Pickleball Apes Pulse V Review
Pickleball Apes Pulse V: A Dense, Crisp Feel and Surprising Sweet Spot
The Pickleball Apes Pulse V has sparked debate since its release, control paddle or sneaky power weapon? Some say it’s a great for all court play, while others claim it leans more toward power than advertised. So, which is it?
To find out, I borrowed a friend’s Pulse V and put in over five hours of drills and match play. I tested it against top competitors like the Joola Scorpeus 3S, Ronbus FX R2, Sixzero Double Black Diamond, and Bread & Butter Fat Boy to see how it truly performs.
With its widebody design, 5.5 inch handle, and one of the largest sweet spots I’ve experienced, the Pulse V sets out to redefine control paddles, but does it succeed? More importantly, does break in variability explain the mixed reviews? One thing is certain: its crisp, dense impact feels unlike past generation control paddles.
If you’re an intermediate or advanced player looking for an all court control paddle with an edge, this review will break down whether the Pulse V lives up to the hype, or if it’s just another paddle lost in the crowd.
Pickleball Apes Pulse V Specifications
- Weight: 8.2 – 8.4 oz
- Dimensions (L x W): 15.8″ x 8.1″
- Thickness: 16.5 mm
- Material: Poly Aramid Fiber Weave (Kevlar + Nylon) facing, Narrow-Cell Poly Honeycomb Core
- Handle Length: 5.5″
- Grip Circumference: 4.25″
Additional noteworthy features include a dual-layer foam edge, thermoformed construction, and a “carbon ring” reinforcement meant to improve structural integrity and help minimize or prevent long-term breakdown. Pickleball Apes also offers a 30-day return demo policy and a 1 year warranty on the Pulse V. The paddle is priced at $199.99, but you can drop that to around $180 using discount code pickletip.
Pickleball Apes Pulse V Performance Analysis
- Control/Feel: 94% — A dense yet crisp face provides excellent ball feedback and easy placement.
- Power: 85% — Not an outright bomber, but still offers solid put away potential.
- Spin: 93% — The textured poly aramid weave grabs the ball well, helping with topspin and slices.
- Pop: 85% — Punch volleys feel responsive but remain manageable, reducing mishits.
- Forgiveness: 98% — Its massive sweet spot and high twistweight create a stable, reliable surface.
- Maneuverability: 95% — A moderate swingweight of 112 keeps the paddle quick in hand.
According to several sources who tested with radar, the Pulse V’s power output may increase slightly after a break in period. Initially, it sits firmly in the all-court control sphere, yet some players have recorded modest upticks in shot speed over time. Even if the break in doesn’t skyrocket the pace, the Pulse V remains a consistent performer across the board.
Pickleball Apes Pulse V In Depth Review
Design & Build Quality
Pickleball Apes first made waves in late 2023 by introducing Kevlar as a facing material. Their new “Pulse” series takes the concept further with a poly aramid fiber surface (a blend of Kevlar and nylon), a narrow cell honeycomb poly core, and a double foam lined perimeter. The perimeter foam is caged by carbon fiber “rings” that aim to reduce break in fluctuations and structural breakdown.
From the first glance, the purple tinted face stands out among standard black carbon paddles. But beyond aesthetics, players will notice a subdued, stable impact. The widebody shape is also coupled with a slightly elongated handle, which is perfect for two handed backhands. Putting it together: you get an extremely stable playing experience with minimal vibration, thanks in part to that dual foam perimeter.
On Court Performance
The first time I hit with the Pulse V, it felt simultaneously soft on touch shots and crisp on solid drives, an unusual, pleasant combination. Dinks and drop shots came off the face with a distinct feedback, making it easier to modulate depth and spin. At the net, hand battles felt surprisingly forgiving, which I attribute to that very high twistweight.
Despite being labeled a “control/all-court” paddle, it easily produces enough pop for overheads and solid, penetrating drives. Some other reviewers mention a more noticeable break in, claiming the paddle “heats up” after several hours. Others say performance remains fairly similar but the sound changes from a higher pitch to a deeper tone.
Control
The Pulse V’s hallmark is reliable control. Slicing, dinking, and aiming for narrow angles feels intuitive, largely due to the combined effect of the Kevlar nylon surface and the foam edge. The feedback upon impact is distinctive enough that it helps you calibrate your next shot. I found that shaping dinks from soft touches to faster rolls became easier after about an hour of rallying.
Power
While it isn’t a high octane weapon off the shelf, the Pulse V can still pack a punch. Returns and drives have enough pop to keep opponents on their heels. Some players mention that after 10 or more hours of use, the paddle’s core “opens up,” slightly amplifying power and depth. Others recorded a bump in speed of about 3 MPH post break in, though this varies from one unit to another.
Spin
Aramid fiber combined with a peel-ply texture means you can easily apply spin on second serves, drives, and slices. Players who rely on heavy topspin will appreciate the ball’s extended dwell time. The typical spin ratings clock in around 2,080 RPM, placing it on par with many “grippier” paddles available.
Pop
The Pulse V offers a measured pop. It’s lively enough on punch volleys to catch opponents off guard, yet not so bouncy that you’ll float the ball. This moderate pop helps maintain a sense of control during softer touches or when defending at the baseline.
Forgiveness
This is where the Pulse V truly excels. The combination of widebody shape and high twistweight (7.4, which is among the highest numbers measured by some testers) yields a massive sweet spot. Off center contact feels less jarring, and you rarely experience that harsh “mis hit clank.” Many players told me the sweet spot is among the best they’ve encountered, with minimal torque even on tough reflex volleys.
Maneuverability
A moderate swingweight of about 112 keeps the Pulse V quick through the air. At net, I never struggled to block or flick the ball back at my opponents in time. Some players did add minimal lead or tungsten tape around 4 and 8 o’clock for extra stability or power, but the paddle’s stock balance already provides good all court agility.
Pickleball Apes Pulse V Pros and Cons
Pros
- Extra wide sweet spot and excellent forgiveness
- Crisp, dense feedback that aids in touch and shot shaping
- Top tier spin generation for rolls and slices
- Ample stability, especially during quick exchanges at the net
- Potential for a slight power boost after a break in period
- Minimal vibrations, comfortable for longer sessions
Cons
- Some units may undergo a noticeable break in that changes performance
- Not a pure power paddle for those wanting maximum explosiveness
- Price sits in the premium category (though less with discount code
PICKLETIP) - Sound can shift from high pitched to deeper “thud,” which can feel inconsistent across different paddles
Pulse V Player Feedback
Many people that play pickleball have tested the Pulse V and shared their thoughts with me:
“Love my V. The difference in power isn’t huge. If you liked the one you tried, just get it. It hits pretty much the same, maybe a bit hotter after a few sessions.”
“I’ve been using mine for a month. It changed sound after a few days, but performance stayed fairly consistent. It’s definitely not turning into a super hot paddle, just enough extra juice.”
“Coming from the Ronbus FX R2, the Pulse V is a huge upgrade in stability and sweet spot size. I already feel more confident with my net game.”
“Tried the Pulse V and it’s softer in the short game than I expected. My mid court drives have been surprisingly reliable, though it’s not a power monster. Good all court choice.”
Several players also noted a potential “break in” phenomenon: some got a mild bump in power over time, while others noticed a deeper sound but minimal difference in raw power. Pickleball Apes is said to be investigating these differences to reduce variability in future batches.
Where the Pulse V Fits Into the Market
Pickleball Apes has delivered a unique twist on the growing crop of “gen 3” paddles with the Pulse V. It blends next generation technology, like dual layer foam edges and carbon ring reinforcements, with a Kevlar nylon weave that yields top tier spin. The result is an all court leaning control paddle that feels pleasingly dense instead of overly plush, offering a stable platform for both dink exchanges and put away attempts.
Players who enjoy command over the ball but still like some finishing power will feel right at home. Compared to older control paddles, the Pulse V provides a livelier yet more stable hitting experience, making it a standout for intermediate to advanced players seeking premium performance. Beginners might find better budgets and simpler gear elsewhere, but the Pulse V’s wide sweet spot is definitely friendly enough if you want to invest in a long term “keeper” paddle.
Some see it as an all court leaning power stick, while others label it all court leaning control. The variability in break in may be responsible for these contrasting experiences. If you’re prepared for a slight adaptation curve, and possibly a moderate power bump as the foam settles, this paddle could easily become your everyday weapon of choice.
Comparable Paddles
- Ronbus FX R2: Similar in overall shape, though the Pulse V is often noted to have a larger sweet spot and quieter feel.
- SIXZERO Double Black Diamond: Known for power, but it lacks some of the Pulse V’s forgiving and stable feel on off-center hits.
- Joola Scorpeus 3S: Sits closer to a pure power profile, whereas the Pulse V retains more control and a less “hollow” impact sensation.
- Paddletek Bantam Series (e.g., ESQ-C): Offers good pop and spin, but many report the Pulse V’s foam perimeter design delivers a calmer feel with fewer vibrations.
- Bread & Butter Fat Boy: Often praised for softness, yet the Pulse V’s greater crispness and spin potential may suit players craving more direct feedback.
Pickleball Apes Pulse V Q&A
Many players report a short break in that subtly increases power and changes the sound from a higher pitch to a deeper tone. Others say the performance remains fairly constant. Overall, any break-in is moderate rather than dramatic.
While it’s highly forgiving, it’s also a premium paddle. Newcomers on a tight budget may choose a less expensive, pure control model. However, if you plan to commit to pickleball and want a paddle you won’t outgrow soon, the Pulse V is worth considering.
It isn’t designed to be a pure power paddle like some heavy hitters in the gen 3 space. Instead, it mixes moderate power with strong control, offering more versatility for all court styles.
Most find the stock balance sufficient. Some players do apply minimal tape at 4 and 8 o’clock for extra swingweight or stability, but it’s optional.
Yes, Pickleball Apes includes a 1 year warranty on manufacturing defects plus a 30 day return demo policy. If it isn’t a match within that time, you can return it.
Ready to Upgrade? Snag the Pulse V
If you’re seeking a versatile paddle that fuses excellent stability with a wide, forgiving face and a refined sense of touch, the Pickleball Apes Pulse V should be high on your short list. It modernizes what we used to call a “control” paddle, giving it a more dynamic, crisp, and surprisingly stable backbone. Priced at $199.99 with a discount code (pickletip), this is an innovative upgrade from most past generation offerings.
Whether you step on court as an aggressive baseliner or a short game virtuoso, the Pulse V can handle both ends. If you buy one now, enjoy the gentle break in, the roomy sweet spot, and the balanced performance that keeps your game evolving.
