Paddle Review: The Shogun by Bread & Butter
Bread & Butter’s new paddle, the Shogun, has created quite a buzz in the racket sports community. Known for its engaging marketing and bold personality, the brand has gained a following with its performance paddles. However, some critics believe they lack innovation, labeling them primarily as an “Instagram brand.” The launch of the Shogun, featuring a titanium composite face, marks a significant step for the brand and has the potential to change perceptions. After extensive use of the Shogun in both practice and competitive play, let’s dive into a detailed review of its performance and features.
The Key Features of the Shogun Paddle
Understanding the basics of paddle performance is essential for any player. Here’s a breakdown of the pivotal attributes of the Shogun:
– Control/Feel: 88%
– Power: 86%
– Pop: 87%
– Spin: 92%
– Forgiveness: 84%
– Maneuverability: 81%
Basic Specifications
– Static Weight: 8 oz (average)
– Swingweight: 119-122 (high)
– Twistweight: 6.1-6.2 (moderate)
– Spin RPMs: 1928 (high)
– Dimensions: 16.5” x 7.375” (elongated)
– Face Material: Titanium/Carbon Fiber Weave
– Grip Circumference: 4.25”
– Handle Length: 5.5”
– Core Composition: 16mm Polypropylene Honeycomb with Foam Walls
– Notable Features: Thermoformed
– Paddle Type: All-court
– Price: $189.99 (discounted to $162 with promo code 15EFFECT)
– Warranty: 30-day satisfaction guarantee and a six-month warranty
Promotional Offer
For those interested, utilize the discount code “15EFFECT” to get 15% off your purchase directly from the brand’s website.
Performance Overview
Thermoformed paddles gained popularity in early 2023. These paddles have been noted for their excellent all-court playing style, outperforming previous designs. Historically, the downside of thermoformed paddles was a firmer, harsher feel during play. While many players have grown accustomed to this, using a non-thermoformed paddle can remind you how luxuriously soft and connected to the ball that traditional paddles can feel.
What if a thermoformed paddle could combine that plush touch with the aggressive power typically sought in an all-court paddle? That is precisely what Bread & Butter aimed to achieve with the Shogun. Featuring a titanium and carbon fiber composite, this paddle delivers the expected power while maintaining a softer touch upon impact. This unique combination offers players the explosive ability of a top-tier paddle while keeping a more pleasant feel that is usually associated with control paddles.
Moving beyond the typical expectations, the Shogun differentiates itself from other thermoformed models by blending comfort and versatility seamlessly. While I’ve tested other models that offer a softer feel, such as the Loco, they don’t quite maintain the all-court characteristics endemic to stiffer paddles. The Shogun shines as the first of its kind, delivering a balance of power, control, and a lively feel that players will likely welcome. Its responsiveness sets it apart from more muted competitors, promising a distinctive experience that many will enjoy. It isn’t surprising that the second half of the year could usher in a variety of titanium-faced paddles following the Shogun’s success.
Spin Performance
The Shogun also impressed during spin tests. Achieving an average of 1928 RPMs, it produced excellent spin, positioning itself favorably against other leading paddles in the market. This impressive performance makes it a valuable addition to any player’s toolkit, offering versatility when combined with its other capabilities.
Packaging and Presentation
One of the standout aspects of the Shogun and Bread & Butter’s gear overall is the premium presentation and packaging. Many brands overlook this facet, but Bread & Butter takes it seriously. Unpacking the customized Shogun box is an experience, revealing additional goodies alongside the paddle. It enhances the excitement of receiving your new gear.
In addition to the paddle, I also picked up the Shogun t-shirt, which offers a comfortable fit. It’s a fun addition to your gear and a great way to support the brand.
Who Should Choose the Shogun?
If you appreciate playing with the Filth model by Bread & Butter, the Shogun is a logical next step. Those transitioning from similarly shaped paddles like the CRBN 1X or the Vatic Pro V7 will likely find this paddle to their liking. However, for players accustomed to hybrid or standard-shaped paddles, the heavier and elongated design might feel uncomfortable.
It’s worth noting that the grip circumference of the Shogun is slightly larger than the Filth model, so that may be a factor for some players to consider. While it appears Bread & Butter intends to introduce their titanium face across other paddle shapes like the Loco in the future, it’s currently offered only in this design. If the Shogun doesn’t suit your preferences, you might have to wait for new models to emerge.
Understanding Paddle Categories
To ensure you select the right paddle for your playing style, it’s important to comprehend the different categories that exist. Bread & Butter classifies paddles into three primary types: Control, All-Court, and Power. Here’s a brief overview of each category:
– Control Paddles: These paddles provide a softer feel, absorbing the ball’s pace effectively. They focus more on touch and precision, sacrificing some power in the process.
– All-Court Paddles: This category represents a harmonious blend of power and control. It performs well across various situations, providing balanced versatility but may not excel in any specific area.
– Power Paddles: Firm by nature, these paddles deliver explosive power in returns but can challenge player control. They often lack the soft touch that some players prefer.
By understanding these categories, you can make a more informed decision about which paddle suits your style of play.
In summary, the Shogun paddle is an impressive offering from Bread & Butter, combining an innovative design with high-performance metrics. It delivers power, feel, and spin, all while being visually stunning and well-packaged. As players continue to explore new technologies in paddle design, the Shogun may well set a new standard for thermoformed paddles. Be ready to see how this new face material influences the future of paddle sports.
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