Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 Review: The Control Paddle Every Power Player Has Been Waiting For

If you’re on the hunt for a paddle that delivers explosive power without sacrificing pinpoint control, the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 might just be your next secret weapon. This paddle has quickly gained traction among advanced and intermediate pickleball players who want a reliable, high-performance option that brings the heat — and the finesse.

In this Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 Review, we’ll break down what makes this paddle special, who it’s best for, what you need to know before buying, and how it stacks up against other top-tier options on the market. Let’s dive in!

Overview of the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0

What Is the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0?

The Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 is a premium pickleball paddle engineered for players who crave a balance of power, spin, and control. It’s part of Engage’s Pursuit line, known for its proprietary graphite surface and high-tech core that enhance feel and responsiveness.

What sets the EX 6.0 apart is its traditional paddle shape paired with a thick 0.6″ core (hence the “6.0”). This combo delivers a plush feel on impact, exceptional control for drops and resets, and enough pop to dominate baseline rallies or drive volleys.

Key Specs at a Glance

Paddle Face: Proprietary Omni-directional Graphite
Core Thickness: 0.6” Control Core
Shape: Standard EX (16″ x 8″)
Weight Range: 7.8 – 8.3 oz
Grip Circumference: 4 3/8”
Handle Length: 5”

Who Is It For?

The Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 is best suited for:

Intermediate to advanced players
Players who prioritize control with optional power
Anyone who enjoys a traditional paddle shape with a familiar feel
Competitive players needing consistency in dink and reset battles

Actionable Tips & Strategies to Get the Most from the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0

If you decide to invest in this paddle, here are some strategies to help you make the most of it from day one.

Mastering the Soft Game

The thick core in the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 makes it ideal for controlled, finesse-based play. Here’s how to take advantage:

Practice soft dinks from mid-court with minimal backswing to get a feel for the paddle’s plush response.
Use a continental grip for resets to fully tap into the paddle’s vibration dampening qualities.
Focus on short volleys and blocks at the net — the paddle shines here with its crisp touch.

Using Power Smartly

While the EX 6.0 isn’t a “power paddle” by design, it still packs a punch when needed.

Generate topspin by brushing up on the ball with the gritty graphite face.
Step into your drives to utilize the paddle’s mid-weight balance.
Use shoulder rotation instead of wrist flicks for powerful baseline returns to maximize paddle leverage.

Dial in Your Grip Pressure

This paddle is super responsive, so make sure to vary your grip pressure:

Looser grip = More touch for resets and dinks.
Tighter grip = More power and control on offensive shots.

Dialing in grip pressure will help you unlock all the dynamic features of this paddle.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Even top-tier paddles come with a learning curve, and the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 is no exception.

Challenge: Getting Used to the Soft Feel

If you’re coming from a thinner paddle, you may initially feel like your shots are a bit muted.

Solution: Spend a few sessions focusing solely on control shots. After a short adjustment period, you’ll find your precision improves dramatically.

Challenge: Slightly Heavier Feel

At 7.8–8.3 oz, some players may feel the paddle leans on the heavier side compared to ultra-light models.

Solution: Use it with an overgrip to increase stability and find your sweet spot in swing mechanics. The added weight helps with shot stability, so it’s worth adjusting to.

Challenge: Adjusting to the Standard Shape

Players used to elongated paddles might feel limited in reach.

Solution: Focus on footwork. The maneuverability of the EX shape means you can cover more ground more quickly — it just takes a few sessions to get into rhythm.

Advanced Strategies and Additional Insights

Once you’re comfortable with the paddle, it’s time to dive into more advanced strategies to dominate on the court.

Spin Optimization with the Graphite Face

The paddle’s omni-directional graphite texture allows for exceptional spin potential.

Topspin Drives: Brush up on the ball at a slight angle.
Slice Serves: Use a low-to-high motion and let the textured face grip the ball.
Roll Volleys: These are highly effective with the EX 6.0’s tacky surface — perfect for aggressive net play.

Paddle Placement for Control

Control doesn’t just come from how you hit — it’s also about where you hit from.

Position the paddle slightly in front of your body for quicker reactions.
Use small, compact swings near the net to capitalize on the EX 6.0’s dampened vibration.

Play to the Paddle’s Strengths

Ideal for Third Shot Drops: The thick core provides an incredible feel and predictability on soft shots.
Perfect for Fast Hands Battles: The shorter handle and standard shape help with paddle maneuverability in quick exchanges.

FAQ Section

Q1: Is the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 good for beginners?
A: While beginners could use this paddle, it’s really best for intermediate or advanced players who understand control-based strategies. A beginner might find more immediate success with a lighter, more forgiving paddle.

Q2: How does the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 compare to the MX version?
A: The EX 6.0 has a traditional, square-shaped face that offers more control and balance. The MX version is elongated, providing extended reach and more leverage for power shots. Your choice depends on your playstyle.

Q3: Does the paddle come with a cover or any accessories?
A: Engage typically does not include a paddle cover with purchase. However, you can often bundle one during checkout or purchase separately through retailers.

Q4: How durable is the graphite surface on the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0?
A: The omni-directional graphite is built for high durability and maintains spin performance over time. Just avoid dragging it across hard surfaces to extend longevity.

Q5: Where can I try or buy the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0?
A: You can test or purchase it through local pro shops or major online pickleball retailers. Many clubs also offer demo days. For finding courts near you to try it in action, visit PickleballCourtNear.me.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for the perfect blend of precision, power, and performance, the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 lives up to its reputation. Its graphite face, thick control core, and traditional shape make it a standout for players who rely on strategic placement and soft-touch finesse while still being able to rip a forehand drive when needed.

Whether you’re controlling the kitchen or trading groundstrokes from the baseline, this paddle gives you the tools to elevate your game. We hope this Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 review helped you decide if it’s the right fit for your style of play.

Ready to take your game to the next level? Explore more pickleball paddle reviews, tips, and court locations at PickleballCourtNear.me. Your next winning shot is just a paddle swing away.