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Head Review · Pickleball Playbook

HeadWidebody15mm

Head Radical Pro 15 Review: Premium Control From a Tennis Legend

Head brings its tennis DNA to pickleball with the Radical Pro 15 — a premium 15mm control paddle available in widebody and elongated shapes.

By Austin Hardy · Published April 28, 2026 · Independent review

130+ paddles tested
Hands-on testing

Independent — no brand paid for or approved this article

Head Radical Pro 15 Review: Premium Control From a Tennis Legend

Head Radical Pro 15 Review: Premium Control From a Tennis Legend

Head is one of the most recognized names in racket sports, and the Radical Pro 15 is their flagship pickleball offering. The 15mm core sits between the ultra-soft 16mm+ control paddles and the snappier 14mm options — a deliberate choice that gives it a unique feel profile.

Specs at a Glance

  • Core: 15mm
  • Weight: 8.3–8.4 oz
  • Widebody — Swing Weight: 113.83, Twist Weight: 6.83
  • Elongated — Swing Weight: 118.67, Twist Weight: 6.46
  • Price: $199 — save 15% at checkout

The 15mm Sweet Spot

Most paddles go 13mm, 14mm, 16mm, or thicker. The Radical Pro's 15mm thickness lands in a gap that Head has intentionally targeted for a specific feel: softer than a standard foam core but with slightly more response than a super-thick control paddle. It rewards players who want to feel the ball and place it, rather than simply absorb or explode on it.

Widebody vs Elongated

The Widebody's TW of 6.83 is exceptional — it's among the most stable paddles off-center in our entire database. This makes it very beginner-friendly while still being competitive. The Elongated version cranks the SW up to 118.67, making it one of the more powerful elongated control paddles you'll find, with enough touch from the 15mm core to stay nuanced.

Who Should Buy the Head Radical Pro 15?

  • Control-oriented players who find 16mm paddles too dead but 13mm too snappy
  • Players who want elite off-center stability (especially the Widebody)
  • Tennis players making the jump to pickleball who want familiar brand quality
  • Competitive players looking for a premium control paddle under $200

Verdict

The Head Radical Pro 15 is a polished, premium paddle that earns its $199 price tag. The 15mm core fills a genuine gap in the market, and both shapes are well-executed. The Widebody is one of the most stable paddles we've tested at any price point.

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