PEKZEN ONE 003 Review: Mastering Control with Zen-Inspired Design

Pekzen One 003: My Honest Take on This Zen Inspired Paddle

By Sid 

The Pekzen One 003 pickleball paddle recently caught my attention as a new entry in the market, promising a blend of power, control, and spin. Manufactured by PEKZEN, a brand that emphasizes achieving a “zen” state at the peak of performance, the paddle intrigued me with its minimalist design and philosophical approach. As an intermediate player always on the lookout for equipment that can elevate my game, I decided to give the Pekzen One 003 a thorough test on the court.

The paddle features an elongated shape, measuring 16.46 inches in length and 7.36 inches in width, which I found helpful for reaching those tough shots. It has a 16mm thick core and a 5.4 inch handle, fitting comfortably in my hand. When I first unboxed it, the minimalist aesthetics stood out, it has a clean, sleek look without any flashy graphics. The T700 carbon fiber surface felt slightly gritty, though not as much as some newer paddles I’ve tested.

Specifications

• Weight: 8.03 oz (my measurement; manufacturer lists 8.25 oz)
• Dimensions: 16.46 inches (Length) x 7.36 inches (Width)
• Thickness: 16mm core thickness
• Material: T700 Carbon Fiber surface, Polypropylene honeycomb core, foam reinforced edges, thermoformed construction
• Handle Length: 5.4 inches
• Grip Circumference: 4 1/4 inches

Performance Analysis

• Control/Feel: 9.0 – Excellent control with a softer feel, allowing for precise shots.
• Power: 8.5 – Offers good power without sacrificing control.
• Spin: 8.5 – Surprisingly effective at generating spin despite the less gritty surface.
• Pop: 8.5 – Responsive with a satisfying pop, aiding quick reactions.
• Forgiveness: 8.5 – Forgiving on off center hits, thanks to the large sweet spot.
• Maneuverability: 8.5 – Well balanced, making it easy to handle during fast plays.

Pekzen One 003 In Depth Review

Design & Build Quality

The paddle’s build quality is solid. The T700 carbon fiber surface, sourced from Japan, is known for its strength and durability. The thermoformed construction integrates the carbon fiber with a polypropylene honeycomb core and foam reinforced edges. This design aims to expand the sweet spot and enhance overall performance.

Personally, I appreciate the minimalist design. The tight carbon fiber weave gives it a sleek appearance, and the understated blue color is a nice touch. The grip, measuring 4 1/4 inches in circumference, felt comfortable during extended play, absorbing sweat and reducing slippage.

On Court Performance

When I first took the Pekzen One 003 to the court, I had mixed expectations. The surface didn’t feel as gritty as other paddles I’ve used, and I wondered how it would affect spin and control. However, once I started playing, the paddle began to reveal its true colors.

Control

The paddle excelled in control. During dinking sessions, I could place the ball accurately, keeping it low over the net. The softer feel and enhanced dwell time allowed me to manipulate the ball with confidence. I remember a particular rally where I was able to outmaneuver my opponent with a series of precise soft shots, eventually forcing an error.

Power

When it came time to step up the pace, the paddle didn’t disappoint. The elongated shape and solid construction provided the leverage needed for powerful drives. In one match, I managed to hit a backhand down the line that zipped past my opponent before he could react. The paddle gave me the confidence to go for those aggressive shots when needed.

Spin

Despite the less gritty surface, the paddle performed well in generating spin. Serving with topspin, I noticed the ball diving sharply after crossing the net, causing my opponents trouble. Slice shots were effective too, keeping the ball low and skidding off the court. It wasn’t the most spin friendly paddle I’ve used, but it held its own.

Pop

The paddle’s responsiveness was evident during fast exchanges at the net. The pop allowed me to react quickly, especially during volleys. In tight situations, the paddle enabled me to block and redirect shots effectively.

Forgiveness

Off center hits are inevitable, and I was pleased with how the paddle handled them. The expanded sweet spot seemed to minimize the negative effects. On several occasions, mishits still made it over the net with decent placement, saving me from losing critical points.

Maneuverability

The paddle’s balance made it easy to maneuver. Transitioning from baseline shots to net play felt seamless. Its weight didn’t cause any fatigue, even after multiple games in a row. I could react to quick shots and adjust my positioning without feeling encumbered.

Pekzen One 003 Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent Control: Allows for precise shot placement, crucial for advanced play.
• Good Power: Capable of delivering powerful shots when needed.
• Comfortable Grip: Ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue during long sessions.
• Durable Construction: High quality materials promise longevity.
• Minimalist Aesthetics: Clean design that appeals to those who prefer simplicity.
• USA Pickleball Approved: Suitable for tournament play.

Cons:

• Less Gritty Surface: Might not generate as much spin as paddles with rougher textures.
• Price Point: At $149.96, it’s on the higher end.
• Unassuming Design: May not appeal to players who prefer bold or flashy designs.

Player Feedback

To get a broader perspective, I discussed the Pekzen One 003 with fellow players at my local club.

“I tried the Pekzen, and I was impressed with the control. It felt solid on touch shots.” – Dave., advanced player.

“It’s a well rounded paddle. Not the most powerful I’ve used, but the balance is nice.” – Jeff., intermediate player.

The general consensus was that the paddle offers reliable performance, especially in control and maneuverability, aligning with my own experiences.

Final Thoughts: Is the Pekzen One 003 Worth It?

The Pekzen One 003 is a solid paddle that emphasizes control and balance. It’s not the flashiest or the most aggressive paddle out there, but it delivers where it counts. For advanced players who value precision and a comfortable feel, it’s a worthy option.

However, I do think the price is a bit steep, when compared to similar paddles like the Redeemed Genesis 16mm, which offer comparable performance at a lower cost.

Comparable Paddles

• Redeemed Genesis 16mm: Offers a slightly grittier surface for enhanced spin and is priced lower than the Pekzen One 003. It shares similar core thickness and materials but might not have the same balance of control and power.
• Stinger MC-1: It matches the Pekzen in spin and pop but may lack forgiveness on off center hits.
• 4Joy White Palm: Stands out with unique aesthetics and provides a good balance in performance but might not fully match the Pekzen’s control and maneuverability.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Pekzen One 003

Is the Pekzen One 003 suitable for beginners?

It’s geared more towards advanced and intermediate players. Beginners might find it a little too poppy and challenging.

How does the paddle’s surface texture affect spin?

The slightly gritty T700 carbon fiber surface allows for decent spin, but it’s not as aggressive as some other paddles with rougher textures.

What is the meaning behind the brand name “PEKZEN”?

“PEKZEN” combines “peak” and “zen,” symbolizing achieving a zen-like state at peak performance, aligning with the brand’s philosophy of balance and flow in sports.

Is the Pekzen One 003 USA Pickleball approved?

Yes, it’s USA Pickleball certified, making it eligible for official tournaments.

Where can I purchase the Pekzen One 003?

You can buy it on Amazon. Here’s the link: Amazon.

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PickleTip.com originally published this comprehensive review. We appreciate their thorough, independent analysis of the PEKZEN ONE 003 paddle. Read the full original review at https://www.pickletip.com/pekzen-one-003-review/. Content shared with attribution to PickleTip.com.