CPX Air Pickleball Paddle
CPX Pickleball • All-Court • Elongated
Quick Summary
Best for
Players who want precision, comfort, and value. The 16 mm core and sand-blasted T700 carbon face offer a controlled, classic feel with enough spin for dinks and drops. At ~8.5 oz, it’s quick at the net yet stable on resets.
Standout
The textured carbon surface adds easy spin, and the foam-injected walls expand the sweet spot for forgiving contact. The 5.71″ handle with a ventilated leather grip feels comfortable over long sessions and delivers a great control-plus-pop balance under $100.
Watch out
Slightly heavier than some budget paddles, so weight-sensitive players may feel fatigue. The elongated shape shifts the sweet spot higher, and mishits near the throat lose power. The longer handle is great for one-hand play but may feel awkward if you choke up a lot.
Buy if
-
You want a control-focused paddle with good spin and a forgiving sweet spot.
-
You like a lightweight-but-stable feel for quick volleys and resets.
-
You’re on a budget but still want quality materials and a trial period.
-
You prefer a leather grip and longer 5.71″ handle for two-handed backhands.
-
You value foam-injected walls for less vibration and better stability.
Pass if
-
You want maximum power, this paddle leans control over pop.
-
You need an ultra-light paddle under 7.8 oz (this one is midweight).
-
You prefer a short handle or play finger-up on the grip.
-
You expect premium cosmetics, the matte finish can show wear.
-
You have very sensitive elbows and may prefer a softer fiberglass face.
Specs
Performance Ratings
Pros & Cons
Pros
-
Sand-blasted T700 carbon face delivers consistent spin.
-
Foam-injected walls create a large, forgiving sweet spot.
-
16 mm core provides excellent touch and control.
-
Comfortable leather grip with a longer handle for two-handers.
-
Strong value under $100 with a 90-day trial.
Cons
-
Less power than 14 mm or thermoformed paddles.
-
Mid-weight design may tire very weight-sensitive players.
-
Sweet spot sits higher; throat mishits feel dead.
-
Matte finish shows scuffs more easily.
-
No edge guard, scraping can mark the edges over time.
What’s Actually Doing The Work
The surface is sand‑blasted to create micro‑abrasion for exceptional spin on serves and rolls. It holds its grit longer than typical inexpensive paddles.
A polypropylene honeycomb core with foam‑injected perimeter increases the sweet spot and dampens vibration, giving you a plush, controlled feel on drops.
The elongated 15.94″ profile and low drag frame help you swing quickly without sacrificing stability. Its durable edge design protects against chips.
My setup tip
I add thin edge tape to protect the rim and a bit of lead at 3 & 9 o’clock to boost stability. Because the handle is already long, stick with a very thin overgrip if you need more cushioning.
Durability note
The carbon face and foam‑reinforced core have held up well after weeks of play. There’s no rattle or delamination; just wipe it after sessions and keep it in its cover to preserve the grit.
Play Test Notes
Short, honest notes with hover lift for each card.
sand‑blasted surface delivers easy spin on serves and rolls.
moderate pop; you’ll need to swing through for deep drives.
very stable; dinks and drops land with precision.
big; foam edges make off‑center hits forgiving.
maneuverable for hand battles; light enough for quick volleys.
long tennis‑style grip fits two‑handers and feels secure.
a control‑heavy paddle that still offers enough pop and spin at an entry‑level price.
Alternatives
CPX Max
CPX ULTRA
FAQs
Ready to buy?
Use the code if it’s active and if this paddle isn’t your style, check alternatives above.