11SIX24 Vapor Power 2 Pickleball Paddle Review: Hex Grit Spin Tech, Performance, and Tournament Legality Explained

Main Points

Target release window is mid-February with a retail price of about $210.
Launch is expected to include only the hybrid (Vapor) shape, with other shapes coming later pending certification.
Uses a full foam core design similar to other modern foam core paddles on the market.
Introduces Hex Grit surface texture designed to compete with other long-lasting spin textures.
Early durability results on Hex Grit are still unknown and require long-term testing.
Paddle currently has UPA-A certification only, not USA Pickleball certification.
Allowed in PPA events and many local tournaments, but not allowed in USA Pickleball sanctioned tournaments.
Power level sits around mid-tier, possibly lower mid-tier without added weight.
Pop is stronger than raw drive power, helping with counters and quick kitchen exchanges.
Feel leans slightly stiff and slightly hollow but not extreme in either direction.
Starts lightweight, making it highly customizable with added weight.
Spin performance around 2100 RPM is strong, especially for drops, dinks, and dipping serves.
Biggest long-term value depends on whether Hex Grit maintains spin longer than raw carbon fiber faces.
Not a major upgrade for players already using top foam core power paddles unless grit durability proves elite.

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Summary

This video provides early performance impressions of the 11SIX24 Vapor Power 2 pickleball paddle, a new foam core paddle entering a crowded high-performance market. The paddle is expected to launch around mid-February at roughly $210 and will initially release only in the hybrid Vapor shape. Other shape options are expected later once certification processes are completed. The build appears similar to many modern full foam paddles, using a central foam structure with reinforced perimeter foam for stability and feel.

The biggest differentiator is the new Hex Grit surface, designed to compete with other durability-focused spin textures. Early spin performance is strong, generating around 2100 RPM, which helps with control shots, dipping serves, and consistent kitchen play. However, long-term durability is still unknown. The long-term success of this paddle will largely depend on whether Hex Grit maintains spin performance longer than traditional raw carbon fiber faces.

From a performance standpoint, the paddle does not target maximum power players. Instead, it delivers moderate power with stronger pop characteristics, which benefits counters, flicks, and quick exchanges at the kitchen line. The paddle feels slightly stiff with a mildly hollow sensation but remains easy to transition into for players coming from other foam core paddles. Because the base weight is relatively low, players can customize balance and power using lead tape without sacrificing maneuverability.

Certification is a key consideration. The paddle currently carries UPA-A certification, meaning it is usable in pro-level events and many local tournaments, but not in USA Pickleball sanctioned tournaments. Recreational play and most local competitive play should not present issues, but tournament players should verify event rules before using it.

Overall, this video positions the Vapor Power 2 as a competitive modern foam core paddle rather than a market-changing release. The true long-term value will depend on whether Hex Grit can deliver meaningful durability improvements. If the spin holds longer than standard surfaces, this paddle could become a major contender. If not, it will remain a solid but not revolutionary option in the current power paddle landscape.