Head pickleball paddles stand out, thanks to their unique names, shapes, and designs. Many of them feature a distinct diamond shape. These paddles are completely original and instantly recognizable as Head products.
Head specializes in premium sports gear. Besides pickleball paddles, the company produces equipment for tennis, squash, racquetball, swimming, snorkeling, and snowboarding. However, the company got its start in the skiing industry.
The company was founded in 1950 by Howard Head. By the 1960s, Head captured over 50% of the US ski equipment market. It was later sold to American Machine and Foundry (AMF) and acquired by Minstar Inc.
While the company has gone through many different owners, it remains a top manufacturer of sports equipment, but they are new to the pickleball world.
The company released its first line of paddles just a couple of years ago. With no previous experience in the pickleball market, Head released eight new paddles.
Keep reading to check out the latest Head rackets reviews and comparisons for 2023.
Overview of the Head Pickleball Paddles
While most of Head rackets feature the unique diamond shape, several paddles have tapered heads. Unfortunately, the names of the paddles can make it difficult to tell them apart.
The main two groups of paddles include the Radical and Extreme paddles. Within each group, the company produces a Tour, Elite, and Pro paddle. They also released a Radical XL paddle featuring an elongated head.
The most recent addition to the Head family is the Margaritaville Series, which includes four different paddles. Here is a quick overview of the entire lineup:
- Radical Tour
- Radical Tour L
- Radical Pro
- Radical Elite
- Radical XL
- Extreme Tour
- Extreme Pro
- Extreme Pro L
- Extreme Elite
- Fins
- Washed in the Ocean
- Changes
- It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere
While this may seem like a lot of different options, several of these paddles are identical. The “L” paddles are simply “Ladies” versions, featuring more feminine graphics and grips.
Other than the graphics and grips, the Radical Tour L is identical to the Radical Tour and the Head Extreme Pro L is identical to the Extreme Pro paddle.
The Extreme paddles are the paddles that feature the diamond-shaped heads. The Head Radical paddles are rounded with a tapered head, adding more weight to the end of the paddle, which generates more power. To find out which paddle is right for you, compare each review.
Head Radical Tour Review
As mentioned, the Head Radical paddles feature tapered heads, which gives the paddles more power. With the Head Radical Tour Paddle, you also get a graphite surface over a tubular polypropylene honeycomb core.
Here are the details:
- Weighs 7.9 ounces
- 16 x 7 7/8 inches
- 4 1/4-inch grip size
- 1/2-inch thick
- Graphite surface
- Polypropylene core
Pros
- Large sweet spot and plenty of power
- Graphite Surface
- Extreme spin texture offer more grip
Cons
- For some players, It may offer too much bounce giving it more control and less accuracy
The Head Radical Tour Pickleball Paddle has a large sweet spot and plenty of power. The graphite surface helps to counter some of the power.
It also includes specialized extreme spin texture, providing more grip for better spin and control. This is combined with a new Ergo Grip for more comfort and less vibration.
Some players find that this paddle offers too much bounce, giving it more control and less accuracy. However, this may depend on your play style, as many players prefer this Head graphite pro paddle for its combination of control and accuracy.
Head Radical Pro Review
The Head Radical Pro Paddle includes many of the same features used in the Radical Tour. It features the same polypropylene core and the same dimensions. The main difference is the fiberglass surface.
Here is a closer look at the specifications of the Head Radical Pro Pickleball Paddle:
- Weighs 8.1 ounces
- 16 x 7 7/8 inches
- 4 1/4-inch grip size
- 1/2-inch thick
- Fiberglass surface
- Polypropylene core
Pros
- Large sweet spot
- Most Powerful
- Fiberglass hitting surface
Cons
- This paddle might not suitable for the beginners of the game
Overall, the Head Radical Pro Paddle is the most powerful Head paddle.
There is a drawback to this paddle. It offers too much power and not enough control for some players. If you are just getting into pickleball, you should check out the Extreme line of paddles.
Head Radical Elite Review
The Head Radical tennis racket series also includes the Radical Elite. It combines most of the features from the previous two paddles. You get a graphite surface with a polypropylene core. It also includes the same dimensions and shape.
Here are the specs:
- Weighs 8.1 ounces
- 16 x 7 7/8 inches
- 4 1/4-inch grip size
- 1/2-inch thick
- Fiberglass surface
- Optimized Tubular core
Pros
- Fiberglass hitting surface
- Optimized Tubular Construction
- Perfect for intermediate players
Cons
- It’s not suitable for beginners of the game
Compared to the Head Radical Pro, the Radical Elite offers just a little more control. It is almost identical to the other paddle, except for the surface material. With the graphite surface, you get more grip.
However, the Elite does not offer the same extreme spin texture used on the Tour paddle. Without this extra texture, the Elite is not quite as balanced compared to the Tour. If you do not want to sacrifice power, but need more control compared the Pro, the Elite is a great choice.
Head Radical XL Review
The XL is an elongated Head Radical racquet. It uses the same spin-optimized texture found on the Tour paddle. Despite the elongated shape, it also weighs the same.
Check out the rest of the details:
- Weighs 7.6 ounces
- 17 x 7 inches
- 4 1/4-inch grip size
- 1/2-inch thick
- Graphite surface
- Polymer Honeycomb core
Pros
- Biggest Reach
- Less Vibration
- Perfect for low balls, slices, serving
Cons
- The longest reach of this paddle might cause few issues with control and accuracy
The main benefit of this paddle is the reach that you get. It is well suited for those that are used to playing tennis. Just keep in mind that the elongated shape delivers more power toward the end of the head.
There are a couple of drawbacks to this shape. If you struggle to maintain control or accuracy, you will likely have more trouble with this paddle.
Head Extreme Tour Review
The Extreme Tour is the top-rated Head paddle. It is the preferred choice of Sarah Ansboury. She used this paddle for the 2016 US Open Women’s & Mixed Doubles Championship, which she won.
It’s main features are :
- Weighs 7.6 ounces
- 16 x 7 7/8 inches
- 4 1/4-inch grip size
- 7/16-inch thick
- Graphite surface
- Tubular Core
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to swing
- Graphite hitting surface
- Optimized Tubular Core
Cons
- Not the best paddle if you are into power game than control
The Tour paddle is also a little lighter compared to the average weight of Head paddles. At 7.6 ounces, it should be comfortable for most players. Unfortunately, it may also lack the power that you need.
The Extreme Tour looks a lot like the Radical Tour, other than the shape of the head. With the diamond shape, the sweet spot is a little more centered, which offers more accuracy.
The extreme spin texture and lightweight design also contribute to the overall control that you get. Basically, if you want the best control, the Extreme Tour is a top recommendation, but it doesn’t have the most power.
Head Extreme Pro Review
With the Extreme Pro, you are getting the latest technologies from Head, along with a lighter weight design.
Here are the specs:
- Weighs 7.8 ounces
- 16 x 7 7/8 inches
- 4 1/4-inch grip size
- 7/16-inch thick
- Fiberglass surface
- Tubular core
Pros
- Textured surface for better spin
- Diamond shape surface offers control
- Fiberglass hitting surface
Cons
- This paddle is not suitable for beginners
It can be difficult to differentiate between the Head Tour Pro paddles.
While they have the same dimensions, the Pro uses a fiberglass surface, which gives the paddle more power and pop. If you like the look of the Extreme Tour, but need more power, consider swinging the Extreme Pro.
Head Extreme Elite Review
By now, you likely know what to expect from the Extreme Elite Paddle. It is nearly identical to the Radical Elite, but with a different shape.
These are the details:
- Weighs 7.8 ounces
- 16 x 7 7/8 inches
- 4 1/4-inch grip size
- 7/16-inch thick
- Fiberglass surface
- Polypropylene core
Pros
- Fiberglass hitting surface
- Extra soft grip
- Impressive reach
Cons
- Few players might find the paddle surface small than usual
Why should you consider getting this paddle? It’s one of the least expensive Head paddles.
If you are new to pickleball, you may not want to spend a lot of money on your first paddle. With the Extreme Elite, you get a great value and the accuracy needed when you first start playing.
Head Fins Pickleball Paddle Review
Head rackets now include a series of paddles named after Jimmy Buffett songs. The Margaritaville Series includes four unique paddles, including the Head Fins Paddle.
The Fins paddle offers the following specs:
- Weighs 7.6 ounces
- 16 x 7 7/8 inches
- 4 1/4-inch grip size
- 7/16-inch thick
- Carbon graphite surface
- Polypropylene core
Pros
- Lightweight
- Less shock and noise
- Top notch design
Cons
- Less power to slam the ball
When it comes to Head swing-style rating, the Margaritaville Series paddles are the highest rated. The stylish designs stand out and are sure to grab the attention of your opponent, but how do they perform?
The Fins Paddle has extreme spin texture, diamond shape, less weight, and a graphite surface. These features are all intended to provide more accuracy. This is the ultimate paddle for control but may not give you the power that you want to slam the ball across the court.
Washed in the Ocean Review
With the diamond-shaped head and fiberglass surface, the Washed in the Ocean Paddle looks like the Extreme Elite. Like the Extreme Elite, it is also one of the less expensive paddles.
It offers the following:
- Weighs 7.8 ounces
- 16 x 7 7/8 inches
- 4 1/4-inch grip size
- 7/16-inch thick
- Fiberglass surface
- Polypropylene core
Pros
- Less vibrations during play
- Balanced weight
- Control centric paddle
Cons
- We could not find any noticeable issue with the paddle during our review
The diamond shape gives the paddle accuracy while the fiberglass surface gives it more pop.
You get a solid combo of these main two characteristics, making this a versatile paddle suited for most playing styles.
Head Changes Paddle Review
Changes is another unique Head pickleball product. It shares the most features with the Radical Tour paddle.
Just look at the following details:
- Weighs 7.9 ounces
- 16 x 7 7/8 inches
- 4 1/4-inch grip size
- 1/2-inch thick
- Graphite surface
- Polypropylene core
Pros
- Graphite Hitting Surface
- Extreme Spin Technology
- Ergo Grip
- Light and breezy
Cons
- Sweet spot is a bit small for Pro players
Both the Radical Tour and the Changes paddles weigh 7.9 ounces, use graphite surfaces, and feature extreme spin texture.
If you hold these paddles side-by-side, you’ll notice that the Changes paddle is a little wider near the lower half of the head. The sweet spot is a little smaller, but still large enough for newbies.
It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere Paddle Review
The last paddle in the Margaritaville Series is the “It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere” paddle.
It closely resembles the Radical Pro. It has the same dimensions and materials:
- Weighs 8.1 ounces
- 16 x 7 7/8 inches
- 4 1/4-inch grip size
- 1/2-inch thick
- Fiberglass surface
- Polypropylene honeycomb core
Pros
- Longer tapered design
- Fiberglass paddle face
- Powerful
- Stylish Paddle with top quality features
Cons
- May not be suitable for players seeks accuracy
While it is closely related to the Radical Pro, this paddle has a cooler design. The main difference is the shape of the head. It is slightly less tapered.
Some people may find that the sweet spot is a little small compared to the Radical paddles. If you seek accuracy, the Radical Pro or Radical Elite are more likely to meet your needs.
Conclusion – Should You Buy Head Pickleball Paddles?
While Head does not have a lot of experience in the pickleball industry, they have experience in other industries. If you search for tennis racquet listings, you will likely find a selection of Head rackets at the top of the results.
Head tennis racquets reviews often discuss the durability and overall quality of the racquets. The company’s pickleball paddles also feature the same level of craftsmanship.
The Head pickleball paddles also demonstrate the unique approach of this innovative company. The diamond-shaped Extreme paddles and the tapered Radical paddles are distinct options with their own special advantages, but what is the best Head racquet?
In a racquet comparison, these paddles share many features, but there are a few minor differences to help you decide which is the best choice.
With the Extreme paddles, you get greater control and a larger sweet spot. The Radical paddles are built for power. In the end, the Radical Pro is one of the best options for power players. It features a fiberglass hitting surface, giving the paddle more power and pop.
If you want a little more control, a Head Extreme Racquet may be the better choice. The Pro, Tour, and Elite are all quality paddles with the diamond-shaped head that gives the paddles larger sweet spots.
In the end, the Head Extreme Tour pickleball paddle is the top-rated choice. Sarah Ansboury used this paddle when she won the 2016 US Open Women’s & Mixed Doubles Champion. It features the diamond-shaped head, carbon graphite hitting surface, and a comfortable grip.
No matter which option you choose, you get a durable tennis racket head with a sweet spot that shouldn’t wear out. While Head has only been in the pickleball market for a couple of years, the company obviously knows how to design and manufacture winning products.
2 thoughts on “Head Pickleball Paddle – Reviews and Comparison Guide 2023”
My paddle is a light bluish head extreme pro L, I don’t see one anymore, are they still available. Only complaint is the white handle!
Hi Jean, the paddle with the white handle can be found here. However, the company is looking to discontinue this version soon. You can check out many other great options Head is offering.