Hands-On with the Selkirk SLK Halo Pro XL

Picture Kip Lacey

Hey everyone, Kip here. I’m excited to share my thoughts on a brand-new paddle I’ve been testing out – the Selkirk SLK Halo Pro XL. Let’s dive into what makes this paddle unique and how it performs on the court.

First Impressions

The SLK Halo Pro XL is designed with a 14mm polymer core and a Kevlar-carbon fiber surface, giving it a sleek, durable look that’s available in dark blue and red. This paddle is part of Selkirk’s Gen 2 thermor lineup, meaning it’s a unibody design with foam around the perimeter, aimed at enhancing the sweet spot and providing a comfortable hitting experience. The dimensions are slightly smaller than average at 16.4 inches by 7.4 inches, with a handle that’s 5.75 inches long by 4.25 inches wide – perfect for two-handed players looking for stability and grip.

On-Court Performance

After hitting the courts with the SLK Halo Pro XL, I noticed its head-light feel, even after bumping the weight up to 8.3 ounces from its original 7.7. This design choice makes the paddle quick and maneuverable, especially in close net exchanges. Despite the added weight, it still moves swiftly through the hitting zone, giving players confidence in fast-paced play.

Accuracy test (Picture Kip Lacey)

Power and Control

In terms of power, the Halo Pro XL falls right in line with average paddles. My serves consistently hit around 48-50 mph, with the Halo registering at 48.8 mph, which is pretty solid. It doesn’t deliver exceptional power but provides a reliable, balanced performance.

For accuracy and control, this 14mm paddle exceeded my expectations. While thicker paddles generally offer better accuracy, the Halo Pro XL handles well enough to give players decent control over their shots. Spin generation is also in the “good enough” category – it won’t blow you away but will satisfy most players looking for a balanced, reliable paddle.

Feel and Feedback

The paddle’s 14mm core creates a surprisingly soft, cushioned feel, providing good feedback on each shot. The sweet spot is decent, not huge, but as long as you’re hitting near the center, the performance is consistent. When I strayed too far to the edge, there was a noticeable drop in quality, but overall, the sweet spot held up well in most situations.

Pros and Cons

One of the notable pros of the SLK Halo Pro XL is its head-light balance, which makes it easy to handle and quick at the net. Its soft feel is another plus, offering a comfortable, plush response that’s different from some harsher Gen 2 thermoformed paddles.

A potential con is the paddle’s soft feel, which some players might find lacking in punch. However, for those who prefer a softer touch, this can actually be a positive. The paddle is also highly customizable – you can adjust the weight to suit your style, which may appeal to some players but could be unnecessary for others.

Pictures Selkirk

Final Thoughts

In my experience, this is probably the best SLK paddle that Selkirk has produced. While it doesn’t excel in any one area, it performs at a solidly above-average level across the board. The SLK line has traditionally been viewed as an entry-level option within Selkirk’s lineup, but the Halo Pro XL feels like it’s aiming for a more experienced crowd. At around $150, this paddle is a great value for players looking for versatility and quality without breaking the bank.

View SLK Halo Pro XL at JustPaddles with discount code PORTAL

This paddle surprised me in more ways than one, especially at the non-volley zone, where its speed and responsiveness shine. I expect this paddle to be popular with players who want a dependable, adaptable paddle that can handle various play styles.

As always, if you’ve tried this paddle, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment below. Get out there, play, and let’s keep hitting!