As an avid pickleball player and coach with over 29 years of experience, I’m always in pursuit of the perfect paddle.
It didn’t matter so much in the early days of the sport. But I’ve jumped on the wave of new paddle tech, testing countless models from leading brands, and constantly evaluating the latest offerings to find those best suited for players of all levels.
In this comprehensive paddle review roundup, I’ll be diving deep into one of the most buzzworthy new paddle lines – the Engage Pursuit Pro series.
Engage is a renowned name in pickleball gear, but they faced some backlash with the release of their Pursuit Ultra line earlier this year. Many felt the Ultra missed the mark, prompting Engage to swiftly come back with the Pursuit Pro series mere months later.
I was given the opportunity to rigorously test the four different paddles from the Pursuit Pro lineup. I’ll be breaking down the key features, performance metrics, and my first-hand experiences with each one. Consider this your guide to determining which Pursuit Pro is best aligned with your playing style and preferences.
Overview of the Pursuit Pro Lineup
Contents
Before we delve into the individual reviews, let’s do a quick rundown of the Pursuit Pro roster:
- 4 core models – EX, EX 6.0, MX, MX 6.0
- 2 shapes – Standard (EX) and Elongated (MX)
- 2 thicknesses – 16mm (6.0) and 13mm
- Weight range – 7.5oz to 8.9oz
- Grip – Engage’s signature oval shape with subtle contouring
- Materials – Fiberglass face, Engage’s proprietary polymer ‘Black Core’, composite handle
- Features – Raw carbon fiber face, foam injection, new aesthetics
While the shapes and thicknesses cater to different play styles, some universal upgrades include the raw carbon fiber face for extra spin and the revamped aesthetics with the iconic Engage target graphics.
Now let’s get into the detailed individual reviews!
#1: Engage Pursuit Pro EX
Kicking things off with the Pursuit EX, this paddle comes with the standard, wider paddle shape preferred by players looking for more power and stability. I spent several weeks putting it through its paces, and here’s my comprehensive review:
The Specs
- Shape: Standard
- Thickness: 13mm (half inch)
- Length: 15 3⁄4 inches
- Width: 8 1⁄4 inches
- Grip Circumference: 4 1⁄4 inches
- Weight: 7.8 ounces (tested)
- Core: Engage Black Core polymer
- Face: Raw carbon fiber
- Handle: Engage Ergo-Ex grip
Features and Construction
Right off the bat, the Pursuit EX impresses with its sleek aesthetics. The minimalist color scheme takes a polished new direction for Engage, with the iconic target graphics neatly centered on the paddle face.
In terms of build quality, the EX has a familiar high-grade feel thanks to the fiberglass face and Engage’s specialized polymer core technology. The Ergo-Ex grip contours nicely in hand. My one critique would be the grip edge, which has some slight sharpness from the exposed core. It’s a minor complaint, easily remedied by an overgrip.
The EX is on the lighter end of the spectrum at 7.8oz, making it quite maneuverable and easy to swing. The weight can be further customized with Engage’s built-in options. I appreciate this flexibility to tailor the paddle to your needs.
Performance and Playability
So how does this paddle actually perform on the court? In two words — impressively powerful. The Pursuit EX delivers commanding pop, giving you an offensive edge. The ball explodes off the carbon fiber face, allowing you to put away volleys and punishing groundstrokes with ease.
Despite its potency, the EX retains a comfortable, nuanced feel. You can still finesse dinks and drops thanks to the responsive face dampening the power somewhat. I’d categorize this as a power paddle suitable for all-around play. It suits intermediate to advanced-level players nicely.
The Pursuit EX throws impressive RPMs on the spin front. I clocked it at a whopping 2,120 RPMs on average. Given its stability, the EX gives you plenty of margin to whip spins serves and slice shots with confidence. The copious spin takes the paddle’s power to the next level.
In terms of control, the EX rated very well thanks to its balance and generous sweet spot. I was able to direct shots precisely, especially thriving with touch shots around the kitchen. The EX’s stability and spin gave me the assurance to play aggressively, taking control of points.
The Verdict
Pros
- Impressive power from all areas of the court
- Comfortable, dampened feel on impact
- Abundant spin for more control
- Excellent stability and forgiving sweet spot
- Great build quality with sleek new aesthetics
Cons
- Grip edge slightly sharp out of the box
- Can feel too powerful for beginner-level players
Overall: 9.2/10
With its potent blend of control, stability, and ample spin, the Pursuit EX earns a high recommendation from me. Intermediate and advanced players will thrive with this paddle, able to command points while still retaining feel. The EX exemplifies Engage’s Pursuit Pro line delivering on all fronts.
#2: Engage Pursuit Pro MX
Shifting gears, the elongated Pursuit MX brings a whole different feel to the table. After dedicated testing, here’s my detailed breakdown of this paddle:
The Specs
- Shape: Elongated
- Thickness: 13mm (half inch)
- Length: 17 1⁄4 inches
- Width: 7 1⁄2 inches
- Grip Circumference: 4 1⁄4 inches
- Weight: 8 ounces (tested)
- Core: Engage Black Core polymer
- Face: Raw carbon fiber
- Handle: Engage Ergo-Ex grip
Features and Construction
The Pursuit MX mirrors the EX with its minimalist color scheme and prominent target graphics on the carbon fiber face. In terms of construction, it includes the familiar Engage technologies – Black Core and fiberglass face.
As expected with an elongated paddle, the MX has a noticeably larger surface area and reach. It feels extremely maneuverable in hand thanks to the slender grip and familiar Ergo-Ex contouring.
At 8oz, this paddle has a bit more heft than the EX. I found this weight to be a good sweet spot, providing sufficient stability without compromising quickness. As always, Engage allows you to fine tune the weight as needed.
Performance and Playability
Wielding the elongated MX paddle, I was able to generate substantial power, especially on my forehand. The paddle effortlessly plows through shots with great net clearance. The power is complemented nicely by controlled touch thanks to the dampened face.
I’d classify the MX as a control-oriented power paddle. It certainly has pop but really shines with finesse play. The extra length gave me better reach, making it easier to unleash spinning dinks and well-placed drops.
The MX averaged 2,120 RPMs on spin, putting it on par with the EX. Again, the stability and face texture let me brush loads of spin on serves and groundstrokes. This expands your offense by allowing you to manipulate ball trajectory and move opponents out of position.
Volleys sang with the MX largely thanks to the paddle’s quickness, ample sweet spot, and touch. The added leverage from the elongated shape let me punch volleys deep with control. The MX is extremely well-rounded, making it a top choice for all-around players.
The Verdict
Pros
- Elongated shape provides great reach and leverage
- Impressive power balanced nicely with control and finesse
- Abundant spin to load serves and shots
- Quick and maneuverable through the ball
- Excellent touch for volleys and dinks
Cons
- Power might be too much for beginner skill levels
- Grip edge slightly uncomfortable out of the box
Overall: 9.5/10
From blasting spins serves to caressing soft dinks, the Pursuit MX is one of the most versatile paddles I’ve tested. The elongated shape caters to all-around players who have developed touch but still want potent power when needed. It’s a paddle that will reward players as their skills progress.
#3: Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0
Moving onto the 6.0 lineup, this 16mm thick version of the Pursuit EX adds some unique elements to the table. Here’s my hands-on review:
The Specs
- Shape: Standard
- Thickness: 16mm (6/10 inch)
- Length: 15 3⁄4 inches
- Width: 8 1⁄4 inches
- Grip Circumference: 4 1⁄4 inches
- Weight: 8.1 ounces (tested)
- Core: Engage Black Core polymer
- Face: Raw carbon fiber
- Handle: Engage Ergo-Ex grip
Features and Construction
Aesthetically, the EX 6.0 is identical to the regular EX, sporting the minimalist color scheme and prominent sweet spot targeting.
In hand, the EX 6.0 definitely feels thicker and more substantial thanks to its 6/10″ core. However, it remains extremely comfortable and ergonomic with Engage’s proven contours and shaping.
At 8.1oz, this paddle is slightly heftier than the EX. I found this weight still very maneuverable and swingable. As expected, the thicker core adds more mass for added power and stability.
Performance and Playability
The EX 6.0 takes the regular EX’s power and kicks it up a notch. With its bouncy responsive core, you can simply explode shots with little effort. The paddle almost launches the ball off the face on full swings.
That said, the EX 6.0 retains a good degree of finesse for an advanced power paddle. I was still able to execute soft shots thanks to the dampened feel, but slices and dinks required more precision compared to the regular EX.
On the spin front, the EX 6.0 averaged a whopping 2,650 RPMs, noticeably higher than the EX. The launch and stability allow you to go bigger on spins and not worry about mishits. The spin uptick pairs nicely with the impressive power.
The thicker core gives the EX 6.0 a very generous sweet spot both horizontally and vertically. I could be off-center on shots and still maintain control and pop. However, it does have a bit more of a trampoline feel compared to the crisper EX.
The Verdict
Pros
- Extreme power from the core and carbon face
- Massive sweet spot for mishit forgiveness
- Ability to load heavy spins with stability
- Retains decent touch on finesse shots
- Durable and robust construction
Cons
- Touch shots require more precision
- Heavier weight demands strong swinging technique
Overall: 9.0/10
The EX 6.0 takes the Pursuit Pro line’s performance up a level. With its lively responsive core and ample spin, this paddle rewards strong aggressive play. The expansive sweet spot also makes it quite forgiving for its power profile. If you love crushing balls, the EX 6.0 is a top recommendation.
In-Depth Review #4: Engage Pursuit Pro MX 6.0
Wrapping up the 6.0 paddles, the elongated MX 6.0 provides an intriguing middle ground between power and control. Here’s my detailed breakdown after playtesting:
The Specs
- Shape: Elongated
- Thickness: 16mm (6/10 inch)
- Length: 17 1⁄4 inches
- Width: 7 1⁄2 inches
- Grip Circumference: 4 1⁄4 inches
- Weight: 8.3 ounces (tested)
- Core: Engage Black Core polymer
- Face: Raw carbon fiber
- Handle: Engage Ergo-Ex grip
Features and Construction
Like the other 6.0 model, the MX 6.0 incorporates the 16mm core resulting in a noticeably thicker and heftier feel. However, thanks to the elongated shaping, it remains extremely maneuverable in hand.
I appreciate that the MX 6.0 retains a comfortable 4 1⁄4″ grip circumference, unlike some oversized grips on thicker paddles. This makes it easy to swing despite its 8.3oz weight. The construction oozes durability for confident play.
Performance and Playability
The elongated shape of the MX 6.0 provides excellent reach and leverage for power. Comparing it to the EX 6.0, it launches the ball with slightly less vigor but offers more controlled finesse.
You can take full commanding swings with the MX 6.0, using its stability to plow through shots. The dampened feel provides assurance even when swinging out. Overall, it’s less jarring and more forgiving than the EX 6.0.
I was able to generate heavy spin consistently with the MX 6.0, averaging 2,650 RPMs. While not as extreme as the EX 6.0, it has ample spin to pull opponents wide and maximize power shots.
The MX 6.0 felt extremely responsive at the net. The elongated shape gave me the reach to stab volleys while the thickness offered excellent touch and control. The paddle suits an assertive yet nuanced style.
The Verdict
Pros
- Elongated shape with excellent reach
- Power balanced with controlled finesse
- Impressive spin generation from stability
- Thickness adds great touch on volleys
- Durable construction for confident swinging
Cons
- Heavier weight demands strong form
- Less spin/power than EX 6.0
Overall: 9.3/10
For players who want the blend of power, stability and touch, the MX 6.0 is an excellent fit. It brings added versatility to the 6.0 lineup with its elongated shape. The MX 6.0 is ideal for aggressive all-around players looking for an extra gear when needed.
In-Depth Review #5: Engage Pursuit MX Pro
Last but not least, the Pursuit MX Pro has gained significant buzz, especially on the professional pickleball scene. Here’s my hands-on review after dedicated testing:
The Specs
- Shape: Elongated
- Thickness: 13mm (half inch)
- Length: 17 1⁄4 inches
- Width: 7 1⁄2 inches
- Grip Circumference: 4 1⁄4 inches
- Weight: 7.8 ounces (tested)
- Core: Engage Black Core polymer
- Face: Raw carbon fiber
- Handle: Engage Ergo-Ex grip
Features and Construction
Like the rest of the Pro line, the MX Pro sports Engage’s minimalist color scheme and sweet spot targeting. The graphics nicely complement the clean elongated shape.
At 7.8oz, this paddle is extremely lightweight and quick swinging thanks to the 13mm core. The grip circumference remains comfortable for most hand sizes despite the elongated shape.
The main differentiator on the MX Pro lies in the handle. It uses Engage’s Variable Release technology which allows the handle to flex during hard swings. This novel innovation provides a unique feel.
Performance and Playability
The MX Pro offers an elite blend of power, control, and finesse. It provides excellent touch for spins and touch shots while having the pop to finish points with authority. The flexing handle compliments this versatility nicely.
You can swing aggressively and trust the stability of the MX Pro. It plows through shots but also affords you the ability to change pace and mix spins. This paddle rewards advanced all-around play.
On the spin front, it averaged 2,120 RPMs, aligning with the other Pro paddles. Given its quickness, you can really brush spin on serves and third shots. The spin paired with stability expands your shot selection.
Volleys felt extremely intuitive with the MX Pro. The flexing handle seems to provide increased Court feel and touch. I could punch volleys with pace but also caress soft shots with minimal effort.
The Verdict
Pros
- Elite blend of power, finesse and touch
- Innovative flexing handle for versatility
- Quickness allows faster reaction time
- Excellent pop and stability from all areas
- Ability to generate heavy spin
Cons
- Flexy handle may have learning curve
- Touch shots require developed skills
Overall: 9.7/10
It’s easy to see why the MX Pro is popular on the pro tour. It provides an unparalleled blend of attributes that reward advanced all-around play. The innovative handle expands your options for placing shots. For players ready to take the next step, the MX Pro is hard to top.
The Final Verdict: Find Your Perfect Paddle Match
With those individual reviews wrapped up, it’s clear that Engage’s Pursuit Pro series offers paddles to suit a diverse range of playing styles and preferences. Here are some closing recommendations based on your needs:
- Best All-Around Play – Pursuit MX Pro
- Most Power – Pursuit EX Pro 6.0
- Best Control – Pursuit EX Pro
- Ideal Touch – Pursuit MX Pro
- Extra Stability – Pursuit MX Pro 6.0
Of course, the ideal paddle always depends on your own skills, technique, and feel preferences. Luckily, Engage checks all the boxes in this Pro line-up. From extreme power to finessed touch, you’re sure
