Last Updated: January 2026
The Selkirk SLK ERA Power has quickly become one of the most popular paddles among competitive players since its release in 2025. With top pros like Rachel Rohrabacher, Catherine Parenteau, James Ignatowich, and Jack Sock all making the switch, the ERA Power is clearly doing something right. After 80+ hours of testing at the 4.5-5.0 DUPR level, here’s why this paddle stands out in a crowded power paddle market.
Quick Verdict
Rating: 9/10
Best for: Intermediate to advanced players (3.5-5.0) seeking the best balance of power and control in a premium paddle
Not for: Budget-conscious players, pure power seekers who don’t care about control, beginners under 3.0
Price: $200
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Key Specifications
| Spec | Elongated | Widebody |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $200 | $200 |
| Core | Dynamic Fusion (Polypropylene + EVA foam) | Dynamic Fusion (Polypropylene + EVA foam) |
| Face | 3-Layer (Fiberglass + T700 Carbon) | 3-Layer (Fiberglass + T700 Carbon) |
| Thickness | 16mm | 16mm |
| Length | 16.5″ | 15.95″ |
| Width | 7.45″ | 8.0″ |
| Swing Weight | 116 | 108 |
| Twist Weight | 6.16 | 6.87 |
| Handle Length | 5.8″ | 5.6″ |
| Grip Circumference | 4.25″ | 4.25″ |
| Surface | Raw Spin Tech (2000+ RPM) | Raw Spin Tech (2000+ RPM) |
| Warranty | 1 Year (Industry-leading) | 1 Year (Industry-leading) |
What Makes the ERA Power Special?
Dynamic Fusion Core
The ERA Power uses Selkirk’s Dynamic Fusion Core—a hybrid system combining polypropylene honeycomb surrounded by low-density EVA foam. This isn’t quite the full foam core of the Boomstik, but it delivers similar power benefits without the extreme price tag.
What this means: You get lively, responsive power with excellent feedback. The core has a “pop” that makes offensive shots easier while maintaining enough dampening for control.
3-Layered Face Technology
The face construction is where the ERA Power really shines. Selkirk strategically weaves fiberglass with T700 raw carbon fiber in three layers. This creates a face that’s:
- Stiff enough for power
- Flexible enough for control
- Textured enough for spin
The Raw Spin Technology surface generates 2000+ RPM, putting it in the upper tier of spin-capable paddles in 2026.
The “Dynamic” Feel
Multiple reviewers, including myself, describe the ERA Power as having a distinctively “dynamic” feel. It’s not dead and muted like some control paddles, nor is it trampolined and uncontrollable like some power paddles. There’s a responsive liveliness that makes the paddle feel connected to your hand.
Performance Analysis
Power: 8.5/10
The ERA Power delivers exactly what its name promises: legitimate power that rivals dedicated power paddles, but with more control than competitors in this category.
On drives from baseline: Generates impressive pace without requiring huge swings. I measured consistently faster ball speeds compared to my previous all-court paddle (roughly 3-4 mph increase).
On serves: Creates heavy, penetrating serves that push opponents back and force weak returns. The power is especially effective on flat drives where you want pace without excessive topspin.
On put-aways: Puts balls away cleanly. When you get a high ball at the net, the ERA Power lets you finish the point with authority.
Comparison: Less raw power than the Boomstik or GX2 Power, but more than enough for most players. The difference is that the ERA Power’s power is more controllable and predictable.
Control: 8.5/10
This is where the ERA Power separates itself from other power paddles. It’s the first Selkirk paddle I’ve tested where I can confidently say it nails the control/power balance.
On dinks: Responsive and predictable. I can place dinks within 6-8 inches of my target consistently, even in fast exchanges. The paddle doesn’t have the “dead” feel of pure control paddles, but it’s forgiving enough for soft game work.
On drops: Third-shot drops land in the kitchen with good margin for error. The paddle doesn’t fight you when you try to take pace off the ball.
On resets: Absorbs pace reasonably well for a power-oriented paddle. When defending against bangers, I can control their pace and reset to neutral without excessive pop-ups.
Key insight: The control is good enough that you’re not making major sacrifices for the power you gain. This is rare in power paddles.
Spin: 8.5/10
The Raw Spin Technology surface delivers on its 2000+ RPM promise. I generate noticeably more spin than my previous paddle on:
Topspin serves: Ball jumps after bounce, forcing opponents to adjust
Slice shots: Bite and stay low, especially effective in doubles
Brush volleys: Can add spin at net for sharper angles
Roll volleys: Drop shots with spin are easier to execute
The texture has held up well through 80+ hours of play. Some wearing in the sweet spot, but spin generation remains strong.
Sweet Spot & Forgiveness: 8/10 (Elongated) | 8.5/10 (Widebody)
The sweet spot is good—not class-leading, but substantially better than entry-level paddles. The Widebody version has noticeably more forgiveness than the Elongated.
Important note: The new Selkirk LUXX has a larger, more forgiving sweet spot than the ERA Power. When you hit outside the ERA’s sweet spot, power and consistency drop noticeably. This is the main trade-off vs. the LUXX.
For 4.0+ players with decent stroke consistency, the ERA’s sweet spot is more than adequate. Below 4.0, you might appreciate more forgiveness.
Feel & Vibration: 9/10
One of the ERA Power’s standout characteristics is how it feels. The paddle provides excellent feedback without harsh vibration. When you hit the sweet spot, you know it—the response is crisp and satisfying.
The Dynamic Fusion Core does an excellent job dampening unwanted vibration while maintaining responsiveness. Even on off-center hits, there’s minimal harsh feedback.
This paddle just feels good to play with. Multiple testers have noted this—there’s an intangible quality to how it responds that makes you want to keep playing.
Elongated vs Widebody: Which to Choose?
Elongated (16.5″)
Pros:
- Extra reach for singles play
- Higher swing weight (116) for more plow-through
- Better for aggressive baseline players
Cons:
- Smaller sweet spot
- Slightly less forgiving
- Heavier feel may fatigue some players
Best for: Singles players, aggressive doubles players, 4.5+ competitors
Widebody (8.0″)
Pros:
- Larger sweet spot for forgiveness
- Lower swing weight (108) for quicker hands
- Better twist weight (6.87) resists twisting on mishits
- More versatile for varied playing styles
Cons:
- Less reach than Elongated
- Slightly less power on baseline drives
Best for: Doubles players, all-court players, those prioritizing consistency over max reach
My recommendation: For most doubles players (which is most pickleball), go Widebody. The forgiveness and quicker hands matter more than 0.5 inches of reach. Choose Elongated only if you play significant singles or love the extended reach feeling.
Who Should Buy the ERA Power?
✅ Perfect for:
3.5-5.0 DUPR players who want:
- Serious power without sacrificing control
- A paddle that does everything well
- Pro-level performance at a reasonable price
- Versatility for both offensive and defensive play
- A paddle that will last (backed by 1-year warranty)
Playing style match:
- All-court players who transition between soft and hard game
- Aggressive baseliners who also dink
- Doubles players needing versatility
- Competitive players not obsessed with absolute max power
❌ Not recommended for:
- Pure power seekers (get the Boomstik or GX2 Power instead)
- Budget players under $150 budget
- Beginners under 3.0 (too much paddle for developing fundamentals)
- Players who want maximum forgiveness (consider the LUXX instead)
Comparisons to Other Popular Paddles
ERA Power vs Selkirk Boomstik ($333)
ERA Power advantages:
- $133 cheaper
- Better control and touch
- More forgiving sweet spot
- Easier to manage for most players
Boomstik advantages:
- More raw power
- No core crush concerns
- Slightly more spin potential
- MOI tuning system
Verdict: ERA Power is the smarter choice for 95% of players. Only go Boomstik if you’re 4.5+ and obsessed with maximum power.
ERA Power vs JOOLA Pro IV ($280)
ERA Power advantages:
- Better value ($200 vs $280)
- More complete feel with added pop
- Better control/power balance
- Superior customer service and warranty
Pro IV advantages:
- Slight edge in raw power when new
- Pro player pedigree (Ben Johns signature)
- Slightly crisper feel
Verdict: I prefer the ERA Power’s feel and value. The Pro IV will core crush over time; the ERA Power’s honeycomb core is more durable.
ERA Power vs 11SIX24 ($200)
Performance is comparable between these two excellent all-court paddles. The 11SIX24 is also $200 and delivers similar specs.
Verdict: I slightly preferred the ERA’s more solid, complete feel. This is a close call—you can’t go wrong with either.
ERA Power vs Gearbox GX2 Power ($250)
ERA Power advantages:
- $50 cheaper
- Better spin generation
- More dynamic, lively feel
GX2 Power advantages:
- More raw power
- Excellent touch for a power paddle
- Solves historical Gearbox paddle weaknesses
Verdict: If power is your #1 priority, get the GX2. For better balance and value, get the ERA Power.
The $200 Value Question
At $200, the ERA Power sits in the premium middle tier—more expensive than budget options ($80-120), less expensive than elite paddles ($250-350).
Is it worth $200?
For serious players (3.5+), absolutely yes. You’re getting:
- Pro-level performance (multiple tour pros use this)
- Excellent build quality and durability
- Industry-leading 1-year warranty
- A paddle that will help you improve
The ERA Power competes directly with $250-280 paddles in performance while costing less. That’s solid value.
However: If you’re a casual 3.0 player who plays monthly, a $120-150 paddle will serve you fine. The ERA Power’s benefits shine when you’re playing regularly and competing.
Pros & Cons
Pros ✅
- Best-in-class power/control balance: Rare combination
- Excellent feel: Dynamic, responsive, satisfying
- Strong spin generation: 2000+ RPM capability
- Multiple top pros use it: Validated at highest level
- Good value: $200 for pro-level performance
- 1-year warranty: Best in industry
- Well-built: No quality control issues in my testing
- Versatile: Handles all aspects of game well
Cons ❌
- Sweet spot not class-leading: LUXX is more forgiving
- Not maximum power: If power is everything, look elsewhere
- $200 price point: Not for budget-conscious players
- Core may not be as durable as full foam: Though honeycomb should last hundreds of hours
Final Recommendation
The Selkirk SLK ERA Power is the best all-around power paddle I’ve tested in 2025-2026. It delivers legitimate power without the control sacrifices that plague most power-oriented paddles. The fact that multiple top tour pros have switched to this paddle validates what I’ve experienced in testing: this is a complete, high-performance paddle.
At $200, it’s appropriately priced for what you get. You’re not paying the “innovation tax” of the Boomstik, but you’re getting 85-90% of the performance in a more manageable, versatile package.
Who should buy this?
- Competitive 3.5-5.0 players seeking power + control
- Doubles players wanting an aggressive all-court paddle
- Anyone willing to invest in a paddle that does everything well
Who should skip it?
- Power-obsessed 4.5+ players (get the Boomstik or GX2)
- Budget players under $150 (lots of good options cheaper)
- Beginners under 3.0 (too much paddle)
My personal take: After 80+ hours with the ERA Power, it’s become one of my go-to paddles for competitive doubles. When I need a paddle that can do everything—attack from baseline, finish at net, hang during soft game exchanges—I reach for the ERA Power. It’s the Goldilocks paddle: not too powerful, not too controlled, just right.
If you’re in the 3.5-5.0 range and can afford $200, this paddle deserves strong consideration. It’s one of the best releases of 2025, and I expect it to remain popular well into 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the ERA Power compare to the new LUXX?
A: The LUXX ($280) has a larger sweet spot and more forgiveness, but similar power/control profile. If you can afford the extra $80 and want maximum forgiveness, get the LUXX. If you have solid fundamentals and want better value, the ERA Power is excellent.
Q: Will this paddle help me improve my game?
A: If you’re 3.5-5.0, yes. The power makes offensive shots easier while the control allows you to develop touch. Below 3.5, you might benefit from more forgiving paddles. Above 5.0, you’ll want to fine-tune your paddle choice based on specific strengths/weaknesses.
Q: Elongated or Widebody?
A: Widebody for 90% of players. Only go Elongated if you play singles regularly or strongly prefer extended reach paddles.
Q: How long will this paddle last?
A: The Dynamic Fusion Core should last hundreds of hours. Expect 150-250 hours before considering replacement. The 1-year warranty protects you if anything goes wrong earlier.
Q: Is it good for beginners?
A: It’s manageable for 3.0-3.5 players with some experience, but probably overkill for true beginners (under 3.0). Beginners should focus on paddles with maximum forgiveness, not power.
Q: Does it core crush like foam paddles?
A: No. The Dynamic Fusion Core is primarily polypropylene honeycomb (surrounded by foam), not full foam like the Boomstik. Honeycomb cores are very durable and don’t core crush.
Ready to elevate your game with the ERA Power?
[Shop Selkirk ERA Power at Selkirk.com →]
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