This year Selkirk has been on a rampage dropping new paddles. So far, every pickleball paddle they’ve dropped is incredible. Selkirk has always been one of the leaders in paddle manufacturing, and they’re constantly incorporating the newest and best technology into their pickleball paddles.
The SLK Halo XL is one of the latest drops from SLk, and the performance did not disappoint. This is their entry into the raw carbon fiber (T700) arena.
I personally review the SLK Halo XL and tell you my thoughts and insights about this paddle to see if it’s worth the Hype.
SLK by Selkirk offers a more affordable option without sacrificing performance. The only real difference between SLK and Selkirk is that SLK is made in China, whereas Selkirk paddles are assembled in the United States.
Also Check Out: Top Rated Pickleball Paddles + Buyers Guide
Contents
SLK Halo XL Specifications
- Thickness: 13mm Or 16mm
- Weight Range: 7.5oz-8.2oz
- Dimensions: 16.4″ x 7.4″
- Shape: Elongated
- Face: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
- Core: Polymer
- Handle Length: 5.70″
SLK Halo Max Specifications
- Thickness: 13mm Or 16mm
- Weight Range: 7.5oz-8.2oz
- Dimensions:16″ x 7.85″
- Shape: Standard
- Face: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
- Core: Polymer
- Handle Length: 4.85″
My Personal Thoughts
The SLK Halo is an all round solid paddle that would fit most play styles. The control and feel are the best aspects of the paddle. I felt confident placing shots wherever I wanted and resets felt controllable. The sweet spot felt on the smaller side and the power is adequate for a raw carbon fiber paddle. Overall it is a decent carbon fiber paddle but on the pricier end for what it offers. The one other thing I think about when it comes to Selkirk is they do have great customer service and stand behind their products if you need assistance. They also offer limited lifetime warranties on most products.
SLK Halo Pickleball Paddle Review
Spin
The spin on this paddle wasn’t incredibly impressive. During my serves and drives, I could generate good topspin movement on the ball, but the backspin was a little harder with the SLK Halo.
It’s a clear winner in a spin if it’s compared to a graphite or composite pickleball paddle, but compared to other T700 carbon-faced paddles on the market like the Selkirk Power Air, it generates significantly less spin.
Control and Power
The SLK Halo XL is advertised as a paddle designed specifically for control, and the performance and playability on the court confirm it.
The raw carbon fiber face and polymer core feel extremely responsive. The 16mm standard Halo Max will give you a bit more control and stability, but the 13mm XL was still easy to control during dinks, drops, and resets.
Since this paddle has a slightly higher swing weight it was easy to generate enough power on drives and overheads, but I think it could have used a little more pop.
Furthermore, the heavyweight was a little harder to control at the net during fast-paced hands battles. I tend to like a midweight paddle so that could be a personal option. Overall this is very much a control paddle.
T700 pickleball paddles all feel and play very similarly, so if you’re already using a paddle like a Joola or CRBN, it’s a very easy transition.
Feel
The Halo wasn’t overly forgiving, but I did notice that when I caught the ball of the edges it didn’t feel completely dead. The sweet spot seems to be pretty large on this paddle, and it’s definitely more head weighed.
when I caught the ball in the center it felt good, but a little hollow for me personally. If you add a little lead tape it helps the paddle feel a lot more solid.
Durability
During my testing, I was very surprised. After drilling with this paddle for a couple of weeks and throwing it into my bag carelessly, I saw no signs of wear or dings on the face, and since it’s not thermoformed, you don’t have to worry about delamination.
Carbon fiber is extremely durable, and on top of that, SLK has a fantastic warranty and great customer service.
Benefits and Drawbacks of The SLK Halo XL
The only real drawback for me was that the higher swing weight was harder to control during hand battles. If you’re comparing this to a premium carbon fiber paddle, then I wouldn’t say there was anything that the Halo excelled in; however, for a price point of $140, this is one of the best paddles out there.
You’re also getting the amazing customer service that Selkirk offers, along with great value for a Carbon fiber pickleball paddle.
What are Others Saying?
SLK Halo vs. Engage Omega Evolution Extreme
- Weight: 7.6-8.2oz
- Length: 16.4”
- Paddle Width: 7.4 in
- Grip Length: 5.75 in
- Tickness: 16mm
- Face: T700 Raw Carbon Fiber
- Weight: 8.1 oz
- Length: 16.5 in
- Paddle Width: 7.5 in
- Grip Length: 5.5 in
- Tickness: 13mm or 16mm
- Face: T700 Carbon Fiber
The SLK Halo and Engage Omega Evolution Extreme are both good carbon fiber paddles from long time Pickleball brands that have good warranties.
Engage is also known for having great sales on blemished products for 50% off which can lower your costs significantly. The Omega Evolution extreme has slightly more power than the Halo.
However, the Omega has less spin and the shorter handle makes it more difficult for two-handed backhands. I would suggest the Omega if you can get it for 50% off or you really want the extra power.
If you want the lifetime warranty better control and spin then go with the SLK Halo.
Final thoughts
If you’re looking to get your first raw carbon fiber pickleball paddle, the Halo XL or the Halo Max is the best place to start. However, if value or price is not your concern and you’re comparing this paddle to a premium paddle like a Joola Hyperion, then I would go with the Hyperion for more reliable spin and power.
