Bison Paddles Summit Pickleball Paddle Review

Howdy, fellow pickleballers! Your trusty court companion here, armed with yet another gear review to help you conquer the court. Today, we’re getting up close and personal with a beast of a paddle: The Summit by Bison Paddles. No, we’re not about to climb a mountain, but this paddle just might take your game to new heights!

Just a heads up – the Summit is Bison’s “power” series paddle. If you’re looking for their “control” series paddle, it’s called The Rampage and I have a full review of it here.

Now, hold onto your paddle caps because this isn’t just any old pickleball paddle. The Summit promises premium pickleball performance without deflating your wallet. It’s like a VIP pass to top-notch pickleball tech without the red-carpet price. So, strap in and let’s see if The Summit truly stands at the peak of the pickleball world.

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What I Love About The Bison Paddles Summit Pickleball Paddle

Ah, where to start with the Summit? It’s like Christmas came early with all the features packed into this paddle. You know that saying, “You get what you pay for?” Yeah, the Summit turns that on its head. This paddle scoffs at the high-end price tags and gives you premium paddle performance without leaving your piggy bank in shambles. The technology found in the Summit matches or even exceeds that of paddles priced twice as much, proving that good things do come in affordable packages.

But let’s talk about spin. You ever feel like you’re trying to swat a bee with a newspaper when you go for a shot? Not with the Summit! The Toray T700 raw carbon surface is gritty, and I mean sandpaper-meets-tarmac gritty. This thing allows you to put an insane amount of spin on the ball. It’s like a roller coaster ride for your pickleball, making your opponents wish they’d packed their motion sickness pills. This isn’t just a spray-on texture that’ll wear off after a few games either. It’s a built-in feature that will keep you spinning match after match.

Now, size matters. We all know it. The Summit knows it. Standing tall at 16.5 inches, this paddle gives you that extra reach to snag those near-miss shots. You know, those pesky ones that always seem to skim the tips of your fingers as they mockingly pass by. Plus, it comes with a 5.5 inch grip perfect for two-handed backhands, turning you into a flexible, court-covering octopus.

Then there’s the hybrid thickness of the 14mm polymer honeycomb core. This is like having your cake and eating it too. You get a solid blend of power and control. Want to send your opponents scrambling with a power shot? Go for it. Need to delicately drop the ball just over the net? The Summit’s got you covered. This core is a dream for pickleball players who want that extra oomph without giving up the finesse.

And of course, I can’t forget to mention the durability. This isn’t a paddle that’s going to quit on you midway through the season. From top to bottom, it’s a fortress of Toray carbon fiber. Game after game, season after season, this paddle will stay with you, like a loyal dog fetching that ball. Except in this case, the dog is a sleek, durable paddle, and the ball… well, you get the picture. With the Summit, you’re not just buying a paddle, you’re investing in a long-term pickleball partner. So strap on your court shoes and get ready to climb, because the Summit is ready to take you to the top.

What Could Be Improved...

While the Summit is a beast of a paddle, let’s gently tiptoe into some areas that could use a wee bit of tweaking. After all, nobody’s perfect, right? Even the top of the mountain could use a little more snow sometimes.

First up, the paddle is a fantastic size for extended reach, but this might be a double-edged sword for some. Smaller pickleballers or those with less arm strength might find the extra length a tad challenging to maneuver swiftly. But hey, a bit of extra weightlifting could make that a non-issue!

Secondly, while the durable Toray carbon fiber surface is amazing for providing that extra spin, some players might need time to adapt to the level of grittiness. It could be like shifting from driving a sedan to controlling a high-speed race car. But fear not, with a little practice, you’ll be spinning balls like a pro DJ spinning beats.

Lastly, although the octagonal non-slip grip is designed for superior control and comfort, some may find it a bit out of their comfort zone if they’re used to a round grip. But just like switching from driving on the right to the left, it’s just a matter of getting used to it. In no time, you’ll have it under control and won’t even remember what the fuss was all about.

Remember, these are just areas for consideration and by no means deal breakers. Like finding the right pickleball shoes, getting the hang of a new paddle takes a bit of breaking in. Once you’re over that hump, the Summit will truly feel like a trusted companion on your pickleball adventures.

About The Brand: Bison Paddles

Meet Bison Paddles, the brainchild of Daniel and Collin, two college buddies who found themselves in a pickle(ball) predicament. As their skills on the court grew, they faced a challenge that many of us can relate to – finding a reliable, premium paddle that doesn’t require selling a kidney. Bison Paddles was their solution, a brand that holds affordability and premium quality as its north star. It’s like finding a gourmet burger at fast-food prices!

But Bison Paddles isn’t just about making excellent paddles accessible. They’re all about community, about sharing love for the sport, and about ensuring more of us can enjoy those fantastic pickleball moments with family and friends. Whether you’re just starting your pickleball journey or you’ve got more games under your belt than you can count, Bison Paddles has your back.

And, in a twist that would make Captain Planet proud, Bison Paddles is also about giving back. With every paddle you buy, you’re also supporting the National Bison Foundation. A portion of Bison Paddles’ profits goes towards protecting and preserving our furry friends, the bison. So, in a way, you’re not just playing with purpose; you’re also playing for a purpose. It’s a win-win for the pickleball community and for our beloved bison. With Bison Paddles, you’re part of a pickleball family that’s making a difference, both on and off the court.

Final Thoughts on the Bison Paddles Summit Pickleball Paddle

All things considered, The Summit by Bison Paddles is a lot like that underdog sports movie we all love. It packs a punch, rises to the challenge, and comes out on top, all without the blockbuster budget. With its top-tier technology, perfect blend of power and control, and commitment to durability, it’s the paddle that’s got your back, game after game.

Whether you’re just stepping onto the court or you’re an old hand, whether you’re in it for the fun or the competition, The Summit is ready to serve. So lace up those court shoes, fellow pickleballers, and let’s make every game count. After all, as we’ve learned from our friends at Bison Paddles, it’s not just about the game; it’s about the joy of the journey to the top. Here’s to reaching your summit!

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