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New Selkirk — From Kip Lacey

Hey everyone, Kip here! I’ve been testing out the Selkirk SLK Halo Pro XL and wanted to share my first-hand experience with this paddle. Let’s dive into what makes it unique and how it performs on the court.

First Impressions

The SLK Halo Pro XL sports a 14mm polymer core paired with a Kevlar-carbon fiber surface. Available in dark blue and red, this paddle is part of Selkirk’s Gen 2 thermor lineup, featuring a unibody construction with foam around the perimeter to enhance the sweet spot and provide a comfortable hitting experience. Its slightly smaller dimensions (16.4” x 7.4”) and a 5.75” handle make it ideal for two-handed players seeking stability and grip.

On-Court Performance

Right off the bat, I noticed the paddle’s head-light feel, even after increasing its weight from 7.7 ounces to 8.3. It’s quick and nimble, especially during fast exchanges at the net. The lightweight design ensures smooth movement through the hitting zone, which is great for keeping up with fast-paced play.

Power and Control

Power-wise, the Halo Pro XL holds its own. My serves averaged 48.8 mph, putting it on par with most paddles in its class. While it won’t blow you away with raw power, it offers balanced, consistent performance.

In terms of control, this paddle exceeded my expectations. The 14mm core delivers a soft, cushioned feel that’s great for precise shots. Spin is decent—not groundbreaking, but reliable enough for most players.

Feel and Feedback

The soft feel of the Halo Pro XL stands out, there is great feedback on each shot. The sweet spot is consistent when you hit near the center, though there’s a noticeable drop in performance when hitting closer to the edges.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Head-light balance makes it easy to maneuver.

• Soft, plush response offers great comfort and feedback.

• Highly customizable weight for tailored play.

Cons:

• The soft feel might lack punch for players seeking more power.

• Performance dips near the edges of the paddle.

Final Thoughts

In my opinion, this is the best SLK paddle Selkirk has released. It doesn’t dominate in any single area but performs above average across the board. Traditionally, the SLK line has been seen as entry-level, but the Halo Pro XL feels aimed at more experienced players.

At around $150, it’s a solid value for anyone looking for a versatile, reliable paddle. It really shines at the non-volley zone with its speed and responsiveness. Whether you’re a seasoned player or looking for an upgrade, this paddle is worth considering.

If you’ve had a chance to try the SLK Halo Pro XL, let me know your thoughts! Keep hitting!

Tifosi Lenses— From Destin Perry

Hey friends, I’ve been using Tifosi lenses for the last three weeks during both tennis and pickleball, and I wanted to share my honest thoughts on how they fit into my game. Here’s the lowdown after some thorough real-world testing.

The Research

According to a study by African Vision & Eye Health, non-polarized tinted sunglasses (like these) don’t have a statistically significant effect on depth perception in well-lit conditions. I can confirm this: tracking the ball wasn’t an issue at all while using the Tifosi lenses.

First Impressions

They’re affordable but don’t feel cheap—definitely a step up from most budget options out there. I was impressed by the sturdy build and wide range of colorways and styles, which feel fresh without being over-the-top flashy.

Real-World Testing

I don’t normally play with glasses, so there was an adjustment period. Playing in darker conditions (or even just under the shaded tint) made things tricky during competitive matches. I’ll admit, in those moments when every little edge counts, I ended up ditching the glasses to avoid the slight vision restriction.

That said, for coaching or casual play on sunny days, they were awesome. If the dimmer tint gives you pause, Tifosi offers clear lens options, which Mike covered in detail in his write-up. Those clear lenses seem like a great solution for anyone needing eye protection without altering their view.

Heads-Up on the Design

One thing to note: the center of the lenses on this model looks like a clear pane, but there’s actually a plastic piece behind it that restricts your field of vision a bit. I expected a more open design for full-range visibility, so that was a small disappointment.

Wrapping Up

Overall, I’d recommend Tifosi, especially if you regularly wear glasses during ball sports or just need reliable eye protection. For indoor play or those worried about vision darkening, their clear lenses are a fantastic option. I’ll definitely be pointing my pickleball students toward those.

If you’ve tried Tifosi lenses, let me know your experience—I’d love to hear what works for you!