Beatnik Space Blade Review | Advanced Play Performance
Beatnik Space Blade Kevlar Pro Series Pickleball Paddle Review
The Beatnik Space Blade represents the pinnacle of pickleball paddle design, blending cutting-edge engineering with expert player input. According to the manufacturer, it is crafted with a Kevlar Heart and high-end 12K Carbon Fiber Face, delivering unmatched power, control, and spin. It’s recommended for aggressive, advanced players seeking power. While the paddle excels in power and spin, advanced players will require existing touch and control skills to fully benefit from its performance.
Specifications
- Weight: 7.9 oz
- Dimensions: 15.85 inches x 7.85 inches
- Thickness: 16 mm
- Material: 12K Carbon Fiber Face, Polypropylene honeycomb core
- Handle Length: 5.51 inches
- Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches
Performance Analysis
- Power: High – Excellent baseline drives, especially with added lead tape.
- Spin: High – Initial RPMs measured at 2040.
- Control/Feel: Poor – Struggles with blocks and third-shot drops.
- Pop: Exceptionally high – Ball jumps off the paddle.
- Forgiveness: Low – Smaller sweet spot, less stability.
- Maneuverability: Average – Low swing weight but suffers in twist weight.
Beatnik Space Blade In-Depth Review
Design & Build Quality
The Beatnik Space Blade paddle boasts a 12K carbon fiber face with a Kevlar heart that strengthens the paddle at the throat where the handle and face meet. It features two layers of fiberglass beneath the carbon fiber and a 16 mm polypropylene honeycomb core. The spray-on grit surface is designed for spin but may wear out over time. The fiberglass tubular braids along the edges provide reinforcement in the absence of an edge guard. The anti-vibration pro grip enhances comfort. Beatnik’s version of the Hesacore Grip.
On-Court Performance
This paddle excels in generating power and spin, making it ideal for aggressive players. However, its control is lacking a bit, especially for blocks and third-shot drops. The paddle’s pop is exceptionally high, similar to the Diadem Vice, with the ball jumping off the paddle. Despite its high performance in power and spin, the paddle has poor forgiveness and often twists in hand on hard hits due to its low twist weight and edgeless design. Adding a bit of weight to the head of the paddle significantly improved its twist weight, enhancing its overall performance.
Power
Out of the box, the paddle has significant power, more powerful than Gen 2 paddles, and comparable to high-end paddles like the Gearbox or Joola Gen 3 Magnus. After adding lead tape to the head, the paddle’s power is enhanced further, making it almost as powerful as the Gearbox and Joola Gen 3 Magnus.
Spin
The paddle generates high spin with initial RPMs measured at 2040. Initially, the spray-on grit surface performs well, providing excellent spin. However, only time will tell as spray-on grit generally deteriorates after extended play. I will update this review in the future based on long-term usage.
Control
The paddle struggles with precision shots, often resulting in either very good or very bad shots with little consistency in between. Because I drill regularly and have good touch, my shots were a lot more consistent than when Sid tested the paddle.
Pop
The paddle is highly responsive, with the ball jumping off immediately, making it one of the most “poppy” paddles available.
Forgiveness
With a smaller sweet spot and less stability, the paddle is less forgiving on off-center hits.
Maneuverability
The low swing weight allows for flexible lead tape placement, but the paddle initially suffers in twist weight, making it less stable during play.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional power and pop
- High spin potential
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Comfortable anti-vibration grip
Cons:
- Poor control and forgiveness
- Spray-on grit surface may wear out quickly
- Edgeless design reduces stability
- Not suitable for beginners
Player Feedback
Other players that tested this paddle have noted the paddle’s high power and pop but mentioned its poor control and stability. It is highly recommended for singles play or players who enjoy hitting hard but not for those seeking precision and control.
Final Thoughts on the Beatnik Space Blade
The Beatnik Space Blade paddle is suitable for advanced players who prioritize power and spin over control. Its high pop and power make it an excellent choice for aggressive play, but its lack of control and durability concerns may deter some players. This paddle is highly recommended for singles play or players who enjoy hitting hard but is not ideal for beginners. Compared to similar paddles in the market, it stands out for its unique build and high performance in power and spin, but players should consider their play style before purchasing. Verdict: This paddle will be added to my bag for singles play.
Comparable Paddles
- Selkirk Power Air
- Pro Drive Ghost
- Gearbox Power Pro
- Joola Gen 3 Magnus
- Diadem Vice
Q&A
Q: Is the Beatnik Space Blade suitable for beginners?
A: No, the paddle’s high power and lack of control make it more suitable for advanced players.
Q: How does the paddle handle spin?
A: The paddle generates high spin with initial RPMs measured at 2040, but the spray-on grit surface may wear out within 1-2 months.
Q: What is the weight of the Beatnik Space Blade paddle?
A: The paddle that we recieved weighs 7.9 ounces.
Q: Does the paddle come with an edge guard?
A: No, the paddle has an edgeless design with fiberglass tubular braids for reinforcement.
Price: $219 Use code PICKLEBALLTIP10 at the Beatnik Sports website for 10% off, bringing the price to $197.10.
I’m a small person, and most paddles don’t get the ball over the net for me. I used this paddle, and wow. It goes flying. I love this paddle.
The ball flies off of this paddle, the dwell time is miliseconds, plays very fast. I love this paddle for playing singles.
The Space Blade paddle by Beatnik – The power is amazing, and it’s so quick at the net. I’ve noticed a big improvement in my serves and returns. The surface texture adds a lot of spin too.
The Beatnik Space Blade is a solid paddle. It’s got great power, and the control is pretty good too. My serves have improved a lot, and I’m loving the extra spin. Definitely a paddle worth considering if you want to up your game.
Using the Beatnik Space Blade has made a noticeable difference in my game. I’m able to serve much harder and still maintain control over my shots. The spin is incredible! I’ve already told my pickleball friends to give it a try.
The Space Blade paddle by Beatnik is truly unique. It gives me incredible power without losing control, which I didn’t think was possible before. My serves have become much stronger, and the spin I can generate with this paddle is out of this world. It’s a must-have for serious players.
I was searching for a paddle that was light with a good bit of power and a small handle. I am a smaller lady, with a little bit of a tennis background. Sid recommended I try this paddle. It is great. It does most of the work for me, I just have to aim. Get this paddle.