The Proton Series One Type A is a game-changing paddle with a non-degrading surface that maintains high levels of spin for years. For that kind of tech, you're paying top dollar and this is one of the most expensive paddles at $280.
Luckily, we've worked with the teams at Proton and Pickleball Central to bring you an exclusive deal. Pickleheads readers can now take $25 off this paddle, taking it down from $280 to $255.
Keep reading to see why this is one of the best spin paddles on the market.
Grab the deal if:
You want the top spin paddle:
you can swing hard and rip up awesome topspin with the Proton Series One—better than any other paddle I've tested.
You want all-court attributes too:
you get great power and forgiveness, and enough control to play a competitive game against high-level opponents.
You want a long-lasting paddle:
with aerospace-grade carbon and a smooth, wear-resistant nanotech face, these Proton paddles are known to last years.
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Review summary
Here's a breakdown of how the Proton Series One fared in my testing:
Power
Control
Spin
Forgiveness
Paddle Weight
8.2–8.5 oz
Paddle Width
7.25" (elongated) or 8.25" (square)
Handle Length
5.25"
Paddle Face Material
Aerospace Grade carbon fiber
Core Thickness
11 mm (0.43") or 15 mm (0.59")
Sweet Spot
Large
If you love playing with big spin (that also lasts a long time), the Proton Series One is built for you. You also get great power and forgiveness and nice control, making this an intermediate-friendly paddle that can stay with you all the way to pro level.
My personal favorite is the 11 mm square-shaped model because it has the largest sweet spot while still being really powerful.
At $280, this is one of the most expensive paddles I've ever seen. However, our exclusive Pickleball Central deal saves you $25. At $255, it's right between the Engage Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 ($260) and the Selkirk LUXX Control Air Invikta ($250).
The Proton is built to last—probably more than any paddle I've tested—so your $255 goes a long way. I know a player who's had one for four years and it still plays the same!
Get the Pickleheads deal
Is the Proton Series One Type A worth it?
The longevity of this paddle is a huge factor. Yes, it's $255, but you could buy a paddle for $150 that lasts you a year. Soon, you'll have spent $300. You'll get at least two years out of the Proton Series One and hopefully even longer.
With our $25 discount at Pickleball Central, you won't find this paddle cheaper anywhere else. Even at $280, it's an excellent investment. At $255, it's cheaper than the Gearbox Pro Power (which only really appeals to power players) and the JOOLA Gen 3 Series (which are now delisted by USA Pickleball).
The Proton Series One appeals to more players because it's such a well-balanced paddle that anyone from intermediate to pro level can play with. To learn more, check out my Proton Series One Type A review.
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If you're looking for another deal, check our list of the best offers in pickleball—save money on paddles, balls, gear, and more.
