Revisiting PROLITE: A Dive into the LX Series Paddle
PROLITE stands as a pioneering name in the world of pickleball paddles. This brand was at the forefront of developing many paddle technologies we now take for granted. If you’ve been part of the pickleball community for over a decade, it’s likely you’ve wielded a PROLITE paddle. As new brands have emerged over the years, PROLITE paddles may not be as frequently seen today, but the launch of their new LX Series signals their intent to reclaim a prominent spot in the competitive scene.
Understanding the LX Series Design
The PROLITE LX Series features four distinct paddle shapes that share a common technological foundation. For this review, I specifically focused on the Supernova Pro shape. After dedicating two weeks to practice and play with this paddle, I’m ready to share my insights into its performance.
Going into the review, I made some predictions about how the paddle might perform based on its shape and materials. However, my actual experience turned out to be quite different from my expectations. Typically, paddles with a 14 mm thickness lean toward providing ample pop while slightly sacrificing touch. To my surprise, the Supernova Pro behaved differently; it felt like a specialized control paddle and lacked the expected pop.
Control Over Power: A Surprising Result
From the first moment I picked up the Supernova Pro, I found myself effortlessly executing excellent thirds, dinks, and delicate touch shots. The paddle offered me a level of control akin to that of a 16 mm core, all while fitting into a 14 mm structure. This design provides a nice blend of touch and speed without feeling excessively heavy. Despite my ability to manage the pace and placement of the ball, there was a certain stiffness and hard sensation to the paddle that I found unappealing.
Another aspect that caught me off guard was the power aspect. I had anticipated that a paddle with a thinner core would deliver a bit of a punch, but I was disappointed to find it had considerably less paddle power than I had hoped. While I usually prefer paddles that feel more subdued regarding pop—allowing me to generate my own strength—this time I ended up applying several strips of lead tape to achieve the right amount of pop. Unfortunately, adding that lead tape diluted the paddle’s lightweight feel it had in its initial state. Consequently, the Supernova Pro is ideally suited for players who are confident in their capability to generate power themselves and appreciate quick, easily controlled paddles.
Performance Highlights: Soft Game Dominance
In essence, the Supernova Pro shines as a highly effective control paddle that excels in softer gameplay. It boasts a nimble and light quality, making it easy to handle, but this agility comes with a considerable drop in overall power. While players can enjoy remarkable control over the ball’s movement, the general feel of the paddle didn’t resonate with me.
If patience and a defensive approach define your play, this paddle could be a well-matched companion. It boasts an admirable mix of control and maneuverability, perfect for those who prefer a strategic game. However, even for those who can generate extra power, I believe they might still feel the lack of pop from this paddle.
Pricing and Quality: A Dual Evaluation
As I wrapped up my review, one aspect that stood out was the price tag—the paddle retails for around $190. Given this investment, I would have expected a more premium feel in terms of quality to align with its overall performance and aesthetics. Unfortunately, the most significant shortcoming for me remained the unsatisfactory sensation it provided during play.
The balance between design, cost, and performance is crucial, especially in a market filled with numerous options. For $190, players typically expect not only top performance but also a sense of satisfaction in terms of touch and feel on the court. The Supernova Pro, while impressive in control, didn’t deliver the satisfying feedback that many players seek.
Who Should Consider the Supernova Pro?
After my comprehensive review of the PROLITE Supernova Pro, I can confidently say it is best suited for players who prioritize control and prefer a methodical playing style. It’s not a paddle that thrives on raw power; instead, it rewards those who adopt a patient approach with smart shot placement and tactical gameplay.
If you’re someone who relies on skillful manipulation of the ball rather than brute force, you may find the Supernova Pro to be beneficial. Its lightweight design allows for rapid movements, crucial for executing quick dinks or tricky angles. Despite its drawbacks in power, its control is a significant attribute that many dedicated players would appreciate.
Final Thoughts on PROLITE’s Comeback
The PROLITE LX Series, particularly the Supernova Pro, marks an interesting moment in the paddle landscape. While it strives to cater to a player’s need for control over power, it doesn’t quite satisfy every player’s performance expectations. For those looking for an agile and commanding control paddle, the Supernova Pro could be worth your while. However, power-hungry players might want to keep searching.
In an era filled with choices, PROLITE is making a commendable attempt to reestablish itself among the leading paddle brands. As they continue to evolve and innovate within the competitive pickleball scene, it’ll be interesting to see how they refine their products in response to player feedback and preferences.
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