Paddle technology has seen remarkable advancements in recent years, offering a wider range of paddle types that enhance spin, forgiveness, and power. However, one area that remains a challenge is paddle durability, particularly the durability of the paddle grit. Regardless of the brand or model, the textured surface or paint grit on your paddle tends to smooth out after just a few months of regular play, losing its ability to generate spin. In fact, if you play frequently and hit hard, you might notice this wear happening even faster. To see for yourself, just feel the center and edges of your current paddle—you’ll likely notice a difference in the grit levels, especially in the sweet spot.
While these technological improvements have been beneficial, they also lead to higher prices. It can be frustrating to invest $150 to $300 in a paddle that only maintains its peak spin performance for a limited time. That’s why I was thrilled to discover what Reload is doing to tackle the issue of spin loss. Their innovative approach is unlike anything I’ve seen before, and I’m excited about the potential impact on the game.
To address spin loss, Reload has developed replaceable face sheets that you can easily peel off and stick onto your paddle whenever you need to refresh the grit. This means you won’t have to buy a whole new paddle just to regain that fresh texture. Their “Reloads” not only look and feel like raw surface paddles, but they also perform similarly, maximizing spin potential. This innovation is truly impressive, and I believe it could change the market. As a consumer, I want my paddle’s peak performance to last longer, and Reload seems to offer a viable solution to achieve that.
As I approached this review, I had four key questions to answer in order to determine whether these replaceable sheets would meet my expectations. Here are the questions I wanted to explore:
- Do the face sheets spin the ball as effectively as other raw textured paddles?
- Are the face sheets durable? Specifically, will they peel off during play or bubble up in the heat?
- Is the paddle that comes with the face sheets any good?
- What does the warranty look like? If you can keep replacing the facing layer, how does that affect the longevity of the base paddle in case it breaks?
After more than two weeks of playing, drilling, and testing the paddle, I’m ready to share the answers to my questions.
How does the Reload system work?
Reload refers to both the brand and the replaceable skins or sheets they use. Currently, they offer one paddle model called the RLD-1. When you purchase the RLD-1, you receive a complete paddle that includes the paddle base and grit sheets already applied, along with an extra set of Reload sheets. The cost for the paddle is $200, or $180 if you use my discount code 10EFFECT.
Once you have the paddle base, you can buy additional Reload sheets in either single or three-pack options. When the sheets begin to smooth out—something I estimate happens after 2 to 5 months depending on your playing frequency and intensity—you simply peel off the old sheets and apply a fresh set. It’s that easy! Reload sheets are priced at $50 for a single pack or $130 for a three-pack, and my discount code 10EFFECT can also be applied to these sheets.
While the initial cost of the Reload sheets might seem high, it’s a great deal when you compare it to the price of replacing an entire paddle for fresh grit. Here’s how I see the pricing breakdown, which highlights the cost-effectiveness of this system.
I appreciate that the sheets are integrated into the paddle system rather than being an add-on over an existing grit surface. This design ensures you get the same performance every time you switch out the face sheets, and it doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the paddle. Overall, it’s a smart and practical solution.
Do the face sheets spin the ball as well as other raw textured paddles?
To answer this question, I conducted a spin test. Having tested over a hundred paddles, I track my results in a paddle database. For each paddle, I perform ten serves, aiming to maximize spin, and then measure the Revolutions Per Minute (RPM) using a Stalker Pro 3S radar gun. This tool allows for accurate measurements, which I average to determine the paddle’s spin potential. The Reload paddle averaged 1975 RPM, and I consider any paddle above 1950 RPM to be a good spin paddle.
Most modern paddles I’ve tested typically score above 1950 RPM, with the best ones averaging around 2000 RPM and the less effective ones hitting the high 1800s. So, does the Reload paddle produce spin comparable to other raw textured paddles? Absolutely—check!
Are the face sheets durable?
Since the skins are essentially stickers, I was curious about how well the adhesive holds up under stress. Applying a new skin is straightforward: you peel off the old one, revealing a flat, textured surface, and then apply the new face sheet.
For this review, I played and drilled with the paddle for two weeks, both outdoors and indoors, totaling six sessions and 12 hours of play. While I recognize that others might use it even more, my testing was substantial enough to assess durability. During this period, I encountered no issues—no bubbling or lifting at the edges. Additionally, I left the paddle outside in the summer heat for over two hours, and it held up perfectly. There was no bubbling, and when I removed the sticker, there was no residue left behind.
Based on my limited testing, I did not experience any durability issues. As these sheets enter the market, we’ll quickly learn if any problems arise from extended use, but for now, they seem to be performing well.
Is the paddle any good?
RLD-1
- Static Weight: 7.9 oz avg
- Swingweight: 122 (high)
- Twistweight: 6.37 (moderate)
- Spin RPMs: 1973 (high)
- Length x Width: 16.5″ x 7.5″ (elongated)
- Face: Replaceable raw carbon fiber
- Grip Circumference: 4.25″
- Handle Length: 5.5″
- Core: 16mm Polypropylene Honeycomb
- Special Features: Thermoformed, perimeter foam
- Paddle Type: All-Court
- Price: $199.99 ($180 with code 10EFFECT)
Current Paddle Offering and Design
Reload currently offers just one paddle: the RLD-1. This paddle features a thermoformed design with perimeter foam, an elongated shape, an extended 5.5-inch handle, and a thickness of 16mm. It has a swing weight of 122 and a twist weight of 6.37, placing it on the heavier side, which is typical for elongated paddles. However, the twist weight and sweet spot size are commendable for this type.
With the rising popularity of Slyce Speed Caps and adding weight to the handle, we’re learning that higher swing weight paddles can feel lighter at the net. This innovation makes these paddles more appealing to players who typically shy away from heavier options.
In terms of performance, the RLD-1 can be described as a softer, toned-down thermoformed paddle. It shares similarities with models like the JOOLA Perseus Gen 2, Ronbus R1 Pulsar FX, and Bread N Butter Shogun. It leans towards an all-court style with a focus on control, providing a softer feel compared to many other thermoformed paddles. While the RLD-1 performs well, the main drawback is that it’s currently the only shape and thickness option available. This limitation might deter some players who prefer different paddle styles, and I hope Reload expands their offerings in the future.
Warranty Details
The paddle’s warranty is crucial, especially considering that you can replace the grit, extending its lifespan. Reload provides a standard six-month limited warranty for manufacturing defects and promises to replace core-crushed paddles for the lifetime of the paddle. This is a significant advantage, as it allows you to invest in one paddle and maintain it for an extended period, as long as you take care of it. This warranty aligns with Reload’s business model, encouraging players to return for additional sheets while keeping them satisfied with their paddle.
[Read the full warranty language here >>]
Pricing Breakdown
Now, let’s discuss pricing. By using my code 10EFFECT, you can purchase the RLD-1 for $180. If you replace the grit every three months and opt for a three-pack of Reloads at a discounted price, the total cost for the pack is $118, which breaks down to about $40 per Reload. This brings your overall cost to approximately $300 for the year, effectively giving you four new paddles’ worth of performance.
In contrast, buying four popular Six Zero Double Black Diamond paddles, even with discounts, would set you back around $648. Even if you only buy two paddles a year, the cost would be $324. This comparison highlights the value offered by Reload, as you get four paddles’ worth of fresh grit for the price of two.
My Recommendation
The answers to my initial questions about Reload have checked out, making it an appealing choice, provided you like the single paddle option they currently offer. The limitation in choices may deter some potential buyers, but I anticipate that Reload will expand their offerings over time, so keep an eye on their developments if the RLD-1 isn’t your style.
It’s exciting to think about the future possibilities of this technology. Reload could explore quiet skins, power skins, or different weighted skins, opening up numerous avenues for innovation.
Overall, I’m genuinely impressed with what Reload has achieved and how well the replaceable sheets perform. This technology addresses a real need in the market and could very well shape the future of paddles. As a consumer, I appreciate solutions that extend the peak performance of my gear, and this is a significant win for paddle performance and consumers alike.
