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Paddle Comparison

APL Ascend vs Selkirk Amped S2

A side-by-side spec, value, and use-case comparison of two of the most-searched pickleball paddles. Below: the attributes each paddle wins, a full spec table, and a clear recommendation for who should buy which.

Who wins on what

Power

APL Ascend

Higher Swing Weight (power) (116.85 vs 97.68, +19.17)

Hand Speed

Selkirk Amped S2

Lower Swing Weight (hand speed) (116.85 vs 97.68)

Sweet Spot / Forgiveness

Selkirk Amped S2

Higher Twist Weight (forgiveness) (5.65 vs 6.46, +0.81)

Value

Selkirk Amped S2

Lower effective price ($129.99 vs $100.00, with PLAYBOOK)

Side-by-side specs

Brand

APL
Selkirk

Model

Ascend
Amped S2

Shape

Hybrid
Widebody

Thickness

16mm
16mm

Weight

8.2 oz
7.7 oz

Swing Weight

116.85
97.68

Twist Weight

5.65
6.46

Play Style

control
control

Retail Price

$129.99
$100.00

Discount

Effective Price

$129.99
$100.00

APL

Ascend

$129.99

Selkirk

Amped S2

$100.00

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Which paddle should you buy?

Pick the APL Ascend if…

  • You want more power — SW 116.85 is 19.17 points higher.
  • You prefer the hybrid shape — different feel/reach/sweet-spot profile from the widebody.

Pick the Selkirk Amped S2 if…

  • You want faster hands — lower SW (97.68 vs 116.85) means quicker maneuvering at the kitchen.
  • You want a bigger sweet spot — TW 6.46 is more forgiving on off-center hits.
  • You're price-conscious — about $30 cheaper after PLAYBOOK discount.
  • You prefer the widebody shape — different feel/reach/sweet-spot profile from the hybrid.

Compare other paddles in our database