Product Review: Amazin' Aces Bainbridge Paddle

Opinion is the medium between knowledge and ignorance... 

I have not given product reviews in the past. This is mostly because I did not feel qualified nor did I play with enough equipment to differentiate the quality. But I have recently been asked to test a new paddle and write a review. This was a review I wrote on Amazon for Amazin' Aces 'BAINBRIDGE' Pickleball Paddle (Pro Series) | Edgeless Composite Paddle. The paddle details are shown below the review.

Review

The Bainbridge was a trial purchase for me and I found some pluses and minuses. First, I need to say that I am an advanced player and have used several paddles over my 3 years of play. My current paddle is the Selkirk Omni Glen Peterson model which has a longer paddle face and a short handle. Some of comments are influenced by the differences between the Bainbridge and the Omni.

I loved the "pop" of the Bainbridge. It provides significantly more power than my Omni. The added pop was a detriment when playing the soft game, though. I think that more play would have allowed me to eventually adjust. The pop in the paddle also comes with a much louder sound. That is generally OK when using some of the softer balls but can be irritating when using Duras or other similarly hard balls.

I also loved the rimless aspect. My Omni is rimmed and I occasionally see a ball flying off at a weird angle caused by the rim deflection.

The biggest detriment to me was the longer handle. The stated length is 5" but mine measured at about 5 1/4". With the Omni's much shorter handle, I have gotten used to gripping the paddle near its face with my index finger on the face. Using that same grip with the Bainbridge, I found about 1 1/2" - 2" of the handle below my grip. This proved to be surprisingly uncomfortable and actually interfered with my swing on some shots. To be clear, this was a problem due to my grip preference. Those players who grip the paddle near the end of the handle will likely find this to be no problem. The extra long handle might even be beneficial for players who like to use 2-handed grips.

The paddle cover is a nice bonus with the purchase.

In summary, the Bainbridge is a good paddle for the price, especially for beginning and intermediate players. I would not place it as equal with some of the more established brands I have used in advanced play, though.

Product Description

The Amazin' Aces Bainbridge Pro Series Pickleball Paddle

The 'Bainbridge' was named for the home of pickleball - Bainbridge Island in Washington state! This beautiful blue colored paddle is great for both beginners or advanced players. The Bainbridge features an aluminum core with a graphite & fiberglass blend face.

Great 'Touch' and 'Pop'. This aluminum core offers players more touch and connectedness to their paddle, while the graphite face improves control without sacrificing power. The aluminum core is fabricated in a honeycomb & layered with graphite to create an incredibly responsive paddle that will react to every move. This paddle has an excellent blend of 'touch' and 'pop'. Rimless design (i.e. no edge guard) means less weight and few mishits.

Includes Paddle Cover. With purchase, you'll also receive a paddle cover. The cover will protect your paddle & also makes it easier to transport with the convenient shoulder strap.

PDF Rule Guide: You'll also receive a free PDF guide with pickleball rules and tips to help you hit the ground running on day one!

Quality Materials: The materials of the Bainbridge model paddle were carefully selected to provide maximum durability and playability. The aluminum core is lightweight yet strong enough to survive countless dinks, volleys & slams. This paddle allows for a perfect blend of power & control while not getting you fatigued like some of the heavier paddles on the market. A premium quality grip keeps your the grip feel dry & solid. 

Benefits: 

• Large sweet spot 
• Aluminum core provides awesome 'touch' at the net. Dink and drop shot to perfection!
• Optimal balance between power and control 
• Can be used indoors and outdoors 
• Honeycomb core ensures strength and longevity
• Ultra cushion premium grip for maxium comfort
• No edge guard means less weight and fewer mis-hits  
• Paddle cover included. Great for transporting your paddle & keeping it free from dings and dents

Features:

• An average weight of 7.9oz 
• Medium grip circumference of 4 1/2" 
• Premium cushion grip 
• Paddle length of 16" 
• Paddle width of 7 5/8" 
• Grip length of 5" 
• Graphite/fiberglass paddle face 
• Aluminum core 
• No edge guard (rimless)

Amazin' Aces website