Selkirk’s Latitude paddle line has been a top choice for recreational players seeking quality graphite paddles on a budget. The original Latitude delivers excellent control and feel, while the new Latitude 2.0 aims to add more power and spin.
In this in-depth Selkirk Latitude Pickleball Paddle Review, I’ll compare and contrast the Latitude and Latitude 2.0 to help you decide which of these affordable paddles best fits your game.
Selkirk Latitude Pickleball Paddle
The Selkirk Latitude has been a favorite for beginning and intermediate players thanks to its control-focused design. It combines a polymer core with a graphite hitting surface to provide great touch on shots with decent power.
Construction
The Latitude features Selkirk’s Polymer Rev Core, a lightweight polymer that gives the paddle a comfortable, maneuverable feel. It has their G4 graphite face that offers smooth control and accuracy on hits. At 15.5 inches long and 8.25 inches wide, the Latitude has a nice midsize shape suited to all-around play.
It weighs around 8 ounces, hitting a sweet spot between lightweight touch and stability. The edge guard and grip give it a premium look and feel.
Playing Performance
During playtests, the Latitude consistently impressed me with its blend of control, power, and comfort:
- The polymer core and graphite face provide unmatched touch and finesse on shots like dinks and drops. It’s easy to place shots accurately.
- While favoring control, the Latitude still offers decent pop on swings. Groundstrokes and volleys have enough force to put pressure on opponents.
- Touch shots really stand out. The paddle makes it easy to soften shots with precision thanks to the responsive feel.
- The Latitude isn’t designed for overpowering spin, but I could still control and direct spins well.
- The comfortable core and grip make extended play sessions enjoyable without arm fatigue.
- Excellent touch and control
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Quality construction and design
- Comfortable even during long matches
- Lacks the power and spin of other paddles
- Not ideal for competitive or aspiring pro players
The Latitude shines for recreational use, with its control-focused design excelling at finesse shots. The quality graphite face and comfortable build make it a top value pickleball paddle.
Selkirk Latitude 2.0 Pickleball Paddle
From Selkirk Latitude Pickleball Paddle Review we can know that Selkirk built upon the Latitude’s foundation by upgrading to the Latitude 2.0, improving power and spin without sacrificing control.
Construction
Like the original, the Latitude 2.0 utilizes a polymer core and graphite face. However, adjustments have been made to enhance performance:
- The Polymer Rev-Core+ is thicker to deliver more pop and stability.
- The face now has a textured SpinFlex surface to bite into the ball for extra spin.
- At 8.25 inches wide, the 2.0 maintains a nice midsize profile.
It retains the same comfortable cushioned grip and edge guard as the original Latitude paddle. The 2.0 weighs around 8 ounces for excellent maneuverability.
Playing Performance
During play, I immediately noticed the improved power and spin from the upgrades:
- The 2.0 packs noticeably more punch on drives and volleys, adding an offensive dimension.
- The textured surface grips balls well to generate heavy topspin. Defensive shots have more disruptive spin.
- Control remains excellent thanks to the polymer core and graphite face. The paddle is very accurate.
- Finesse shots retain great touch and feel, though the grippy face loses a touch of touch.
- The paddle stays comfortable even during longer matches thanks to the grip and lightweight build.
- Enhanced power from the thicker core
- Improved spin from the textured face
- Maintains great control and comfort
- More versatility for different playing styles
- Textured face reduces touch slightly
- Not ideal for players wanting maximum finesse
The Latitude 2.0 makes smart upgrades to create a more well-rounded paddle without sacrificing the Latitude’s strengths. It expands options for spin and power while retaining excellent control.
Comparing the Latitude Paddles
Both the original Latitude and Latitude 2.0 stand out as top value paddles perfect for recreational play. Here’s a quick comparison of their key similarities and differences:
| Aspect | Latitude | Latitude 2.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Control | Outstanding touch and accuracy | Outstanding touch and accuracy, slightly more stable |
| Power | Moderate pop | Improved pop from thicker core |
| Spin | Average spin | Significantly more spin from grippy face |
| Finesse | Delicate touch on soft shots | Slightly less delicate touch on soft shots |
| Comfort | Well-suited to extended play | Well-suited to extended play |
| Versatility | Good for recreational play | Accommodates more playing styles and skills levels |
Which Selkirk Latitude Paddle Should I Choose?
For most recreational players, I recommend the Latitude 2.0 for its well-rounded performance and ability to grow with improving skills. The added offensive punch makes it more competitive.
However, very control-focused players may still prefer the Latitude original for its delicate touch on finesse shots. And budget-minded beginners get great value with the lower price point of the original.
You can’t go wrong with either Latitude paddle considering their quality designs focused on outstanding control. Pick the Latitude 2.0 if desiring more power and spin or the original for maximizing touch play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both Latitude models are designed primarily for beginner to intermediate players. They offer great control and feel for recreational play, though lack the power and spin for competitive play.
The paddles are lightweight, ranging from around 7.8-8.4 ounces. This makes them very maneuverable for quick volleys and reaction shots.
No, the paddles are sold separately without a case or cover included. You’ll need to purchase a case separately if you want to protect the paddle.
Both Latitude models feature Selkirk’s comfortable Ultra Soft cushioned grip that absorbs sweat and impact.
Yes, both Latitude paddles are USAPA approved for recreational tournament play up to 3.0 skill levels.
The Latitude paddles come pre-assembled and ready to use out of the box. No assembly is required.
You may want to purchase a paddle case for protection, overgrip tape to customize the handle, or edge guard tape to add extra protection from impacts over time.
The Bottom Line
Selkirk’s Latitude paddle line offers impressive performance and quality at affordable prices. Both the Latitude and Latitude 2.0 stand among the top value-oriented graphite pickleball paddles on the market.
While their designs have some key differences, they remain united in offering fantastic control, comfort, and bang for your buck. Recreational players looking for a budget graphite paddle should have the Latitude models at the top of their lists. In Selkirk Latitude Pickleball Paddle Review we have tried to provide you with all the necessary information, if you have any further queries then let us know in comments.
I am a professional physiotherapist and the author of the BallSportsPro. I worked with athletes of all levels, from amateur to professional, and i helped them overcome injuries and improve their performance. I am a certified Pickleball instructor and has been playing the sport for over 10 years.
