Spartus Spitfire Pickleball Paddle

Overview

Summary

The Spartus Spitfire is a surprising mix of power, spin and finesse. At 7.85 oz it is a mid-weight paddle, and the brand describes it as explosive power with lasting spin and a control-paddle feel in a frame designed to finish points. It is approved by USAP, so it can be used in sanctioned play.

The engine is Turbo Foam Gen 4, Spartus’s own fourth-generation EPP core. EPP foam can feel stiff and wooden in some paddles, but Spartus says this version makes an EPP paddle sound and feel like an MPP paddle, giving big pop without hardness. On top of the core sits a four-layer carbon fibre layup in a proprietary configuration. The layers create an excellent feel and a long dwell time, meaning the ball stays on the face longer, which helps with resets, dinks and drops.

The shape is where the Spitfire gets interesting. It is offered in an elongated form for reach, yet the swing weight is a low 116, so it feels more like a hybrid in the hand. Players report that it moves quickly in the kitchen and counters fast in exchanges, while the elongated head still delivers drive power from the back of the court.

You can choose between elongated and standard shapes in a 16mm thickness, and the paddle is considerably less expensive than most flagship paddles.

Strengths

• Power with comfort. The Gen 4 EPP core produces pop without feeling wooden.
• Lasting spin. The brand highlights spin that does not fade.
• Fast in hand. Low swing weight of 116 despite an elongated shape.
• Good dwell. The four-layer carbon face supports touch shots.
• Value. A low list price for the performance on offer.

Weaknesses

• Mid-weight feel. Players who want a very heavy paddle may need added weight.
• Newer brand. Fewer long-term reviews than established manufacturers.
• Limited images. Few product photos are published.
• Specifications beyond weight are limited.

Who it is for

Value-minded intermediate players, doubles players who like a quick paddle with reach, and anyone building a good second paddle without spending flagship money.

Care and buying tips

Foam-core paddles are forgiving of everyday use, but they still benefit from a clean face and a dry storage place. Because the Spitfire swings lighter than its elongated shape suggests, consider adding a few grams of lead tape near the head if you want more drive power, and test one change at a time.

Specifications

Buying note. Only four product photographs were available for this model, which is below the usual range.

Looking for more? Browse our Spartus pickleball paddles or the full range of pickleball paddles.