2024 Hot List Gold Award

1SIX24 was clever with their design of this paddle to keep it less expensive but still high performing. It’s not thermoformed but has perimeter foam injection for added comfort and stability and a facing layer of fiberglass sandwiched between two carbon fiber layers to give it a little kick in power and pop which is usually lost when the paddle isn’t thermoformed.

I would classify the Monarch Jelly Bean as a control paddle, although I wouldn’t describe it as a pure control paddle like a Selkirk LUXX Epic or something. It delivered more power and pop than I anticipated though not enough to put it in the All-Court category.

It’s a widebody style paddle which makes it very forgiving and fast in your hands at the sacrifice of some reach. It’s a player friendly paddle that is easy to pick up, adjust to, and play with. It has a modern raw carbon fiber surface that delivers good spin and the paddle has a pleasant dense, complete feel to it. It’s a softer feel but not overly soft and still feels responsive.

The paddle has a 16mm and 14mm width option. The 16mm is more popular since it is more forgiving but if you want extra hand speed and some extra pop at the net then go with the 14mm.

If I didn’t know this paddle only costs $90, I would have guessed mid to high 100s. It plays well above its price point and was an obvious choice as a top paddle in the budget category.

The bottom line: It’s an easy paddle to play with that is lightweight and forgiving. It will enhance your soft game without giving up all its offensive options. Only reason you might not go with this one is if you want something with more power or something that gives you more reach.