Vatic Pro V7

The Vatic Pro V7 is one of the more powerful 16mm thermoformed paddles out there. Its elongated shape, easy access to power and big spin makes it a true weapon when generating offense. Although it has more power than most other 16mm thermoformed paddles, it still falls into the all-court category, though it’s nearly a power paddle. It’s enough power that it takes time to get used to and not fly returns and serves, but it’s not so much that it isn’t manageable. It really is a nice blend.

On the control side, it takes some getting used to but it doesn’t take long. Dinking and resets actually came pretty quick while it took a couple sessions to bring the drops in line. More than anything it was easy to send a return or serve long when I wasn’t super focused because the ball can take off if you don’t intentionally dial it in. It has what I call controlled power. Controlled power is a paddle that isn’t overly poppy or jumpy off the face but it responds really well when you swing harder. This characteristic is what makes the paddle controllable despite the extra power it gives you.

Raw Toray T700 carbon fiber combined with the thermoformed design gives the paddle a very high spin rating. Combine this with its power and it enables you to be more aggressive on drives and speed ups. It’s a really fun paddle to play with.

It has an elongated shape with a longer 5.3” handle. I love this handle length. It’s long enough to do the two handed thing but it doesn’t feel unnecessarily long like 5.5” handles do to me. Its elongated shape naturally has a higher swing weight and the paddle has a higher average weight of 8.4oz so it does feel a little heavier than most paddles. However, unless you’re sensitive to overuse injuries in your shoulder or elbow, then it’s not too heavy. It actually makes the paddle feel very solid and stable which is nice. It’s part of the reason it is more forgiving for an elongated shape.

This paddle is an excellent option for players looking for more power but still prefer the forgiveness and stability of a 16mm core. Thicker, 16mm cores don’t typically offer much power, but the V7 breaks that mold and is part of the reason this paddle is special.

The bottom line: Good power, great spin, good forgiveness for its elongated shape and excellent stability. It is on the heavier side though, which has its drawbacks.

Ratings:

• Control: 83
• Power: 88
• Spin: 90
• Forgiveness: 90

Read full review here >>

Reviewer: Braydon (4.8 DUPR)