Selkirk Boomstik Review: Is It Worth the Hype?

Pickleball paddles are causing a commotion! A deleted Instagram post by Tyson Quong sparked rumors about the Selkirk Boomstik and other new Labs paddles. Leaked images show five paddles, including the “Labs Project BoomStik” and the 15mm 008 model. Players are already debating if these potential “Joola Killers” live up to the hype. Could the Boomstik change the game? Let’s unpack the rumors and see if the Selkirk Boomstik has truly leaked.

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Key Takeaways

  • Leaked images of the Selkirk Boomstik paddles sparked excitement and skepticism among pickleball players. Discussions focus on the paddle’s potential performance, especially its spin capabilities, and how it will compare to established brands like Joola. The marketing surrounding the “Boomstik” name has also drawn attention, raising questions about its effectiveness.
  • The upcoming 2025 CoR regulations are a key factor in player discussions about the Boomstik. The change in regulations raises concerns about the paddle’s long-term performance and whether it will remain competitive under the new rules. This highlights the need for manufacturers to address these concerns to build confidence among potential buyers.
  • Selkirk’s reputation for innovation and quality will play a significant role in the Boomstik’s reception. While some players are skeptical based on previous product releases, Selkirk’s focus on durability and performance features like the X5 core and FiberFlex surface could give the Boomstik an advantage. Ultimately, the paddle’s success will depend on its on-court performance and whether it lives up to the hype.

Selkirk Boomstik: A Quick Look

  • The leak sparked immediate reactions, revealing a mix of excitement and skepticism from the community.
  • Players are intrigued by the potential performance of the new paddles but doubt their competitive viability against existing models.
  • Some users critiqued the marketing of the new paddles, questioning the strategy behind their names.
  • There’s concern over upcoming paddle regulations and their implications for bounce and performance.

Selkirk Boomstik: Leaked Images and the “Joola Killer”

Rumors are swirling around pickleball courts thanks to a leaked Instagram post by pro pickleball player Tyson Quong featuring two new Selkirk paddles, believed to be part of the “Boomstik” line. The image, which briefly surfaced before being deleted, also showcased Selkirk Labs 007 paddles and a provocative caption: “the Joola killer?”. This suggests Selkirk is aiming to compete directly with Joola. The post, which reportedly garnered over 400 likes and 3,000 views, was likely removed due to an NDA violation. The consequences for Quong remain unknown. Interestingly, these new paddles are already listed in the USAP approved database, adding fuel to the fire. For more discussion on this leak, check out this Reddit thread.

The CoR Conundrum: Future-Proofing the Boomstik?

A key discussion point surrounding the Boomstik is its Coefficient of Restitution (CoR). How will the upcoming change in the legal CoR limit (from 0.44 to 0.43 in November 2025) affect these new paddles? Even this seemingly small change can significantly impact ball speed, raising questions about the Boomstik’s long-term performance. Will Selkirk design the paddles with this change in mind, or will players need to replace their paddles sooner than expected? Join the conversation on this Reddit thread and share your thoughts.

Selkirk vs. Joola: A Battle of the Paddles

Selkirk paddles, known for their X5 Polypropylene Polymer Core and FiberFlex Fiberglass surface, prioritize power and control. The AMPED series further enhances these features with a larger sweet spot and reduced vibration. Joola, on the other hand, focuses on speed and spin with its Hybrid Composite Hit Surface and Aero-Curve design, emphasizing ergonomic grips and balanced weight. While the Joola Jen 3 is praised for its power, it doesn’t meet all PPA standards. Both brands enjoy positive user feedback, but Selkirk’s reputation for durability gives them an edge for some players. For a comprehensive comparison of these two top brands, check out this article from EcoSports.

Boomstik Hype: Is It Real?

The initial excitement brought about by Quong’s leak was palpable. Many participants on social media immediately supported Quong’s revelations, eager to discuss what impact the new paddles might have on gameplay. A user noted, “Did not see his post but have seen other pros playing with the Boomstick and the 008. Both are rock hard and nothing like the Joola 3s.” This enthusiasm showcases the hunger for new gear among players and the hope that such innovations lead to improved play. However, the thrill was met with caution as well; players were equally quick to point out that previous hype surrounding new paddles often led to disappointment when the performance did not match the promise.

Unpacking the Cutter Hype

Much of the buzz around the Boomstik centers on its potential to generate extreme “cut” shots. But what exactly does this mean for players? Will the Boomstik truly deliver on its promise of unparalleled spin and control, or is it just clever marketing? Players are intrigued by the potential performance of the new paddles, but some remain skeptical. Is the “Boomstik” name more hype than substance? Some users even critiqued the marketing tactics, wondering if the name reflects the paddle’s capabilities or is simply designed to grab attention.

It’s worth comparing the Boomstik to established brands like Selkirk, known for their focus on power and control. Selkirk paddles, with their X5 Polypropylene Polymer Core and FiberFlex Fiberglass surface, have earned a reputation for durability. If the Boomstik aims to compete, it needs to deliver comparable longevity in addition to spin. Player experience will ultimately determine its success. While both Selkirk and Joola enjoy positive user feedback, the Boomstik’s ability to earn similar trust remains to be seen.

The upcoming change in the legal CoR limit, decreasing from 0.44 to 0.43 in November 2025, also warrants consideration. This seemingly small adjustment can significantly impact ball speed and spin. How will this CoR factor affect the Boomstik’s long-term performance? Will it maintain its promised spin and control under the new regulations? These are key questions players and manufacturers are considering.

Are Boomstik Marketing Claims Accurate?

<p“BoomStik” has certainly garnered its share of cheeky critiques; one user remarked, “‘BoomStik’ has to be the most cringe PB marketing I’ve seen in a while, and that’s a high bar…” Strong words! While the pickleball community appreciates clever marketing, there’s a clear expectation for it to resonate meaningfully with both performance capabilities and player experience. The name’s somewhat humorous ring seemed to rub some enthusiasts the wrong way, indicating a broader desire for branding that aligns with the sport’s integrity and seriousness. It’s worth noting that branding plays a crucial role in consumer choice, so the reception of names like BoomStik could impact its sales.

Selkirk Boomstik: Truly Innovative or Just Another Paddle?

<pAs discussions unfolded, another interesting angle emerged when users considered Labs’ place in the paddle marketplace. One commenter pointed out, “Selkirk has been so far behind in pickleball technology that I seriously doubt they can come up with a ‘killer’ for one of the most hype paddles right now.” Echoing this skepticism, others mentioned that they would keep their expectations in check based on the brand’s prior releases. In sports innovation, being labeled a ‘copycat’ can carry severe consequences—consumers are often looking for cutting-edge technology that truly enhances their performance, not just a reinvention of the wheel. The competition intensifies as leading brands work hard to outdo each other. It looks like Labs has a tough hill to climb if they want to stay relevant and prove their worth in this high-stakes environment.

Selkirk’s Legacy of Innovation

Selkirk has a history of pushing the boundaries of pickleball paddle technology. From the popular Vanguard Power Air S2 (Prestige), known for its large sweet spot and aggressive shot-making capabilities, to the various LABS paddles, Selkirk consistently strives for improvement. This commitment to innovation raises the question: will the Boomstik simply be another paddle, or will it truly mark a significant advancement in their lineup? Over at SirShanksAlot, we’re always keeping an eye on the latest developments in sports equipment—like our recent coverage of the art of mixing cut shots and top spins in pickleball. We’re eager to see how the Boomstik performs on the court.

Selkirk’s Commitment to Quality: Warranty, Returns, and More

Selkirk backs its products with a limited lifetime warranty on most paddles (excluding the SLK line, which has a 1-year warranty). They acknowledge that paddles typically last 1–5 years, with replacements often needed every 2–3 years. Selkirk also offers helpful guidance on paddle care to help extend the life of your investment. Most Selkirk and Selkirk LABS paddles are made or assembled in the USA, while SLK paddles are designed and quality-controlled in the USA but manufactured in China. For added peace of mind, Selkirk offers a 30-day return/exchange policy for paddles purchased directly from their website (some exclusions apply). They even provide a “Paddle Fit Assistant” to help customers choose the right paddle. Beyond paddles, Selkirk offers a wide range of other pickleball gear, including apparel, balls (Pro S1 and SLK Hybrid+), nets, and accessories.

Finding Your Boomstik: Exploring Retail Options

If you’re ready to try the Boomstik, online retailers like JustPaddles.com are a good place to start. They offer a wide selection of Selkirk LABS paddles, and it’s likely they’ll carry the Boomstik line once it’s officially released. Their site provides helpful filtering options (experience level, face material, weight, etc.) to help you find the perfect paddle. They also carry a range of SLK paddles. JustPaddles offers perks like fast, free shipping and expert customer service, including a “Paddle Coach” tool. Prices for Selkirk LABS paddles typically range from $240 to $333, with some used paddles available at lower prices. You might also find helpful information on sites like SirShanksAlot, where we cover a variety of sports topics, from baseball controversies to humorous golf anecdotes.

What Regulations Affect the Selkirk Boomstik?

<pThe sport’s ever-evolving regulations also came into play in discussions surrounding potential performance changes linked to the new paddles. As one observant user noted: “I wonder if these are going to have a CoR (Objective measurement of paddle power)… because it’s going to be really annoying to have to play with this much power for a year then the game softens up next year.” This comment underscores the anxiety many within the community feel about the upcoming 2025 CoR adjustments. Changes to paddle performance standards could fundamentally alter game strategies players have adopted, leading to uncertainty about the timing and relevance of any new products that are recently launched. With CoR regulations affecting playability, it’s crucial that paddle manufacturers—like Labs—address these concerns directly to instill confidence in prospective buyers.

<pIn essence, the implications of Quong’s deleted post extend beyond mere product announcements. It represents a larger dialogue about innovation, marketing authenticity, and the future of paddle technology amidst rapid regulatory transitions. While fans are eager for advancements and fresh offerings to enhance their competition on the court, they remain equally resolute in demanding authenticity and transparency from brands. As the pickleball landscape continues to evolve, one truth remains: the community’s discussions will help shape the future of the sport, one paddle leak at a time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the new Selkirk paddles causing so much buzz? Leaked images suggest Selkirk is developing two new paddles, possibly called the “Project BoomStik” and the 15mm 008. These were briefly revealed in a social media post by pro pickleball player Tyson Quong, alongside existing Selkirk Labs 007 paddles. The post quickly disappeared, likely due to a non-disclosure agreement violation, but it was enough to spark widespread discussion.

Why is everyone talking about the “Joola killer”? Quong’s post included the phrase “Joola killer,” hinting that Selkirk is aiming to compete directly with popular Joola paddles. This has led to speculation about how the new paddles might compare in terms of power, spin, control, and overall performance.

What’s the deal with the CoR and why does it matter? CoR stands for Coefficient of Restitution, and it measures a paddle’s bounciness. Regulations are changing the legal CoR limit in late 2025. People are wondering if the new Selkirk paddles are designed with this change in mind, or if they’ll become less effective when the new rules take effect. This raises questions about the paddles’ long-term value.

Is the “Boomstik” name just hype? The name “Boomstik” has drawn mixed reactions. Some find it catchy, while others think it’s cheesy and doesn’t reflect the seriousness of the sport. There’s debate about whether the name is a clever marketing tactic or a genuine reflection of the paddle’s capabilities.

Where can I find more information about these paddles and when will they be available? While the leaked information has generated significant online discussion, Selkirk hasn’t officially announced the new paddles. Keep an eye on online retailers specializing in pickleball equipment, as they’re likely to be the first to offer them once released. You can also follow pickleball forums and social media for updates and user reviews.