and playing style. Then, we will discuss some essential tips for taking care of your chosen Champion Pickleball Paddle model.
Champion Graphite Elite Pickleball Paddle
The Champion Graphite Elite Pickleball Paddle earns its “Elite” designation due to its focus on finesse and precise ball placement. Here are the specifications of this paddle:
- Weight Range: 7.1 – 7.4 oz
- Handle Length: 5-1/2″
- Grip Circumference: 4-1/4 inch
- Paddle Length: 15-5/8″
- Face Width: 8″
Let’s see what gives this paddle its strategic edge.
Design & Build Quality
The Graphite Elite weighs between 7.1 and 7.4 ounces, featuring a longer handle and a slim, tear-drop shaped head. This design is optimized for swift direction changes and easy maneuverability. The high-quality graphite face provides better grip and spin potential compared to other materials.
Beneath the surface, there’s a 1⁄2 inch polymer honeycomb core that effectively absorbs impact and enhances energy return on shots. An ergonomic, moisture-wicking cushioned grip adds comfort. Its precise engineering and use of quality materials make it a well-built and durable performance paddle.
Performance & Playability
The Graphite Elite shines when it comes to control and shot versatility. The lightweight design allows quicker reaction time to place shots more accurately. Despite maintaining a strong core that delivers power, the smooth graphite face ensures a gentle touch for finesse shots such as dinks and drop shots. The high-tack surface grabs the ball well for easier backspin and sidespin. In general, it is perfect for strategic players who secure victories through control and clever tactics rather than relying solely on pure power.
Pros & Cons
- Very lightweight and maneuverable
- Excellent control and finesse
- Good spin and power potential
- Quality construction for durability
- Expensive for beginners
- Less powerful compared to other graphite pickleball paddles
Champion Eclipse Graphite Pickleball Paddle
The Champion Eclipse Graphite Pickleball Paddle is an affordable graphite option approved for tournament play. It is an excellent choice for upgrading your paddle without spending too much. The specifications of this paddle are given below:
- Weight: 7.3 -7.8 oz
- Paddle Length: 15.4″
- Grip Circumference: 4″ (Small)
- Handle Length: 5″
- Paddle Face Width: 7-3/4″
- Face Material: Graphite w/ 3D Digital Print
- Core Material: Polymer
Let’s examine what gives this paddle such widespread appeal.
Design & Build Quality
The Eclipse paddle is lightweight, weighing 7.5 ounces, and features a smaller grip suitable for various hand sizes. It includes a flared end cap and a moisture-absorbing cushion grip, ensuring an excellent traction. The graphite surface offers a smooth yet grippy feel, ideal for maintaining control across different shots. Beneath, the polymer honeycomb core effectively dampens vibrations while still providing decent power. The paddle is well-prepared for tournaments, thanks to its quality construction, smart ergonomics, and approval from USAPA.
Performance & Playability
Due to its forgiving weight and balance, the Champion Eclipse Graphite Pickleball Paddle offers versatile gameplay. The lightweight design enables quick reactions for an enhanced defense, while the core retains enough power for a strong offense. One notable feature is the excellent control provided by the smooth graphite surface, offering a good grip on the ball for spin shots while ensuring a comfortable feel, even during longer play sessions. It can match and exceed the performance of many more expensive paddles.
Pros & Cons
- Impressive control and touch
- Provides a very comfortable and smooth feel
- Good versatility at an affordable price point
- Meets the standards for tournament play.
- Lacks power for aggressive play
Champion Polypro Pickleball Paddle
The Champion PolyPro pickleball paddle combines comfort, control, and durability in a high-quality and affordable package suitable for players of all skill levels. Given below are the specifications of this paddle:
- Weight: 7.7 -8.0 oz
- Paddle Length: 15-5/8″
- Grip Circumference: 4-1/4″ (Medium)
- Handle Length: 5″
- Paddle Face Width: 7-3/4″
- Face Material: Fiberglass w/ Polycarbonate Overlay
- Core Material: Polymer
Let’s examine what makes this paddle an excellent choice for various playing styles.
Design & Build Quality
The PolyPro paddle weighs between 7.7 and 8 ounces and is equipped with a comfortable perforated cushion grip. Additionally, it features a honeycomb polymer core that is skillfully designed to reduce vibrations. This design ensures unique comfort, even during extended playing sessions.
The core delivers excellent touch and control for various shots, while the dual-fiberglass and polycarbonate face provide ample pop and durability. Smart ergonomics enhance the overall performance consistently.
Performance & Playability
Right out of the box, the PolyPro is easy to use, making it a great option for beginners. Additionally, it provides the versatility needed to accommodate more advanced play. One notable aspect is the excellent control, as the polymer core enables a gentle return with precise directionality, allowing for reliable shot placement. However, when necessary, the robust face can deliver powerful drives and slams comparable to the best paddles. The subdued response contributes to comfort without significantly diminishing the feel or pop.
Pros & Cons
- Delivers excellent control
- Maintains comfort even during extended play
- Constructed durably with high-quality materials
- Offers good value at an affordable price.
- Lacks the power of more expensive paddles
- Small grips may require an overgrip
Champion Spark Pickleball Paddle
The Champion Spark, being both affordable and lightweight, is an excellent introductory pickleball paddle. It is ideal for new players, allowing them to begin their pickleball journey and support their improvement over time. The specifications of the Champion Spark Pickleball Paddle are given below:
- Weight: 6.7 -7.0 oz
- Paddle Length: 15-5/8″
- Grip Circumference: 4″ (Small)
- Handle Length: 5″
- Paddle Face Width: 7-3/4″
- Face Material: Polycarbonate
- Core Material: Polymer
Let’s see what gives this budget-friendly option such an inviting spark.
Design & Build Quality
Weighing approximately 7 ounces, the Spark paddle decreases the usual weight of wooden paddles. This enhancement makes it easier to handle without compromising power, ensuring excellent maneuverability. The paddle’s core is made of a robust 1⁄2-inch-thick polypropylene honeycomb. This thickness helps to reduce vibrations and enhances durability. The polycarbonate hitting surface is resistant to chips and scratches, ensuring long-lasting durability. The flexible small grip comfortably accommodates most hand sizes without the need for adjustments right out of the box.
Performance & Playability
Right away, the Champion Spark Pickleball Paddle offers effortless handling for beginners taking their first steps, and it also provides sufficient touch and control to keep the game enjoyable as skills progress. The lightweight design enables easy maneuvering and quick reactions. However, the broader core maintains ample power for strong drives when necessary, thanks to its intelligent weight distribution. Touch shots are improved by the reduced feedback as well.
Pros & Cons
- Exceptionally light and quick to respond
- A generous sweet spot enhances control.
- Beginner-friendly and easy to handle
- Comes at an affordable cost
- Doesn’t have much power or pop
- Not recommended for competitive play.
Which Model of Champion Pickleball Paddle You Can Choose?
With several excellent options available, the key to selecting the ideal Champion paddle is to match the model designed for your skill level and playstyle preferences.
For beginners, I highly recommend the affordable Champion Spark. The paddle is lightweight at 6.7 to 7 ounces, with a construction made from easy-to-handle polymer and a large sweet spot. This makes it perfect for smooth rallying as you work on developing proper technique and footwork. Despite its budget-friendly price, the Spark still offers enough power and durability to keep the game enjoyable as your skills progress during that initial year.
For intermediate players seeking enhanced finesse and control, the Champion PolyPro stands out. Weighing 7.7-8oz, the PolyPro provides an excellent touch for shot placement, thanks to its responsive fiberglass face and vibration-absorbing polymer core. It not only made my shots more consistent but also increased my comfort during longer playing sessions. With its affordable price, the PolyPro paddle caters to both recreational and competitive intermediate players.
Champion’s Graphite Elite, designed for advanced tournament players who value precision, is crafted to highlight pro-level strategic skills when holding a paddle. Its grippy face allows for blistering spins on serves, while the elongated handle enhances reaction times for outmaneuvering opponents. Although it has a higher price, the Graphite Elite provides the precise accuracy that competitive players look for in their championship equipment.
Therefore, choose the Spark for an easy-to-use paddle if you’re a beginner, opt for the PolyPro to enhance your skills in intermediate play, or go for the Graphite Elite if you’re seeking a high-quality paddle for dominating in tournaments. Choosing a model that matches your skill and playing style ensures the perfect fit for your Champion pickleball paddle.
Guidelines for Taking Care of the Champion Pickleball Paddle
Ensuring proper care for your Champion pickleball paddle is crucial to enhance its longevity and optimize your playing experience. Here are some essential tips to assist you in maintaining your paddle and ensuring it delivers optimal performance over an extended duration:
Make sure to clean your paddle after each session using a damp, soft cloth to remove any accumulated dirt, grime, sweat, or moisture from play. Allow it to air-dry completely before storing it to prevent material degradation or cracks over time.
When you’re not using your paddle, make sure to store it safely in its protective zippered cover. Keep it away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures in places like the garage or trunk, as these conditions can degrade the materials. The ideal storage location is indoors, in a closet, or in a temperature-controlled area. This helps to prevent surface damage when the paddle is not in use, ultimately extending its usable life.
Make sure to check your paddle regularly, preferably every month, and carefully look for any small cracks, chips, bulges, or dents. Pay particular attention to the edges and handle seam lines, as issues tend to arise there first. Identifying wear and tear early is important to keep the paddle in good condition for a long time.
Think about replacing the grip tape annually or whenever it looks worn to maintain optimal traction and handling. Applying a new grip tape restores the paddle’s ideal tackiness and enhances precision in your grip.
Furthermore, refrain from applying excessive force during play or when storing/transporting the paddle to prevent structural damage. Safely carry the paddle in its case and shield its face from unnecessary impact on hard surfaces. Exercise reasonable care to ensure the longest possible lifespan.
While regular play will naturally cause some wear over time, paying attention to consistent cleaning, safe storage and transport, routine inspections for issues, and proactive grip maintenance can significantly extend the usable lifespan of your paddle. Taking good care of your quality Champion paddle can give you many more seasons of enjoyable play on the courts!
FAQs
The best Champion pickleball paddle for beginners is the Champion Spark. It is lightweight at around 7oz, making it very maneuverable and easy to swing compared to traditional wooden paddles. It also features a large sweet spot, making it easier for newer players to rally the ball back and forth while honing their technique. Moreover, it comes at a very affordable price point, making it perfect for those who are just starting out.
Taking good care of any quality Champion pickleball paddle is crucial for maximizing longevity. Be sure to clean it after every session and store it in the protective cover when not playing. Avoid exposing the paddle to direct sunlight and extreme hot or cold temperatures during storage. Regularly inspect it for any cracks or signs of damage. Additionally, think about replacing the grip tape annually or when it becomes worn. With consistent care, a Champion paddle should sustain peak performance for numerous seasons.
Champion employs high-quality materials in their paddles, incorporating polymer honeycomb cores for control and response, cushioned perforated grips for comfort, and faces crafted from fiberglass, graphite, or polycarbonate composites depending on the model. These materials offer an optimal combination of power, touch, and durability at various price points.
Over time, with regular play, the materials on any pickleball paddle will begin to break down, resulting in decreased pop and responsiveness. If you notice visible wear on the face grip, the formation of cracks, dents, or chips, or a significant decline in power and control, these are signs that it might be time to replace your paddle, indicating material fatigue. Typically, with good care, Champion paddles can offer 2 to 5 years or more of play before you should think about getting a replacement.
Yes, Champion pickleball paddles offer some customization and adjustment options. The perforated cushion grips enable you to add overgrips and tape, allowing you to customize the handle size and tackiness to your preferred fit. If you wish to make the paddle heavier, you can do so by adding lead tape along the edge of the paddle. Graphite face textures and designs differ among models to address specific preferences for control or spin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the diverse lineup of Champion Pickleball Paddles caters to players of all skill levels, offering options that balance power, control, and affordability. From the beginner-friendly Spark to the intermediate-friendly PolyPro and the advanced Graphite Elite, each model excels in specific aspects, ensuring a satisfying gameplay experience. Champion has earned a reliable reputation in the world of pickleball paddles due to its careful design, high-quality construction, and thoughtful choice of materials.
Whether you’re just starting or aiming for pickleball tournament victories, this article on “Champion Pickleball Paddles Review” provides valuable insights into the standout features, pros, and cons of each model of Champion Pickleball Paddle. Remember to choose a paddle that aligns with your skill level and playing style for optimal performance. Furthermore, following the provided care guidelines will help your Champion pickleball paddle to last longer, making it a valuable investment for your pickleball experience. Take your game to the next level by choosing a Champion pickleball paddle that fits your style – it’ll be your best companion for success on the courts!
