If you’re a pickleball enthusiast on the hunt for a paddle that balances control, power, and feel, you’re probably already considering the Engage Encore Pro. And honestly? You should be. Whether you’re upgrading from a beginner paddle or looking to refine your finesse game, this paddle has made waves in the pickleball community—and for good reason.
In this Engage Encore Pro review, we’ll dive deep into what makes this paddle stand out. From its build quality and performance to how it stacks up against others in its class, you’ll get the full scoop to decide if it’s right for your playing style.
Let’s break it down and see why the Engage Encore Pro deserves a spot in your gear bag.
What Is the Engage Encore Pro?
The Engage Encore Pro is a high-performance paddle that’s become a favorite among intermediate to advanced players. It’s particularly known for its large sweet spot, soft touch, and incredible control—making it ideal for players who value strategy, finesse, and ball placement over brute force.
Key Features at a Glance
-
Core: Polymer ControlPro II core
-
Surface: Specialized FiberTEK composite skin for enhanced ball control
-
Grip Size: 4.25 inches circumference
-
Weight Range: 7.8 – 8.3 ounces (midweight)
-
USAPA Approved: Yes, tournament-ready
This paddle isn’t just built to hit balls—it’s built to win games.
Why the Engage Encore Pro Stands Out
Let’s face it: there are a lot of paddles on the market. So why does this one rise to the top for so many players?
Balanced Control and Power
The Engage Encore Pro finds that sweet spot (literally and figuratively) between power and precision. While it may lean slightly toward control, it still delivers enough punch to keep your opponent on their toes.
Superior Spin Control
Thanks to the FiberTEK skin, the paddle has a grippy texture that allows for excellent spin control. Whether you’re slicing a dink or adding top-spin to a deep serve, you’ll notice a tangible difference in how the ball reacts.
Enlarged Sweet Spot
Mistiming a shot? The Encore Pro is forgiving. With its generous sweet spot, you’ll still get solid contact even if you’re slightly off-center.
Noise-Reduction Benefits
The polymer core dampens vibration and reduces noise—making it a great choice for communities with sound restrictions or players who just prefer a quieter game.
Actionable Tips: How to Maximize Performance with the Engage Encore Pro
Want to get the most out of your Encore Pro? Here are some actionable strategies:
-
Perfect Your Dinks: This paddle is made for soft play. Practice short drops and net play to leverage its control benefits.
-
Add Wrist Spin: The textured surface gives you grip—use your wrist to add topspin or sidespin on returns.
-
Play With Paddle Angles: Thanks to its feel, you’ll have more confidence experimenting with slice angles and tricky shots.
-
Pair It With a Premium Grip: The original grip is solid, but if you’re sweaty-handed or prefer extra cushion, upgrade to a tackier or cushioned grip wrap.
Real-world feedback from players confirms these tips make a difference in gameplay performance.
Challenges with the Engage Encore Pro and How to Overcome Them
As much as we love this paddle, no gear is perfect. Let’s talk about a few potential downsides and how you can manage them.
Slight Learning Curve for Beginners
New players may find the soft feel a bit unusual, especially if they’re coming from hard, power-oriented paddles. The key? Practice. Focus on your soft game and you’ll quickly adjust.
Solution: Spend extra time practicing drops and resets. Your touch will adapt, and you’ll begin to appreciate the control.
Slightly Heavier Feel for Some
At 7.8 – 8.3 oz, it’s not overly heavy—but players used to lighter paddles might feel the difference during extended matches.
Solution: Opt for the lighter end of the weight range when purchasing, or add an overgrip for better balance.
Price Point
At around $130-$150, it’s not the cheapest option. But for its performance, the value is definitely there.
Solution: Consider it an investment in your game. The performance boost can be worth it, especially if you’re playing regularly or competing.
Advanced Insights: How the Encore Pro Compares to Other Top Paddles
For those wanting to take a deep dive into performance analytics and competitor comparisons, here’s how the Engage Encore Pro stacks up.
Versus Selkirk Amped S2
-
Control: Slight edge to the Encore Pro
-
Power: Slight edge to Selkirk
-
Feel: More responsive feedback on the Encore Pro
Versus Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro
-
Sweet Spot: Larger on the Encore Pro
-
Weight Balance: More even on the Tempest
-
Spin Potential: Higher on the Encore Pro due to textured surface
When to Choose the Encore Pro
-
You prioritize net play, dinks, and resets.
-
You value finesse and strategy over brute force.
-
You want a paddle that grows with you as you improve.
FAQ Section
Is the Engage Encore Pro good for beginners?
Yes, but with a caveat. It’s more suited for intermediate players, but motivated beginners who are serious about improving control and placement will benefit from using it.
How does the Encore Pro compare in durability?
It’s built to last. Engage uses high-quality materials and edge guard technology, so you won’t see signs of wear and tear for a long time, even with frequent use.
What’s the best grip size for most players?
The standard 4.25″ grip fits most players, but if you have smaller or larger hands, consider overgrips or custom wraps for a better fit.
Can I use the Engage Encore Pro in tournaments?
Absolutely. It’s USAPA-approved and commonly seen at competitive events across all skill levels.
Does the paddle help with elbow or wrist pain?
Yes. The polymer core and vibration dampening properties make it a good option for players prone to joint sensitivity.
Conclusion
To sum it all up, the Engage Encore Pro is a paddle that delivers where it matters: control, consistency, and comfort. Whether you’re fine-tuning your net game or working on perfect shot placement, this paddle offers the tools to elevate your game. It’s no surprise that it’s become a favorite among competitive and strategic players.
If you’re looking for a paddle that supports growth and adapts to evolving skills, this one’s a keeper.
Ready to step up your game and test it on the court? Check out nearby locations and gear up with confidence by visiting Pickleball Court Near Me.