Pickleball players are always on the lookout for the next best paddle that can up their game without compromising control or comfort. If you’ve been browsing the market, chances are you’ve come across the buzz surrounding the Engage Pursuit Pro MX. In this in-depth Engage Pursuit Pro MX review, we’re diving into what makes this paddle stand out, who it’s best for, and whether it deserves a spot in your gear lineup.
Whether you’re a seasoned tournament player or a passionate weekend warrior, choosing the right paddle can make or break your performance. Let’s explore what the Engage Pursuit Pro MX brings to the court and how it compares to the competition.
What Is the Engage Pursuit Pro MX?
The Engage Pursuit Pro MX is a premium pickleball paddle designed for advanced players who crave a mix of explosive power and refined control. As part of the Pursuit Pro series, this paddle stands out with its elongated shape and textured face, giving players more reach and enhanced spin potential.
Key Features and Specs
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Core: Proprietary ControlPro “Black” Polymer Core
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Face: Raw Toray T700 Carbon Fiber
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Shape: Elongated MX Shape (longer handle and face)
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Grip Length: 5.75 inches – ideal for two-handed backhands
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Weight Range: 7.7 – 8.3 oz
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Handle Circumference: 4 3/8 inches (standard)
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USAPA Approved: Yes
These specs are tailored to aggressive players who want to dominate the court with power and finesse. The elongated shape offers better court coverage, especially at the net and during singles matches.
Standout Benefits of the Engage Pursuit Pro MX
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Spin-Optimized Surface: The carbon fiber face is engineered for maximum ball bite, allowing for top-tier spin control.
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Balanced Weight Distribution: Despite its elongated frame, it maintains solid maneuverability.
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Durability & Feel: Built to last while still offering a soft feel on dinks and drops.
How to Get the Most Out of the Pursuit Pro MX
To make the most of your Engage Pursuit Pro MX, it helps to know how to play into its strengths. Here are some tips and strategies that can elevate your gameplay with this paddle.
Adjust Your Grip and Swing
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Use a continental grip for volleys and overheads to maximize the paddle’s reach.
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The longer handle is ideal for two-handed backhands—use that to generate controlled yet powerful cross-court shots.
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For added spin, brush up on topspin technique using the textured face to grip the ball.
Tactical Positioning
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Play closer to the net in doubles to take advantage of quick exchanges and volleys.
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For singles, use the extended reach to retrieve wide shots and hit deeper serves with ease.
Drills to Enhance Paddle Performance
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Spin Serves – Practice third shot drops with sidespin and topspin variations.
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Control Dinks – Work on cross-court dinking drills to master paddle touch.
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Overhead Smashes – Improve timing using the paddle’s balanced weight for explosive put-aways.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Even high-end paddles like the Pursuit Pro MX come with a learning curve. Here’s what some players experience and how to solve it.
Challenge: Takes Time to Adjust to Elongated Shape
Solution:
Spend time drilling before jumping into competitive matches. The longer paddle requires slightly altered timing and swing path—especially for backhands and volleys.
Challenge: Slightly Heavier Feel for Some Players
Solution:
If you’re used to lighter paddles, start with the lower end of the MX’s weight range (around 7.7 oz). You can also add overgrips to customize the feel without adding too much extra weight.
Challenge: Price Point
The Engage Pursuit Pro MX is not a budget paddle. It’s a serious investment, but for players looking for long-term performance and durability, it delivers unmatched value.
Advanced Insights: Why Pros Are Choosing the Pursuit Pro MX
This paddle isn’t just for weekend warriors—it’s increasingly being spotted in high-level play. Let’s break down why advanced players are gravitating toward this model.
Spin Mastery
The raw carbon fiber surface isn’t just a gimmick. Players report dramatic increases in topspin and sidespin—great for third-shot drops, aggressive drives, and even defensive resets.
Sweet Spot Redefined
While some elongated paddles compromise the size of the sweet spot, the Pursuit Pro MX manages to maintain a forgiving center, thanks to its innovative core and layered construction. This means fewer mishits and more consistent shotmaking.
Great for Two-Handed Backhands
Many players with a tennis background prefer the MX over the EX (its sibling model) because of its longer handle. It feels more natural and powerful when hitting two-handed shots from the baseline or during transitions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What’s the difference between the Engage Pursuit Pro MX and EX?
The MX has an elongated shape and longer handle (5.75 inches), making it ideal for two-handed backhands and better reach. The EX is shorter and more square-shaped, favoring quick maneuverability and control near the net.
Is the Engage Pursuit Pro MX good for beginners?
While not designed specifically for beginners, intermediate players can grow into this paddle quickly. Its balance of power and control makes it a smart long-term investment.
Can I use the Pursuit Pro MX in tournaments?
Yes, the paddle is USAPA approved, meaning it’s legal for all sanctioned pickleball tournaments and leagues.
How long does the surface texture last?
The T700 carbon fiber surface is built for durability. While all paddles wear down eventually, the MX holds up longer than most, especially under regular play.
Where can I test or buy the Engage Pursuit Pro MX?
Many specialty stores and courts offer demo programs. You can also visit Pickleball Court Near Me to find a local place to try or purchase the paddle.
Conclusion
If you’re a competitive player looking to elevate your game, the Engage Pursuit Pro MX offers the ideal blend of power, control, and precision. With its elongated shape, spin-enhancing carbon fiber face, and performance-tuned core, this paddle is built to help you dominate every aspect of the court.
From driving deep serves to executing soft dinks and high-spin drops, this paddle adapts to your style and grows with your skill level. In our Engage Pursuit Pro MX review, we’ve explored the benefits, challenges, and strategic use cases that make this one of the top paddles in the game today.
Ready to take your game to the next level? Visit Pickleball Court Near Me to find where you can try or buy the Engage Pursuit Pro MX today.