Selkirk Vanguard Invikta 2.0 Review

The Selkirk Vanguard Invikta 2.0 pickleball paddle is part of Selkirk’s new Vanguard collection. It offers less forgiveness than other Selkirk pickleball paddles like the AMPED epic and the Selkirk Vanguard 2.0. 

Selkirk Vanguard Invikta 2.0 Overview

The Vanguard Invicta 2.0, at 16 mm, is one of Selkirk’s thicker core pickleball paddles, which is designed to add a layer of control and feel that thinner paddles lack.  

This thick poly core counterbalances the smaller sweet spot created by the elongated and narrow shape of the pickleball paddle. 

The handle length is 5 ¼”, which allows for easy two-handed backhands and is often preferred by former tennis players. 

This paddle plays a little less cleanly than other elongated pickleball paddles, but you will still be able to dial in those drops with some extra practice. 

Resource: Elongated Vs. Standard Pickleball Paddles: Gamechanger Or Gimmick?

The specs of the 2.0 invikta are the same as the original Invikta, but the key difference is the grittiness on the face with the directional cross weave carbon fiber. 

Is the Selkirk Vanguard Invikta 2.0 Right For me?

Feel

If you want to hit drives with blistering pace, the Vanguard 2.0 Invikta is for you.

The added length also helps considerably with court coverage, and the new grainier paddle face will generate ample spin.

However, the potential to lose both long dink rallies and hands battles at the net is the price for the extra power and coverage.

Resets and dinks are more challenging with this paddle shape, but the intermediate or advanced player who already has good control and precision should be able to calibrate his or her shots without substantial effort. 

The long, oval handle might take some getting used to if you like the octagon shape.

Spin

There is more grit on this pickleball paddle face, but it is still nothing compared to the top-of-the-line pickleball paddles for spin. 

Elongated paddles, in general, are not the most ideal for generating spin in my opinion since they have a smaller sweet spot, and failure the hit that sweet spot results in a knuckleball-type shot. 

Durability

The face itself seems a lot more durable than the original Invikta pickleball paddles. There was a lot of concern about the previous version chipping after a month of use. 

The upgraded quantum carbon fiber face could be the defining factor for durability with Selkirk’s signature directional cross weave carbon face. 

If for any reason you do have issues, it is important to note that Selkirk Sports Pickleball Paddles have a lifetime warranty for any defects. 

Final Thoughts

The Selkirk Vanguard 2.0 Invikta may be an excellent choice for singles play, where the extra reach and power are more valuable.

If you have used Selkirk vanguard invikta paddles in the past you’ll see an improvement in control and speed, but if this is your first invikta pickleball paddle, it may take some time to dial in. 

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