Key takeaways
- S2: Wider face and shorter handle. Good for sweet-spot size and quick hands, but often awkward for two-handed backhands.
- Epic: The balanced hybrid shape, a common choice if you are unsure.
- Invikta: Elongated for reach and power. Often suits players who hit one-handed backhands and attack.
- Weight: Most Selkirk paddles measure roughly 7.2 to 8.4 oz. Heavier paddles add stability, while lighter ones add maneuverability and reduce arm strain.
- Core thickness: Thicker cores (around 16 to 20 mm) tend to feel softer and more controlled. Thinner cores feel more responsive and powerful.
- Grip: Grip circumference around 4.25 inches is common, but sizes vary. A thin stock grip can be built up with an overgrip.
Selkirk’s paddle range sorts by playing style: the Vanguard Power Air (now in limited stock) suits advanced players who want power and spin, the Luxx Control Air suits players who want maximum control, touch and a large sweet spot, the Amped suits players who want a forgiving, balanced paddle with a softer fiberglass face, and the SLK line suits newer and budget-minded players who still want a Selkirk build. The brand’s site currently highlights the Luxx Control Air, the newer Omni and the LABS Project Boomstik in its premium group; its listings for the Vanguard Power Air and the Amped paddles show reduced or sale pricing and a thinner selection of shapes, so confirm those two lines are still stocked in your preferred shape before buying.
This guide explains how the lines differ, using what the brand lists on its own site and what independent paddle reviewers report. Paddle specifications vary between sources and between individual paddles, so weights and core thicknesses below are approximate.
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Selkirk’s Lineup in Brief
Selkirk organizes its paddles by line and by shape. The three most common shapes are the S2 (a wider face with a shorter handle), the Epic (a balanced hybrid) and the Invikta (elongated for reach and power). The brand’s site also lists newer paddles such as the Omni and the LABS Project Boomstik (both elongated shapes; this guide does not give specs for them because the brand page lists none), along with several SLK models, including the Dauntless, Valkyrie, Geo and ERA Power. Selkirk states on its site that all its paddles are approved by USA Pickleball (USAPA), but approval lists are updated regularly, so confirm the exact paddle on the official list if you play sanctioned events.
| Model | Best for | Key stated specs (approximate) | Notable limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vanguard Power Air (Invikta, Epic, S2) | Advanced players wanting power, spin and fast hands | QuadFlex four-layer hybrid face, Air Dynamic open throat; core reported around 13 to 16 mm depending on source; measured weight about 7.7 to 8.2 oz | Thin stock grip on some; tapered throat uncomfortable for two-handed backhands; S2 reported less stable on off-center hits; brand listing currently shows only the S2 at a sale price, so Invikta and Epic may be sold through |
| Luxx Control Air | Kitchen-line and control players, doubles specialists | InfiniGrit face, 20 mm core reported, edgeless thermoformed build; measured weight about 7.6 to 8.1 oz; swing weight around 114 in one lab measurement | Higher swing weight means slightly slower hands; textured surface needs cleaning |
| Amped Pro Air | Doubles players wanting control with extra swing speed | FiberFlex+ fiberglass face, polypropylene X5+ honeycomb core about 16 mm; weight about 7.8 to 8.2 oz | Does not offer the extreme raw spin of textured carbon faces; brand listings show sale pricing, so availability by shape may be limited |
| SLK Halo | Newer and budget-minded players (listed in limited stock on the brand site) | T700 raw carbon face; Power version with 13 mm core and Control version with 16 mm core; weight about 7.9 oz on average | Less power and spin than the premium lines |
Vanguard: The Power and Spin Line
The Vanguard has been Selkirk’s flagship line for players who attack; the brand site currently lists only the Power Air S2 in its Vanguard filter, so treat other shapes as limited stock or previous generation. The Vanguard Power Air is offered in the elongated Invikta, the hybrid Epic and the wider S2 shapes. It uses what Selkirk calls an Air Dynamic open throat to cut swing resistance, plus a QuadFlex four-layer hybrid face. One reviewer describes the face as two layers of fiberflex sandwiched with two layers of carbon.
Core descriptions differ between sources, which is worth knowing. One review lists SuperCore foam with a FlexFoam perimeter, while another source lists a polymer honeycomb, and a third gives the Invikta a roughly 13 mm core. Different shapes and generations may differ, so look at the specific listing.
Paddle Test Lab describes the Vanguard Power Air Invikta as having top-tier spin at release and exceptional drives, best for aggressive players with a one-handed backhand, with limitations including a thin stock grip and a tapered throat that is uncomfortable for two-handed backhands. Best Pickle Pad’s review of the S2 rates power at 8.7 out of 10 and spin at 8.8 out of 10, recommends it for advanced players around 4.0 and above, and notes a trade-off of edge stability on off-center hits, plus a shorter handle that may feel tight for two-handers.
The Vanguard Control, with a 16 mm X5+ polymer core and a T700 raw quad-carbon face, is a more control-oriented sibling. High Five Pickleball’s comparison with the Luxx called it stiff with a smaller sweet spot, where off-center hits would not stay in play. That is one reviewer’s view, and impressions vary.
Luxx Control Air: Control and Touch
The Luxx Control Air is the control paddle for advanced all-court players, and the brand lists it among its current premium paddles with the Epic shape shown. High Five Pickleball lists a 20 mm polypropylene honeycomb core, an edgeless thermoformed unibody construction and a spray-on carbon face, with weight of 7.8 to 8.1 oz. The reviewer reported a huge sweet spot with minimal vibration, extended ball contact for placement, and unexpected power from the unibody build. The brand lists the face as InfiniGrit, and notes that the spray-on surface needs regular cleaning for longevity.
Paddle Test Lab reports a measured swing weight around 114, a very high spin rating and a dampened feel, and says it is best for kitchen-line players who value touch and arm comfort. The limitation is the swing weight, which can make hands slightly slower in fast exchanges.
Amped: The Forgiving Mid-Option
The Amped line blends spin, power and comfort. The brand site currently lists Amped Control in Epic, Invikta and S2 shapes and Amped Pro Air in Epic and Invikta, mostly at sale pricing. The original Amped introduced FiberFlex face technology on a roughly 5/8 inch polypropylene honeycomb core. The Amped Pro Air Invikta, according to a Pickleball Moments review, uses a FiberFlex+ fiberglass face, an X5+ polypropylene honeycomb core about 16 mm thick, the Air Dynamic Throat, and a midweight of roughly 7.8 to 8.2 oz. The reviewer reported a noticeable whip effect on drives with strong dinking control, and described it as ideal for advanced doubles players who rely on accurate resets and deep third-shot drives.
The limitation is spin: the fiberglass face did not offer the extreme raw spin potential of some of Selkirk’s textured carbon models. Another tester found the fiberglass face softer on contact than the Vanguard’s raw carbon, which helped with pace and depth on slow shots. The Amped Pro Air is also offered in an Epic shape, and the Amped Control exists in midweight and lightweight options.
SLK: The Value and Beginner Line
SLK is Selkirk’s budget-to-mid line. The Halo series uses a T700 raw carbon face and, per reviewers, comes in Power (13 mm core), Control (16 mm core) and Pro variants, in Max and XL shapes; the brand’s Halo collection page was empty when checked, though its main listing showed the Halo Power with a 13 mm core. Paddle Test Lab says the Halo is solid but below the flagship lines, and suits budget-conscious beginners who want genuine raw carbon, with a touch less power and spin than premium Vanguard frames. Selkirk’s site also lists newer SLK paddles such as the Dauntless (widebody), Valkyrie, Geo and ERA Power.
Shape, Weight and Specification Advice
- S2: Wider face and shorter handle. Good for sweet-spot size and quick hands, but often awkward for two-handed backhands.
- Epic: The balanced hybrid shape, a common choice if you are unsure.
- Invikta: Elongated for reach and power. Often suits players who hit one-handed backhands and attack.
- Weight: Most Selkirk paddles measure roughly 7.2 to 8.4 oz. Heavier paddles add stability, while lighter ones add maneuverability and reduce arm strain.
- Core thickness: Thicker cores (around 16 to 20 mm) tend to feel softer and more controlled. Thinner cores feel more responsive and powerful.
- Grip: Grip circumference around 4.25 inches is common, but sizes vary. A thin stock grip can be built up with an overgrip.
USA Pickleball Approval Notes
Selkirk states that its paddles are USAPA-approved, and sanctioned tournaments typically require paddles on the current approved list. Face textures and surface treatments can change over time, and the rules on surface roughness and wear can affect paddles. If you play sanctioned events, check the current approval list and the tournament’s equipment rules. Some textured surfaces wear down with use, and a worn paddle can behave differently from a new one.
Who Should Buy and Who Should Skip
Buy Selkirk if
- You are an advanced player who wants a clear power (Vanguard), control (Luxx) or forgiving (Amped) option.
- You value a wide range of shapes and weights.
- You are newer to the sport and want a raw-carbon paddle from a major brand (SLK Halo).
Think twice if
- You are a beginner interested in the Vanguard Power Air; reviewers describe it as better for advanced players.
- You hit a two-handed backhand and prefer a long handle; the S2 and tapered throats can be awkward.
- You want a very light paddle for arm problems; check measured weights, since some control paddles carry higher swing weight.
How Selkirk Compares With JOOLA, Paddletek and CRBN
- JOOLA: Known for thermoformed paddles with strong spin and power. The Perseus and Hyperion lines are its closest competitors to the Vanguard.
- Paddletek: Often noted for comfort and a soft feel, which compares well with the Luxx and Amped.
- CRBN: Offers raw carbon paddles with strong spin, competing with the Vanguard and SLK in texture and response.
Decision Table: Pick X If
| Pick this | If you |
|---|---|
| Vanguard Power Air Invikta | Attack, hit one-handed backhands, and want power and spin |
| Vanguard Power Air S2 | Want a large face and quick hands, and do not need a long handle |
| Luxx Control Air | Value touch, a big sweet spot and arm comfort at the kitchen line |
| Amped Pro Air | Play doubles and want control with extra swing speed |
| SLK Halo | Are newer or budget-minded and want raw carbon, if you can find it in stock |
Care and Common Issues
- Cleaning: Wipe the face with a damp microfiber cloth. Textured and spray-on surfaces collect dust and lose bite when dirty.
- Edge guards: Avoid hitting the ground, and inspect edges for chips or separation.
- Temperature: Do not leave paddles in a hot car, since heat can weaken the bond between face and core.
- Grip: Replace overgrips regularly, especially if the stock grip feels thin.
- Dead spots: If a paddle sounds hollow or feels dead, the core may have delaminated. Contact the brand for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Selkirk paddle is best for control?
The Luxx Control Air is the line built for control and touch, with a reported 20 mm core and large sweet spot. The Vanguard Control and Amped are alternatives.
Is the Selkirk Vanguard Power Air good for beginners?
Reviewers generally recommend it for advanced players, since it rewards good mechanics. Beginners may find the SLK Halo or an Amped easier to use.
Are Selkirk paddles approved by USA Pickleball?
Selkirk states that its paddles are USAPA-approved. Approval lists change, so check the current list for the exact paddle if you play sanctioned events.
What is the difference between the S2, Epic and Invikta shapes?
The S2 has a wider face and shorter handle, the Epic is a balanced hybrid, and the Invikta is elongated for reach and power. Choose by backhand style and by whether you value sweet spot or reach.
Is the Luxx heavier than the Vanguard?
Measured weights overlap, about 7.6 to 8.1 oz for the Luxx and 7.7 to 8.2 oz for the Vanguard Power Air, but one lab measured the Luxx swing weight around 114, which can feel slower. Individual paddles vary.
How long does a Selkirk paddle last?
It depends on use and care. Textured surfaces wear with play, and dead spots can develop in the core. Clean the face, avoid heat and inspect edges regularly.
