RPM Friction Pro
Our take on the Friction Pro Elongated
This paddle — designed by pro player James Ignatowich — has everything a player could want: Top-tier spin, great power and effortless control.
Right now the RPM Friction Pro comes in 4 options: 16mm elongated, 14mm elongated, 16mm widebody and 14mm widebody.
Check out our in-depth review of the RPM Friction Pro here.
- Shape
- Elongated
- Core Thickness
- 16mm
- Core Type
- Gen 3
- Handle Length
- Medium
- Certification
- USAP
- Price
- $249.99
Is the Friction Pro Elongated worth $249.99?
Who should buy the Friction Pro Elongated?
How does the Friction Pro Elongated play?
What are the strengths and trade-offs of the Friction Pro Elongated?
Friction Pro Elongated vs Friction Pro V2 Elongated
Power
RPM Friction Pro
- Shape
- Elongated
- Core Thickness
- 16mm
- Core Type
- Gen 3
Additional details
- Brand
- RPM
- Paddle Type
- Power
- Static Weight
- 7.9 oz
- Swing Weight
- 117
- Twist Weight
- 6.1
- Handle Length
- Medium
- Certification
- USAP
Power
RPM Friction Pro V2
- Shape
- Elongated
- Core Thickness
- 16mm
- Core Type
- Gen 3
Additional details
- Brand
- RPM
- Paddle Type
- Power
- Static Weight
- 8 oz
- Swing Weight
- 119
- Twist Weight
- 6.4
- Handle Length
- Medium
- Certification
- USAP
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Questions people ask about the Friction Pro Elongated
Is the RPM Friction Pro worth $249.99?
Yes, if you want an all-around paddle. We think it's elite in several categories and offers the full package of touch and power from the baseline to the kitchen line.
RPM Friction Pro vs JOOLA Pro IV: which is better?
It's close and mostly personal preference. They're built similarly, but the RPM feels slightly more muted and plush thanks to softer perimeter foam and extra foam in the throat, while the JOOLA plays firmer.
Should I get the 14mm or 16mm RPM Friction Pro?
The 16mm if you want big power on drives and putaways with a plush feel in transition. The 14mm trades some dwell time for extra pop and maneuverability in hands battles.
Does the RPM Friction Pro have good spin?
Yes. Its carbon fiber surface is gritty compared with most paddles, and with its high dwell time it's easy to shape drives, flicks and speed-ups.
Is the RPM Friction Pro USAP approved?
Yes, it's USA Pickleball approved.
What are some RPM Friction Pro alternatives?
RPM Friction Pro V2
RPM Friction Pro V2 – James Ignatowich signature paddle
RPM Friction Pro V2 – Ryan Fu signature paddle
How We Tested
Our paddle reviewers (all 5.0+ players) work with other high-level players in their area to test paddles on a variety of shots. This testing involves several hours of drills and games in an effort to determine how the paddle impacts performance in real-world scenarios.
We use the Life Time LT Pro 48 pickleball for our testing.