Selkirk is a well-known brand for making pickleball paddles. Because of its outstanding technology, eye-catching design, and high-end material quality, the brand has created a significant position in the market.
Moreover, two of the top-notch lineup of, Selkirk is Amped and Vanguard. However, these two have spin efficiency, accuracy, technology, paddle surface, grip, and price differences.
So, you better stay with me for the rest of the article to know more about these distinctions.
A Quick Comparison Table
| Specifications | Selkirk Amped | Selkirk Vanguard |
| Spin efficiency | Less | More |
| Accuracy and Power | Better | Good |
| Technology | One layer of carbon fiber | Quad Carbon technology with two layers of carbon fiber on each side |
| Paddle surface | Hard | Relatively softer |
| Grip and control | Decent | Excellent |
| Price | Low | High |
Key Differences Between Selkirk Amped And Vanguard Paddles
- Spin Efficiency
The power of imparting spin on the ball can make the ball trickier to hit for the opponent.
So, if your paddle can slow down or spatter the opponent’s spin on the ball, you will get extra advantages.
The Vanguard paddle helps to pass on more spin compared to Amped paddle.
The Vanguard can produce more spin because of the longer dwell time on the face. Eventually, you have better control of the ball.
On the other hand, Amped paddle generates less spin on the ball due to some lack of things.
However, the efficiency of the spin depends not only on the paddle but also on the player’s ability. So, it’s not a deal breaker.
- Accuracy and Power
The more accurate shot you produce, the more you can get the point. So, the shot placement is an important thing to deal with. Amped paddle lineup is well known for its power to generate a powerful and accurate shot.
Due to its lightweight and X5 Honeycomb Thick Core, the shot gets more force on the ball. As a result, you deliver a solid shot.
On the other side, Vanguard paddles are designed to add consistency and speed to your game. These improvements ultimately take your performance to a higher level.
But regarding accuracy and power, Vanguard lacks behind. So, for a more accurate shot generation, use Amped paddles.
- Technology
Having better technology implemented on your paddle gives you more benefits while playing.
Amped series is an older lineup from Selkirk.
Though Amped paddle has an X5 honeycomb thick poly core, it only consists of one fiber layer.
Conversely, Vanguard is the most recent lineup.
The addition of QuadCarbon Technology makes it different from the traditional and Amped paddles.
Moreover, implementing two layers of carbon fiber on both sides gives your game a new boost. This unique technology generates maximum spin, ultimate acceleration, and unbelievable consistency. Thus, your performance reaches another level.
- Paddle surface
The paddle surface’s gestalt determines the ball’s control, power, and speed. The Amped paddle has more of a stern face. That allows you to generate a more solid and accurate shot on the pitch.
On the other hand, Vanguard is softer. A softer paddle helps you with defending a powerful shot. Where Amped has a pop-up issue while defending, the Vanguard paddle is more pop-up resistant.
Imagine those hard smashes from your opponent. You can easily have better control of the ball because of the softer surface.
Moreover, due to the flexible surface, your ball stays more time on the paddle. That helps you with the ball placement and timing. Additionally, Vanguard comes with a larger sweet spot. That is why it is suitable for beginner to pro players.
- Grip and Control
Better control and grip on your paddle increases your ability in the game. Rather than a typical grip, Vanguard comes with more effective grip and control technology.
The paddle handle covers are slightly different from the Amped paddle lineup. The jagged texture on the handle produces more grip.
Especially when you are sweating a lot, this unique texture will improve your grip and control on the paddle. Besides handle grip, a flexible paddle surface improves your ball control in the kitchen.
On the other side, Amped Paddle offers a typical hand grip. However, because of well balanced and stable design, you will not be disappointed with the control. In fact, you will have a more solid and precise shot from the Amped paddle. But if you really care about the better grip, go for Vanguard.
- Price
Pickleball paddles are very expensive. Especially, paddles with better technology and materials are more expensive. But as we all know, good things come with reasonable prices.
Vanguard is more costly than the Amped.
The price is about 50 to 100 dollars higher than Amped based on your chosen model.
Amped paddles cost not more than 150 dollars.
Besides, Vanguard paddles come with a price tag of between 200 and 250 dollars.
Does it worth the extra 50 to 100 dollars?
Well, with better technology and built quality, it is worth every penny.
But don’t read me wrong. Amped paddle is also offering amazing features at a reasonable price point.
Which Paddle Is A Better Pick For You?
To summarize this comparison, I must say the decision depends on your playing style.
Amped paddle is the most recommended if you are concerned about your accuracy, power, and investment ability. With a decent spin efficiency, hard paddle surface, and accessible price, you will not be upset at all.
Nevertheless, if you desire better spin efficiency, high speed, consistency, and excellent grip and control on your game, the Vanguard paddle lineup is the one. But you might have to invest more money to get it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
There are several differences between these two lines up. But primarily, the built quality and material are different. Vanguard has the most innovative and advanced QuadCarbon technology in it. Also, both sides of the vanguard paddle are made of carbon fiber. On the contrary, Amped paddle has one side of carbon fiber built. Not to mention Vanguard Power has an X6 honeycomb poly core instead of an x5.
Selkirk has a lot of paddle lineups. Different lineups are best in various categories. For spin, Vanguard Power Air Invikta is the overall best paddle. With a 250 dollars cost, you will have a fantastic performance. But, if you consider every aspect, the Selkirk Amped series is top of the line with outstanding paddles at a reasonable price.
The S2 has the most prominent sweet spot. A larger surface area on the paddle increases your overall strength and control. Eventually, you get more stability on your every hit. As a result, your performance rises day by day.
Before picking up any paddle, try it out. Decide which one is more suitable. For beginners, a couple of practice swings will help you with decision-making.
Conclusion
That’s a wrap for today. Hopefully, my article has delivered the proper distinctions between Selkirk Amped and Vanguard paddle.
Look, every game needs particular skills and appropriate instruments to be a pro. So, owning great quality instruments regarding your play style will always help you with the game.
However, now that you know the differences, figure out your playing style and choose one of the paddles. I anticipate that none of them will despond you whatever paddle you select.
So, till then, have an excellent game.
