Selkirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta Paddle Review

Perhaps one of the most technologically advanced pickleball paddles on the market today, the VANGUARD Power Air series by Selkirk consists of three different models:

1. The S2
2. The Epic
3. The Invikta

All three paddles offer a different shape for a different play style, but they each have the same incredibly unique design featuring Selkirk’s Air Dynamic Throat. In this review, the Paddle Experts at JustPaddles discuss what we loved, liked, and wished was a little different from Selkirk's most-popular Power Air paddle, the Invikta. Let's dive in. 

Selkirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta Tech & Specs 

• Weight: 7.8 - 8.2 oz
• Face Material: QuadFlex 4 Layer Hybrid Face
• Core Material: SuperCore Polymer Honeycomb Core
• Shape: Elongated
• Length: 16 1/2''
• Width: 7 3/8"
• Grip Size: Standard - 4 1/4"

When you first hit any of the Power Air Series, you’ll hear it has a unique sound compared to most paddles you’ve probably played with in the past. A little louder, poppier, and almost a nomex-like noise whether you’re hitting a groundstroke or dinking at the kitchen. If you can get past the fact that your paddle is supposed to sound like that, you’ll enjoy your playtime with the Power Air Invikta. 

What type of player should use the Power Air Invikta? 

Power players will immediately think this paddle is for them, and they’re right. It’s in the name of the paddle! If power is the most important aspect you’re looking for in a paddle, then there’s no doubt you’ll enjoy the playability of the Invikta from the Power Air Series. But who we really think would benefit from this paddle is a player that doesn’t have as much power and is looking to improve in that category. A player that needs a little boost in the juice department should give this a shot, no pun intended. With the added power and no shortage of touch, a less powerful control player could see an immediate boost when they pick up the Invikta. 

Paddle Expert’s Thoughts on the Power Air Invikta

If you’re looking for power, there aren’t many paddles that can match the ball speed you get with the Invikta Power Air. Add that to the long-lasting grit of the paddle face and you’re likely to see a lot of winners and weak service returns. The potential for maximum miles per hour is significant, and much of that is due to Dynamic Throat Technology. The cut-out in the throat area of the paddle undeniably creates a faster swing speed, and because it weighs as much as 8.2 ounces, with a fast swing weight, power was the number one benefit the Invikta brought to my game. Now, on the flip side, because it’s a power paddle, the touch is there but it wasn’t the softest paddle I’ve ever played with. The louder, harder sound plays a bit to that, perhaps making me feel like the touch wasn’t as good as it really was - but once I got over that, I had no problem limiting mistakes near the net and being consistent with my dinks. 

Pros

• Power! Definitely one of the most power-friendly paddles we’ve played with.
• Maneuverability - the Dynamic Throat design increases swing speed for faster reactions. 
• Spin. A gritty texture allows for a significant amount of spin. And when there’s the ability for spin, that allows for more powerful shots to land in the court. 

Cons

• Loud. One of the louder paddles you’ll hear on the courts.

What Our Customers Had to Say About the Power Air Invikta:

Kyle: 

Pros: This paddle is packed with power and spin and I actually have more touch around the net than I thought I would get with this paddle.

Cons: Mishits closer to the open throat aren't super responsive.

Stephen:

Pros: Quick, somewhat more powerful, and nice grip shape and tackiness. Loud enough to scare people on smashes. Easy power for painting the baseline thanks to that super grit face. Easy to generate topspin, yet, it doesn't feel like there is any dwell time of the ball on the face. If you lack drop shots and dinking skills, or just prefer plowing balls into your opponents, then check this thing out. If looks could kill…

Cons: Loud, not much touch or feel to it. For me, it lacks control for drop shots and dinking and the v slot doesn't seem to contribute anything but wild flyers occasionally. There is a definite sweet spot so it is more critical to use it or you may find the net more often. I'll stick with using my Omni Vanguard 2.0 and use this for times I feel like playing beater ball from the baseline for fun with the bashing fanatics.

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There you have it! Overall, the Selkirk VANGUARD Power Air Invikta Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for power players. If you're looking for a highly-rated paddle with incredible design, good spin, and the latest technology, look no further. With that said, if you have any additional questions, the Paddle Experts at JustPaddles are here to help. You can call/text 866-382-3465, email experts@justpaddles.com, or click here to live chat. Don't forget, we're here for you from Click To Court!