Bread & Butter Fat Boy Pickleball Paddle Review

Introduction

I'm always on the lookout for innovative paddles and the fascinating stories behind their creators. Bread & Butter grabbed my attention, not just with their catchy name and clever product monikers, but with their unwavering commitment to design and quality. With my background in design from d.School and IDEO, I have a deep appreciation for exceptional design - and Bread & Butter certainly delivers.

In this comprehensive review, I'll share my hands-on experience with the Fat Boy paddle, including feedback from fellow players and detailed performance metrics. You'll get an in-depth look at the paddle's specifications, comparisons with other top contenders, and much more. My goal? To provide you with the most thorough Fat Boy review available, helping you decide if it's the right fit for your game.

For transparency, I want to mention that I purchased the Fat Boy myself; it wasn't given to me in exchange for anything. However, if you use my link or discount code (MPB), I do receive a commission to support this site, and you'll benefit from a 15% savings. It's worth noting that Bread & Butter's limited batch releases often sell out quickly - their initial batch sold out in about an hour. To secure your Fat Boy, keep an eye on the release schedule below.

For those interested in Bread & Butter's background (which is a hoot!), check out my earlier review of their Shogun paddle.

Release Schedule:

• 7.30.24: 250 units, shipping on 8.2.24
• 8.6.24: 250 units, shipping on 8.9.24
• 8.13.24: 250 units, shipping on 8.16.24
• 8.20.24: 250 units, shipping on 8.23.24

Get ready to dive into every detail of the Bread & Butter Fat Boy, from its eye-catching design to its on-court performance. Boasting an impressive spin RPM of 2078, a balanced weight of 8.19 oz, and an innovative face made from T700 Carbon Fiber and Aramid weave, the Fat Boy is set to be a strong contender in the pickleball paddle market. Let's see how it stacks up against the competition.

Testing the Fat Boy: A Comprehensive Four-Week Analysis

To truly understand the Fat Boy's performance and characteristics, I used it for a four-week testing period. This included a dedicated week where the Fat Boy was my exclusive paddle, allowing for an in-depth assessment of its capabilities.

Settings and Conditions: From Midwest Heat to Indoor Cool

My testing regimen spanned a range of settings and conditions, providing a comprehensive evaluation of the paddle's versatility:

1. Geographic Variety: As I traveled through the Midwest for my son's baseball tournaments, I seized every opportunity to put the Fat Boy through its paces.
2. Play Formats:
   • Open play sessions: Casual games that tested the paddle's adaptability.
   • League play with DUPR ratings at stake: High-pressure scenarios that pushed the paddle's performance limits.
3. Environmental Conditions:
   • A 50/50 split between indoor and outdoor play.
   • Outdoor temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F (32°C).
   • Indoor climate-controlled environments.

This varied testing environment allowed me to assess how the Fat Boy's performance metrics held up under different conditions:

Spin Generation

I observed the paddle's spin RPM of 2078 remained consistent indoors. However, in high heat and humidity, there was a slight decrease of about 100-200 RPM. This variance is not uncommon and aligns with the performance of other high-spin paddles like the Volair Mach 2 Forza (2168 RPM) under similar conditions.

Power Output

The serve speed of 51.6 MPH and punch volley speed of 33.6 MPH were most consistent in indoor settings. Outdoor play, especially in high heat, saw minor fluctuations of 1-2 MPH, which is within expected ranges for most paddles.

Control and Feel

The paddle's balance point of 23.3 mm and surface hardness contributed to consistent control across various conditions. However, in extreme heat, players might notice a slight softening of the paddle face, potentially affecting precision shots.

By subjecting the Fat Boy to this wide array of playing conditions and competitive pressures, I gained a nuanced understanding of its performance across different environments. This thorough testing approach ensures that my assessment encompasses the paddle's behavior in real-world scenarios, from casual rallies to high-stakes competitive play.

In-Depth Playing Experience

First Impressions: A Visual and Tactile Delight

When I first picked up the Bread & Butter Fat Boy paddle, I was immediately struck by its sleek, modern design. The dark blue T700 Carbon Fiber and Aramid weave face, paired with the playful "Fat Boy" logo featuring a donut, make it a visually striking paddle. The big question was whether it performs as well as it looks. I’m happy to say it does.

Balance and Feel: Precision Without Fatigue

The Fat Boy is well-balanced, avoiding the head-heavy feel of some competitors. With a balance point of 23.3 cm relative to its 15.88-inch length, it offers stability and easy maneuverability on the court. The swing weight of 110.41 means you can play for extended periods without feeling fatigued, which is crucial for players of all levels.

Performance Breakdown

Dinks, Drops, and Resets

The Fat Boy excels in the soft game. Its 16mm core thickness offers a good mix of softness and responsiveness for precise shots at the kitchen line. The high twist weight of 7.31 further enhances stability during delicate maneuvers.

Drives and Putaways

While it might not pack the power of some Paddletek or Joola Gen 3 models, the Fat Boy holds its own. Its punch volley speed of 33.6 MPH provides enough pop for effective drives and finishes. The balanced design allows for quick transitions between soft and power play.

Spin Generation

One of the Fat Boy's standout features is its spin capability. With a measured spin RPM of 2078, it outperforms many competitors. This high spin potential allows for sharp, dipping baseline drives that add a new dimension to your game.

Shot Control

The Fat Boy's 8-inch width provides a generous sweet spot, which makes for precise shot placement. Whether executing topspin drives, slices, or spin serves, the paddle's design ensures accurate and controlled shots.

Power

While not the most powerful paddle (with a serve speed of 51.6 MPH), the Fat Boy’s performance can be boosted with additional weight or player strength if desired. Its stock setup emphasizes control and all-court play over raw power.

Overall Impression:

The Bread & Butter Fat Boy impresses with its balanced performance across various aspects of the game. Its spin capabilities (2078 RPM) rival those of dedicated spin paddles, while its control and feel make it enjoyable to use in all court positions. The paddle's forgiving nature, evidenced by its large sweet spot and balanced weight distribution, makes it an excellent choice for players seeking a reliable, all-around paddle.

While it may not be the most powerful paddle on the market, its overall playability, spin potential, and forgiving characteristics make the Fat Boy a standout choice. It's particularly well-suited for players who prioritize control, spin, and all-court versatility in their game.

Who Will Like the Fat Boy Paddle?

Ideal Skill Levels and Playing Styles

The Bread & Butter Fat Boy is engineered to accommodate a broad spectrum of players, from beginners to intermediate levels, thanks to its balanced performance metrics and forgiving nature.

Beginners:

• Benefit from the large sweet spot (8-inch width): Reduces mishits and enhances confidence.
• Forgiving nature: Makes it easier to develop skills with consistent performance.
• Balanced weight (8.19 oz) and stability (twist weight 7.31): Boosts confidence and reduces fatigue.

Intermediate Players:

• Control and precision: Stability (twist weight 7.31) supports advanced shot-making.
• 16mm core thickness: Balances power and control for strategic play.

All-Court Players:

• Versatility: Suits both baseline rallies and net play.
• Balanced performance: Metrics like a 51.6 MPH serve speed and 33.6 MPH punch volley speed.
• High spin RPM (2078): Enhances shot variety and unpredictability.

Control and Precision Enthusiasts:

• Large sweet spot (8-inch width): Facilitates accurate shot placement.
• Stability (twist weight 7.31): Aids in maintaining accuracy for dinks, volleys, and drop shots.
• Surface hardness (81.5 Shore D): Provides consistent feel for precise control.

The Bread & Butter Fat Boy is a versatile paddle suitable for a wide range of players. Its balanced design caters to beginners by providing a large sweet spot and forgiving nature, while intermediate players will appreciate the control and precision it offers. All-court players will enjoy its versatility, and those who prioritize control and precision will find its stability and consistent feel particularly beneficial. Whether you’re new to the game or looking to enhance your strategic play, the Fat Boy’s comprehensive performance metrics make it a reliable choice.

Player Testimonials:

• An intermediate player (friend of mine) reported an improved kitchen game, citing the paddle's control and stability during quick exchanges.
• A beginner (my wife) 😊 noted increased confidence and reduced unforced errors, attributing it to the Fat Boy's forgiving nature.
• Another person that I played with at a DUPR session comment about how stable the paddle feels. He felt the paddle twisted much less than his Hyperion Gen 2.

Who Might Not Prefer the Fat Boy?

Power Players:

• May find the Fat Boy lacking in raw power compared to dedicated power paddles.
• Serve speed (51.6 MPH) and punch volley speed (33.6 MPH) may not satisfy those seeking maximum power.
• Example: A local power player missed the explosive drives of their usual high-power paddle.

Elongated Paddle Users:

• Might miss the extended reach and leverage of elongated designs.
• Fat Boy's standard shape (15.88 inches length): Focuses on balance and control over reach.

Advanced Players Seeking Specialization:

• Those requiring extremely high power or specific performance characteristics may find the Fat Boy's balanced approach less suited to their specialized needs.

Comparative Insight

While a power player found the Fat Boy lacking in explosive energy compared to their usual paddle, a doubles player praised its stability and pop capabilities during fast-paced volleys. This contrast highlights the Fat Boy's strength in balanced, all-court play rather than specialized power hitting.

The Fat Boy caters well to players seeking a versatile, forgiving paddle that excels in control and spin while providing adequate power. Its balanced metrics make it particularly suited for beginners, intermediates, and all-court players who value consistency and adaptability in their game.

Durability and Maintenance

Long-term Durability: A Work in Progress

After one month of intensive play, it's too early to make definitive conclusions about the Fat Boy's long-term durability. However, initial observations provide valuable insights. I noticed a decrease of approximately 60-100 RPMs from the first to the last playtest. This could be due to surface wear, although no visible signs of degradation are apparent. Environmental factors likely play a significant role in performance changes. Take that for what it's worth.

Environmental Impact on Performance

Testing in various conditions provided interesting results. In cooler, low-humidity environments (around 70°F), the paddle achieved higher RPMs. This suggests that drier air may increase friction between the paddle and the ball, enhancing spin. Conversely, in warmer, high-humidity conditions (around 90°F), RPMs slightly decreased. Humidity could create a thin moisture layer, potentially reducing friction. These findings indicate that environmental conditions can significantly impact the Fat Boy's performance.

Visual Inspection

After a month of use, the paddle's surface appears nearly identical to its original condition, showing no visible signs of wear or degradation. This suggests that the T700 Carbon Fiber and Aramid weave face are holding up well against regular use, which bodes well for long-term durability.

Maintenance Recommendations

To maintain the paddle's performance and longevity, clean the surface regularly with a slightly damp cloth to remove dirt and ball dust. Using a paddle eraser gently can also help keep the texture intact. Avoid extreme temperature changes, as they could affect the paddle's performance.

Future Considerations

Continuing to monitor RPM performance over time in consistent environmental conditions will be essential. Watching for any visual changes in the paddle surface that might indicate wear will also be important. Comparing the long-term performance of the Fat Boy with other paddles in the same class can help benchmark its durability.

While early indications are positive, a more extended testing period is necessary to fully assess the Fat Boy's long-term durability and maintenance needs. The paddle's apparent resilience to visible wear after a month of intensive use is a promising sign for its longevity.

Aesthetics & Design

The Bread & Butter Fat Boy paddle is visually delightful, playful, and fun, that seamlessly blends aesthetics with performance. Its sleek dark blue T700 Carbon Fiber and Aramid weave face, often referred to as Kevlar, not only bolsters durability but also presents a strikingly modern, high-tech appearance. This thoughtful material choice sets the stage for a paddle that's as pleasing to the eye as it is functional on the court.

What truly sets the Fat Boy apart is its distinctive design elements. The playful "Fat Boy" logo, complete with a whimsical donut, adds a touch of fun that makes the paddle instantly recognizable. This quirky detail is beautifully offset by the paddle's bold color scheme. The dark blue face contrasts sharply with a bright blue edge guard and eye-catching pink accents on the grip. It's a visual symphony that reflects Bread & Butter's commitment to creating paddles that are as visually compelling as they are performance-driven.

But the Fat Boy's design isn't just about turning heads; it's engineered for superior play. The wide-body shape, measuring 8 inches across, translates to a larger sweet spot, forgiving off-center hits and promoting more consistent shots. This is further enhanced by the paddle's unibody thermoformed construction with edge foam, a feature that boosts stability and power while providing a solid feel during play. At a microscopic level, the coarse peel-ply texture on the surface (visible only under magnification) plays a key role in the paddle's impressive spin generation capabilities, boasting a spin RPM of 2078.

Ergonomics haven't been overlooked either. The handle, wrapped in a white perforated grip, measures 5.5 inches in length with a circumference of 4.125 inches. This design, complete with a slight flare at the top, ensures a comfortable and secure hold for a variety of hand sizes, even during the most intense rallies. It's worth noting that there's a slight discrepancy in the stated handle length (5.3" in one section), which might need clarification.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of the Fat Boy's design is its potential psychological impact. Its unique, eye-catching appearance not only sparks conversations but seems to boost player confidence. During testing, and I know this sounds strange, but I found myself smiling more, enjoying the game more, and even playing better - especially during fast exchanges at the kitchen line. While this could be chalked up to a placebo effect, it underscores the often-overlooked importance of player enjoyment and confidence in equipment design. This paddle is just fun!

I am not indicating that the Fat Boy is a "unicorn" paddle, but it does strike a balance between fun aesthetics and serious performance capabilities. It's a paddle, and a company, that doesn't take itself too seriously, yet delivers where it counts. In a sport where equipment can sometimes feel overly technical, the Fat Boy injects a welcome dose of enjoyment without compromising on performance.

The Fat Boy's design philosophy successfully marries visual appeal with performance-enhancing features. Every aspect, from material choices to ergonomic considerations, serves both form and function. While the psychological benefits of its unique look are highly subjective, they highlight a crucial truth in pickleball and indeed in many sports: when you feel good, you often play well. And with the Fat Boy in hand, feeling good comes easy.

Feel good, play good, right?!

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Surface Texture

The Bread & Butter Fat Boy paddle features a unique surface texture known as "coarse peel-ply." This specialized texture, applied over the twill weave of the T700 Carbon Fiber and Aramid face, enhances both its visual appeal and functionality on the court.

"Coarse peel-ply" refers more to the manufacturing process than to how the surface actually feels. This process involves applying a layer of fabric to the paddle surface during production, which is then peeled away after curing, leaving behind a textured finish. While the term "coarse" suggests a rougher texture compared to other peel-ply finishes, it doesn't necessarily translate to a rough feel in hand. Despite its designation, the Fat Boy's surface doesn't feel excessively rough to the touch. It's noticeably smoother than paddles like the Shogun, striking a balance between texture and comfort.

When examined under a microscope, the true nature of this surface is revealed. At 100x magnification, a detailed, rough pattern emerges, designed to enhance the paddle's grip on the ball. This becomes even more apparent at 1000x magnification, where the intricate texture contributing to the paddle's spin capabilities is clearly visible.

The "coarse peel-ply" finish significantly improves the Fat Boy's grip on the ball, enhancing spin generation and overall control. This carefully engineered surface allows players to execute precise shots, making the paddle a versatile tool for various playing styles.

The peel-ply texture significantly influences the Fat Boy's performance, particularly in terms of spin and control. By increasing friction between the paddle and the ball, this surface allows players to generate more spin on their shots. This enhanced spin capability, quantified at an impressive 2078 RPM, is particularly beneficial for executing a variety of shots, from topspin drives and slicing shots to tricky spin serves that can keep opponents off-balance.

Beyond spin generation, the textured surface also improves control. The increased grip on the ball results in a slightly longer contact time, giving players a fraction of a second more to direct their shots accurately. This added control is especially valuable for precision shots like dinks and drop shots, where accuracy is paramount.

During playtesting, the Fat Boy's spin capabilities were notably impressive. In one instance during a friendly match, I was able to execute a series of topspin lobs that consistently pushed my opponent back, effectively controlling the court. The peel-ply texture allowed for an unexpected level of spin, making my shots challenging to predict and return.

This experience wasn't unique to me. Another player who tested the Fat Boy noted how the enhanced grip improved their slice shots over his worn down other kevlar faced paddle. They found they could add more backspin, resulting in low, skidding slices that added a new dimension to their game, or rather, brought it back. The coarse peel-ply process creates a surface that might not feel rough to the touch but delivers impressive spin capabilities (2078 RPM) and improved control. This thoughtful design element transforms the Fat Boy from a visually appealing paddle into a highly functional tool capable of elevating a player's game across various aspects of play.

OEM Paddle Characteristics

These characteristics collectively make the Fat Boy a versatile paddle that excels in providing a balanced performance. It offers stability, control, and sufficient power, making it a reliable choice for all-court play. The paddle’s specifications are designed to cater to a wide range of players, from beginners to intermediate levels, and its high spin RPM and balanced weight distribution make it a solid contender in any match.

• Weight: 7.9 - 8.2 oz
• Swing Weight: 110
• Twist Weight: 7.19
• Size: 16.0”x 8” (406mm x 203mm)
• Thermoformed T700 Unibody construction
• Face Material: T700 Carbon Fiber and Aramid weave
• Core Thickness 16mm
• High-Density Polypropylene Core
• Graphics are UV printed directly onto the surface
• 5.3" Grip Length, 4.25" Circumference
• Octagon Handle with vibration-dampening wrap
• USAPA APPROVED

Optimizing Your Paddle

Straight out of the box, this paddle showcases a high level of performance that minimizes the need for modifications.

With a static weight of 8.19 ounces, a swing weight of 110.41, and a twist weight of 7.31, the Fat Boy strikes an impressive balance between power, control, and maneuverability. These metrics, combined with its 16mm core thickness and 8-inch width, result in a paddle that feels solid, stable, and responsive without any tweaks.

The only modification I found beneficial was adding a Tourna Mega Tac overgrip (buy this for better value). This minor adjustment enhanced the already comfortable 5.5-inch handle by providing extra tackiness and improved sweat absorption during intense play. Importantly, this addition didn't alter the paddle's carefully calibrated balance or performance metrics; it simply added to the overall comfort and grip security.

Notably, the Fat Boy's performance straight out of the box is so well-tuned that even players who typically modify their paddles found little need for adjustments. One of my playing partners, who habitually adds lead tape to his paddles for extra weight and power, was impressed by the Fat Boy's stock balance and performance. He initially felt no need for additional weight, though his modding instincts might eventually lead him to experiment with minor additions.

The paddle's inherent qualities—its wide body, unibody thermoformed design, and edge foam—contribute to its excellent stability and generous sweet spot without requiring extra modifications. The spin capability of 2078 RPM and the serve speed of 51.6 MPH demonstrate that the Fat Boy delivers competitive performance metrics in its stock form.

For context, many players often modify their paddles to enhance certain characteristics:

• Adding weight to increase power (often at the cost of maneuverability)
• Adjusting balance points to suit personal preferences
• Changing grip sizes or textures for comfort

However, the Fat Boy's stock configuration seems to have anticipated and addressed many of these common modification needs. Its balanced approach to performance metrics means that for most players, the paddle performs admirably across various aspects of the game without requiring tweaks.

Pricing & Value

The Bread & Butter Fat Boy paddle enters the market with a price tag of $190 (keep reading for even better value), positioning it in the medium echelon of pickleball paddles. This pricing reflects the paddle's high-quality materials, advanced construction techniques, and unique design features. But the question remains: Does it offer good value for its price?

To answer this, let's break down the Fat Boy's value proposition:

Materials and Construction:

• T700 Carbon Fiber and Aramid weave face
• Unibody thermoformed construction with edge foam

These high-end materials and construction methods contribute to the paddle's durability and performance, justifying a higher price point.

Performance Metrics:

• Spin capability: 2078 RPM
• Serve speed: 51.6 MPH
• Punch volley speed: 33.6 MPH

These metrics are competitive with, and in some cases surpass, paddles in a similar or higher price range.

Design Features:

• Large sweet spot (8-inch width)
• Enhanced stability (twist weight: 7.31)

These features make the Fat Boy suitable for players across various skill levels, increasing its versatility and value.

Durability:

While long-term durability is yet to be fully assessed, the high-quality materials suggest a longer lifespan, potentially reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Comparative Value:

When compared to other paddles in this price range, the Fat Boy holds its own:

• Outperforms the Mark Pickleball OneX (priced at $159.99) in spin RPM (2078 vs 2037)
• Offers comparable performance to the Volair Mach 2 Forza (priced at $179.99) in most metrics

Discount Consideration:

With the "MPB" discount code, the price reduces to $161.50, significantly enhancing its value proposition. At this price point, the Fat Boy becomes highly competitive, offering premium features at a mid-range price.

User Feedback:

The Bread & Butter Fat Boy paddle receives high praise for its exceptional balance, control, and spin capabilities. Users consistently highlight its large sweet spot, stability, and comfortable feel, making it ideal for kitchen play and quick exchanges. The paddle's design, featuring a Kevlar/Carbon Fiber surface and unique graphics, also stands out, adding to its appeal.

However, some players note that the paddle could benefit from a bit more power, especially for baseline drives. This is a minor issue that can be addressed with the addition of lead tape. Overall, the Fat Boy is highly recommended for its blend of control, spin, and aesthetics, making it a versatile choice for various playing styles and skill levels.

Market Position:

At its full price of $190 (better with code MPB!), the Fat Boy is positioned as a premium paddle. However, the available discount brings it into a more accessible price range, potentially attracting a wider range of players who might otherwise opt for mid-range options.

The Fat Boy offers solid value given its high-quality materials, exceptional performance metrics, and thoughtful design. It stands out as a worthwhile investment for serious pickleball players seeking a premium paddle. The available discount code further enhances its value proposition, making it an even more attractive option in the competitive pickleball paddle market.

For players looking to invest in a high-performance paddle without breaking the bank, the discounted Fat Boy presents a compelling opportunity to access top-tier features at a more accessible price point.

Conclusion & Recommendation

The Bread & Butter Fat Boy paddle is a standout in the pickleball world, combining high-quality materials, innovative design, and impressive performance. Its sleek dark blue T700 Carbon Fiber and Aramid weave face not only add durability but also provide a modern, high-tech aesthetic. The paddle’s unique graphics, bright blue edge guard, and contrasting pink accents make it visually striking and aesthetically pleasing.

Performance-wise, the Fat Boy excels with its large sweet spot, enhanced stability, and excellent spin capabilities. The “coarse” peel-ply texture, although not rough to the touch, boosts spin and control, making it a versatile paddle suitable for various playing styles. The unibody thermoformed construction with edge foam gives it a solid feel, while the ergonomic handle ensures comfort during extended play.

I am happy to recommend the Bread & Butter Fat Boy paddle to players of all skill levels who are looking for a balanced, high-performing paddle.

• Beginners and Intermediate Players: The forgiving nature and large sweet spot make it ideal for those still developing their skills. The paddle’s stability and control will help them build confidence on the court.
• All-Court Players: The Fat Boy is versatile enough to handle both baseline rallies and net play effectively. Its balanced performance makes it suitable for various play styles, providing a reliable tool for all-court dominance.
• Control-Oriented Players: Those who prioritize control and precision will appreciate the Fat Boy’s ability to generate significant spin and maintain consistent shot placement. The enhanced grip and control features make it perfect for executing strategic shots like dinks and drop shots.

While the Fat Boy might not cater to power-hungry players who prefer paddles designed for maximum power, its overall performance and unique design make it a worthwhile investment. The available discount code "MPB" further adds to its value, making it a premium paddle at a more accessible price point.

In conclusion, the Bread & Butter Fat Boy paddle is a top-tier choice for all pickleball players seeking a blend of style and performance. Its exceptional design and advanced features make it a valuable addition to any player’s gear, offering the confidence and precision needed to elevate their game.