Proton Project Flamingo Pickleball Paddle Review

Main Points:

• Proton’s Project Flamingo is the revamped Series 3 power paddle with Gen 3 construction.
• 16mm elongated design with raw carbon fiber face and dual USAP/UPAA certifications.
• Specs: 5.25″ handle length, ~120 swing weight, 6.75 twist weight, 8.1 oz static weight.
• Available in blue edge guard now, pink variant in 4–6 weeks; $280 retail.
• Offers strong power without being the hottest on the market, plus excellent control and spin.
• Features foam perimeter, slightly smaller core cell size, and lower swing weight than Series 3.
• Highly durable face with long-lasting grit despite carbon fiber construction.
• Performs especially well for resets, blocking, and transition zone play.
• Miami Vice–style five-color carbon fiber design; some critique of stock grip dryness.
• Best for players seeking a power paddle with control and durability; not ideal for swing weight–sensitive players or those who disliked the original Series 3.

---

---

Summary:
This video takes an in-depth look at Proton’s latest paddle release, the Project Flamingo, which represents a major update to their Series 3 lineup. Designed as a 16mm elongated power paddle, the Flamingo is built with Gen 3 paddle construction and features a raw carbon fiber face. It holds the distinction of being the first dual-certified paddle by both the USAP and UPAA. The paddle’s specifications include a 5.25-inch handle, an average swing weight of 120, a twist weight of 6.75, and a static weight of 8.1 ounces. Foam runs around the perimeter of the core, and there’s evidence the cell size is smaller than the standard 8mm, enhancing feel and performance. The Flamingo launches in blue edge guard now, with a pink version arriving in 4–6 weeks, and it retails for $280.

Performance testing shows that the Flamingo delivers powerful shots without reaching the extreme end of the power spectrum, maintaining a strong balance of control. Players can hit deep serves and drives while still executing precise crosscourt drops and comfortable dinks. Compared to the original Series 3, the Flamingo hits harder, has a more durable and gritty face, and features a lower swing weight, making it quicker at the kitchen line. The spin generation is impressive, and durability tests indicate that the grit remains intact even after extended play, addressing common concerns with carbon fiber faces. Resets are notably easy, requiring minimal effort to block and control balls in transition play.

Aesthetically, the Flamingo sports a bold Miami Vice–inspired five-color carbon fiber design, which stands out on the court. While the vibrant color scheme may not suit every player’s taste, it’s a unique offering in the market. One minor drawback is that the stock grip feels slightly dry, though many players replace grips regardless. The paddle also responds well to slight modifications, such as adding edge tape for extra stability.

In conclusion, the Proton Project Flamingo is an excellent option for players seeking a power paddle that still offers precise control, dependable spin, and long-term durability. It’s especially appealing to those who liked paddles such as the Paddle Tech TKO but want a bigger sweet spot. While it may not be right for players sensitive to swing weight above 120 or those who disliked previous Proton Series 3 paddles, it’s a standout choice for competitive players who want a reliable, high-performance option backed by a one-year warranty.

---

---

Tags: Flamingo | JJ Pickleball | Proton