Engage Pursuit PRO1 6.0 Review

I recently had the opportunity to test the Engage Pursuit PRO1 6.0, and I am excited to share my insights. This paddle promises a great blend power and spin, making it a top choice for pickleball players aiming to elevate their game. Here’s my take based on my experience on the court.

From the first serve to the final point, the Pursuit PRO1 6.0 delivered consistent performance. It’s textured surface provided excellent spin control, while the sturdy build ensured powerful shots without compromising on precision. However, it’s important to note that my review is based on personal experience and gameplay, not just manufacturer claims. While I found it to be an impressive paddle, other players might have different preferences depending on their style and skill level.

Introducing the Engage Pursuit PRO1 6.0

The Engage Pursuit PRO1 6.0 is the latest addition to Engage’s flagship line of paddles. Utilizing advanced technologies, this paddle is already making waves among pro players like Jessie Irvine, Alix Truong, and others. Here’s why it stands out:

Innovative Technologies

MachPro Polymer Core

This new core, designed exclusively by Engage, delivers maximum power while maintaining an extended dwell time at the point of contact with the ball. Engage claims this results in enhanced spin and control on every shot. In my experience, the MachPro core indeed provides a solid feel and a noticeable enhanced boost in power, over most other control paddles. Meaning you do not need to sacrifice power for control.

Redesigned Shape

The aerodynamic shape of the paddle increases swing speed, creating more power and spin while optimizing the sweet spot for maximum forgiveness. On the court, I found the paddle’s shape allowed for quicker hand movements and better reaction times, particularly in fast hands exchanges at the net.

Variable Release 2.0 Technology

Exclusive to the PRO1, this technology delivers even more flex than previous models, providing electrifying spin and power as you swing faster. I noticed this technology at work during my serves and overhead smashes; the paddle flexed perfectly to add extra spin and power, confirming Engage’s claims.

Raw Toray T700 Carbon Fiber

With a proprietary layering and bonding technology, the PRO1 6.0 offers maximum texture and friction for unmatched spin. The carbon fiber face, although it does not feel overly gritty, provided excellent grip on the ball, significantly enhancing my top spins and slices.

Vortex Barrier Edge Technology

This next-generation composite is injected into the outer cells for weight distribution and vibration control. During play, I felt reduced vibrations and more stable hits, which helped minimize arm fatigue over extended sessions. Although I have not played with this paddle for long, I suspect that this will reduce the potential for tennis elbow and golfers elbow.

Specifications

• Colors: Arctic Gold, Jessie Irvine Signature, and for a limited time Engage is offering a Red-White-Blue colorway, and a Camouflage colorway.
• Shape: 16.5″ x 7.5″ with a 5.875″ handle length
• Core Thickness: 5/8″ thick for more control and ball feel
• Weight: 8.0 – 8.3 oz (Standard) / 7.6 – 7.9 oz (Lite)
• Grip Circumference: 4 3/8”
• USAPA approved for tournament play

Performance Insights

First Impressions

Out of the box, the paddle felt stiff yet accurate. The design and build quality were impressive, and I couldn’t wait to test it on the court.

Power and Accuracy

Engage claims that the PRO1 6.0 delivers exceptional power and accuracy, and I found this to be true. The paddle’s power was consistent and flexed more with harder swings, especially noticeable during serves. This new flex of the handle took a little while to get used to, but it was impressive after I learned how to use it. It’s accuracy allowed for precise placement of shots, making it easier to control the game.

Feedback and Feel

The paddle provides good feedback with a soft yet solid feel and minimal vibration. The combination of the core and face layers contributes to the dwell time and overall feel, enhancing control and spin.

Versatility

The paddle excels in both offensive and defensive play. It is quick at the net and easy to maneuver, partly due to its hybrid shape. The large sweet spot enhances the paddle’s versatility, making it suitable for various playing styles.

Pros and Cons Based on Player Experiences

Pros

• Exceptional power and spin compared to other control paddles
• Great control at the net
• Enhanced accuracy for precise shots
• Large sweet spot
• Minimal vibration reducing arm fatigue

Cons

• High price point
• Adjustment period for maximum power use
• I found it slightly stiff initially

Q&A Section

What makes the Engage Pursuit PRO1 6.0 different from other paddles?

The Engage Pursuit PRO1 6.0 features the MachPro Polymer Core, Variable Release 2.0 Technology, and Raw Toray T700 Carbon Fiber. These technologies provide an unmatched blend of power, spin, and control.

Is the Engage Pursuit PRO1 6.0 USAPA approved?

Yes, the Engage Pursuit PRO1 6.0 is USAPA approved for tournament play.

What is the weight range of the Engage Pursuit PRO1 6.0?

The paddle comes in two weight variations: Standard (8.0 – 8.3 oz) and Lite (7.6 – 7.9 oz). The paddle that I tested was an 8.0 oz.

How does the paddle handle vibrations?

With technologies like the Vortex Barrier Edge and Counter Balance, the paddle effectively reduces vibrations, minimizing the risk of tennis elbow and arm fatigue.

Final Thoughts

The Engage Pursuit PRO1 6.0 is a testament to Engage’s commitment to innovation in pickleball paddle design. Its combination of power, spin, and control makes it a valuable addition to any player’s arsenal. While the price is on the higher end, the performance and advanced technologies justify the investment. My experience with this paddle has been overwhelmingly positive, and I believe it can help any player looking to enhance their game. This paddle definitely makes a case to replace my main paddle, the Joola Hyperion C2.

Save 20% off of the MSRP at EngagePickleball.com