HEAD
HEAD Extreme Elite
The Head Extreme Elite is a light, fiberglass-faced paddle with a polymer honeycomb core. It suits players who want easy handling, a softer feel, and a useful mix of control and pop.
Character from the specs · Power
Worked out from core thickness, weight, face and shape using general rules of thumb — not from a play test.
Is this paddle right for you?
4 quick questions, scored from the specs
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Overview
The Extreme Elite uses an 11 mm PP honeycomb polymer core beneath a smooth fiberglass face. At 7.8 ounces, it should feel quick through exchanges and less tiring during long sessions. Reviewers describe the fiberglass face as softer than graphite, while the polymer core adds pop and shock absorption.
Its 16.06-inch length and 7.8-inch width give you a familiar, balanced shape rather than an oversized hitting area. The Ergo grip measures 4.12 inches around and is designed for a comfortable, secure hold. Reviewers praise the grip, feel, control, and large sweet spot, though descriptions of the paddle's spin and exact dimensions vary.
Play style
This paddle fits players who want control without giving up useful power. The smooth fiberglass face gives shots a softer feel, while the polymer core supplies pop for drives and deeper baseline shots. Its 7.8-ounce weight also supports quick hand changes and fast reactions at the kitchen.
It can work well for dinking and resets when you value touch, but it is not the strongest choice for maximum spin. One review specifically praises its control near the non-volley zone, while another says its smooth face produces less spin than more advanced paddles. The length offers some extra reach, but the paddle's main appeal is maneuverability.
Best for
- Players upgrading from a basic paddle who want better control and feel
- Players with a sore elbow or who prefer a lighter paddle
- Dinkers and reset-focused players who want a softer fiberglass response
- Baseline players who want manageable weight with useful pop
- Players who value a comfortable, secure grip
Look elsewhere if
- Players who rely heavily on maximum spin
- Players seeking a thick, highly stable paddle for blocking hard drives
- Players who want the extra reach of a much longer paddle
- Players who prefer a distinctly head-heavy, power-first setup
Strengths
- Light 7.8-ounce weight supports quick handling and may reduce arm fatigue
- Smooth fiberglass face offers a softer feel and useful control
- PP honeycomb polymer core adds pop, comfort, and shock absorption
- Reviewers praise its control, grip comfort, and large sweet spot
- Ergo grip provides a comfortable 4.12-inch circumference
Things to consider
- The smooth face does not offer as much spin as paddles with more aggressive textures
- The 11 mm core may feel less stable than a thicker paddle during hard blocks
- Its moderate length gives less reach than elongated paddle shapes
- Reviews disagree on the exact dimensions and some construction details, so check the seller's listing before buying
- Players wanting maximum power may find its control-focused feel limiting
Specs
| Brand | HEAD |
|---|---|
| Weight | 7.8 oz |
| Core thickness | 11 mm |
| Core material | PP honeycomb polymer |
| Face | Fiberglass |
| Face material | Smooth fiberglass |
| Length | 16.06 in |
| Width | 7.8 in |
| Grip circumference | 4.12 in |
| Handle | Ergo comfort grip |
| USA Pickleball approved | Yes |
Not listed by the seller: shape, handle length.
Specs come from the seller's product listing and may be incomplete or change between batches. Double-check before you buy.
Sources
- Head Extreme Elite Pickleball Paddle Review in 2025 - Paddlesshop
- Head Extreme Elite: Best Features, Pricing & More
- HEAD Extreme Elite Pickleball Paddle Review 2026
- Head Extreme Elite Pickleball Paddle Review
- Head Extreme Elite Pickleball Paddle Review - The Pickleball Source
- Head Extreme Elite Pickleball Paddle