Tesla Plaid Pickleball Paddle Review

Main Points

Collaboration between Tesla and Selkirk featuring an edgeless, neck-hole design with aerodynamic influence
Full foam construction using EP core wrapped in TPU and EVA foams
Extremely high spin performance with average topspin near 2,500 RPM
All-court performance profile with mid-level power and muted pop
High swing weight and balance point resulting in slower hand speed
Dense, highly dampened feel with minimal vibration
Narrower sweet spot compared to modern full foam paddles
Premium price positioning as the most expensive non-limited paddle on the market

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Summary

This video provides a detailed first look at the Tesla Plaid pickleball paddle, one of the most talked-about releases in the sport due to its unexpected collaboration and record-setting price. Built with an elongated, edgeless shape and a neck hole, the paddle leans heavily into advanced materials and engineering. The internal construction features a beaded EP foam core wrapped in TPU and EVA foams, combined with a carbon fiber and composite layup. Embedded MOI weights inside the sidewalls aim to improve stability, particularly for an edgeless design.

Performance testing shows that spin is the headline feature. The paddle delivers some of the highest spin numbers ever recorded for a tournament-legal paddle, allowing players to shape serves, drives, slices, and drive drops with extreme confidence. This spin-heavy profile stands out immediately on court, especially for aggressive topspin shots and dipping balls at opponents’ feet. Power sits firmly in the all-court category, with more depth available on full swings than on short, compact strokes.

On-court feel is dense, muted, and heavily dampened, with almost no vibration reaching the hand. This can be appealing for players sensitive to arm discomfort, though it reduces tactile feedback compared to paddles with more connection to the ball. While the MOI system improves forgiveness compared to most edgeless paddles, the sweet spot is still smaller than many modern full foam options. Combined with a higher swing weight and balance point, the paddle feels slower through the hands than expected given the aerodynamic design claims.

In the end, this video positions the Tesla Plaid as a niche, premium paddle that prioritizes elite spin and cutting-edge construction over broad appeal. While it performs well as an all-court paddle and leads the market in legal spin, the high price tag makes it difficult to justify purely on performance. Players focused on value will find many alternatives at a fraction of the cost, but those drawn to maximum spin, unique feel, and standout design may find this paddle intriguing.