HEAD
HEAD Radical XL
The HEAD Radical XL is a light, elongated paddle built for extra reach, power, and spin. It suits players who want more baseline leverage or help reaching low and wide balls.
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 17-inch elongated shape gives you more reach than a standard paddle, while the 7-inch width leaves a narrower hitting area. Reviewers describe its enlarged sweet spot as useful for reaching balls outside your normal swing range, though another review notes that off-center hits can feel less powerful. The 7.6-ounce weight keeps it relatively easy to maneuver.
Its 13-millimeter polypropylene honeycomb core and graphite face are designed for a lively response. The listed Ergo Grip is intended to reduce vibration, and reviewers describe the grip as comfortable. The paddle is USA Pickleball approved, so its elongated shape remains legal for sanctioned play.
Play style
This paddle leans toward reach and power rather than maximum forgiveness. Its elongated shape helps with serves, drives, low balls, and shots near the sidelines. Reviewers also highlight quick volleys, slices, and a larger sweet spot, although the narrower face can make mishits less forgiving.
The textured face is intended to add bite for spin and shot placement. That makes it appealing if you like aggressive serves, topspin, or baseline drives. If your priority is soft hands at the kitchen or easy protection against frequent off-center contact, a wider paddle may suit you better.
Best for
- Players who want extra reach on wide or low balls
- Baseline players who use large swings and drives
- Players seeking a lighter elongated paddle
- Spin-focused players who value a textured hitting surface
- A first paddle upgrade for more power and reach
Look elsewhere if
- Players who frequently miss the center of the face
- Players who prefer a wide paddle with maximum forgiveness
- Players focused mainly on soft kitchen exchanges
- Players who dislike elongated paddle balance or narrower faces
Strengths
- 17-inch length adds reach for wide, low, and stretched-out shots
- 7.6-ounce weight supports quicker maneuvering than a heavier version
- Graphite face provides a responsive feel, pop, and touch according to seller descriptions
- Textured surface supports spin and shot placement
- Ergo Grip is described as comfortable and vibration-dampening
Things to consider
- The 7-inch width gives you less side-to-side coverage than a wider paddle
- Off-center hits may lose power and feel less forgiving
- The elongated shape may require an adjustment from a traditional paddle
- Check the exact grip size before buying, since listings give slightly different measurements
Specs
| Brand | HEAD |
|---|---|
| Weight | 7.6 oz |
| Core thickness | 13 mm |
| Core material | Polypropylene honeycomb |
| Face | Carbon fiber |
| Face material | Graphite |
| Length | 17 in |
| Width | 7 in |
| Handle | Ergonomic cushioned grip |
| USA Pickleball approved | Yes |
Not listed by the seller: shape, handle length, grip circumference.
Specs come from the seller's product listing and may be incomplete or change between batches. Double-check before you buy.
Sources
- HEAD Radical XL Pickleball Paddle
- HEAD Radical XL Pickleball Paddle – PickleBall Post
- Unleash Your Game with the HEAD Radical XL Pickleball Paddle! - Pro PickleBaller
- Head Radical XL Pickleball Bundle | Pickleball Galaxy
- HEAD Graphite Pickleball Paddle - Radical XL Lightweight Paddle w/Hone – Ultra Pickleball
- HEAD Radical XL (Blue)
- Head Radical XL Red