Everything You Should Know About Kevlar Pickleball Paddles

With the way this game is transforming, you can’t miss out on what’s trending and new trends coming out every day.

Kevlar Pickleball Paddle is the new trending pickleball core material that just drove the manufacturing industry by storm. Kevlar core pickleball paddles have been capable of cementing its place when the question is around what pickleball paddles pros like to prefer to bring out their best game. 

The noise around this term has kept my mind boggling, as the term “Kevlar paddles” has been spinning around in the market of pickleball.

Being a premium pickleball brand we at Helios will untie the strings around this this mystery and by the end of this article, you’ll be completely informed regarding all Kevlar pickleball paddles terminologies, what is Kevlar paddle in the first place, and whether Kevlar paddle is better than carbon paddle? 

Let’s dive in and understand what makes these paddles so special and why they are the fastest growing type of paddles catching eyeballs from professional pickleball players across the globe.

What Is Kevlar?

Kevlar is a remarkable heat resistant, super lightweight and strong synthetic fiber that has claimed to have an absolute tensile strength and is extremely durable compared to other fabrics. Due to this characteristic, Kevlar as a core material is prominently used in several industry operations such as protection, transportation and consumer products.

Kevlar was developed by Stephanie Kwolek who was a Polish-American chemist at Dupont and it is six times stronger than steel by strength to weight ratio, which makes it ideal for sports like kayaking, and pickleball, where paddles are involved.

Image Credits: DuPont

Some of its top features include unmatched durability, and lightweight making it ideal choice for quick response times and effortless movability, while its superior vibration dampening properties reduce arm fatigue and potential injury.

How Does Kevlar Compare To Other Paddle Materials?

Paddles are made of different core materials and through the years there have been significant changes in the elements. The first known paddle was built of a “wood piece”  by one of the co-founders of the sport back in the 1960s. Since that, the game has evolved at a different pace all together, especially in terms of innovations that took place regarding the core material that is utilized in forming the body structure of the paddle. 

There are prominently three elements that are used in constructing a pickleball paddle namely, graphite, carbon fiber, wood to some extent and fiberglass, apart from these there are a few hybrid options as well. As there are multiple materials, each of them has unique features that sets them apart, some can give more control in handling and some are great at impulse and power.

And Yes, you guessed it right, the hybrid material is nothing but Kevlar.

Here, a brief information about each of these materials from a surface level as we’ll be diving deep in our another upcoming blog doing an in-depth comparison:

• Graphite: Graphite is considered as one of the best materials for players who rely more on power transfer and not on timing or touch. It is also the thinnest material you’ll ever see. It is so thin that the average thickness ranges around a few millimeters for some of the paddles made from graphite. They are extremely lightweight and easy on wrist movement, but don’t assume them to be flimsy, indeed they are rigid and tough material.
• Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber is even tougher and despite being lightweight and stiff like graphite. They sound similar isn’t it, technically they are. Carbon fiber is nothing but a form of graphite. Graphite is made up of more or less tightly packed carbon layers, whereas carbon fiber is made up of ribbons that are interwoven to form strands, similar to how you would weave a piece of clothing.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass is the most commonly found paddle material. Fiberglass production goes through intense processes carried out on fibers, they are compressed under the condition of intense heat and pressure which when dried up forms a shiny glass like structure. They aren’t as stiff compared to graphite and carbon fiber, but still manage to induce significant power. This paddle material isn’t suited the best for beginners though.
• Hybrid: Hybrid paddles are constructed when two core body materials are blended together. Kevlar pickleball paddles are one of these. Kevlar also known as carbon hybrid is exactly the same as the name implies. These hybrid paddles are created when a carbon fiber and Kevlar fabric are stitched or woven together in the right balance. This material has much longer longevity and superior vibration dampening accounting to positive strength-to-weight ratio to its counterpart. 

Though these Kevlar paddles are more expensive, their durability and consistency make them a good investment in the long term.

What Are The Benefits Of Kevlar Pickleball Paddles?

As you’re pretty much aware about all the different sets of materials that were induced in crafting pickleball paddles in its early days. Let’s go through some points that will cover all the benefits of Kevlar core pickleball paddle:

• Strength: Kevlar pickleball paddles are epitome of strength and stiffness in structure. The tensile strength of carbon when incorporated into Kevlar durability blends uniformly in this paddle, making it the perfect option for pro players. This paddle is accustomed to withstanding the pressure and impulses of intense gameplay and prevent wear and tear at the surface. It is resistant to deformation and dumps when hit by speed shots. Improvised with efficient impact and energy absorption also makes it a long-lasting investment and pros favorite.
• Weight: Kevlar pickleball paddles stand apart due to its uniformed distribution of weight across the dimensions overall. They are built to deliver the best performance out while maintaining that the paddle doesn’t hurt the wrist movement and swivels that can potentially lower up the shot speed. 
• Accuracy & Room For Error: Whether you're someone who prefers a solid game or you tend to hit off-center frequently, a Kevlar paddle is required to survive demands without compromising its integrity. In fact, many Kevlar paddles have a larger sweet spot- this gives you a little more room for error and increases the level of consistency in your shots.
• Vibration & Shock Repulsion: Kevlar paddles are designed to be played by players who play the game at the top intensity that includes shots played  at higher speeds and sharp angles. Kevlar's exceptional vibration dampening characteristics reduce the amount of shock transferred to your arm, lowering fatigue and the risk of damage.

How Can You Keep Your Kevlar Pickleball Paddle In Top Condition?

To ensure your pickleball Kevlar paddle maintains its performance and durability, proper care is essential. Here are some actionable tips:

1. Cleaning your paddle regularly should be a habit after each use to remove dirt, sweat, and remaining debris.
2. Take care to keep your paddle cool and dry, preferably in a paddle cover, when not in use, to avoid scratches and dings.
3. Avoid exposing your paddle to very high temperatures, since it can harm the materials involved in the construction process and also reduce the performance.
4. The edge guard should be checked regularly for signs of wear or damage, which should then be remedied immediately.

Following simple care guidelines can extend the life of your paddle and allow you to enjoy its benefits for a longer period.

Is A Kevlar Pickleball Paddle The Right Choice For You?

To decide whether a Kevlar core pickleball paddle is right for you, you should always think about the playing style, the approach, the intent with which you want to play alongside also evaluating whether you consider yourself a beginner or advanced player. The budget; and all of your performance goals plays a good point into deciding whether a Kevlar paddle is the ideal choice for you. 

If you’re a beginner, ideally you should hold yourself to get a Kevlar paddle right away if you’re just starting your pickleball journey, there are better options for you as we have also curated a short list of ideal pickleball paddles for beginners. 

However, if you’re a pro and seasonal pickleball player, you should definitely consider upgrading to Kevlar pickleball paddle. A paddle like the Helios Athos made with Kevlar might be a good alternative if you desire a long lasting product, one that will give you control and consistent performance.

Kevlar paddles are more expensive than those of fiberglass or entry-level options, but their long-term durability and improved performance make the investment well worth it. In addition, pros would be rewarded with the control, durability, and wider sweet spot that Kevlar paddles have, which allows them to build their skills and technique much quicker.

Why Is Helios Athos The Best Kevlar Pickleball Paddle?

Category: Professional   

Player Level: Advance

While there are numerous Kevlar pickleball paddles in the market, one such paddle that has proved its metal among players is the Helios Athos. It has garnered attention for its premium quality and exceptional performance in longer games as the best Kevlar pickleball paddle.  

Athos is crafted with an accelerated core that ensures high-performance and forged with 16-hour compression technology, the Athos offers a range of features designed to elevate your game:

• Premium Edge-Saving Armor enhances durability and prevents surface delamination.
• Multi-layer performance design optimizes power and control.
• Reactive Honeycomb Polymer Core ensures consistent rebound and reduced vibration.
• Extended anti-slip grip provides superior comfort and shock absorption.

Made from DuPont Kevlar, THE ATHOS improves accuracy on every pickleball shot: dinks, drives and volleys. Built to last, this series boasts excellent grip from Kevlar construction but ensures long-lasting performance.

The combination of honeycomb polymer and a 16mm Normex core gives the paddle responsiveness in flexing, helping absorb impact and provide the best power and accuracy on the shot. 

Light in weight and strong, the accelerated core is well-suited to let players generate fantastic power without losing control. At an average weight of 8.2 ounces, the paddle strikes a medium weight in quest for maneuverability and performance.

Helios Pickleball goes beyond equipment, aiming to recreate the timeless bond established by athleticism on the modern court. With each stroke, players draw on the tradition of a society that recognized the tremendous beauty in the harmonious union of form and function.

Ready to join the Kevlar revolution? Shop the best Kevlar Pickleball Paddle by Helios

Conclusion

As pickleball gains popularity, that day isn’t far when it will become the most widely accepted sport by the professionals and A grade countries sports enthusiasts. The unbeatable trio of control, durability, and feel can’t be defeated by any generic pickleball paddle in the market. It will not be long before Kevlar paddles become the stunner for professionals as well as enthusiasts. 

As the decision to invest in a Kevlar paddle rests with you, take a detailed understanding of the Kevlar against your playing style and needs. So, basically, investing in a Kevlar paddle is your investment in that tool which will serve you very well for performance and longevity and help take your game to the next level.

Whether you are a pro trying to perfect your game or a new player requiring a responsive and high-performance paddle, Kevlar is an excellent choice for the product, and this is the Helios Athos review. As the sport develops, it will be fascinating to see how the innovation of Kevlar paddles will be intricately woven into the game to help define the future of pickleball.

Hopefully, by the end of this article you’re equipped with all Kevlar pickleball paddles knowledge, and take this advance step.

FAQ

Are Kevlar paddles legal for tournament play?

Yes, as long as the Kevlar paddles meet the size and weight requirements agreed upon by the governing bodies primarily by USAPA in pickleball. Always check the specific tournament or league's entry regulations for not getting into trouble due to paddle.

How does the weight of a Kevlar paddle affect performance?

Lighter paddles offer better maneuverability and are easier to handle, thus better suited for players who prefer a faster and agile type of game. More stable and powered paddles give a better performance, thus more suited for the strong, aggressive shots of players.

Can Kevlar paddles be customized with personal designs?

Yes, Kevlar paddles can also be customized with your personal designs. Get a free design consultation on a custom Kevlar paddle: info@heliospickleball.com. You can send any of the following files related to your brand identity, logo, initial sketches or design ideas and then Helios in-house designer creates a unique paddle design according to your aesthetic look and feel of your brand.

How long can I expect my Kevlar paddle to last?

A Kevlar paddle lasts for many years with proper care and maintenance. The strength of Kevlar is your guarantee that your paddle will last the test of wear and tear in play.

Is Kevlar good for pickleball paddles?

Kevlar is the best material that can be utilized to construct the best pickleball paddle in 2024 and forward. Kevlar core pickleball paddles are able to suffice the lack and weakness of other traditional materials like fiberglass, carbon fiber and graphites paddle.

What are the advantages of Kevlar in sports equipment?

Kevlar has several advantages when it comes to its implications for sport equipment: it is stable and doesn’t hold any additional weight. The extremely high tensile strength of such improved gear keeps sportswear and paddles more wear and impact resistant, besides the rather high heat resistance that was proven to provide reliable usage in various conditions.