Main Points
- The Holbrook ARMA paddle was released on June 10th 2025 and features three shapes: S, T, and X.
- Paddle uses a dual-density core with foam edges and varying honeycomb sizes for optimized feel and performance.
- Two surface types: raw carbon fiber (more grit, power, and spin) and metallic polyester (softer feel, more control).
- All ARMA models are 14mm thick for a blend of power and control.
- The paddle excels in slice shots, especially backhand slice drops, due to longer dwell time.
- Shape comparison:
- S: Fastest hand speed, best for hands battles, short face.
- T: Balanced shape and weight, elongated.
- X: Longest paddle, highest swing weight, more power but slower maneuverability.
- Stock grip is unusually high-quality and tacky without needing an overgrip.
- Player feedback includes praise for pop, control, spin, and hand feel.
- Some critiques include lower twist weight, limited forgiveness on off-center hits, and desire for more color variety.
- Price is around $250 with discount code; durability still to be tested long-term.
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Summary
This video offers a comprehensive review of the new Holbrook ARMA paddle, diving deep into design features, on-court performance, and model comparisons. The reviewer, who has logged over 40 hours of playtime with the paddle, covers both objective feedback and personal insights while disclosing a sponsorship with Holbrook . The ARMA introduces a dual-density core, combining soft foam around the edges with varied honeycomb densities across the face, providing a trampoline effect and enhancing feedback on ball contact. This setup allows players to better identify sweet spot hits and improves overall forgiveness.
The video breaks down the two surface options available: raw carbon fiber and metallic polyester. The raw carbon fiber delivers more grit, spin, and a crisp feel, ideal for players who want pop and bite on their shots. The metallic version offers a muted, softer touch, making it more control-oriented and forgiving. Despite being softer, the metallic finish still generates ample spin and is easier to manage for precision shots. The 14mm thickness is consistent across all models and is designed for a balanced blend of power and touch—unlike more extreme 16mm control paddles or thinner 12mm power paddles.
Shape comparisons highlight distinct performance characteristics: the S model is light and fast, perfect for quick hand battles; the T is a balanced elongated shape; and the X offers maximum reach but has the highest swing weight, making it more taxing on the arm. Demonstrations of wall drills clearly show how swing weight affects hand speed and fatigue. The stock grip is another standout, praised for its tackiness and usability without overgrip—something rare among paddles in this price range.
The review concludes with community feedback from a variety of players across skill levels. Comments emphasized the paddle’s excellent spin, control, and solid feel, particularly during slices, dinks, and resets. Critiques included a smaller sweet spot compared to more forgiving paddles and concerns about durability, especially from players who tend to core crush paddles quickly. Overall, the ARMA stands out as a high-performance paddle that successfully blends pop and precision, making it a compelling option for advanced players seeking a fast, controlled power paddle.
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Tags: ARMA | Ed Ju | Holbrook | Pickleball Paddle Review