Drive Jr vs. Riptide

Brand

Price

$79|ProDrive Click for an updated price
$69.95|Click for an updated price

USAPA Approved

NoYes

Year Released

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Length

13.7816

Width

7.367.6

Core Thickness

10.514

Core Material

Aramid HoneycombPolypropylene Honeycomb

Facing Material

Toray T700 Carbon FiberCarbon Fiber

Weight (Low-High)

6.75 - 7.257.6 - 7.66

Handle Length

4.55

Handle Grip Circumference

3.93754

ThePickleballDinks Tier

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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
Diadem

Diadem

2015

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

13 paddles

Diadem Sports, founded in 2015 in Pompano Beach, Florida, is driven by a vision that goes beyond just producing tennis rackets and pickleball paddles. As the last American tennis brand, they focus on innovation, creating products like the Solstice Power string with patented Star Core Technology. Their philosophy, "Live to Play," underscores the importance of sports as a means to foster physical fitness, social connection, and human engagement. Diadem's mission is to redefine the game while celebrating the joy and simplicity of play, connecting people through tennis and pickleball.

Compare all 13 Diadem paddles

FAQs

  • Which paddle is cheaper?

    Drive Jr is more expensive ($79) than Riptide ($69.95).

  • Is there a difference in the core?

    Riptide has a greater core thickness (14 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?

    Riptide has a greater length (16 inches) than Drive Jr (13.78 inches).

  • Which paddle is wider?

    Riptide has a greater width (7.6 inches) than Drive Jr (7.36 inches).

  • Which paddle is heavier?

    Riptide has a greater weight (7.63 oz) than Drive Jr (7 oz).

  • Which paddle has a longer grip?

    Riptide has a greater handle length (5 inches) than Drive Jr (4.5 inches).

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