If you’re searching for a paddle that combines control, power, and precision, you’re probably deep into the hunt for the perfect pickleball companion. That’s where the Engage Encore Pro steps in—a paddle designed for serious players who crave performance without compromise. In this Engage Encore Pro Review, we’ll take a deep dive into why this paddle is a favorite among competitive players, what makes it unique, and how it stacks up against the competition.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just stepping up your game, understanding the features and benefits of a high-end paddle like the Engage Encore Pro can help you make a smarter buying decision. Let’s explore what makes this paddle worth considering and how it can influence your play on the court.
What is the Engage Encore Pro?
The Engage Encore Pro is a high-performance composite pickleball paddle made by Engage Pickleball, a respected brand in the industry known for innovation and quality. The Encore Pro was designed specifically with tournament-level players in mind.
Key Specifications
-
Core Material: Polymer (ControlPro II polymer core)
-
Face Material: Specialized FiberTEK skin for enhanced spin
-
Weight Range: 7.8 – 8.3 oz
-
Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches
-
Handle Length: 5 inches
-
Paddle Dimensions: 15.5″ length x 8.125″ width
The paddle is USA Pickleball approved and has been used in professional tournaments, a testament to its credibility and performance capabilities.
Designed for Control and Touch
The Engage Encore Pro stands out for its exceptional control and ball placement. The large sweet spot and consistent feel across the paddle face give players confidence during volleys, dinks, and resets. While some paddles lean toward either power or finesse, the Encore Pro strikes an impressive balance—making it an ideal option for intermediate to advanced players.
Why Choose the Engage Encore Pro? Key Features & Benefits
When choosing a pickleball paddle, you want something that complements your playing style. Here’s how the Encore Pro rises to the challenge.
Enhanced Surface for Better Spin
The FiberTEK face is engineered for grip, meaning it grabs the ball slightly longer than most standard paddles. This results in improved topspin and backspin, especially useful in drop shots or when trying to add deception.
Advanced ControlPro Core
The proprietary ControlPro polymer core dampens vibrations, giving players a soft, responsive feel without sacrificing pop. This helps in precision placement and maintaining consistency in fast-paced rallies.
Balanced Weight and Feel
Weighing in around 8 ounces, the Encore Pro offers a perfect middle ground—not too heavy to slow you down, not too light to lose power. It’s ideal for players who need both quick reaction time at the net and enough weight to drive the ball from the baseline.
Tournament-Level Performance
Many top players choose the Encore Pro due to its consistency and durability. Whether you’re playing casually or in a sanctioned tournament, the paddle performs under pressure, maintaining its responsiveness match after match.
How to Get the Most Out of the Engage Encore Pro
Want to maximize the performance of your new paddle? Here are some actionable tips to help you unlock its full potential.
Practice with Purpose
-
Focus on control drills. The Encore Pro shines in controlled play, so practice dinking, resets, and soft shots.
-
Add spin to your toolbox. Use the textured surface to experiment with spin techniques like topspin serves and cut shots.
-
Footwork + Paddle Positioning. The paddle rewards precision—so clean footwork and good ready position are key.
Pair with the Right Gear
-
A well-cushioned grip helps maintain a relaxed hold without losing control.
-
Consider paddle covers to maintain the textured surface and prolong durability.
-
Use lead tape if you want to fine-tune the weight distribution.
Real-Life Example: From Intermediate to Advanced
One of the most compelling stories comes from a player named Tim, who upgraded from a budget graphite paddle to the Engage Encore Pro. In just a few months, his soft game dramatically improved. According to Tim, “I finally had a paddle that matched my strategy. I could drop the ball precisely where I wanted it.” This anecdote highlights how switching to a quality paddle like the Encore Pro can elevate your confidence and control.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Even with a top-tier paddle, players can face hurdles. Let’s look at a few and how to address them.
Adjusting to the Soft Touch
The Encore Pro has a soft feel, which can be a learning curve if you’re used to hard-hitting graphite paddles. You might initially find that your drives lack the usual pop.
Solution: Focus on timing and follow-through. The paddle delivers power when you engage your whole body and extend your shots properly.
Maintaining Consistency Across Shots
Because of its large sweet spot, players sometimes become over-reliant on center shots and miss out on edge control.
Solution: Practice edge-hitting drills. Work on shots that hit different parts of the paddle face to build better paddle awareness.
Paddle Wear Over Time
With extended use, the textured face can wear down and reduce spin efficiency.
Solution: Use a protective case and avoid scraping the paddle on the court. Inspect your paddle regularly and consider replacing it every 12-18 months if you’re playing frequently.
Advanced Insights: Take Your Game Further with the Engage Encore Pro
Ready to go beyond the basics? Here are some more nuanced strategies for getting the most out of your Encore Pro.
Customize the Paddle’s Feel
-
Add lead tape to the edges to increase power on drives.
-
Use an overgrip for added tackiness and control during long matches.
Pairing Strategy with Paddle Strengths
-
Lean into dink rallies where the Encore Pro’s control excels.
-
Use angled volleys and resets to force errors—this paddle thrives in these micro-moments.
-
Try drop volleys that land just over the net—easy to execute with the Pro’s soft touch.
Analyze Your Game with Video
Filming your play and reviewing how the paddle responds to different shots can help you understand your strengths and weaknesses. Players often notice better placement and consistency when using the Encore Pro compared to lower-end models.
FAQ Section
What skill level is the Engage Encore Pro best suited for?
The Encore Pro is ideal for intermediate to advanced players who value control and precision over pure power. Beginners can also use it, but they may not fully benefit from its nuanced performance right away.
Does the Engage Encore Pro generate a lot of spin?
Yes. The FiberTEK surface texture provides excellent grip on the ball, which helps generate spin, especially on serves, topspin drives, and cut shots.
How does the Engage Encore Pro compare to the Engage Pursuit series?
While the Pursuit paddles are known for raw carbon fiber surfaces and more power, the Encore Pro leans toward control and finesse. It’s a better choice for players who prefer a softer touch game.
Is this paddle suitable for doubles play?
Absolutely. The Encore Pro’s wide face, large sweet spot, and excellent touch make it a strong performer in the fast exchanges of doubles matches.
How long does the paddle typically last?
With regular recreational use, the paddle can last over a year. Competitive players who play multiple times per week might consider replacing it every 9-12 months for optimal performance.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a paddle that prioritizes control, precision, and spin while still offering respectable power, the Engage Encore Pro delivers in all areas. It’s a paddle designed to help you make smarter, more strategic plays, and it’s trusted by competitive players for a reason.
In this Engage Encore Pro Review, we’ve explored how its design caters to control players, the challenges it helps overcome, and tips to get the most out of it. Whether you’re climbing the ranks in local leagues or just want a reliable paddle for your regular games, the Encore Pro is an investment in your game’s future.