The Legacy Pro pickleball paddle has gained attention in the pickleball community for its performance and design. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, finding the right paddle can significantly impact your game. This review delves into various aspects of the Legacy Pro paddle, including its construction, performance, design, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

1. Materials

Core:

• Polymer Honeycomb Core: Known for its excellent balance between power and control. Provides shock absorption, reduces vibrations, and enhances comfort. Maintains paddle shape and performance over time.

Face:

• Composite Blend: Enhances durability and responsiveness. Maximizes spin and ball control with a textured surface for effective spin impartation.

2. Construction

Shape and Size:

• Standard Paddle Shape: Provides a good sweet spot, balancing power and control. Suitable for various playing styles.
• Width and Sweet Spot: Larger sweet spot for forgiveness on off-center hits, aiding consistency in performance.

Weight:

• Lightweight Option (7.5-8.0 oz): Ideal for maneuverability and quick reactions. Reduces hand fatigue and enhances agility.
• Medium Weight Option (8.0-8.5 oz): Balances power and control. Provides stability and strength for powerful shots while maintaining maneuverability.

3. Grip

Handle:

• Ergonomic Handle: Comfort and less hand fatigue were priorities in design. Conforms to the natural grip position.
• Cushioned Grip: Absorbs shock and vibrations, enhancing comfort during prolonged play.

Grip Size:

• Multiple Grip Sizes: Available in various sizes to accommodate different hand dimensions. Ensures a secure and comfortable hold.

Design and Build Quality Overview

Feature	Description	Benefits
Core Material	Polymer Honeycomb Core	Balances power and control; reduces vibrations; enhances comfort and durability
Face Material	Composite Blend	Enhances durability; maximizes spin and ball control; responsive touch
Shape	Standard Paddle Shape	Provides a good sweet spot; versatile for different playing styles
Width and Sweet Spot	Average width with a large sweet spot	Forgiveness on off-center hits; consistent performance
Lightweight Weight	7.5-8.0 oz	Increases maneuverability; reduces hand fatigue
Medium Weight	8.0-8.5 oz	Balances power and control; adds stability
Handle	Ergonomic with cushioned grip	Enhances comfort; reduces hand fatigue
Grip Size	Multiple sizes available	Ensures a secure and comfortable hold

Performance

1. Power

Overview:

• The Legacy Pro pickleball paddle is engineered to deliver substantial power, which is crucial for aggressive playstyles. The solid construction and composite face work in tandem to provide players with the ability to hit powerful shots consistently.

Key Features:

• Composite Face: The composite material of the paddle’s face contributes to its power generation. It allows for a firm and responsive impact with the ball, translating into strong and effective shots. For players who rely on strong serves and smashes to overwhelm their opponents, this feature is quite helpful.
• Solid Construction: The paddle’s overall build is designed to handle high-impact shots without losing its structural integrity. This means that players can confidently execute powerful strokes without worrying about compromising the paddle’s performance or longevity.
• Impact Resistance: The combination of the composite face and polymer honeycomb core enhances the paddle’s ability to absorb and transfer energy efficiently. This results in powerful shots with minimal vibration, providing both strength and comfort during play.

2. Control

Overview:

• The Legacy Pro paddle excels in control, allowing players to place their shots with precision and accuracy. Its design elements work together to offer a high degree of responsiveness and maneuverability.

Key Features:

• Responsive Surface: The composite face is engineered to provide a high level of feedback, which aids in controlling the ball’s trajectory. This responsiveness is crucial for executing accurate shots, whether you’re aiming for specific target areas or performing delicate touch shots.
• Balanced Weight: The paddle’s weight distribution plays a significant role in its control capabilities. The balanced weight ensures that players can handle the paddle with ease, making it easier to execute precise volleys and controlled returns.
• Sweet Spot: The standard paddle shape with a generous sweet spot enhances control by increasing the likelihood of making contact with the ball in the optimal hitting area. This design reduces the chances of mishits and provides more predictable shot outcomes.

3. Spin

Overview:

• The Legacy Pro paddle is designed to generate significant spin, which is a key factor for advanced play. Players can use this feature to add topspin or backspin to their shots, giving them an edge over their opponents.

Key Features:

• Textured Composite Face: The paddle’s composite face features a texture that facilitates spin generation. This texture helps grip the ball more effectively, allowing players to impart greater spin.
• Spin Versatility: The ability to achieve both topspin and backspin enables players to execute a variety of shot types, such as high-arching shots that dip quickly or low, skidding shots that stay close to the net. This adaptability can be especially helpful for adjusting to shifting game situations and rivals’ tactics.
• Shot Variety: By utilizing the paddle’s spin capabilities, players can create diverse shot options, making it more challenging for opponents to predict and return shots. This can be a big benefit while playing competitively.

4. Durability

Overview:

• The Legacy Pro paddle is built to withstand the rigors of regular play, offering impressive durability. Its construction materials contribute to its long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.

Key Features:

• Polymer Core: The polymer honeycomb core is designed to resist deformation and damage, maintaining its performance characteristics over time. This core’s durability ensures that the paddle remains effective even after extensive use.
• Composite Face: The composite face is not only responsive but also resilient. It can endure frequent impact with the ball without significant surface degradation. This durability is crucial for players who play regularly or engage in high-intensity matches.
• Construction Quality: The overall build quality of the Legacy Pro contributes to its longevity. The attention to detail in its design and material selection ensures that the paddle can handle various playing conditions without deteriorating.

Design Aesthetics

Overview:

• The Legacy Pro paddle is not only functional but also visually appealing. Its design combines aesthetics with performance, ensuring that players not only perform well but also look stylish on the court.

Key Features:

• Sleek Design: The paddle features a modern and streamlined design that adds a professional touch. Its sleek lines and refined appearance contribute to its overall appeal.
• Color Options: With so many color options for the Legacy Pro, players can select a paddle that best suits their individual style. The variety of colors ensures that players can find a design that suits their preferences, from bold and vibrant to more understated tones.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The combination of the paddle’s design elements enhances its visual appeal while maintaining a professional look. The modern design not only looks good but also complements the paddle’s high-performance features.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Balanced Performance: Offers a good blend of power and control, making it versatile for different playing styles.
• Comfortable Grip: The ergonomic handle and cushioned grip enhance comfort and reduce hand fatigue.
• Durable Construction: Constructed with premium materials for durability.

Cons:

• Price Point: The Legacy Pro is priced at a premium compared to some other paddles, which may not be ideal for budget-conscious players.
• Heavier Option: The medium weight option may be slightly heavier for players who prefer ultra-light paddles.

Comparison with Other Paddles

1. Legacy Pro vs. Selkirk Amped Series

Overview:

• Selkirk Amped Series: The Selkirk Amped Series paddles are well-regarded for their exceptional power and control. They are equipped with a unique core material and face technology designed to enhance performance. These paddles are popular among players who seek powerful shots and precise control.

Comparison:

• Power: The Selkirk Amped Series might have a slight edge in power compared to the Legacy Pro. This advantage is due to its specialized core material that offers more energy transfer during impact, resulting in even more powerful shots.
• Control: Both the Selkirk Amped Series and the Legacy Pro offer excellent control. However, the Selkirk paddles have a reputation for providing superior feel and precision, which can be beneficial for advanced players who focus on fine-tuning their shots.
• Design and Comfort: The Selkirk Amped Series features an ergonomic design similar to the Legacy Pro but may have additional features like a textured grip or a different balance point that some players find preferable.

2. Legacy Pro vs. Paddletek Bantam EX-L

Overview:

• Paddletek Bantam EX-L: Known for its exceptional control and feel, the Bantam EX-L is a favorite among players who prioritize accuracy and touch. The paddle is designed to offer a refined feel with a focus on precise ball placement.

Comparison:

• Control: Both the Bantam EX-L and the Legacy Pro offer high levels of control. The Bantam EX-L may have a slight advantage in terms of feel due to its specialized surface and core design, which enhances feedback and accuracy.
• Power: The Legacy Pro tends to offer a bit more power compared to the Bantam EX-L. The Legacy Pro offers a superior combination of power and control, making it appropriate for a broader variety of playstyles, even though the Bantam EX-L shines in control.
• Spin: The Legacy Pro has a slight edge in spin capability due to its textured composite face, which helps generate more topspin and backspin compared to the Bantam EX-L. For players that depend on spin to affect their shots, this can be helpful.

Feature	Legacy Pro	Selkirk Amped Series	Paddletek Bantam EX-L
Power	High	Slightly Higher	Moderate
Control	Excellent	Superior	Excellent
Spin	High	Moderate	Moderate
Design & Comfort	Modern, ergonomic	Ergonomic, may have additional features	Refined, focused on feel
Core Material	Polymer Honeycomb Core	Unique Core Material	Polymer Core
Surface Material	Composite Blend	Composite with unique texture	Composite Blend

Actual Reviews

1. Legacy Pro Pickleball Paddle:

Review Summary: “The Legacy Pro pickleball paddle offers a fantastic blend of power and control, making it an adaptable option for gamers of different abilities. The polymer honeycomb core and composite face deliver solid performance, providing both the power needed for aggressive shots and the control required for precision play. While it may not outperform the Selkirk Amped Series in sheer power or the Paddletek Bantam EX-L in feel, it strikes a great balance between these attributes. The paddle’s ergonomic handle and cushioned grip ensure comfort during long matches, and its durable construction stands up well to regular use. Overall, the Legacy Pro is a well-rounded paddle that performs admirably in both recreational and competitive play.”

2. Selkirk Amped Series:

Review Summary: “The Selkirk Amped Series is a powerhouse in the pickleball world, renowned for its exceptional power and control. The innovative core material enhances energy transfer, making it easier to execute powerful shots with minimal effort. Players who seek a paddle that can deliver both explosive power and precise control will find the Amped Series a strong contender. The design is ergonomic and comfortable, although it may come with a higher price tag. The only drawback is that it may not offer as much spin capability as some other paddles, such as the Legacy Pro. Nevertheless, for players focused on maximizing power and control, the Selkirk Amped Series is an excellent choice.”

3. Paddletek Bantam EX-L:

Review Summary: “The Paddletek Bantam EX-L is celebrated for its outstanding control and feel, making it a favorite among players who prioritize accuracy. The paddle’s construction provides a refined touch, allowing for precise shot placement. While it may lack the raw power of the Legacy Pro and the spin capability of some other paddles, it excels in delivering consistent and controlled shots. The Bantam EX-L’s design is well-suited for players who prefer a more nuanced and tactile playing experience. The comfort and durability are also commendable, though its control-focused design may not suit those looking for additional power or spin.”

Conclusion

The Legacy Pro pickleball paddle stands out as a well-rounded option for players looking for a balance of power, control, and durability. It is a formidable competitor in the market because to its well-considered design and premium materials. Although it costs more, for serious players the comfort and performance it provides can make the purchase worthwhile.

If you value a combination of power, control, and a comfortable grip, the Legacy Pro paddle is worth considering. However, if you’re on a budget or prefer an ultra-light paddle, you might want to explore other options.

Key Takeaways

1. Balanced Performance: The Legacy Pro pickleball paddle offers a strong balance between power, control, and durability. Its polymer honeycomb core and composite face provide a versatile performance suitable for various playing styles.
2. Power and Control: While the Legacy Pro delivers good power and control, paddles like the Selkirk Amped Series may offer a slight edge in power, and the Paddletek Bantam EX-L may excel in control and feel.
3. Spin Capability: The textured composite face of the Legacy Pro allows for significant spin, giving players an advantage in executing different shot types. This feature is slightly superior to some other paddles in its class.
4. Durability and Comfort: The paddle’s build quality ensures longevity and its ergonomic handle with a cushioned grip enhances comfort during extended play sessions.
5. Design and Aesthetics: The Legacy Pro is designed with a modern look and comes in various color options, adding both functionality and style to the player’s gear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the Legacy Pro pickleball paddle stand out?

The Legacy Pro stands out due to its balanced performance, combining power, control, and spin capability with a durable and comfortable design. Its polymer honeycomb core and composite face offer a well-rounded playing experience.

How does the Legacy Pro compare to the Selkirk Amped Series?

The Selkirk Amped Series is known for its exceptional power, which may slightly surpass the Legacy Pro’s power output. However, the Legacy Pro offers similar control and a slightly higher spin capability, making it a versatile alternative.

Is the Legacy Pro suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Legacy Pro is suitable for beginners due to its balanced attributes, which help in developing various aspects of the game. Its generous sweet spot and forgiving design can benefit players who are still honing their skills.