Drive Jr vs. Apollo

Brand

Price

$79|ProDrive Click for an updated price
$129.99|Spartus Click for an updated price

USAPA Approved

NoYes

Year Released

----

Length

13.7815.9

Width

7.368

Core Thickness

10.516

Core Material

Aramid HoneycombPolypropylene Honeycomb

Facing Material

Toray T700 Carbon FiberDuPont™ Kevlar®

Weight (Low-High)

6.75 - 7.258.1 - 8.1

Handle Length

4.55.3

Handle Grip Circumference

3.93754.125

ThePickleballDinks Tier

--
--
ProDrive

ProDrive

2022

Naples, FL

6 paddles

ProDrive, inspired by the relentless drive of professional and intermediate athletes, combines innovation with expertise to create a paddle that elevates players into a league of their own. Designed by award-winning global engineer Henrik Andersson, the ProDrive paddle offers a unique balance of power, control, and touch, featuring a triple-layer core, carbon fiber surface, and Grit Paint for ultimate spin control. Handcrafted for competitive play, this USAPA-compliant paddle is engineered to provide pro-level precision and performance.

Compare all 6 ProDrive paddles
Spartus

Spartus

2022

San Francisco, CA

5 paddles

Spartus, founded by Josh in San Francisco, is a performance-driven pickleball brand rooted in Josh's diverse background in engineering, law, finance, and business. With a passion for competitive sports and a deep understanding of the importance of quality equipment, Josh has combined his expertise with a team of specialists to create Spartus, a company focused on R&D and delivering high-performance pickleball paddles. Spartus is committed to meeting the needs of players at all levels, offering equipment that maximizes performance and value.

Compare all 5 Spartus paddles

FAQs

  • Which paddle is cheaper?

    Apollo is more expensive ($129.99) than Drive Jr ($79).

  • Is there a difference in the core?

    Apollo has a greater core thickness (16 mm) than Drive Jr (10.5 mm). Conversely, a thinner core tends to provide more power and speed, suitable for players emphasizing a more aggressive playstyle.

  • Which paddle is longer?

    Apollo has a greater length (15.9 inches) than Drive Jr (13.78 inches).

  • Which paddle is wider?

    Apollo has a greater width (8 inches) than Drive Jr (7.36 inches).

  • Which paddle is heavier?

    Apollo has a greater weight (8.1 oz) than Drive Jr (7 oz).

  • Which paddle has a longer grip?

    Apollo has a greater handle length (5.3 inches) than Drive Jr (4.5 inches).

This site contains Amazon affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through our links.