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The model explained in this article
ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle
A go-to model from Onix, a staple brand with tennis roots, usable from entry to advanced. Easy to handle with its graphite face, it's also chosen as a first paddle.
OnixOverview of the brand
Onix is a maker that has built a firm position in the American market as a pickleball-specialty brand. It's widely known not only for paddles but also for balls (Dura Fast 40 and Fuse), which are adopted in many official tournaments.
Onix's paddle lineup is rolled out widely from entry models to advanced-oriented ones, but among them the Graphite series boasts overwhelming popularity as a "first paddle." It's a cost-performance-excellent model that has solid performance while being affordable.
Specs of the Graphite paddle
Onix Graphite Z5Taking as an example, it uses graphite for the surface material and adopts a Nomex honeycomb for the core. At about 220–235g, it's classified as mid-weight.
It has a wide-body shape and is characterized by a wide sweet spot. Since the paddle face size is designed to be larger, there's a reassurance that even beginners can catch the ball easily. The grip length is a standard 5.25 inches, optimized for one-handed play.
Feel of the hit and performance
Power
Due to the characteristics of the Nomex core, you get a firm feel with good pop. Compared to polymer-core paddles in the same price range, the ball drives well, and drives and smashes carry solid power. It has a sense of power that can well handle aggressive play from the baseline.
Control
The graphite surface provides a smooth, uniform striking face, enabling stable control. However, due to the hardness of the Nomex core, on delicate touch shots such asdinkthere's an impression of it flying a bit too much. Players centered on the soft game need to get used to the amount of force.
Spin
The spin performance of the graphite surface is moderate. Compared to the latest materials like Raw Carbon the spin amount is on the modest side, but for everyday play it applies enough spin.
High cost-performance is the biggest appeal
The biggest appeal of the Onix Graphite series is its price range. Even the upper models can be bought for around 10,000 yen, and entry models can be had for about 5,000–7,000 yen. Compared to high-end paddles costing over 30,000 yen, there is a performance difference, but getting a paddle you can properly play matches with at this price is great value.
For those who have just started pickleball especially, investing in an expensive paddle from the start is a risk. The flow of first solidifying the basics with the Onix Graphite and then stepping up to an upper model once your play style settles is recommended by many experienced players.
Recommended for these players
It's ideal for beginners who have just started pickleball, those looking for a solid paddle with an emphasis on cost-performance, and those interested in a power-type play style. Conversely, for advanced players pursuing maximum spin performance or soft touch it can be unsatisfying at times, but for entry to intermediate players it can be called a sure option.
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