Proton Pickleball: Your Guide to Each of Their Viral Paddles
Last Edited
Aug 19 2024
Category
Gear
Proton pickleball paddles have been the talk of the courts all year.
True story: I was approached several times over the last couple of weeks leading up to their recent restock after a few paddle nerds caught me playing with one.
So why are they in such high demand? And which Proton is right for you?
Proton: New Player, Deep Roots
Proton paddles might seem like a newcomer, but the brand’s roots run deep in the sports industry.
Charles Darling, Proton’s founder, made waves in the softball world by solving a major problem: fragile bats that couldn’t stand the test of time.
Armed with experience from the aerospace and defense sectors, Charles built a bat that could take a beating. When he discovered pickleball in 2022, he saw familiar issues—equipment that just didn’t last.
The result? Proton Pickleball, born after a year of intense R&D, bringing bold designs and innovative tech to the court.
Proton Series 1: The Pioneers of Spin
Proton’s Series 1 paddles feature the cutting-edge Nanotac surface, an ultra-tacky and smooth material which grabs the ball with maximum USAP-allowed grip, while avoiding the fragility of typical "grit" surfaces.
Unlike traditional textured paddles that lose their grit, the Nanotac surface stays grippy for the long haul.
Top players like Megan Dizon and Andre Daescu reportedly used the same individual paddle throughout entire tournament seasons while others were constantly switching.
With a lifetime warranty on the Nanotac surface, Proton shows they’re serious about durability.
Series 1: Should I Buy 11mm or 15mm?
Choosing between the 11mm and 15mm models can be confusing.
The 11mm model is lighter, giving you quick hand speed, perfect for fast exchanges at the kitchen line.
Meanwhile, the 15mm version provides extra forgiveness and power, ideal for players who can manage the additional weight.
The Series 1 paddles also come in two shapes—widebody and elongated—to cater to your style. The widebody offers a larger sweet spot, while the elongated version gives you the reach and power you need.
Series 2: For the Precision Players
The Series 2 paddles are tailored for players who crave precision.
With an edgeless design and a 360-degree molded build, the paddle feels like an extension of your arm, making it perfect for two-handed shots.
While the Series 2 doesn’t feature the Nanotac surface, its gritty face still offers excellent spin and control. Plus, the sweet spot on this paddle actually expands with use, ensuring consistent performance over time.
Related: Buying a Spin Pickleball Paddle: What to Look For and Examples
Series 3: All-Court Dominance
If power is your game, the Series 3 is your paddle.
Built with thermoformed raw carbon fiber and a denser core, it delivers a heavier feel that doesn’t compromise control.
The rainbow gradient and colored edgeguard are just the cherry on top. And yes, the Series 3 is just as durable as its predecessors, thanks to Proton’s unique manufacturing process that marries cold layering with thermoforming techniques.
Series 4: Coming Soon
Project Roadrunner, Proton's upcoming foray into Kevlar paddles, has us all on edge. With Charles Darling's track record, expectations are sky-high. Stay tuned!
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