If you're a player who likes to pack a punch and generate plenty of spin without sacrificing control, the Selkirk Boomstik is definitely worth a try. I've had the chance to put both the Elongated and Widebody models through their paces over several weeks, and what really stands out is how well they deliver power and the thought that's gone into their design. In this review, I'll be comparing the two shapes head-to-head, so you can see how they perform in different situations and figure out which one might be the best fit for you.
Key Takeaways
- The Boomstik is a power-focused paddle series with two distinct shapes: Elongated for reach and Widebody for stability.
- BoomCore technology combines PureFoam with an EVA Power Ring for lively response on drives and serves.
- InfiniGrit carbon face delivers consistent spin that holds up well over extended use.
- MOI Tuning System with edge weights creates a larger, more forgiving sweet spot on off-center hits.
- Midweight balance around 8.2–8.25 ounces suits aggressive play without excessive fatigue.
- Elongated shape favors baseline power and singles; Widebody excels in doubles and net exchanges.
- Ideal for intermediate to advanced players who prioritize power with usable control.
First Impressions: A Paddle That Means Business
The Boomstik looks really sharp right out of the box, with its sleek black finish and red edge weights giving it a modern feel without being too flashy. When you pick it up, you can immediately tell the difference between the two shapes. The Elongated version, which is 16.5 inches long and 7.45 inches wide, feels a bit longer and has a slightly heavier head, which is great for players who have a strong baseline game or a tennis background - they'll feel right at home with it. On the other hand, the Widebody version, which is 15.95 inches long and 8 inches wide, feels broader and more stable, making it perfect for players who like to get to the net quickly and need a bit of forgiveness. Both versions weigh around 8.2 to 8.25 ounces, and they have a medium 4.25-inch octagonal grip and extended handles - 5.8 inches on the Elongated and 5.6 inches on the Widebody - which makes them really comfortable to hold, especially for two-handed backhands.
Boomstik Paddle Specifications Overview
This line of products has some really cool features, like a special kind of construction called thermoforming, and a face made of strong carbon material with a unique texture called InfiniGrit. It also has something called the BoomCore system, which is basically a special kind of foam wrapped in a powerful ring. One of the neat things about this product is that you can adjust it to fit your needs, thanks to the MOI Tuning System, which uses small weights to change the balance. These weights are placed at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions, and they're really lightweight, only 7.5 grams each. Both versions of this product are approved by the USAP, and they come in similar weights. So, what's the difference between them? Well, it really comes down to the shape: one is longer and more slender, which gives you more length and leverage, while the other is wider and more stable.
Power That Pops: The BoomCore Advantage
The BoomCore really packs a punch when you hit it with full force. It helps the ball travel deep and fast, whether you're serving or hitting from the baseline. The special shape of the BoomCore also gives you extra power, making it easier to hit shots that will push your opponents back. Now, there are two versions of the BoomCore - the Elongated and the Widebody. The Elongated one is great for players who like to attack and finish points quickly, as it gives them a bit more speed. On the other hand, the Widebody version is better for players who want consistent power, even when their timing is off. This means that the Elongated is perfect for aggressive players who like to take control, while the Widebody is better for players who like to play it safe and rely on steady shots to get them through the game. Overall, the BoomCore is a great tool for any player who wants to add some extra power to their game.
Baseline and Serve Performance
The Boomstik really delivers when it comes to full swings. You get a great combination of pace and spin on your serves, and your passing shots from the baseline have plenty of depth, even when you're under pressure. If you're an aggressive baseline player, the Elongated version is a great choice because it gives you more reach and leverage, allowing you to hit deeper shots. On the other hand, the Widebody is perfect for those long, grueling rallies - it provides consistent power and doesn't require perfect contact every time. One of the best things about both shapes is that they stay responsive even after a long time, which is a huge plus when you're in the middle of a three-hour match. This means you can keep playing at your best, without worrying about your racket letting you down. Overall, the Boomstik is a great choice for players who want a racket that can keep up with their aggressive playing style.
Spin That Sticks: InfiniGrit Surface Magic
The InfiniGrit carbon face really gets a good grip on the ball, which is great for adding spin to topspin drives, roll volleys, and cut dinks. This is because of its three-layer design, which gives a consistent bite that helps you shape your shots and keeps your opponents on their toes. The elongated shape of the paddle allows for faster whip, making it easier to hit sharper angles on serves and drives. On the other hand, the Widebody version has a larger surface area, which gives you a bit more dwell time - this means you can get more controlled spin on softer shots. Having consistent spin is really important, especially in long matches, because it helps you keep control of the ball even when you're getting tired. One of the best things about both versions is that they keep their texture well, so you can keep making creative shots over many matches.
Stability and Sweet Spots: The MOI Tuning System
The MOI Tuning System, which includes edge weights, is really good at making the paddle more stable and increasing the size of the sweet spot. This is super helpful when you hit the ball off-center, like during blocks, resets, and when you're reacting to a shot. The Elongated version of the paddle is great when you need to stretch for a wide ball, because it stays stable and doesn't wobble. The Widebody paddle is also very forgiving, thanks to its wider face, which means you can make mistakes and still get a good shot. One of the best things about these paddles is that they don't twist easily when you hit the ball, which makes you feel more confident when you're scrambling to return a shot or trying to counter a hard hit. The weighting of the paddle also helps make mishits feel more intentional, and it keeps your shots on target more often, which is really important in a fast-paced game. Overall, the MOI Tuning System is a great feature that can help you improve your game and play with more confidence.
Kitchen Play and Soft Game Performance
The Boomstik is really effective at the net, giving you great control for shots like dinks, resets, and hand battles. The core of the paddle provides just the right amount of touch, so you can drop balls short or angle them precisely without hitting them too far. The Widebody version is especially good in this area because its bigger surface and higher stability help absorb the pace of the ball and keep it in place during fast exchanges. The Elongated version is also good in the kitchen, but it really shines when you need to quickly switch from defense to offense. Both shapes make it easy to block and counter without losing control of the ball.
Singles vs Doubles Suitability
When it comes to playing tennis, the shape of your racket can make a big difference. For singles, a racket with an elongated shape is a good choice because it gives you more control over the court and helps you win battles from the baseline. This is great for players who like to take charge and play from the back of the court. On the other hand, when you're playing doubles, a widebody racket is a better option. This is because it's more stable and has a bigger sweet spot, which helps when you're playing at the net and need to make quick exchanges. In doubles, consistency is key, and a widebody racket can help you achieve that. Some players like to switch between the two shapes depending on whether they're playing singles or doubles, and what their role is on the court. It's all about finding the right tool for the job and being able to adapt to different situations. Reach, forgiveness, and reaction speed are all important factors to consider, and they can vary depending on the format you're playing in.
Elongated vs. Widebody: Which One’s for You?
When it comes to choosing a racket, players have different needs. The Elongated Boomstik is great for intermediate to advanced players who like to play aggressively, especially when they're at the back of the court or playing singles. Its longer length helps with shots that are really wide and serves that are really powerful, and it still gives you control over your shots. On the other hand, the Widebody is perfect for players who want a racket that's easy to use and can handle different types of shots, making it great for doubles or playing all over the court where you need to react fast and make consistent contact. Both rackets have the same basic technology and are built with the same quality, so it really comes down to what you want most: to be able to reach shots easily and have more power, or to have a racket that's stable and has a bigger sweet spot.
How the Boomstik Compares to Other Power Paddles
The Boomstik stands out in the power paddle category thanks to its unique BoomCore system and MOI Tuning weights. These features work together to provide a lively pop and improved stability, even when the ball doesn't hit the center of the paddle. This makes it a great choice for players who want power, but also need a paddle that can handle off-center hits. The Boomstik also comes with dual-shape options, which gives players more flexibility than some other power paddles that only have one shape. Another benefit of the Boomstik is its InfiniGrit face, which helps maintain spin consistency over time, even better than some traditional carbon surfaces. Overall, the Boomstik is a solid choice for players who want a powerful paddle that can still be used in a variety of situations without sacrificing too much usability.
Who Should and Should Not Choose the Boomstik
The Boomstik is a great choice for players who like to play aggressively and need a paddle that can handle big swings. It's also good for players who are moving from control paddles and want to add more power to their game. However, if you're looking for a paddle that's extremely soft, very light, or has a lot of touch control, you might want to consider other options - at least until your skills improve. The Boomstik is really suited for intermediate and advanced players who want a paddle that can keep up with their fast-paced playing style.
Is the Selkirk Boomstik Worth the Price?
The Boomstik is a great choice because it's made to last with its strong thermoformed construction, and it keeps its spin really well. Plus, the MOI system helps make it more stable. You don't have to worry about it breaking in, and it will last a long time, which makes it a good investment for people who play a lot. If you're someone who plays frequently and wants a stick that can give you power and different shape options, the Boomstik is a good choice - it performs well and is worth the money, without having a lot of extra features you might not need.
Final Thoughts / Next Step
The Selkirk Boomstik delivers focused power with usable control and spin in two well-thought-out shapes. Its BoomCore and InfiniGrit technologies support aggressive play while the MOI Tuning System improves forgiveness on imperfect contact. If your game includes strong baseline shots or fast net exchanges, test both the Elongated and Widebody versions to see which matches your style best. Choosing the right shape for your preferred court position can make your sessions more effective and enjoyable.
FAQs about the Selkirk Boomstik Paddles
Is the Selkirk Boomstik better in the Elongated or Widebody shape?
It depends on your style. The Elongated favors reach and baseline power, while the Widebody offers more stability and forgiveness for net play and doubles.
How powerful is the Selkirk Boomstik compared to other power paddles?
It provides strong, controllable pop on full swings with good consistency, thanks to the BoomCore system and shape-specific leverage.
Does the Boomstik generate enough spin for competitive play?
Yes. The InfiniGrit face produces reliable spin on drives, serves, and dinks that holds up well over multiple matches.
Is the Selkirk Boomstik suitable for intermediate players?
It suits intermediate to advanced players who are comfortable with power-oriented paddles and want to develop aggressive shot-making.
How forgiving is the Boomstik on off-center hits?
The MOI Tuning System enlarges the effective sweet spot, making mishits more playable than on many traditional power paddles.
Is the Selkirk Boomstik approved for tournament play?
Yes. Both shapes are fully USAP-approved and ready for sanctioned competition.
