Selkirk Project 002 Review

The Selkirk Labs Project 002 paddle is an experimental model from Selkirk’s innovation lab, representing a bold step toward redefining elite-level pickleball performance. Built for players who want maximum spin, control, and a touch of power, the Project 002 combines cutting-edge design with a distinctive feel. In this review, we’ll dive into what makes the Project 002 unique and whether it’s worth adding to your paddle lineup.

Key Features of the Selkirk Project 002

The Project 002 was part of Selkirk’s limited-edition Labs lineup, focusing on innovation and feedback-driven design. It’s engineered with advanced materials for players who prioritize feel, precision, and spin.

• Dimensions: 16.4″ x 7.4″
• Weight: ~7.8 oz average
• Core Type: Thick X5+ honeycomb polymer core
• Surface Material: Quantum-CarbonFiber face
• Grip Length: 5.25 inches
• Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches
• Shape: Elongated
• Sweet Spot: Mid-to-upper with above-average forgiveness
• Power Rating: Moderate
• Control Rating: Very high
• Spin Rating: Exceptional

The elongated shape and thick core offer a blend of reach, stability, and touch. The textured carbon surface is optimized for spin production without sacrificing control.

Pros and Cons

Here’s how the Project 002 stacks up on the court.

Pros:

• Outstanding control and touch for dinks, drops, and resets
• Excellent spin from textured carbon face
• Elongated design adds reach for volleys and passing shots
• Thick core offers stability and softness at the net
• Long grip ideal for two-handed backhands
• Solid feedback and hand feel

Cons:

• Less raw power than power-focused paddles (e.g., Power Air)
• Slightly head-heavy for some players
• Experimental nature may not suit traditionalists
• Limited availability due to Lab status
• Price point may be high for intermediate players
• Vibration dampening is good, but not elite

Built for Tactical Players

The Project 002 is for the player who wants total command of the ball. It’s not about brute force—it’s about finessing shots into tight spaces, spinning the ball with intention, and neutralizing pace with composure.

If you build your game on resets, patient dinking, and strategic topspin drives, the 002 fits like a glove.

On-Court Performance and Feel

Where the Project 002 shines is in touch and spin. The carbon fiber face provides incredible grip on the ball, letting you add heavy topspin or slice with confidence. Its thick core absorbs pace well, giving you a calm, steady feel on volleys and resets.

Dinking and drops are incredibly consistent, thanks to the paddle’s wide sweet spot and vibration-dampening construction. The long handle is a bonus for players using two-handed backhands or needing extra leverage on drives.

While the paddle has enough pop to handle passing shots and putaways, it’s not built for pure power. Players who rely heavily on smash winners or counterattack drives might want something more explosive.

Comfort and Grip

Selkirk nailed the ergonomics here. The grip is long and soft, with just enough contour to feel stable during high-speed play. The weight balance is slightly head-biased, which helps with stability but may feel slower in quick exchanges for some players.

Its build quality inspires confidence—it feels solid, not hollow or overly stiff. That said, it’s slightly firmer than the softest control paddles on the market, so it’s best suited to players who enjoy direct feedback from their shots.

Durability and Build Quality

As a Selkirk Labs release, the 002 benefits from premium craftsmanship. The Quantum-CarbonFiber face shows minimal wear even after extended use, and the edge guard is tightly bonded for protection. Despite being a “project” paddle, it’s robust and match-ready.

The only drawback is that as a Labs paddle, it may be discontinued or unsupported long-term, making replacements harder to find.

Who the Project 002 Is Best For

You’ll love the Project 002 if you are:

• A control-oriented player focused on resets, dinks, and spins
• Someone who prefers a textured carbon surface for max grip
• A two-handed backhand player needing extra grip length
• An intermediate to advanced player looking for a premium feel
• Comfortable trading raw power for finesse and predictability

This is not the paddle for power bangers or players new to paddle sports, but for the strategic player with a soft game and good hands, it’s a standout.

Final Thoughts on the Selkirk Project 002

The Selkirk Project 002 was a bold experiment—and a successful one. It’s a paddle that invites precision, touch, and tactical creativity. While it may not offer the explosive pop of a power paddle, it gives you unmatched confidence in the soft game and total control over spin and direction.

If your style is built around brains rather than brawn, the Project 002 is a uniquely satisfying paddle.