TLDR
The Spartus Olympus 14mm strikes an excellent balance between power, control, and durability in 2024. With its innovative Ascension Core™ and Phalanx System™, it’s tailored for intermediate to advanced players who thrive on speed-ups, hand battles, and spin-heavy strokes. While not as forgiving as thicker paddles, its hybrid shape, spin-friendly surface, and consistent feel make it a great option for aggressive, all-court playstyles. Use my code, MPB, to save 10% off the $199.99 price tag of the Spartus Olympus.
Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of pickleball paddles, Spartus has quickly risen to prominence as a brand that values innovation, precision, and accessibility. Founded by Josh Kim, an engineer with a background in biomedical science and intellectual property law, Spartus is built on the belief that pickleball paddles should deliver top-tier performance without breaking the bank. Kim’s hands-on approach to product design—testing countless prototypes, engineering paddles in-house, and forging direct relationships with manufacturers—ensures every Spartus paddle reflects the brand’s commitment to quality and value.
The Spartus Olympus 14mm exemplifies this ethos, standing out in 2024 as a paddle designed to meet the demands of intermediate and advanced players seeking power and pop. Unlike mass-produced paddles created from generic factory catalogs, the Olympus is the result of engineering and player-centric design. Its proprietary Ascension Core™ and Phalanx System™ address common frustrations like durability, responsiveness, and balance, creating a paddle that feels as good as it performs.
Josh Kim’s vision is clear: pickleball paddles should offer a balance of power, control, and feel, without players having to compromise or pay inflated prices. The Olympus reflects this philosophy, providing the tools players need to excel in fast-paced exchanges, high-spin shots, and controlled resets. Whether you’re battling at the kitchen line or driving from the baseline, the Olympus is engineered to deliver consistent results with every swing.
So, who is this paddle for? The Olympus is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who thrive on fast-paced exchanges, aggressive firefights, and spin-friendly shots. Its dense, full sweet spot, coupled with a design that emphasizes maneuverability, makes it a top contender for players seeking a power paddle without sacrificing touch or precision.
In this review, we’ll explore:
- What makes the Spartus Olympus 14mm unique in terms of technology and design.
- How it performs across key metrics like power, control, spin, and forgiveness.
- How it stacks up against competitors like the Paddletek ALW.
Whether you’re looking to dominate the net or transition seamlessly between power and control, the Spartus Olympus is here to help you play like an Olympian. Let’s dive in!
Player Fit and Paddle Type
Who Is the Spartus Olympus For?
The Spartus Olympus 14mm is designed for intermediate to advanced players who thrive in fast-paced, aggressive gameplay. Its blend of power, maneuverability, and spin makes it ideal for those who rely on sharp counterattacks and precise shot placement.
This paddle will appeal to players who:
- Engage in hand battles at the kitchen line: Its lightweight swing (approximately 110) and pop make it quick and effective for speed-ups and counters.
- Play spin-heavy styles: The textured surface supports topspin and slice, enabling players to dictate rallies with finesse.
- Value all-court versatility: Whether transitioning from baseline drives to soft dinks or resets at the net, the Olympus adapts seamlessly to aggressive and touch-based playstyles.
However, the Olympus rewards precision, as its compact sweet spot performs best in the hands of players with consistent mechanics and good hand speed.
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
While the Olympus excels in versatility and power, it’s not the best fit for everyone. Players who may struggle with this paddle include:
- Control-Oriented Players: If you prefer softer, forgiving paddles for maximum accuracy in resets and dinks, thicker models like the Paddletek ESQ 14.3 or Engage Pursuit MX might be better options.
- Beginners: The Olympus’s smaller sweet spot and performance-oriented design demand precise technique, which newer players may find challenging.
- Players Seeking Stability: The lighter swing weight (8.0 oz static) and lower inherent stability may not suit players who prefer a more grounded feel, though this can be addressed with lead tape.
Paddle Type: All-Court with a Power-Leaning Focus
The Olympus falls into the “all-court” paddle category but leans toward power, offering a dynamic blend of pop and control. It stands out for its ability to generate put-away shots while maintaining enough finesse for softer touch play.
Here’s how it stacks up:
- Power: The Olympus delivers strong pop for aggressive put-aways, though it’s more controlled than pure power paddles like the Paddletek ALW-C 12.7.
- Control: Thanks to its dense and solid feel (enabled by the Ascension Core™), it excels in resets, dinks, and drops, making it more user-friendly than other paddles in its class.
- Maneuverability: Lightweight and quick, the Olympus shines in net exchanges and fast transitions, where speed is critical.
Comparison to Other Paddle Types
- Vs. Power Paddles (e.g., Paddletek ALW-C 12.7):
- Offers a more forgiving sweet spot and better overall control than raw power paddles like the ALW-C.
- While it sacrifices some raw power, it balances pop and precision for a more well-rounded playing experience.
- Vs. Control Paddles (e.g., Paddletek ESQ 14.3):
- Delivers better power and spin generation than thicker control paddles, though it lacks the larger sweet spot and maximum forgiveness found in those models.
- Requires more precision, but rewards aggressive, confident play.
- Vs. Other 14mm Paddles (e.g., Paddletek ESQ-C, Chorus Fire, CRBN X):
- Provides a denser and more responsive feel than the Paddletek ESQ-C and superior stability compared to the Chorus Fire.
- Its sweet spot is compact but consistent, with minimal dead zones along the edges.
Summary: Is the Olympus Right for You?
The Spartus Olympus 14mm is a power-leaning all-court paddle built for players who want to combine aggression with precision. Its lightweight feel, controlled pop, and spin-friendly surface make it especially effective in kitchen battles and all-court play.
However, players who prefer larger sweet spots, maximum forgiveness, or slower, more control-oriented paddles may find the Olympus less forgiving. For those who value speed, versatility, and balance in their game, this paddle is a top-tier option for elevating your play.
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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.
In-Depth Playing Experience
From the first game, it was clear that the Spartus Olympus 14mm was built for players who thrive on precision, quick reactions, and spin-heavy play. Over several matches—and with feedback from players across various skill levels—I got a comprehensive feel for how the Olympus performs in real-world scenarios. Here’s a breakdown of its performance, shot by shot.
1. Aggressive Kitchen Play and Hand Battles
The Olympus shines at the net, where its quick swing weight (~110) and lively pop make it ideal for fast-paced hand battles and aggressive speed-ups.
- What I Experienced: The paddle felt lightweight and maneuverable, allowing me to react quickly and block or counter effectively. The sweet spot, while compact, was incredibly rewarding when I struck the ball cleanly, offering a dense, consistent feel.
- What Others Said: Advanced players described it as “effortlessly quick,” with one teammate noting, “It really helps win those firefights at the net, especially against heavy hitters.” The paddle also produces a crisp, clean sound on sweet spot contact, similar to the Paddletek Bantam series, which adds a subtle confidence boost during play.
Takeaway: If you thrive in fast exchanges at the net, the Olympus’s combination of speed and controlled power makes it an excellent choice.
2. Serves and Drives
From the baseline, the Olympus delivers controlled power and spin, making it versatile for both serves and drives.
- Serves: Generating topspin on serves felt natural, with the paddle’s textured surface helping me create sharp, dipping shots that challenged my opponents. Flat serves also carried enough pace to keep opponents on the defensive without sacrificing control.
- Drives: The paddle offered just enough pop to hit through the ball, but it stopped short of feeling overly springy or hard to control. This made it reliable for baseline drives and passing shots.
- What Others Said: A partner praised its “crisp, clean feel” on drives, while another player—who typically uses a control paddle—said the Olympus gave them the confidence to attack more aggressively.
Takeaway: Whether you’re serving with spin or driving the ball down the line, the Olympus balances power and control to give you consistent results.
3. Resets and Defensive Play
Resets are always a good test of a paddle’s ability to absorb energy and maintain control, and the Olympus proved capable, though not overly forgiving.
- What I Experienced: Against heavy hitters, the Ascension Core™ dampened vibrations well, allowing me to reset shots into the kitchen with reasonable accuracy. While it’s not as forgiving as thicker paddles like 16mm models, the Olympus feels stable and precise when handling defensive resets.
- What Others Said: One partner called it “not the most forgiving paddle, but definitely precise.” Another noted that it took some adjustment to control its power on softer shots, particularly for newer players.
Takeaway: The Olympus rewards solid technique on resets and blocks. While it’s not a paddle you’d call “automatic” on defense, players with good mechanics will appreciate its stability and touch.
4. Dinks and Third-Shot Drops
Touch shots like dinks and third-shot drops require finesse, and the Olympus delivers once you adjust to its firmer, more compact feel.
- Dinking: When I dialed in my timing, the paddle provided great feedback on well-struck dinks. However, off-center contact was less forgiving, especially when attempting sharp angles or delicate placements.
- Third-Shot Drops: Drops took some adjustment, especially coming from softer, more control-oriented paddles. Once I got used to it, I was able to generate spin and accuracy, though it’s clear the Olympus prioritizes precision over forgiveness.
- What Others Said: A finesse-oriented player mentioned that while it “forces you to be precise,” the dense feel is rewarding once you adapt.
Takeaway: The Olympus isn’t designed for maximum forgiveness, but for players who take the time to adjust, it offers a rewarding feel and excellent touch for soft shots.
5. Spin Potential: Topspin and Slice Dominance
One of the standout features of the Olympus is its ability to generate spin. The textured Toray T700 carbon fiber surface creates enough grip to manipulate the ball effectively.
- Topspin: I found it easy to load the ball with topspin on drives and passing shots, keeping my shots deep and within the baseline.
- Slice: Defensive slices stayed low and sharp, while offensive slices bit hard and forced weaker returns. The paddle’s texture grips the ball exceptionally well, enhancing shot variety.
- What Others Said: An advanced player called it “a spin-friendly paddle,” while another noted how “dipping shots just past the net” were a breeze to execute.
Takeaway: If you rely on spin as a key part of your strategy, the Olympus’s surface texture will help you dictate points with topspin and slice.
6. Midcourt Performance and Transition Zone
The midcourt can be a challenging area for many paddles, and the Olympus showed mixed performance depending on how it was used.
- Neutral Shots: On neutral midcourt shots, the smaller sweet spot demands clean contact, but the paddle’s pop keeps shots low and effective.
- Aggressive Play: When stepping into counterattacks or transition drives, the Olympus felt solid and quick, rewarding offensive players who thrive in fast-paced exchanges.
- What Others Said: One player mentioned feeling “more in control during transitions,” while another appreciated how it rewarded aggressive playstyles.
Takeaway: The Olympus works well in transition zones, especially for players who prefer attacking rather than playing neutral or defensive shots.
Overall Gameplay Feel
If I had to sum up the Olympus in one word: dense. The hand filled foam core and thermoformed construction give it a substantial, controlled feel across all shot types. Every strike—whether a drive, dink, or counter—feels intentional and connected.
While it doesn’t match the raw power of some paddles or the oversized forgiveness of thicker cores, the Olympus excels at finding the middle ground, offering balance and precision for players who value control and aggression.
Final Thought: The Olympus is the type of paddle that grows on you the more you use it. Its versatility, spin potential, and crisp feel make it a standout choice for confident players looking to elevate their game. For me, it brought to mind the Paddletek Bantam—but with improved controllability and consistency.
Olympus Performance Testing and Ratings
The Spartus Olympus 14mm delivers well-rounded performance across critical metrics, making it a standout paddle for aggressive all-court players. Its controlled power ensures players can hit decisive serves, drives, and speed-ups without the paddle feeling overly explosive or difficult to manage. On the spin front, the textured Toray T700 carbon fiber face enables top-tier spin potential, rivaling market leaders like the Joola Hyperion.
Where the Olympus truly shines is in its control and touch, thanks to the Ascension Core™, which dampens vibrations and provides a dense, consistent feel. Resets and blocks feel stable, while soft shots like dinks and third-shot drops reward precise mechanics. While the paddle’s sweet spot is generous for a 14mm core, it remains more compact than thicker paddles like the Engage Pursuit MX, requiring clean hits to maximize forgiveness and performance.
Fast-paced players will appreciate the Olympus’s lightweight maneuverability, making it an good choice for quick hand battles at the net. Coupled with excellent durability from its thermoformed unibody construction, the Olympus is built to withstand heavy use while maintaining consistent performance.
Tools and Methods
To ensure accurate, data-driven insights into the performance of the Spartus Olympus 14mm, the following tools and methods were used during testing:
- Radar Gun: Used to measure serve speed and punch volley speed, offering a clear evaluation of the paddle’s power and pop.
- 240 FPS Camera: Captured high-frame-rate video to calculate spin RPM and analyze ball flight paths for spin potential and consistency.
- Briffidi SW1: Equipped with paddle and twist weight adapters to measure swing weight and twist weight, providing valuable insights into the Olympus’s maneuverability and stability during gameplay.
- BP1 (Balance Point Tool): Determined the paddle’s balance point, offering a detailed sense of how the Olympus feels in hand and moves through strokes.
- Microscope: Examined the surface texture of the Toray T700 carbon fiber face, providing insights into its spin potential and durability over time.
- Precision Scale: Measured static weight for an accurate assessment of weight distribution and its overall impact on playability.
This combination of tools ensures that every performance metric—from power and spin to balance and maneuverability—is thoroughly tested and accurately reflects the real-world capabilities of the Spartus Olympus 14mm.
Paddle Metrics
The Spartus Olympus 14mm has been tested extensively to provide an accurate representation of its performance across a variety of key metrics. These metrics give a detailed look at how the paddle performs in terms of power, control, spin, forgiveness, and maneuverability, allowing players to understand its strengths and where it fits in the market. By evaluating serve speed, volley responsiveness, and spin generation, I’ve captured how the Olympus performs both in controlled tests and on the court. The results provide clear insights into the paddle’s capabilities and how it compares to other leading models.
Aesthetics & Design
The Spartus Olympus 14mm offers a simple, well-thought-out design that balances style with functionality. Its black and gold color scheme is understated yet polished, giving it a refined look without being over the top. The matte black surface pairs nicely with the subtle gold accents along the edges and branding, creating a paddle that feels professional and modern.
Visual Appeal
The branding is clean and minimal, with “Olympus XIV” featured along the right side of the face and the Spartus logo at the base. These small details are tasteful, avoiding the cluttered look that some paddles can have. The gold trim around the edges not only adds a visual highlight but also subtly points to the edgefoam technology that supports performance.
Functional Design Features
Beyond the aesthetics, the paddle’s hybrid shape serves a practical purpose. The elongated face provides extra reach without feeling awkward or oversized, while the tapered handle neck and 5.5-inch handle make it comfortable to hold, even for players who favor two-handed backhands. The perforated grip feels solid and reliable, offering a consistent hold throughout play.
While looks aren’t everything, the Olympus strikes a nice balance between visual appeal and performance-driven design, making it a solid option for players who appreciate thoughtful details in their equipment.
Surface Materials and Texture: A Closer Look
The Spartus Olympus 14mm is crafted with a combination of premium materials that elevate its performance while ensuring durability. At the heart of its surface design is the Toray T700 carbon fiber, a high-quality material renowned for its strength, lightweight properties, and ability to generate spin. Spartus has paired this with a layer of fiberglass, creating a dynamic surface that balances power, control, and responsiveness.
Spin-Friendly Textured Surface
The Toray T700 carbon fiber features a subtly textured finish, designed to grip the ball and enhance spin potential. Whether you’re brushing the ball for topspin or slicing underneath for a defensive shot, the surface offers consistent grip that translates into measured spin rates exceeding 2,016 RPM. This makes it a good contender for players who rely on spin to dictate points.
Blend of Power and Feel
The fiberglass layer complements the carbon fiber by adding a touch of liveliness to the face, giving the paddle an extra edge in power and pop. This balance ensures that the Olympus doesn’t feel overly stiff—a common complaint with all-carbon paddles—while still maintaining the precision and control that players demand.
Durability and Long-Term Performance
The surface materials are built for longevity, with the carbon fiber ensuring the face retains its texture over extended use. While heavy use may eventually smooth out the fiberglass layer slightly, the Olympus’s design ensures consistent performance even after months of play.
The combination of Toray T700 carbon fiber and fiberglass makes the Spartus Olympus a paddle that delivers exceptional spin, reliable power, and a balanced feel—an ideal choice for players who need a versatile paddle capable of performing across all aspects of the game.
Pricing & Value
The Spartus Olympus 14mm is priced at $199.99, positioning it as a premium paddle in the competitive pickleball market. For its combination of advanced technology, durability, and performance, the price reflects its high-end build and features. While not the most affordable option, the Olympus offers exceptional value for players looking to invest in a paddle that delivers consistent performance and long-lasting quality.
Discount Opportunities
Spartus frequently offers discounts and promotions to make the Olympus more accessible. My 10% discount code, MBP, brings the price down to $180, making it more competitive with paddles in the $150–$180 range.
What You’re Paying For
With the Olympus, you’re not just paying for the name or aesthetics—you’re getting:
- Advanced technology, like the Ascension Core™ and Phalanx System™, that enhances feel, durability, and performance.
- A premium blend of Toray T700 carbon fiber and fiberglass, delivering high spin rates and a balance of power and control.
- Thermoformed unibody construction and edgefoam for enhanced durability, making this paddle an investment that lasts.
Competitor Comparisons
When compared to paddles in a similar price range, such as the Paddletek ALW-C/ESQ-C or other Bantams, the Olympus offers a more balanced blend of power and control. Durability remains to be seen. Its price is competitive, particularly when factoring in the use of cutting-edge materials and its long-term playability (and a 10% discount with code, MPB).
Is It Worth It?
For intermediate to advanced players looking for a paddle that performs well across all categories—power, control, spin, and durability—the Spartus Olympus 14mm offers tremendous value. While the initial cost may be higher than budget options, its durability and high-performance design make it a worthwhile investment for players serious about their game.
Conclusion & Recommendation
The Spartus Olympus 14mm is a standout paddle in the pickleball world, blending cutting-edge technology, thoughtful design, and versatile performance. It’s a paddle that finds the sweet spot between power, control, and spin, making it a compelling choice for intermediate and advanced players alike. Whether you’re dominating at the net with quick counters, adding topspin to your passing shots, or delivering precision on third-shot drops, the Olympus consistently delivers.
Key Strengths:
- Balanced Performance: A rare combination of controlled power, impressive spin potential, and a responsive feel.
- Durable Construction: The Ascension Core™ and thermoformed unibody design ensure long-term reliability.
- Aesthetic Appeal: A sleek black and gold design that looks as premium as it performs.
Considerations:
The Olympus is not without its quirks—it’s less forgiving than thicker 16mm paddles, and its compact sweet spot rewards clean, precise contact over casual play. For players who rely on maximum forgiveness or softer touch paddles, it might not feel as accommodating as options like the Paddletek Bantam or CRBN X series. However, for those who enjoy a paddle that rewards skillful mechanics and offers a responsive, dense feel, the Olympus stands out as a reliable choice.
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