Last updated on April 5th, 2024 at 08:42 pm
The pickleball demographic is shifting quickly towards younger, more athletic players. Tennis players are starting to transition to pickleball at a younger age. This shift brings a premium on speed, power, and new requirements for pickleball paddle performance. SpeedUp Pickleball is set to capitalize on this trend with paddles built for speed, power, and 6-inch handles for two-handed backhands. Below is our SpeedUp Pickleball paddle review for the new 14mm Fire and 16mm Ice.
Table of Contents
What Makes SpeedUp Pickleball Paddles Unique?
Pickleball paddle technology is evolving to meet the needs of harder-hitting players. The trend towards power started when raw carbon fiber was introduced (generation 1 paddles). The next trend in Generation 2 paddles was thermoforming, which was made popular by Legacy Pro.
And now, as more tennis players enter the sport, there is a demand for paddles to accommodate a powerful two-handed backhand. However, only some paddles are built for a two-handed backhand. The Legacy Pro, for example, has a 5.3-inch handle that only fits one of my hands.
To be relevant for the new generation of pickleball players, pickleball paddles, once again, need a redesign. SpeedUp Pickleball paddles are unique because they’ve added a longer 6-inch handle for two-handed backhands and removed unnecessary material from the paddle face. And the best part is they’re competitively priced at $120 (save 10% with code SIMPLYPB).
SpeedUp Fire 14mm
Control: A
Power: A-
Spin: A
Forgiveness: B
Value: A+
Save 10% using code SIMPLYPB
SpeedUp Ice 16mm
Control: A-
Power: A
Spin: B+
Forgiveness: B+
Value: A+
Save 10% using code SIMPLYPB
SpeedUp Pickleball Paddle Review: Fire 14mm
The Fire 14mm paddle stands out for its dynamic performance, thanks to its slender 14mm profile. With a 6-inch handle that enhances two-hand backhand play and amplifies control, this paddle offers a unique advantage on the court. This paddle is ideal for hard-hitting players, singles, and players transitioning from competitive tennis.
Tapered Head: What truly sets the Fire 14 apart is its tapered head design, allowing it to effortlessly maneuver through the air. This design not only boosts agility but also speeds up gameplay at the net.
Longer Handle: The longer handle and slightly smaller racquet face give the Fire 14 a distinct feel, reminiscent of wielding a tennis racquet, offering a unique playing experience compared to standard paddles. The paddle’s ability to swiftly snap the ball off its face adds an extra level of finesse, catering to players seeking accuracy and power in their shots.
Carbon Fiber Face: The Toray T700 carbon fiber face delivers impressive pop and spin capabilities, crucial for advanced players. Its heightened pop proves advantageous in winning crucial points, while the spin facilitates precise shots and speed-ups, adding finesse by allowing the ball to dip at the end, keeping shots well within play.
Small Sweet Spot: Although the sweet spot might seem somewhat limited initially, a simple fix involves adding lead tape to broaden the sweet spot and improve stability. Once adjusted, this paddle becomes an ideal fit, offering a personalized touch for optimum performance.
The Fire 14mm paddle stands out as a versatile and powerful tool on the court. Its blend of pop, spin, and control and its unique design elements make it an excellent choice for players looking to take their game to the next level.
SpeedUp Fire 14mm Features
Core Thickness: 14mm
Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
Paddle Face Material: Aerospace Grade Toray T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
Construction: Thermoformed Unibody Edge with Foam Edge Walls
Paddle Shape: Hybrid
Handle Shape: Octogonal
Handle Material: Polyurethane Mold over Reinforced Carbon Fiber
Warranty: Click here for details
Paddle Weight: 7.7 ounces*
Swing Weight: 117*
Twist Weight: 5.91*
Spin: 2016 RPM**
Paddle Length: 16.5 inches
Paddle Width: 7.5 inches
Handle length: 6 inches
Handle Circumference: 4.125 inches
Save 10% using code SIMPLYPB
* Simply Pickleball test results.
**Results from JohnKew Pickleball. I will provide my results once testing has been completed.
SpeedUp Pickleball Paddle Review: Ice 16mm
The Ice 16 paddle is for those searching for a paddle that perfectly marries spin, power, and control. My experience with this paddle has been exceptional, meeting all the criteria for an ideal balance between softness, spin, and power. The 6-inch handle is a game-changer for adding power to a 16mm paddle.
Control: One of its notable features is the paddle’s capacity to provide a softer feel while still delivering the desired spin and power. Despite its ability to produce powerful shots, the paddle maintains a soft touch for delicate dinks and resets, courtesy of its ample sweet spot.
Power: What truly impressed me was the incredible spin and power I could generate with my drives and drops.
Elongated Handle: Its 6-inch handle is just right, allowing a confident grip while executing two-handed backhands. This enhancement significantly improves the execution of various shots, offering comfort and a firm hold during intense rallies.
Price: Remaining true to its name, the Ice 16 embodies control, touch, and calculated power. Its performance competes with top-tier paddles on the market while maintaining an unbeatable price. This paddle isn’t just about dominating the court but mastering every shot with finesse and precision.
The Ice 16 paddle is for players seeking a versatile, high-performance paddle that balances power, spin, control, and touch. Whether unleashing powerful drives or delicately placing drop shots, this paddle consistently delivers, making it a standout choice for players of all skill levels.
SpeedUp Ice 16mm Features
Core Thickness: 16mm
Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
Paddle Face Material: Aerospace Grade Toray T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
Construction: Thermoformed Unibody Edge with Foam Edge Walls
Paddle Shape: Elongated
Handle Shape: Octogonal
Handle Material: Polyurethane Mold over Reinforced Carbon Fiber
Warranty: Click here for details
Paddle Weight: 7.8 ounces*
Swing Weight: 122*
Twist Weight: 6.06*
Spin: 1863 RPM**
Paddle Length: 16.5 inches
Paddle Width: 7.5 inches
Handle Length: 6 inches
Handle Circumference: 4.125 inches
Save 10% using code SIMPLYPB
* Simply Pickleball test results.
**Results from JohnKew Pickleball. I will provide my results once testing has been completed.
How do you Increase Your Paddle Speed in Pickleball?
Improving your paddle speed in pickleball involves a combination of technique, strength, and timing. Here are some tips to help increase your paddle speed:
- Proper Grip: Ensure you’re holding the paddle correctly. Use a continental or Eastern backhand grip, which allows for more wrist action and better control, enhancing speed.
- Footwork and Positioning: Position yourself well to anticipate shots, allowing you to use your body’s momentum to generate power. Quick and efficient footwork helps you get into the right position to hit the ball effectively.
- Swing Technique: Focus on a compact but powerful swing. Rotate your body and use your core muscles to generate power. Practice hitting the ball with a smooth but swift motion, emphasizing acceleration through the ball.
- Wrist Snap: Utilize your wrist to snap the paddle through the ball at the point of contact. This snap adds extra speed and spin to your shots.
- Strength and Conditioning: Strengthening your core, arms, and wrists can significantly improve your paddle speed. Incorporate exercises that target these areas, such as wrist curls, forearm exercises, and rotational core workouts.
- Practice Drills: Engage in drills specifically designed to improve speed and reaction time. For example, practice rapid-fire volleys or quick exchanges at the kitchen (non-volley) line.
- Consistent Practice: Repetition is key. Regularly practicing your shots with a focus on speed and accuracy will gradually improve your paddle speed over time.
What are the Benefits of Hitting a Speed-up in Pickleball?
Hitting a speed-up shot in pickleball can offer several advantages during gameplay:
- Element of Surprise: A speed-up shot can catch your opponents off guard, disrupting their rhythm and forcing them into a reactive mode. It’s a quick and unexpected shot that can often lead to an unprepared return or even an outright winner.
- Reduced Reaction Time: The speed-up shot travels fast and low over the net, giving your opponents less time to react and adjust their positioning. This can put pressure on them to make a quick decision and execute a difficult return.
- Placement: When executed well, a speed-up shot can be placed precisely to exploit openings on the court. It allows you to aim for sidelines or target areas where your opponents might have difficulty reaching, increasing the chances of winning the point.
- Offensive Play: The speed-up shot is an offensive weapon that can be used to dictate the pace of the game. It can be employed to take control of the rally, keeping your opponents on the defensive and allowing you to maintain momentum.
- Strategic Variation: Introducing variety in your shots is crucial in pickleball. Using a speed-up shot strategically amidst slower, higher shots can keep opponents guessing and prevent them from anticipating your next move.
- Pressure Building: Continuously using aggressive shots like the speed-up can create pressure on your opponents, making them more prone to errors or weaker returns, ultimately increasing your chances of winning points.
How to Hit a Two-Handed Backhand in Pickleball
Step 1: Proper Paddle Grip
Begin by correctly holding the paddle. Grip it with both hands, positioning your non-dominant hand atop the handle and your dominant hand below it. Maintain a secure yet relaxed grip, wrapping your fingers around the handle and lightly resting your thumb on top. Consider a paddle with an extended grip for better support, though comfort with the correct circumference is key. Some players find standard paddles more conducive to control despite potential challenges with a two-handed backhand shot.
Step 2: Positioning
Just as with a one-handed backhand, positioning is crucial for a two-handed backhand drive. Stand with shoulder-width apart, slightly bent knees, and distribute weight evenly between both feet. Face the net with your shoulders slightly turned to the side. This stance offers optimal maneuverability for various shots, including the two-handed backhand, forehand drive, or dinking the ball.
Step 3: Paddle Swing
Initiate the swing by acknowledging the paddle’s weight, as it affects shot power. Begin with the paddle raised slightly behind your body, facing downward. Move the paddle forward smoothly and fluidly, utilizing both hands to generate power. As the paddle aligns parallel to the ground, rotate your hips and shoulders towards the net, employing leg movement for added power, resulting in a controlled, forceful shot.
Step 4: Follow Through
Completing the swing post-contact is crucial. Continue the motion by propelling the paddle forward and upward with both hands, ensuring control over the shot to keep the ball in play.
Step 5: Essential Tips To enhance your two-handed backhand drive:
- Regular practice is key to mastery. Dedicate time for solo and partner practice sessions.
- Focus on the ball while swinging to ensure solid contact with the paddle’s sweet spot.
- Utilize your legs to generate power for a forceful shot.
- Work on timing and coordination for consistent, accurate ball contact.
SpeedUp Pickleball Paddle Review: FAQs
At Speedup Pickleball, the commitment to product excellence stands strong. In the event of a manufacturing defect found in a paddle, the following commitments are made:
Replacement Guarantee: Paddles confirmed to have manufacturing defects will be replaced without any additional charges.
Evaluation: The company retains the right to inspect and authenticate reported defects. Replacement will be authorized only upon verification.
90-Day Timeframe: To be eligible for a replacement, the paddle must be returned within 90 days from the purchase date.
Return Shipping: Customers are responsible for the shipping costs of returning a paddle under this warranty.
Exclusions: Damages from misuse or abuse are not covered by this warranty.
Replacement Limitation: Each purchased paddle is eligible for a single replacement under this policy.
Original Purchaser: This warranty exclusively applies to the original purchaser of the paddle.
Claim Process: To initiate a warranty claim:
Contact the company via email at speeduppickle@gmail.com OR use the contact page. Use ‘WARRANTY CLAIM’ as the subject line. Include in the email: Name of the original purchaser Order number Date of the original purchase Shipping address Description of the defect or reason for the replacement request The dedicated team will promptly assess the claim and offer guidance for the next steps
At Speedup Pickleball, commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction is paramount. In the event you’re not completely satisfied with a paddle, the company offers a clear-cut return policy:
14-Day Money-Back Guarantee: If the paddle doesn’t meet your expectations, you can return it within 14 days of purchase for a full refund, no inquiries necessary.
Extended Return Period: Unused paddles in their original packaging can be returned within 30 days of purchase for a full refund.
Shipping & Handling: Customers are responsible for all shipping and handling costs associated with the return.
Original Buyer: Refunds are processed exclusively for the original purchaser of the paddle.
Claim Process: To initiate a paddle return, please follow these steps:
Contact the company via email at speeduppickle@gmail.com OR through our contact page. Use ‘REFUND CLAIM’ as the subject line. Provide the following details in your email: Name of the original purchaser Order number Original purchase date Shipping address
SpeedUp Pickleball Paddle Review: Conclusion
I play both SpeedUp paddles; they’ve added power and speed to my game. I’ve gotten so used to the 6-inch handle that I have difficulty returning to my shorter handle-length paddles. At $120, you can’t beat the craftsmanship, high-end materials, and next-generation design. Give them a try, and let me know what you think. I hope you found this SpeedUp Pickleball paddle review helpful. Happy Dinking!
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