Welcome to the Black Parade

Black is my favourite colour.

What’s boring about it? Absolutely nothing.

It’s classy, timeless, and effortlessly cool. More importantly, I can wear it every single day without giving it a second thought.

The same philosophy extends to my pickleball paddles.

I’ve never been a fan of overly colourful designs. Brands, if you’re reading this, please keep the rainbow explosions and Paddle Pop-inspired colour schemes away from me. I don’t need my paddle looking like it belongs in the ice cream freezer section of a supermarket.

Give me something understated instead.

So when a few predominantly black paddles started appearing on my radar, they immediately caught my attention. Whether they could back up their looks with performance was, of course, a different question altogether.

C45º Megan Fudge Paddle Series

Black with orange-red accents. I never stood a chance. Sold.

Standout CF Absolute Black Fully Foam

This Aussie paddle is part of my arsenal. It is a good defensive paddle though it plays a bit stiff. My other gripe? It is not in a widebody shape I am used to.

RPM Friction Pro V2 Blackout

Ok, RPM. You made your VERY sleek point. Take my money, please.

Enhance MPP Turbo Blackout Limited Edition

All the hype, none of the bright colours.

Luzz Pro 4 Darkness Inferno

If you ask me, it would look even better in all black. Ditch the lines, embrace the darkness, and let the paddle speak for itself.

Blackout AIREO Cyclone

All black.
The easiest paddle review I’ve ever done.
It has passed my visual test.
Take my money.

Lastly, I sincerely apologise if you clicked on this article expecting a discussion about My Chemical Romance.

This is, unfortunately, an article about pickleball paddles.

Disclaimer: None of the paddle manufacturers or brands mentioned in this article is aware that I am writing it, nor have I received any remuneration, discounts, free paddles, or other benefits in exchange for my thoughts.

If anything, I am sponsored by the colour black.

This article also makes no attempt to analyse technical specifications, swing weights, twist weights, foam densities, carbon fibre layups, or any other metrics that paddle reviewers far more knowledgeable than I am enjoy discussing. Please do your own research before making any purchasing decisions.

This is simply an appreciation of black paddles from someone who firmly believes that black makes almost everything look cooler.

With that, I leave you with the song that inspired this article’s title.

My Chemical Romance‘s Welcome to the Black Parade.

Because apparently, the only thing better than a great song about black is a great-looking black pickleball paddle.

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