Bread & Butter Loco Pickleball Paddle Review – Elite Power, Spin, and Forgiveness

Main Points

• The new Bread & Butter Loco is a major upgrade from the old version, designed as an elite power paddle.
• Priced at $199, available in three shapes: elongated, hybrid, and standard.
• Features a 16mm build with floating EP core, offering linear power and impressive pop.
• Power levels sit just under the Selkirk Boomstick and Flick F1, but above the Joola Pro 4.
• Delivers exceptional spin, nearly matching the top spin paddles on the market.
• Forgiving sweet spot thanks to the floating EP core.
• Maneuverability is average—not sluggish, but not the fastest at the net.
• Shape recommendations: elongated for max reach and power, standard for most stability and forgiveness, hybrid for balance.
• Only drawback: hybrid and standard shapes could benefit from a slightly longer handle for two-handed backhands.
• Pre-order opens August 20, with limited 72-hour windows.

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Summary

The new Bread & Butter Loco pickleball paddle is back in a completely reimagined form and immediately stands out as a paddle of the year contender. Unlike the previous version, the updated Loco lineup is built for elite power, delivering performance that rivals the heaviest hitters on the market. Sitting just under the Selkirk Boomstick and Flick F1 in raw power, yet surpassing the Yola Pro 4, this paddle strikes an impressive balance of pop, control, and predictability.

Built with a 16mm design and floating EP core, the Loco generates a consistent and linear power curve, making it easier to handle than other ultra-powerful paddles. It produces outstanding pop on counters and drives, while also maintaining a forgiving sweet spot. Even off-center hits benefit from the paddle’s reactivity, giving players confidence in high-speed rallies. Although it is not specifically a control-oriented paddle, its predictability places it ahead of many other power paddles in terms of ease of use.

Spin performance is another standout feature, with the Loco ranking among the very best on the market. It competes closely with the top spin-focused paddles, making it a versatile option for players who rely on spin-heavy shots. In terms of maneuverability, it sits at an average level—quick enough at the net but not the fastest. Choosing the right shape is key: the elongated model provides maximum reach and power, the hybrid offers a middle ground of stability and performance, and the standard delivers the most forgiveness and stability.

Overall, the Bread & Butter Loco series raises the bar for power paddles. With its combination of spin, pop, forgiveness, and versatile shape options, it is positioned as one of the top contenders for best paddle of 2025. The only minor drawback is the slightly short handle length on the hybrid and standard models, which may not be ideal for players with larger hands or those who favor two-handed backhands. With pre-orders opening August 20 in limited 72-hour windows, the Loco is set to be one of the most sought-after paddles in the coming year.

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Tags: Bread & Butter | Loco | Pickleball Pursuit