Looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle that won’t break the bank? Look no further than Selkirk’s Latitude paddle line. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, these paddles are designed to deliver excellent control and feel, without compromising on power and spin.
Let’s dive into an in-depth Selkirk Latitude Pickleball Paddle Review and compare the original Latitude with the newer Latitude 2.0. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to choose the perfect paddle that suits your playing style.
Selkirk Latitude Pickleball Paddle: Precision and Performance in One Package
With its control-focused design, the Selkirk Latitude has become a go-to choice for beginners and intermediate players. The combination of a polymer core and a graphite hitting surface ensures great touch and decent power. This paddle provides excellent control, making it easy to accurately place shots.
The construction of the Latitude paddle is top-notch. It features Selkirk’s Polymer Rev Core, giving it a lightweight and maneuverable feel. The G4 graphite face offers smooth control and accuracy. With a midsize shape measuring 15.5 inches long and 8.25 inches wide, the Latitude is suitable for all-around play. Not to mention, it looks and feels premium with its edge guard and comfortable grip.
During playtests, the Latitude paddle consistently impressed me. It excelled in control, power, and comfort. From its unmatched touch on shots like dinks and drops to its decent pop on swings, this paddle offers the perfect balance. It’s also easy to soften shots with precision, thanks to its responsive feel. While it may not be designed for overpowering spin, its control and direction of spins are still remarkable. And the best part? You can play for extended sessions without experiencing arm fatigue.
Pros:
– Excellent touch and control
– Lightweight and maneuverable
– Quality construction and design
– Comfortable even during long matches
Cons:
– Lacks the power and spin of other paddles
– Not ideal for competitive or aspiring pro players
Overall, the Selkirk Latitude is a top value paddle that excels in recreational play. Its control-focused design and quality construction make it worth considering.
Selkirk Latitude 2.0 Pickleball Paddle: Enhanced Power and Spin for a Dynamic Game
Building upon the success of the Latitude, Selkirk introduced the Latitude 2.0, aiming to improve power and spin without compromising on control. Like its predecessor, the Latitude 2.0 features a polymer core and a graphite face. However, several adjustments have been made to enhance its performance.
The Polymer Rev-Core+ in the Latitude 2.0 is thicker, delivering more pop and stability. The face now has a textured SpinFlex surface, allowing it to grip the ball for extra spin. With its midsize profile and comfortable cushioned grip, this paddle offers a fantastic playing experience. Weighing around 8 ounces, it’s highly maneuverable on the court.
During play, the improvements of the Latitude 2.0 are instantly noticeable. It packs more punch on drives and volleys, adding an offensive dimension to your game. The textured surface grips the ball well, generating heavy topspin and more disruptive spin on defensive shots. Despite the upgrades, control remains excellent, and finesse shots still have great touch and feel. Plus, you can enjoy extended matches without discomfort, thanks to its lightweight build and comfortable grip.
Pros:
– Enhanced power from the thicker core
– Improved spin from the textured face
– Maintains great control and comfort
– More versatility for different playing styles
Cons:
– Textured face reduces touch slightly
– Not ideal for players wanting maximum finesse
The Latitude 2.0 is a well-rounded paddle that builds upon the strengths of the original Latitude. It’s perfect for players looking for more power and spin without sacrificing control.
Comparing the Latitude Paddles: Which One to Choose?
Both the Selkirk Latitude and Latitude 2.0 excel as top value paddles for recreational play. Here’s a quick comparison of their key similarities and differences:
| Aspect | Latitude | Latitude 2.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Control | Outstanding touch and accuracy | Outstanding touch and accuracy, slightly more stable |
| Power | Moderate pop | Improved pop from thicker core |
| Spin | Average spin | Significantly more spin from grippy face |
| Finesse | Delicate touch on soft shots | Slightly less delicate touch on soft shots |
| Comfort | Well-suited to extended play | Well-suited to extended play |
| Versatility | Good for recreational play | Accommodates more playing styles and skill levels |
For most recreational players, I recommend the Latitude 2.0. Its well-rounded performance and added offensive punch make it a great choice. However, if you prioritize delicate touch on finesse shots, the original Latitude might be your preferred option. Beginners on a budget will also find great value in the lower-priced original Latitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both Latitude models are primarily designed for beginner to intermediate players. They offer great control and feel for recreational play, though they may lack the power and spin required for competitive play.
The Latitude paddles are lightweight, ranging from around 7.8 to 8.4 ounces. This makes them highly maneuverable for quick volleys and reaction shots.
No, the paddles are sold separately without a case or cover included. If you want to protect your paddle, you’ll need to purchase a case separately.
Both Latitude models feature Selkirk’s comfortable Ultra Soft cushioned grip, which absorbs sweat and impact for maximum comfort during play.
Yes, both Latitude paddles are USAPA approved for recreational tournament play up to 3.0 skill levels.
Yes, the Latitude paddles come pre-assembled and ready to use straight out of the box. No assembly is required.
You may want to consider purchasing a paddle case for protection, overgrip tape to customize the handle, or edge guard tape to add extra protection from impacts over time.
Conclusion
Selkirk’s Latitude paddle line offers impressive performance and quality at affordable prices. Whether you choose the original Latitude or the upgraded Latitude 2.0, you’ll enjoy exceptional control, comfort, and versatility. These paddles are the top choice for recreational players looking for a budget-friendly graphite paddle. So, go ahead and make your pick based on whether you desire more power and spin or maximizing touch play. If you have any further queries, let us know in the comments.