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Aimed at Pro-Level Play and Those on the Tour
(Image credit: Nick Uzunyan)
Verdict
The Selkirk Labs Project 006 paddle, the crown jewel of The Tour series, designed for the grandest stages. Its new shape glides through the air with ease, which helps with rapid hand battles and close net encounters. The paddle’s elongated handle serves as a gateway for tennis converts and two-handed enthusiasts, empowering them to explore different types of shots. The Project 006’s spin-generation sets a new standard among Selkirk paddles, enabling aggressive topspin dinks and flawless finishes, while its perfectly placed sweet spot strikes a balance between precision and power. Though it may not match the raw force of other models, the Project 006 still packs a potent punch, making it the go-to choice for aggressive shots and kitchen duels. Versatility defines its essence for those with diverse playing styles, be it passing shots or exquisite 3rd shot drops. While its premium price tag may raise eyebrows, the Project 006 is far from average, offering an edge over the competition for seasoned players.
Specs
Description
Paddle Weight
8.3-8.7oz
Paddle Face Material
Carbon Fiber
Paddle Core Material
16mm Polypropylene
Paddle Shape
new Tour shape
Paddle Length
16”
Paddle Width
7.5”
Grip Size
4.25”
Handle Length
5.75”
First Look
The unveiling of the Project 006 introduces the newest line of Selkirk Labs Paddles, The Tour. The Project 006 unique design targets the professional tour and players looking for a competitive edge on the biggest stage. The round aerodynamic shape allows for the paddle to cut through air effortlessly. This provides a massive advantage when playing close to the net and engaging in rapid hand battles.
In addition to the new shape, Selkirk equipped the Project 006 with an elongated handle. This serves two purposes: it caters to players transitioning from tennis and those who prefer playing with two hands. Moreover, the combination of the elongated handle and adjusted face size offers experienced players the opportunity to add elements to their game that may be restricted with other paddle shapes. For example, it enables players to experiment with moves like ernes and ATP attempts, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the game.
(Image credit: Nick Uzunyan)
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Feel
Probably the paddle that generates the most possible spin out of the whole Selkirk line, including the Vanguard Air. The Project 006 plays fantastic in the kitchen for responsive rolls and finishing shots. It allows for aggressive topspin dinks that put you in command of the dink rally. For players who struggle to generate spin on their shots, adding topspin is natural with this paddle. Selkirk Labs elected to deliver the Project 006 between 8.3-8.7 oz, anticipating the weight that the more experienced players want to have. While this paddle generally will not need any additional weight, you can have some fun adding weight to different locations and testing the results.
Responsiveness & Power
The central location and large size of the sweet spot provides an incredible balance between control and power. On offense, the Project 006 provides plenty of pop without having to over swing. This allows players to truly focus on their technique and accuracy when swinging. On the defensive end, the Project 006 allows for effortless resets from the kitchen line all the way to the middle of the court. Compared to other paddles the Project 006 is more forgiving if the sweet spot is not hit directly. It provides a more well-rounded paddle for intermediate to higher level players.
Not as powerful as the Project 002 or the Vanguard Air series, the Project 006 still delivers some serious power and pop that can be effectively used to drive aggressive shots and win hand battles in the kitchen. This is a great paddle for finishing overheads or keeping your opponents pushed back towards the baseline. The Project 006 allows you to hit with power without putting strain on your body. Compared to the Project 005 or Vanguard Air, the Project 006 will have less power on the serve, but with that small trade off comes effortless spin.
(Image credit: Nick Uzunyan)
Overall
Probably the most well-rounded high performance paddle currently offered by Selkirk. Whether you prefer hard passing shots or accurate 3rd shot drops, the Project 006 provides something for every type of player. The $333 price point is a bit high compared to the average paddle, but the Project 006 is not an average paddle and in many ways has an edge on the competition.
About Nick Uzunyan
Pickleball Portal Contributor
Nick Uzunyan is a contributor to Pickleball Portal, sharing insights and expertise to help players of all levels improve their game.
127 comments from our community
These comments were originally posted on our WordPress site and have been preserved here. New commenting coming soon.
Been waiting to get my hands on this beauty. Thanks for the insight!
Crowlikeabird on Instagram
Good review
Good thorough review! 👏🏼 @cynthiahuynh
Thanks for the awesome review! Very thorough and detailed, appreciate your hard work!
IG handle – kingsrans0m
Nice review! I’ve been following your posts for sometime already. Hopefully I’ll get a chance to be chosen 🙂
IG: _kai_yi_
So based on this article, the 006 is going help generate more spin, but less power than the 005 right? Is that because of the surface of the paddle, how it’s weighted, or other factors?
This paddle sounds amazing! Thanks for the thorough review! I could use some extra topspin help with my game.
@KBruMomof2
Great review! I have the 003. Love it. I’d love to try the 006!
Jakenewhard_44
Can’t wait to try this one out, thanks for sharing! @soulja_boyd
Suuuuuper solid breakdown my friend! Love the intentionality to detail!
My guy! Such a solid and detailed review! I super appreciate you
@seacannon
Great first review! Would be great to add pros/cons table, and a comparison to other raw carbon paddles. Look forward to reading future reviews.
Hope to get to try this paddle out soon!
Instagram: scott_brucker
Ive been trying to upgrade my game and looking to get a paddle to try some new shots. Can’t wait to get my hands on it
Since the launch, I’ve had my eye on the 006. Great review, I honestly can’t wait to try the spin and feel of this paddle.
@geoffreyb.lfgp
Great stuff
IG: @tearun
Great review! Really want to try this paddle! -@maxpickleball
Love the detail and thorough opinions! Nothing is more challenging than choosing what to invest in without having a first hand feel of the paddle & you give that to us! Would love to get my hands on one of these bad boys! @nolhen
hope i’m able to try this one day! definitely something that would inspire me to play and hopefully push the sport here in my country. 🫱🏼🫲🏾
@broskieeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Great review! This paddle seems like a formidable addition tot he Selkirk arsenal. IG: @heypearly
With the long handle and aerodynamic profile looks like an awesome paddle for someone with big hands and battles at the kitchen.
IG:@aholtfreter
Great review! IG: @matthewcejmer
Love this!! May have to give this one a try!! Thanks @jenniferhess75
This paddle looks tough! Steep price though but might be worth it.
@naldbrewscoffee
Thank you for a great review. I’m really on the fence with this paddle vs a couple others and this helped narrow it down that much further! I look forward to future reviews.
IG handle: Bpell423_bbq
Not sure my skill level is up to the advanced level of this paddle but i certainly will demo it when I get a chance. Thank you for the review.
Seems an honest appraisal of paddle
I love these paddles. Started playing a couple of years ago and have upgraded to Selkirk! Feel like I could compete now 😉
I love these paddles. Would love to try this new one. Started playing a couple of years ago and have upgraded to Selkirk! Feel like I could compete now 😉
Nice website I was browsing around and I like what I see.
I purchase balls from Onix and Pickle Ball Central. I actually use the Ben Johns paddle and I like it.
Informative review. Thanks from San Antonio.
Sounds like an awesome paddle. Would love to give it a try here in Colorado.
Very informative hitting on all the different aspects of a good paddle.
Seems like a great paddle from the review
Aurorarose_newfpup
You’ve got to trust Selkirk to made a great paddle! I’m excited to try this paddle and hopefully it will up my game.
Victoria, BC Canada
I’m poor and need a new paddle. Plz.
Very informative review. Sounds like a great paddle. A little out of my price range, but would love to win one!
This seems like a good paddle for mid-level and up players. I look forward to reviews on the spin level after several months of use. This paddle is similar to new Ronbus and SixZero paddles. I’d like to see a comparison review of those paddles with this Selkirk. The weight is a bit higher than my usual paddles and I would have liked the swing weight listed in this review. I play both indoors and outdoors in Madison, Wi and like a paddle that can power against wind outdoors as well as do touch shots at the kitchen line indoors. The Project 006 seems to be a good paddle for all conditions.
Very informative review. Sounds like a great paddle. A little out of my price range, but would love to win one! Montrose, Colorado
Thanks for a comprehensive review.
Keep on pickling!
Great review, sounds like a great paddle. A little out of my price range , but would love to win one!
Montrose, Colorado
I am from Wilmington, NC and would love to win this beauty do I can rave about to all my fellow players 🙂
hi, I am from Wilmington, North Carolina, and I would love to win this beauty so I can rave about it to all my fellow players 🙂
I LOVE PICKELBALL!!! I’m hoping this racket will enhance my game. I would like the opportunity to try it out.
Awesome review…
Would love to have one of these. Coming from an omega extreme X it should give me more power but still the control I like.
robert_temp62
Nice! Like the shape. May it be ordered with different grip(s)?
Very nice, cool shape, are there different grips available or must I get after-market?
Thanks.
BH
Floral Park, NY
Selkirk appears to be on the leading edge for building paddles for the pros and higher skilled players. Incredible design and many features that will make want to try it. Cannot wait get feedback from the pros and my own hands
Looking for greater spin for my game. Sounds like I’ve found the right paddle!
Love a Selkirk paddle and need a new one. This sounds great!!
Macon Ga
Can’t wait to try it
Excellent thorough review… Fingers crossed I win!
This paddle looks awesome. Perfect for my game. Spin, long handle (I hit a 2handy backhand), and control over pop. Thanks! @cs9sports
I like effortless spin. Nice review. Can’t wait to get one of these!
Thanks!
@toddxou
Great review Nick! I just found my next paddle!
Sure wouldn’t mind winning this one! A bit over my budget to purchase
I’ve been wanting to try this paddle for awhile now! Thank you for your thorough review! Hope to win it!
This is a great review! It’s nice to hear an another view other than from those who make it! @ellibrogers
Your review was so helpful and thorough! I’ve been wanting to try this paddle for a long time! I hope I win!!!! Thanks so much!!
Instagram: @Savr_jones
It’s a beauty, can’t wait to try it out.
Mark, Redwood City
Awesome review. Would love to hear your thought comparing 006 against the 005.
IG: @mandyguo
Great in-depth review! Really hope I get a chance to try it out soon.
@drowan54
Winner. @bodhi.pb
The review was alright I guess. 😘😈
I have been wanting to get my hands on this one! I currently play the SLK Halo Power Max and this paddle would be a great addition to my game. I appreciate your review and insight on this paddle! Instagram handle: R.Rosario15
Just bought the 005 but might return it after reading this review and others of the 006. I think this one would fit my play style better. Chi Berryman Instagram handle
Looking for a new paddle and this sounds a likely candidate. Thanks for thorough review.
Great review! If I may suggest a pro/cons quick pros/cons section. Also if you could compare this paddle to another paddle and if or who you would recommend this paddle.
Keep up the great work! Wish I could test out this paddle myself!
IG: @b_munky
Oh man, I’d love to give this paddle a try! I’ve never played with a Selkirk paddle before, but I think the long handle, and the balance of control and power you mention sound like something to look into.
Wow! Very impressive!
DFW, TX
Was interested in the sweet spot because of the unique shape, so your review was super helpful! Also luckily happened to get a few dinks in with this paddle last weekend from someone I met at a tournament so this is super timely!
Ig: Reg__reg
Good review @iamnicsmith IG
Love to see you getting in on the review game! Look forward to seeing your channel grow, keep up the good work.
Thanks for the review. Been debating between the Project 003 and Project 006. This helps me make my decision. IG: Nicka_got_skillz
Great review! Would love to try the paddle some day.
Instagram: @ardie.sayoto
I’d love to have this as an upgrade to my Amped paddles. I’m in El Dorado, CA.
Very nicely done on the review. I felt it was easy to follow, without going into too many details where it could possibly lose my attention. This paddle is top of my list that I’m hoping to saving up and try. I’m curious how the power and accuracy will compare to other paddles I’ve been using. Thank you for the opportunity at what could be a great upgrade.
– Robert Smith
IG Handle: RGSMITH0522
Plays awesome! Very balanced paddle
IG: @knap_dawg
I am in love with this paddle. I currently have the 003 and its a great paddle. Selkirk its top of the line when it comes to pickleball.
Thanks for the review. I m looking at purchasing a new paddle in the near future.
Your description and alliteration made your review an enjoyable read and gave me insight on what makes the 006 new and different. It almost sounds like it could fix my game and I need that! Thank you for your review.
Instagram: @powerfulinpasco and @chs.pickle
Oof. That $300+ price point is still a deterrent, but I am still curious if it is a game changer for those at non-pro level play.
How does it compare to other top-of-line paddles with non-Selkirk brands?
IG: xo_chi
Would love to try this new paddle!
Is the tour shape the only thing that differentiates this paddle from other “premium” thermoformed paddles used by the pros? Would be interesting to compare how this paddles performes vs a mid-tier hybrid paddle shape like the Vatic Pro Prism.
Instagram: slaonthegram
Great review with insightful information!
Instagram: Margo_0192
Thank you for the review. I like how you broke it down and included the different categories players would want to know (feel, power, responsiveness). I think it’s interesting that it has more spin. Is it because of the material of the face compared to the other Selkirk? Did you do a spin test?
Instagram: @mianalab
Great review, thanks Nick!
Ryan Loftis
@pepalum on Ig
Drooling, but out of my price range!
Sounds like a good balance between power and finesse. Could really use this as my game improves.
Great review of an even better product!
@pamnaj
So do you think the pros will like it and use it?
@marissacirbo
Interesting to see that the 006 has no open throat and a rounded top. Looking at the shape that Ben Johns, along with other pros has gone for, the squarer head shape does seem to be re-established.
Do Selkirk believe rounding off the end of the paddle will benefit play?
Nick’s review is excellent! He carefully, thoughtfully and honestly covered all the details of the new 006 paddle that I was curious about. For 6 years I have only bought Selkirk paddles and I love them! I have tried other paddles but none compare to my Selkirk paddles. I really appreciate the concise in depth review on the 006.
I love reading paddle reviews. This was a great one
Many Thanks
Good review. Thanks for the detailed information and opinion.
short and sweet
@alohaitsarion
Sounds amazing! I want to try it!
IG: @lauren.s.pb
Looks like an awesome paddle.
I loved how you categorized different topics. I felt like this was very helpful and I would feel confident purchasing based on what I read in the review
IG: @brittneyspeir
Amazing! Your review convinced me to get the 006 soon!
IG:lukasneckhaim
This review really helps me justify the price for the 006. I really like how you analyzed it from different angles and referred to other paddles for comparison. Thanks Nick! @lizchowers on IG.
Great paddle!
Good review. Interesting points to consider. I wonder if it would help my game.
Great review, thanks a lot! The paddle is far too expensive for me. Greetings from St. Augustin, Germany.
