TL;DR
The PIKKL Hurricane Pro series is built for players who thrive on control and spin without completely sacrificing power. Featuring the T700 raw carbon fiber surface, both the 14mm Tyra Black Edition and the 16mm model deliver exceptional spin potential, reliable control, and long-lasting durability.
- 16mm Paddle: Perfect for finesse players who dominate the short game. This paddle emphasizes control, allowing you to manipulate touch shots and resets with pinpoint accuracy. Its thicker core provides extra stability, and you can add weight for a bit more power.
- 14mm Paddle: A thinner, more agile paddle that strikes a great balance between speed and control. It’s a versatile all-court weapon that gives players more mobility and power potential without losing too much touch.
Both paddles are excellent for players who rely on spin, though they trade off some raw power in their stock forms. If control and precision define your game, the PIKKL Hurricane Pro series will fit your style.
Want to save on your purchase? Use my code MPB at checkout to get 10% off any PIKKL paddle.
Introduction
In around two years, PIKKL has become a name that serious pickleball enthusiasts can’t ignore. The brand has burst onto the scene with a laser focus on developing paddles that give players maximum control and spin, without sacrificing durability. The flagship Hurricane Pro series, available in both 14mm and 16mm models, is a testament to this mission. With high-end materials like raw carbon fiber and innovative Pur-Cell foam cores, these paddles are built for players who demand precision and consistency in every shot.
A big part of PIKKL's rise to prominence is its Team PIKKL, featuring Tyra Black, who shocked the pickleball world with her stunning upset over Anna Leigh Waters in 2023. Her explosive performance, paired with her impressive 5.8 doubles DUPR rating, has made her a perfect ambassador for the brand. Alongside Black, notable pros like Gabe Tardio (6.7 DUPR), known for his aggressive style, and Christa Gecheva, David Dutrieuille, and rising star Camden Chaffin, bring a wealth of talent and variety to the PIKKL lineup. Each of them showcases the versatility of the Hurricane Pro paddles in different playstyles, making PIKKL a go-to brand for competitive players.
With founders like Mike and Erin Strommen, and Dan and Heidi Martinson, PIKKL was born from a passion for the game and a desire to push the boundaries of paddle technology. This isn’t just another pickleball company—PIKKL combines manufacturing expertise and performance-driven design to offer paddles that meet the needs of both recreational and pro players. If you want to improve your game and dominate the court, it’s hard to overlook what PIKKL is bringing to the table.
Paddle Type
The Hurricane Pro series by PIKKL is all about giving players an edge when it comes to control and spin. Whether you're resetting shots at the net or whipping up backhand slices, these paddles feel like extensions of your hand. However, they're not built for players who focus on sheer power. Instead, they shine in situations where touch and precision are key.
- The 16mm version is clearly for those who live for the short game. The thicker core provides a solid, forgiving surface, which is perfect for dinking and resets. If you enjoy controlling the pace of play and prefer touch over force, this paddle will feel like a natural fit.
- The 14mm version, on the other hand, is all about versatility. It’s lighter, quicker through the air, and offers a touch more power without sacrificing control. This makes it ideal for players who enjoy a fast-paced game but don’t want to give up finesse. It allows for faster swings, giving you the upper hand in quick rallies while still maintaining control in touch shots.
Neither of these paddles is what I’d consider a "power" paddle. If your game relies heavily on aggressive baseline drives, these might not be the best fit. But if strategic play, spin, and precision are your strengths, the Hurricane Pro paddles have a lot to offer.
- Control
Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation. - All-Court
Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles. - Power
Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.
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- Control
Best for strategic players who favor precision and placement over power, excelling in slow play and careful ball manipulation. - All-Court
Designed for versatile players who want the best of both worlds. These paddles balance control, power, and speed, adaptable to various playing styles. - Power
Ideal for aggressive players (aka, "bangers") who prioritize fast, powerful gameplay, sacrificing some control and sweet spot size for maximum force.
Testing the PIKKL Hurricane Pro Paddles
To really get a feel for the PIKKL Hurricane Pro series, I spent months playing with both the 14mm Tyra Black Edition and the 16mm model. Testing them across a variety of conditions, from cooler morning matches to blazing-hot afternoon games, allowed me to evaluate how each paddle performs in real-world situations.
- With the 16mm, I found it to be exceptional in the short game. It truly excels in dinking, resets, and any situation where precision is more important than power. For comparison, I matched it up against the Volair Mach 2 Forza and Monarch 11SIX24 All-Court, two paddles known for their combination of control and power. While those paddles offer more pop on drives, the Hurricane Pro 16mm felt like a scalpel for touch shots—surgical and precise.
- Testing the 14mm Tyra Black Edition was a different experience altogether. This paddle has a bit more juice compared to the 16mm, making it quicker through the air and better for all-court play. I put it up against the CRBN 2X 14mm, and the results were impressive. The Tyra Black Edition matched the CRBN 2X in terms of speed and spin, but with a slightly softer, more forgiving feel. It's a great option for players who like to transition quickly between offense and defense.
In-Depth Playing Experience
Let’s break down the playing experience with both paddles:
16mm Paddle
The 16mm Hurricane Pro feels incredibly soft, especially when you’re hitting those delicate finesse shots. Dinks, resets, and blocks are where this paddle shines. During testing, I found the paddle's response to be consistent, giving me control over every shot. However, in terms of raw power, the paddle underwhelms—on a scale of 1 to 10, I’d rate it around a 3 for power. That being said, the paddle's spin capabilities are fantastic, generating 2312 RPM on average. This is comparable to some of the highest-rated spin paddles on the market, making it ideal for players who like to slice or top-spin their opponents into oblivion.
14mm Paddle
The 14mm Tyra Black Edition feels much more lively and responsive. It reminded me of the CRBN 2X 14mm in how whippy and quick it felt in hand. This paddle delivers a bit more pop than the 16mm, with power around a 5 out of 10. With the 14mm, I could generate offensive plays more easily, especially during fast-paced exchanges at the net. It’s a great all-around paddle, especially for those who like to mix power with touch. Spin-wise, it produced around 2248 RPM, which is slightly lower than the 16mm, but still more than enough to put a heavy spin on the ball.
PIKKL Hurricane Pro Performance Ratings
Based on my testing, here's how I’d rate the PIKKL Hurricane Pro paddles:
PIKKL
Hurricane Pro 14mm
Control
$
159.99
pikkl.com
6-Month Limited
PIKKL
Hurricane Pro 16mm
Control
$
159.99
pikkl.com
6-Month Limited
Performance Measurement Tools
To ensure accurate performance data for both the 14mm and 16mm PIKKL Hurricane Pro paddles, I used the following tools:
- Radar Gun: Measured serve and volley speeds, providing insights into the power levels of each paddle.
- 240 FPS Camera: Captured high-speed video to calculate the spin RPM generated on different shots.
- Briffidi SW1: Measured swing weight and twist weight to assess each paddle’s maneuverability and stability.
- BP1: Determined the balance point of each paddle, essential for understanding how the paddle plays in hand.
- Microscope: Examined the surface texture of the paddles to assess their spin potential and durability.
- Scale: Measured the static weight of each paddle to ensure consistency with the manufacturer’s specs.
These tools helped provide a data-driven evaluation of the PIKKL Hurricane Pro paddles, giving me the objective metrics needed to back up the on-court testing.
PIKKL Hurricane Pro Metrics
The Hurricane Pro paddles are built using high-quality materials like T700 raw carbon fiber and a thermoformed unibody construction, which contribute to their performance. Here’s a brief overview of their metrics:
Comparative Analysis
When evaluating the PIKKL Hurricane Pro paddles against their competitors, it becomes clear that both the 14mm and 16mm models excel in their specific areas of strength: control and spin. However, the nuances of each model come to light when they’re put head-to-head with other popular paddles in the market.
PIKKL Hurricane Pro 16mm vs. Volair Mach 2 Forza
The Volair Mach 2 Forza and the PIKKL Hurricane Pro 16mm are both control-oriented paddles, but they serve different types of players. The Volair offers a more versatile mix of control and power, making it a better fit for players who need some pop behind their shots without giving up finesse. With its 16mm core, the PIKKL leans more heavily toward the soft game, providing exceptional feedback during dinks, resets, and blocks.
While the Volair has more power, the Hurricane Pro 16mm outperforms it in terms of touch and spin control. It’s ideal for players who like to slow the game down, manipulate the ball, and dictate rallies with soft, controlled shots. If you prefer power to finish off points, the Volair may have an edge, but if your game thrives on precision and spin, the PIKKL Hurricane Pro 16mm is the better choice.
PIKKL Hurricane Pro 16mm vs. Monarch 11SIX24 All-Court
The Monarch 11SIX24 All-Court brings stability and power to the table, making it a solid paddle for all-court players who need a stiffer frame for harder shots. However, compared to the PIKKL Hurricane Pro 16mm, it lacks the same level of soft touch and control. The Monarch paddle performs well in blocking and power play but feels less forgiving in resets and delicate net play.
Where the PIKKL Hurricane Pro 16mm really shines is in its ability to absorb the ball’s impact and offer excellent placement on softer shots. For players who value shot consistency, especially in defensive and reset situations, the Hurricane Pro 16mm is a standout. On the other hand, if you often find yourself trading aggressive volleys and hitting from the baseline, the Monarch provides a stiffer, more powerful option.
PIKKL Hurricane Pro 14mm vs. CRBN 2X 14mm
Comparing the PIKKL Hurricane Pro 14mm to the CRBN 2X 14mm reveals some interesting differences. Both paddles are designed with control and spin in mind, but the CRBN 2X 14mm takes a more aggressive approach. Its firmer feel and stiffer surface give it more power on drives and volleys, making it better suited for players who prefer to play a more offensive game.
The PIKKL Hurricane Pro 14mm, on the other hand, offers a softer feel and excels in quick, controlled exchanges at the net. It’s nimble, making it ideal for dinks, resets, and rapid back-and-forth volleys. The paddle is lighter and more forgiving, but lacks some of the pure power that the CRBN 2X 14mm provides. If you’re a player who likes to attack from the baseline, the CRBN 2X might be a better fit, but if your game revolves around quickness and finesse, the Hurricane Pro 14mm will suit your style more.
Spin Comparison: PIKKL Hurricane Pro vs. Competitors
Both the PIKKL Hurricane Pro 14mm and 16mm models feature the T700 raw carbon fiber surface, which ranks highly in spin generation. Compared to paddles like the Volair Mach 2 Forza, Monarch 11SIX24 All-Court, and CRBN 2X 14mm, the PIKKL paddles hold their own, consistently producing excellent spin potential.
- Hurricane Pro 16mm: Generated an impressive 2312 RPM in my tests, making it a top performer in terms of spin control.
- Hurricane Pro 14mm: Came in slightly lower at 2248 RPM, but still outperforms most paddles when it comes to manipulating the ball’s spin.
While some paddles may offer slightly higher spin rates (like the CRBN 2X), the Hurricane Pro paddles’ combination of spin and control make them highly competitive, especially for players who rely on topspin and slice to outmaneuver their opponents.
Who Will Like This Paddle
The PIKKL Hurricane Pro series is not a one-size-fits-all paddle, but it’s perfect for players who prioritize precision and spin above all else. Whether you’re a dinking master or someone who thrives on keeping opponents off-balance with soft resets, this series has something to offer.
- 16mm Version: If you’re a player who thrives in the soft game, enjoys dinking, and likes to control the pace of the match with precision, the 16mm version is ideal for you. Its thicker core is especially forgiving in resets and blocks, making it a strong choice for players who like to dictate rallies with control and finesse. Beginners to intermediate players who focus on placement rather than power will benefit the most from this paddle.
- 14mm Version: If you prefer an all-court game with a bit more speed and maneuverability, the 14mm Tyra Black Edition is for you. It’s quicker through the air, making it perfect for fast volleys and aggressive net play, while still retaining enough control to execute delicate shots. Intermediate to advanced players who want a lighter paddle with a balance of power and control will find the 14mm model highly effective.
That said, power players who rely on heavy drives might feel that both paddles lack the raw pop they need. Adding weight through customization can help, but in their stock form, these paddles lean toward control rather than all-court or power.
Aesthetics & Design
Visually, both paddles in the PIKKL Hurricane Pro series maintain a sleek and professional appearance. The black carbon fiber face gives the paddles a clean, modern look, while the green and red accents add a bit of flair without being overly flashy. The design is understated yet confident, signaling that these paddles are all about performance.
The white grip adds a sharp contrast to the dark face, though it may show wear and tear faster, especially for outdoor players. Despite this, the overall design is highly functional and visually appealing, fitting the needs of players who want a high-performing paddle that also looks great in action.
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Surface Texture
One of the standout features of the Hurricane Pro series is the T700 raw carbon fiber surface. The texture is high-friction, meaning the paddle grips the ball exceptionally well, allowing you to apply topspin or slice with ease. Whether you’re hitting a topspin drive or adding underspin on a backhand slice, the paddle’s surface texture gives you complete control over the ball’s trajectory.
This grippy surface is a game-changer for players who rely heavily on spin, as it gives them the ability to manipulate the ball in ways that are difficult for opponents to handle. Additionally, the texture is durable, showing little wear even after extended use on rough outdoor courts.
Pricing & Value
At $159.99, the PIKKL Hurricane Pro paddles offer great value for players looking for top-notch control paddles with high spin potential. Considering their build quality and performance features, the price is reasonable for players seeking to invest in a paddle that will enhance their precision and spin game.
When you factor in the option to apply discount codes for even more savings, these paddles become a solid investment, particularly for players who value control over raw power.
Conclusion & Recommendation
The PIKKL Hurricane Pro paddles are excellent choices for players who prioritize control and spin in their game. The 16mm model is ideal for players who focus on touch and precision, while the 14mm Tyra Black Edition is a great fit for those who want a faster, more aggressive paddle with solid control.
Both paddles offer excellent durability, thanks to their thermoformed construction and Pur-Cell foam, and are trusted by top pros like Hurricane Tyra Black and Gabe Tardio. Whether you’re a beginner looking to refine your control or a competitive player seeking an edge with spin, the Hurricane Pro paddles are a strong choice.
Want to get one for yourself? Use my code MPB to save 10% on your purchase at PIKKL!
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