The Selkirk Vanguard Control Series is here to redefine your pickleball experience with its seamless blend of effortless control and consistent precision. This advanced paddle is perfect for players looking to enhance their game with smoother shots, greater accuracy, and a touch of spin that outperforms the competition.

In this blog, you’ll get a closer look at what sets the Vanguard Control apart from its standout features and paddle shapes to how it stacks up against other popular Selkirk models like the Power Air and Luxx Control Air. If you're focused on improving control and adding finesse to your game, this guide will help you understand why the Vanguard Control Series deserves a spot in your lineup.

Effortless Control and Consistent Precision

The Selkirk Vanguard Control Series is a paddle made for players who focus on control and consistency. Its design ensures that every shot is smooth and precise, making it easier to handle tough plays like third-shot drops or mid-game resets. This paddle suits a wide range of skill levels, offering consistency for both intermediate and advanced players.

This technology keeps you in control, adding spin without giving up accuracy. Whether you're executing advanced skill shots or maintaining steady rallies with a Vanguard pickleball paddle, you'll appreciate its perfect balance between spin and control.

This is a great paddle if you're practicing techniques like low shots or soft resets, where control and precision really matter.

Traditional Design for Reliable Performance

The traditional design of the Selkirk pickleball paddles, like the Vanguard Control, gives it a solid feel, offering more durability and control. This time-tested structure is ideal for players looking for reliable performance across different playing conditions, helping you stay steady and focused during every match.

Players familiar with the Selkirk Epic Vanguard or Vanguard S2 will find the Control Series continues that same tradition of quality and consistency that Selkirk pickleball paddles are known for, thanks to their focus on carbon fiber innovation. The paddle’s soft feel makes it a favorite for handling resets and dinks with ease. Players mentioned that the balance between control and spin makes it excellent for third-shot drops, even in high-pressure games.

EdgeSentry™ Edgeguard: Lightweight Durability

If you're aiming to add more spin to your game, the T700 Raw QuadCarbon Fiber Face is designed to deliver impressive results. The unique carbon fiber texture [link] enhances the paddle's grip on the ball, giving you greater control over your spin.

Selkirk’s Air Pickleball lineup, including the Vanguard Power Air and Luxx Control Air, also features spin-focused designs, but the Vanguard Control Series offers a unique balance between spin and precision.

Whether you're familiar with paddles like the Selkirk Invikta Vanguard or new to the Vanguard lineup, this feature will elevate your spin potential and improve your overall performance on the court. Many players highlighted that the T700 surface provides exceptional control in spin-based plays, allowing for more confidence when adding top spin or cut spin during critical points in a match.

Spin-Ready T700 Raw QuadCarbon Fiber Face

If you're aiming to add more spin to your game, the T700 Raw QuadCarbon Fiber Face is designed to deliver impressive results. The unique carbon fiber texture enhances the paddle's grip on the ball, giving you greater control over your spin.

Whether you're already familiar with paddles like the Selkirk Invikta Vanguard or just starting to explore the Vanguard lineup, this feature will elevate your spin potential and improve your overall performance on the court. Many players highlighted that the T700 surface provides exceptional control in spin-based plays, allowing for more confidence when adding top spin or cut spin during critical points in a match.

Comfortable and Accurate with the Upgraded Octagonal Grip

The upgraded Octagonal Grip improves your control over the paddle by giving you a better handle, with an optimal grip circumference and handle length designed for comfort. These details matter when it comes to how the paddle feels during quick dinks or driving shots, and they are often part of the factors used as a guide when buying and comparing pickleball paddle characteristics.

This grip feels similar to other paddles in the Selkirk sport lineup, like the Selkirk Epic Vanguard and the Selkirk Vanguard S2, so you get consistent handling across different models. You can also pair this paddle with the Selkirk core line day bag for easy transportation of your gear.

The Vanguard Control Epic shape, made from advanced materials, delivers a refined experience. With its different shapes and wide range of features, this paddle is built for players who want to balance comfort and performance.

X5+ 16mm Polypropylene Honeycomb Core

The Selkirk Vanguard Control Series features an X5+ 16mm Polypropylene Honeycomb Core. This core reduces vibration, making your hits feel softer while still offering excellent control. It also provides a larger sweet spot, giving you more consistent performance even if your shots aren’t perfectly centered. This sleek design works well across different skill levels, providing a forgiving feel for players who need consistency. Core thickness, like this 16mm design, is often part of the discussion when comparing pickleball paddle characteristics.

Players familiar with the Selkirk Invikta Vanguard or Vanguard S2 will appreciate this feature, as it enhances comfort while maintaining performance.

Key Benefits of the Selkirk Vanguard Control Series

The Selkirk Vanguard Control Series is built for players who want that balance of control and spin, but it also delivers on comfort and durability. Here’s a quick look at the key advantages that make this paddle stand out, along with a few things to keep in mind.

Advantages:

• Superior Spin: The T700 QuadCarbon Fiber Face enhances spin control, giving you more precision in your shots.
• Consistent Performance: The X5+ Core absorbs vibration and offers a larger sweet spot for more reliable hits.
• Improved Grip: The Octagonal Grip, with its optimized grip circumference, allows for better paddle control and shot accuracy.
• Durable Design: The EdgeSentry™ Edgeguard and traditional build ensure long-lasting durability without adding too much weight.

These benefits make it a solid choice for a wide range of skill levels, from intermediate to advanced players.

Considerations:

• Heavier Feel: This paddle is slightly heavier than some other models, so it may take a little time to adjust if you’re used to lighter paddles.
• Mastering Spin: The advanced spin potential might take a few games to fully control, especially for players still learning spin-based techniques.

Enhance Your Game with the Selkirk Vanguard Control Series

The Vanguard Control Series comes in three distinct paddle shapes, each designed in Selkirk labs to give players different advantages depending on their style of play. Here’s a quick breakdown of each model in the series:

• Invikta: This elongated paddle comes in at 16.5 inches with a 5.5-inch handle, offering players added reach and power.The Invikta pickleball paddle shape is popular with aggressive players and those who favor two-handed backhands, delivering both control and strength on the court.
• Epic: At 16 inches long with a 5.3-inch handle, this standard paddle offers a versatile combination of control and easy handling. It’s a go-to choice for players who want an all-around feel.
• S2: Features a wide-body shape at 15.8 inches with a shorter 4.7-inch handle, giving it a larger sweet spot for better control and softer touch shots. Perfect for players who value precision more than extended reach.

Each model is available in lightweight and midweight options, so players can fine-tune their paddle to match their comfort and playing preferences.

Series Comparison: Vanguard Control vs. Power Air vs. Luxx Control Air vs. Invikta Vanguard

If you're comparing the Selkirk Vanguard Control Series with other popular models like the Vanguard Power Air, Luxx Control Air, or the Selkirk Invikta Vanguard, the right choice depends on your playing style and what you value most—control, power, finesse, or reach.

Here’s how they differ:

• Selkirk Vanguard Power Air is built for aggressive players who rely on speed and power. With its thinner core and aerodynamic design, it delivers fast drives and maximum spin, making it a go-to for those who like to take control of the point with offensive play.
• Selkirk Luxx Control Air Pickleball focuses on precision and touch. It features a thicker core and larger sweet spot, helping players place shots with accuracy. Ideal for those who prefer thoughtful setups and consistent placement over raw force.
• Selkirk Invikta Vanguard stands out with its elongated shape, offering extended reach and more leverage for powerful shots. While it still provides a reliable touch, this model leans toward a power-focused style, making it ideal for players who like attacking from the baseline or putting away overheads.
• Selkirk Vanguard Control Series strikes a balance between control and spin. It’s perfect for players who rely on resets, dinks, and third-shot drops, offering a softer feel without giving up performance. It’s a favorite among those who want consistency and control in all phases of the game.

All four paddles benefit from Selkirk’s advanced carbon fiber technology, ensuring durability and high-level performance. Differences in core thickness, paddle face materials, and shape are key when deciding which model suits your style best.

 

Ready to Upgrade Your Paddle? 

At Get2Eleven, we offer a wide selection of high-quality Selkrik pickleball paddles, including the Selkirk Vanguard Control Series. With expert recommendations and a range of paddles like the Selkirk Vanguard S2 and Selkirk Invikta Vanguard, finding the right fit has never been easier. Each paddle brings its own sleek design and performance features, whether you're focused on control, spin, or power.

You can shop online and get your next paddle in your cart, or visit our physical store at 875 Santa Fe Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024, where you can explore our lineup of pickleball paddles and accessories in person.

Browse our selection today and find the paddle that will elevate your pickleball experience!

 

Here’s a quick video review to give you a feel for how it performs on the court: Vanguard Control Review: RAW CARBON FIBER FINALLY!...but is it too late?