Paddle Comparison
APL Ascend vs Holbrook Mav
The APL Ascend (SW 116.85) and Holbrook Mav (SW 118.43) sit 1.58 swing-weight points apart — close enough that shape, feel, and price become the real differentiators. The Holbrook Mav also has the wider sweet spot — TW 6.49 versus 5.65 — meaning more forgiveness on off-center hits. Shape adds another dimension: the Ascend is hybrid, the Mav is elongated, which changes reach, kitchen feel, and sweet-spot position. On price, the Holbrook Mav is $45 less expensive after the PLAYBOOK discount.
Who wins on what
Power
Holbrook Mav
Higher Swing Weight (power) (116.85 vs 118.43, +1.58)
Hand Speed
APL Ascend
Lower Swing Weight (hand speed) (116.85 vs 118.43)
Sweet Spot / Forgiveness
Holbrook Mav
Higher Twist Weight (forgiveness) (5.65 vs 6.49, +0.84)
Value
Holbrook Mav
Lower effective price ($129.99 vs $84.99, with PLAYBOOK)
Side-by-side specs
Brand
Model
Shape
Thickness
Weight
Swing Weight
Twist Weight
Play Style
Retail Price
Discount
Effective Price
See more comparisons like this — straight to your inbox
Weekly paddle picks, fresh comparisons, and exclusive discount codes.
Unsubscribe anytime · No spam · Free forever
Which paddle should you buy?
Pick the APL Ascend if…
- You want faster hands — lower SW (116.85 vs 118.43) means quicker maneuvering at the kitchen.
- Your game leans control — this is tuned for that style.
- You prefer the hybrid shape — different feel/reach/sweet-spot profile from the elongated.
Pick the Holbrook Mav if…
- You want more power — SW 118.43 is 1.58 points higher.
- You want a bigger sweet spot — TW 6.49 is more forgiving on off-center hits.
- You're price-conscious — about $45 cheaper after PLAYBOOK discount.
- You prefer the elongated shape — different feel/reach/sweet-spot profile from the hybrid.
Frequently asked questions
Is the APL Ascend or the Holbrook Mav better for power?
The Holbrook Mav generates more power — SW 118.43 vs 116.85 on the APL Ascend, a 1.58-point gap that adds mass and momentum at contact. If you prioritize hand speed and maneuverability over raw power, the Ascend's lower swing weight is the advantage.
Which paddle is more forgiving — the APL Ascend or the Holbrook Mav?
The Holbrook Mav is more forgiving with a twist weight of 6.49 vs 5.65 on the APL Ascend. Higher twist weight reduces energy loss on off-center hits, which matters most for kitchen-heavy players who take a lot of dinks and resets.
What is the price difference between the APL Ascend and the Holbrook Mav?
With the PLAYBOOK discount code, the APL Ascend is $129.99 and the Holbrook Mav is $84.99. The Holbrook Mav is $45.00 cheaper. Apply PLAYBOOK at checkout on either brand's site to get the discount.
How does the shape difference affect how the APL Ascend and Holbrook Mav play?
The APL Ascend's hybrid shape delivers a balance of reach and maneuverability — versatile for both the kitchen and the baseline. The Holbrook Mav's elongated gives extra reach and a higher sweet spot — better for drives, resets, and transition-zone play. For players who live at the kitchen line, that shape distinction often matters more than a 1–2 point SW difference.
Related comparisons
Compare other paddles in our database