Pursuit Ultra EX 6.0 Carbon Fiber Paddle Review
Pursuit Ultra EX 6.0 Carbon Fiber Paddle Review – Engage Pickleball
The Pursuit Ultra EX 6.0 Carbon Fiber Paddle by Engage Pickleball is a control focused paddle with a premium build, sleek design, and an ambitious price tag. After extensive playtesting, here’s my detailed breakdown of what worked, what fell short, and who this paddle might be right for, even though it’s no longer available. Newer technology is now being implemented into Engage Pickleball paddles, like the new Pursuit Pro1 Innovation 15.2mm.
Paddle Overview
Originally retailing at $260, the Pursuit Ultra EX 6.0 came as an upgrade to the popular Pursuit line. This model features Engage’s R210 Carbon Fiber face, Control Pro Black Polymer Core, Counter Balance Technology, and signature Vortex Barrier Edge and Uniform Guard technologies.
Key Features & Technologies
- R210 Carbon Fiber: Designed to enhance grit and spin, but actual spin measured lower than expected (~1300 RPM).
- Control Pro Black Polymer Core: Softest feel in Engage’s lineup, giving players excellent touch and control.
- Counter Balance Technology: Meant to improve hand speed and reduce fatigue, though swing weight results didn’t reflect much improvement.
- Vortex Barrier Edge & Uniform Guard: Added for durability and better face consistency.
Technical Specifications
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 16″ |
| Core Thickness | 16mm (5/8″) |
| Weight | 8.2–8.5 oz |
| Grip Circumference | 4 3/8″ |
| Handle Length | 5″ |
| Material | Carbon Fiber Face, Polymer Core |
| Approved | USAPA Tournament Approved |
Pursuit Ultra EX 6 Performance Insights
Control & Feel
The control is where this paddle shines. Resets, dinks, and drops feel smooth and intuitive. The feel off the paddle is one of the most pleasant I’ve ever experienced—soft yet crisp with a consistent pop that adds precision to every shot.
Power
Compared to the original Pursuit, the Ultra EX 6.0 has slightly reduced power. While some players may welcome this for better control, others might miss the punch and pop that made the original Pursuit so exciting. I personally felt that Engage should have preserved that power advantage to compete better with modern thermoformed paddles.
Spin
This was my biggest disappointment. Despite the advertised textured surface, spin generation was mediocre at best. I clocked it around 1300 RPM—lower than many leading paddles on the market today. Additionally, the surface texture wore down quickly, diminishing spin even further after a few sessions.
Handle & Grip
The handle design is a step backward. The exposed polymer in the handle feels cheap for a paddle at this price point. The grip circumference has also increased, making it feel bulky. Female players or anyone with smaller hands may find this uncomfortable, especially after adding an overgrip.
Balance & Swing Weight
Despite claims of Counter Balance Technology, the swing weights were largely unchanged from the original line. The EX 6.0 still felt a bit head heavy. Here are some rough swing weight values from tests:
- EX 6.0: 118
- EX: 110
- MX 6.0: 130
- MX: 115
Comparing the Pursuit Ultra EX 6.0 vs the Original Pursuit
- Softer feel but reduced power
- Similar spin, still below modern standards
- Chunkier grip and still exposed polymer
- Sweet spot remains largely the same
Ultimately, it feels like a minor iteration, not a true upgrade.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Excellent feel, high control, quality build, consistent performance, lifetime warranty
- Cons: Mediocre spin, reduced power, poor handle quality, overpriced compared to competitors
Pursuit Ultra EX 6 FAQ
Yes, its soft feel and consistent touch make it ideal for control oriented pickleball players.
Spin generation is moderate and below modern paddle standards. Texture wears down quickly, reducing long-term performance.
Not for most players. The original Pursuit offered similar performance for less. Better value paddles exist under $200.
Quick Summary of the Pursuit Ultra EX 6.0
- Great feel and control
- Subpar spin and slightly reduced power
- Handle could be improved
- Better alternatives at lower price points
Although the Pursuit Ultra EX 6.0 Carbon Fiber Paddle is discontinued and replaced by newer models like the Engage Pursuit Pro1 Innovation 15.2mm, it remains an interesting chapter in Engage’s product evolution.
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