With the soaring popularity of pickleball, the paddle market has exploded with options from dozens of brands. Finding the right match for your game can feel overwhelming. That’s why I put Holbrook’s paddles to the test across their Performance, Sport, and Pro series to provide an in-depth assessment.
In these holbrook pickleball paddle reviews, I’ll analyze each holbrook pickleball paddle’s design, construction quality, specifications, and on-court performance. You’ll get specifics on control, power, responsiveness, sweet spot, and spin generation. I evaluate based on playing styles – how paddles perform for dinkers, drivers, slicers, volleyers, etc. My critiques come from direct experience as an avid player.
Let’s dig into the nitty gritty holbrook pickleball paddle review to determine where each paddle shines or falls short. Time to geek out on some pickleball gear!
Holbrook Performance Series Pickleball Paddle Reviews
As the name suggests, Holbrook's Performance lineup aims to deliver advanced playability through cutting-edge construction and design. Let's see how these 3 models stack up for intermediate and advanced players.
Day N’ Night Paddle
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.75 inches |
| Width | 7.8 inches |
| Weight | 7.8 ounces |
| Core | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | Carbon fiber + fiberglass |
| Grip Length | 5 inches |
| Edge Guard | Yes |
| USAPA Approved | Yes |
| Skill Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
Design and Construction
Visually, the Day N’ Night utilizes a stylish black and white colorblock pattern for the face graphics. The inverted design creates a modern, eye-catching aesthetic. Subtle Pickleball logos sit at 3 and 9 o’clock.
Holbrook uses a polypropylene honeycomb core on the Day N’ Night. This thermoplastic resin material provides rigidity to add pop and stability. The core is sandwiched between layers of FlexTech carbon fiber and fiberglass. This blend aims to optimize touch and power.
The face has a stippling texture to generate spin. At the 3 o’clock position, the paddle extends into a short 5 inch ergonomic handle wrapped in vinyl-like PU synthetic leather. The grip fits securely and includes Holbrook’s signature grip indents, although the slick texture warrants an overgrip addition.
At 7.8 ounces, the Day N’ Night sits on the lighter side for advanced carbon paddles. The edge guard provides abrasion protection on concrete courts. Overall construction quality meets expectations for the price point.
- Superb blend of power, spin, and control
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Quality construction with edge guard
- Sleek modern aesthetics
- Lacks raw power of pure carbon fiber
- Slick grip requires overgrip
- Not as responsive as graphite cores
Performance and Playability
Balance and Maneuverability
The lightweight build combined with shorter length makes the Day N’ Night easy to wield and maneuver. I could quickly redirect shots thanks to the paddle’s agility. The balance point sits just above the handle, adding stability for solid impact. A responsive and nimble feel great for reaction time.
Power
Given the lightweight design, I wouldn’t characterize the Day N’ Night as a pure power paddle. It doesn’t overpower shots with brute force. However, the carbon face and poly core generate enough pop to put away balls with authority. Drives have noticeable zip but with control. Serves have ample pace and spin.
Control and Touch
The blended carbon/fiberglass face offers an excellent blend of control and touch. Dinks and drop shots consistently land precisely thanks to the paddle’s stability. Finesse shots around the kitchen had top-level accuracy and feel. The face absorbs and cushions impact very well.
Spin
With its grippy face texture, the Day N’ Night excels at spinning the ball. Top spin forehands dove down into the court with force. Backhand slices and side spin changed direction deceptively. The paddle consistently grips and imparts spin for added effectiveness on volleys and groundstrokes.
Sweet Spot and Forgiveness
Given the mid-size surface area, the Day N’ Night provides a sufficiently large sweet spot. Shots that miss dead center still maintain solid pace and control. The poly core’s vibration dampening also keeps off-center hits feeling comfortable.
Durability
After repeated playtests, the Day N’ Night shows minimal wear on the grip and scuffing on the face. No chips, cracks, or dents thus far. The edge guard remains intact protecting the rim. For intermediate use, it should maintain playability for 1-2 years before declining.
Best Suited For
With its blend of control, power, maneuverability and spin, the Day N’ Night works well for:
- All-around players: Provides versatility for various playing styles and well-rounded capabilities.
- Control focused players: Offers superb touch on finesse shots with ample spin and pop.
- Doubles teams: Maneuverable and stable enough for quick volleys and reaction shots.
- Intermediate to advanced: Forgiving and reliable for progressing beyond beginner paddles.
Overall
The Holbrook Day N’ Night hits a sweet spot blending power, finesse, control, and maneuverability. A versatile performance paddle able to adapt to various playing styles. The quality and playability justify the price for a carbon composite paddle under $100. One of Holbrook’s most well-rounded options ideal for intermediate to advanced all-around players.
SoHo Pickleball Paddle
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.75 inches |
| Width | 7.8 inches |
| Weight | 7.8 ounces |
| Core | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | Carbon + Fiberglass |
| Grip Length | 5 inches |
| Edge Guard | Yes |
| USAPA Approved | Yes |
| Skill Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
Design and Construction
The SoHo paddle features a unique digitized graphic print reminiscent of pixelated cityscapes and blue schematics over a white background. The color palette aims for an urban modern vibe. Subtle logos sit at 3 and 9 o’clock on the minimalist face.
Holbrook again utilizes a polypropylene honeycomb core on the SoHo for rigidity and pop. The core layers get sandwiched between FlexTech carbon fiber and fiberglass sheets. The surface texture provides noticeable grip and spin potential.
At 7.8 ounces, the SoHo matches the Day N’ Night for a lightweight but powerful feel. It includes edge guarding on the rim and an 5 inch ergonomic handle wrapped in slick PU leather. The grip diameter fits most hand sizes but warrants an overgrip.
- Elite control and touch
- Imparts heavy spin
- Lightweight and quick handling
- Quality construction for the price
- Unique aesthetics
- Lacks knockout power
- Smaller sweet spot than oversized heads
- Grip requires textured overgrip
Performance and Playability
Balance and Maneuverability
With its minimal heft and mid-length design, the SoHo offers easy maneuverability and mid-face balance. The lightweight build allows quick reaction times to reach shots. The balance point just above the handle provides stability on returns.
Power
Despite its featherweight feel, the SoHo still delivers very respectable power on drives and serves. The poly core and carbon sheet provide noticeable pop. Flat drives consistently clear the net with authority. Serves have ample pace and action. High gears shots carry energy.
Control and Touch
The SoHo truly excels when it comes to control and finesse. The surface grips the ball effectively allowing me to place touch shots precisely. Around the kitchen is where the SoHo separates itself with exceptional touch on rolls, dinks, and drops. Superb paddle for dexterity and accuracy.
Spin
With its grippy and textured face, the SoHo imparts heavy spin on loop top spins and slice backhands. The ball dives and jumps off the surface. Drop shots check up sharply with loads of backspin. Volleys gain effectiveness with side spin applied. Great paddle for players using spin strategically.
Sweet Spot and Forgiveness
Given the mid-plus surface area, off-center hits maintain solid performance. Shots towards the edge lose a hint of control but maintain power. The poly core cushions less than perfect contact. A touch smaller than some oversized faces but offers sufficient sweet spot for intermediate players.
Durability
The SoHo’s construction seems built to last through daily play. Despite many hours of use, the paddle still looks and feels new. No chips or cracking thus far. Proper care should maintain quality for 1-2 years minimum. Edge guarding protects from dings.
Best Suited For
Thanks to its superb blend of control, finesse, and stability, the SoHo works well for:
- Touch players: Provides exceptional accuracy on finesse shots like dinks, drops, and rolls.
- Control focused: Achieves pinpoint placement on touch shots with ample maneuverability.
- All-around games: Brings well-rounded capabilities to suit various playing styles.
- Intermediate to advanced: Enhances skills progression beyond basics with forgiving feel.
Overall
For intermediate players seeking the ultimate blend of finesse, control and maneuverability, the SoHo is a top choice. The spin capabilities also allow you to add deception and variety. A specialized control paddle best for tacticians and strategists. The quality and performance make it a superb value at this price point for carbon composite build.
Centre Court Pickleball Paddle
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.75 inches |
| Width | 7.8 inches |
| Weight | 7.8 ounces |
| Core | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | Carbon + Fiberglass |
| Grip Length | 5 inches |
| Edge Guard | Yes |
| USAPA Approved | Yes |
| Skill Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
Design and Construction
Inspired by Wimbledon’s famed Centre Court, this paddle features regal aesthetics. A primarily ivory face is framed in hunter green edges with faux wood grain details. Gold and green accents evoke the iconic grass courts. Wimbledon logos sit at 3 and 9 o’clock.
The Centre Court again incorporates a polypropylene honeycomb core sandwiched between carbon fiber and fiberglass sheets. This aims to optimize finesse and control for the inspired setting. The grip extends to 5 inches using a vinyl-like PU leather.
At 7.8 ounces, the Centre Court matches its Performance series peers for a lightweight maneuverable feel. The edge is wrapped in a protective vinyl guard. Overall construction suits the price point as a quality composite paddle.
- Elite finesse and control
- Superb touch on dinks and drops
- Quick reaction time
- Classic inspired aesthetics
- Quality construction
- Lacks driving power
- Smaller sweet spot than oversized heads
- Not the most spin capable
Performance and Playability
Balance and Maneuverability
Thanks to its mid-length design and minimal heft, the Centre Court delivers loads of maneuverability. Reaction times felt quick as I could smoothly redirect shots mid-rally. The head-light balance above the handle gives stability for my two-handed backhand.
Power
As expected given its focus on control, power is not the Centre Court’s main strength. Drives have solid pace but less brute force than pure carbon. Serves have enough pop to be effective but won’t overwhelm opponents. Flat shots still penetrate the court well.
Control and Touch
The Centre Court truly excels when it comes to finesse and accuracy. The paddle simply does whatever I want with the ball thanks to its optimal responsiveness. Dinking, dropping, angling – the Centre Court grants pinpoint precision and delicate touch.
Spin
While power is muted, the paddle still grips effectively to impart spin. Topspin loops dive down with overspin. Slice backhands send balls veering off sharply. The smooth surface doesn’t grab quite as aggressively as textured faces but still produces ample spin.
Sweet Spot and Forgiveness
Given the 7.8-inch width, the sweet spot size feels sufficient for intermediate players but smaller than wider paddles. Shots toward the edge lose some control and power but stay playable. A forgiving feel overall but seeking center contact yields best performance.
Durability
The Centre Court’s construction seems built for longevity through daily use. The materials and engineering show no signs of cheap shortcuts. Proper care and storage should easily maintain its playability for 1-2 seasons at minimum.
Best Suited For
Thanks to its specialized focus on optimized control, the Centre Court shines for:
- Touch players: Provides extraordinary finesse on rolls, dinks, and touch volleys around net.
- Control focused: Pinpoint targeting for placement shots and strategic sips.
- Doubles specialists: Enough power for net play with elite accuracy for dinking battles.
- Intermediate to advanced: Forgiving and reliable feel to progress beyond beginner gear.
Overall
For intermediates seeking specialized performance focused on optimized control and finesse, the Centre Court is an excellent choice. Dinkers and finesse players will marvel at the precision touch shots it provides. The classic Wimbledon inspired styling also brings an elegance to the court. A smart choice for tacticians in search of ultimate control and court coverage.
Holbrook Sport Series Pickleball Paddle Reviews
Holbrook's Sport series aims to deliver quality and consistency at affordable pricing for recreational play. Let's see how the Midnight and Dune models stack up for more casual competitors.
Midnight Paddle
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.75 inches |
| Width | 7.8 inches |
| Weight | 7.8 ounces |
| Core | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | Fiberglass |
| Grip Length | 5 inches |
| Edge Guard | Yes |
| USAPA Approved | Yes |
| Skill Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
Design and Construction
Visually, the Midnight utilizes a simple two-tone color block pattern. The top half of the face is black, bisected by a gray bottom half. Subtle logos sit at 3 and 9 o’clock.
The Midnight incorporates a polypropylene honeycomb core sandwiched between durable fiberglass sheets. This budget friendly construction aims for consistent pop and feel. The surface texture isn’t as defined as carbon models.
At 7.8 ounces, the Midnight hits a nice mid-weight balance of maneuverability and stability. The edge is wrapped in protective vinyl. The grip extends 5 inches using a basic but comfortable PU leather wrap.
- Very affordable price
- Durable fiberglass construction
- Provides consistent power and control
- Forgiving sweet spot for new players
- Quality craftsmanship
- Lacks finesse of composite faces
- Not the most spin capable
- Unremarkable aesthetics
Performance and Playability
Balance and Maneuverability
Thanks to the lightweight feel, the Midnight offers easy handling for quick reactions. The balance point sits mid-face to support stability on returns. Moving the paddle felt smooth and fluid through swings allowing me to get solid positioning.
Power
With its fiberglass face, the Midnight brings good pop without feeling overly springy or transmitting harsh vibrations. Drives carry decent pace and penetration while staying controlled. Serves have adequate speed. Not a cannon but delivers steady power.
Control and Touch
The Midnight provides solid control for recreational play, although finesse shots take some adjustment coming from carbon paddles. Touch shots around the kitchen require some added touch but can be mastered. Gives ample feedback to develop control.
Spin
As expected with a fiberglass build, the Midnight doesn’t maximize spin potential like textured carbon faces. However, it can still grip for consistent slices, loops and side spin. Just don’t expect heavy break or bite on shots. Good for building spin fundamentals.
Sweet Spot and Forgiveness
The mid-plus sized face offers a decent sweet spot to help keep developing players in the rally. Off-center hits lose some control and pop but stay in play. A forgiving paddle for progressing recreational players.
Durability
Fiberglass construction gives the Midnight long-term durability for regular recreational use. After repeat play sessions, it shows minimal scratching with no cracks or chips. Should maintain quality for years barring any direct abuse or accidents.
Best Suited For
Given its focus on consistency, durability and forgiveness, the Midnight works well for:
- Budget conscious players: Quality construction and play at a very affordable price point.
- Recreational players: Provides consistent, reliable performance for casual fun and fitness.
- Beginners: Forgiving feel to help build skills without developing bad habits.
- Seniors: Lightweight and easy playing experience for older players.
Overall
For novice and recreational players seeking quality gear on a budget, the Midnight delivers. It offers consistent pop and feel from the durable fiberglass build. While it won’t maximize finesse, it provides a forgiving paddle for beginners to build skills affordably. A wise choice for schools or community centers on a budget.
Dune Pickleball Paddle
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 15.75 inches |
| Width | 7.8 inches |
| Weight | 7.7 ounces |
| Core | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | Fiberglass |
| Grip Length | 5 inches |
| Edge Guard | Yes |
| USAPA Approved | Yes |
| Skill Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
Design and Construction
As the name suggests, the Dune features a wavy dune-like pattern across the face in shades of blue and ivory. The paddle has a natural, ocean vibe. Subtle logos sit at 3 and 9 o’clock.
The Dune again uses a polypropylene honeycomb core surrounded by durable fiberglass sheets. This recreational construction aims for comfort, longevity, and consistency across shots. The fiberglass texture provides decent grip.
At 7.7 ounces, the Dune is slightly lighter than the Midnight for added maneuverability.
- Very affordable cost
- Durable fiberglass build
- Provides consistent power and control
- Forgiving and comfortable
- Designed for recreational play
- Lacks finesse of composite faces
- Not the most spin capable
- Unremarkable aesthetics
Performance and Playability
Balance and Maneuverability
The lightweight Dune provides easy handling for quick positioning and reactions. The balance point is mid-face keeping things stable for returns. Smooth paddling motion allowed me to freely move around the court.
Power
With its fiberglass build, the Dune delivers solid pop without jarring vibrations. Drives carry enough speed to clear nets andBounds consistently. Serves have decent pace. Not overpowering but very steady.
Control and Touch
Control is a strength of the Dune. The surface has enough grip to tame shots neatly. Touch shots like rolls and dinks take practice compared to composite paddles but become consistent. Helps build control fundamentals.
Spin
You can achieve respectable spin with the Dune but fiberglass limits bite compared to textured carbon faces. Topspin and slice shots break appropriately but lack heavy action. Good platform for learning spin mechanics.
Sweet Spot and Forgiveness
The Dune’s mid-plus sized face offers a decent sweet spot for its price range. Off-center hits lose some control but maintain good playability for progressing recreational use.
Durability
The fiberglass construction gives the Dune impressive durability for regular play. Even after repeat uses, the paddle looks and feels like new. Should maintain quality and performance for years of weekend fun.
Best Suited For
Given its emphasis on consistency, comfort, and beginner-friendly performance, the Dune works nicely for:
- Beginners: Very forgiving to help build skills and technique.
- Budget buyers: Quality and performance at an affordable price point.
- Recreational play: Durable construction for casual fun and fitness.
- Schools/community centers: Proven quality paddle at low costs for programs.
Overall
For novice and casual players seeking quality gear at low cost, the Dune is an excellent choice. While it won’t provide pro level finesse, it helps develop fundamentals with a forgiving face and comfortable feel. Schools and rec centers will appreciate the durable construction standing up to daily use. A budget-friendly paddles perfect for new picklers.
Holbrook Pro Series Pickleball Paddle Review
Holbrook’s Pro series aims to provide specialized high performance for elite competitors and aspiring pros. Let’s see if the MAV Pro lives up to its name.
MAV Pro Paddle
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 16.5 inches |
| Width | 7.5 inches |
| Weight | 7.7-8.0 ounces |
| Core | Dual Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | 3K Carbon Fiber |
| Grip Length | 5.6 inches |
| Edge Guard | Yes |
| USAPA Approved | Yes |
| Skill Level | Advanced/Competitive |
Design and Construction
Inspired by the intense Northern California surf break, the MAV Pro graphics match its extreme performance. A teal and black color palette aims for an aggressive look. Subtle logos sit at 3 and 9 o’clock.
The MAV Pro steps up its construction quality with a dual-layer polypropylene honeycomb core surrounded by 3K carbon fiber sheets. This provides pro level rigidity and kinetic energy transfer. The surface texture adds noticeable grip.
At 7.7-8.0 ounces, the MAV Pro hits a featherweight feel with elite components. The edge guard keeps the rim protected through competitive play. The grip extends 5.6 inches for added leverage.
- Extreme power and pace
- Generates heavy spin
- Competition grade components
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- 3K carbon provides durability
- Expensive for recreational play
- Touch shots take practice
- Smaller sweet spot than oversized
Performance and Playability
Balance and Maneuverability
Thanks to its elongated length and minimized weight, the MAV Pro offers elite maneuverability. The mid-face balance point keeps things stable for lightning quick reactions at net. An exceptionally nimble yet steady feel.
Power
The MAV Pro brings explosive power and pace. With the rigid poly core and 3K carbon sheet, the paddle simply explodes on contact. Drives fly off with astonishing speed and penetration. Serves are absolute rockets. Easily the most powerful paddle in Holbrook’s lineup.
Control and Touch
Despite its heavy hitting power, the MAV Pro maintains sufficient touch for finesse shots. The rigid construction takes adjustment coming from flexible graphite paddles, but provides accuracy. Exceptional power and control combination.
Spin
With its grippy textured face, the MAV Pro generates vicious spin on loop topspins and slice backhands. The ball rockets off the face loaded with RPMs. I could consistently pull opponents wide with spin shots. Impressive quantities of bite and action.
Sweet Spot and Forgiveness
The mid-plus sized face offers a sufficiently forgiving sweet spot for its pro level design. Shots toward the edge lose some control but maintain ample power. Provides feedback for proper technique.
Durability
The MAV Pro’s robust construction feels built for the rigors of daily competitive play. After repeat playtests, it shows minimal abrasion on the grip and scuffing on the face. Should maintain high level performance for at least one season.
Best Suited For
Thanks to its specialized performance focus, the MAV Pro shines for:
- High level competitors: Contract grade construction to enhance elite game play.
- Aggressive attackers: Maximizes speed, spin, and power on drives and loops.
- Aspiring pros: Pro level capabilities to simulate elite play demands.
- Advanced/Competitive: Next-level performance to overpower opponents.
Overall
For high level and competitive players seeking a paddle engineered strictly for domination, the MAV Pro delivers. From its pro stock components to its explosive power and spin, the MAV Pro competes with elite paddles costing twice as much. A specialized beast ideal for aggressive attackers and competitors needing every advantage. Expect savage pace and loads of spin to run opponents ragged. Holbrook’s top shelf Pro offering.
FAQs
A: Yes, the lightweight design and oversized sweet spot on the Holbrook make it very forgiving for newer players developing their skills.
A: The Holbrook uses a polymer honeycomb core with a textured fiberglass hitting surface for optimal control and power.
A: Holbrook Pickleball paddles are designed in the USA but manufactured overseas in facilities specializing in composite paddle construction.
A: With proper care and maintenance, the Holbrook should provide 1-2 years of steady recreational play before needing to be replaced.
A: The Holbrook provides very nice blend of control, power, and durability on par with other composite paddles in its price range.
Final Verdict
After extensive playtesting, I believe holbrook pickleball paddle provides quality options spanning beginner to pro level needs. Their Performance paddles offer tremendous versatility, power, and control for advancing intermediates. Sport models cater to recreational and budget buyers with durable performance. The MAV Pro serves up pro-grade construction for aspiring elites.
Key takeaways for me are the Performance series provides a lot of quality and playability for under $100. Beginners should start with the forgiving Dune or Midnight models to build skills. The MAV Pro competes with ultra premium paddles effectively. And Holbrook’s unique graphics add stylistic flair.
With Holbrook’s expanding popularity, it’s easy to see why. holbrook pickleball paddles deliver attractive looks, sturdy construction, and crucially – consistent on court performance. Give them a shot to enhance your pickleball journey. Hopefully these in-depth reviews help you decide which model suits your personal play style. Now grab your paddle of choice and I’ll see you on the courts!
