The RPM Friction Pro is one of the most talked-about paddles to hit the market. Designed by PPA Gold Medalist James Ignatowich through his new brand RPM, this paddle aims to blend power, spin, and control in a package that caters especially to advanced players looking for a competitive edge.
What sets it apart from many competitors isn’t just a single shape or thickness, but three distinct models tailored to slightly different play styles: a 14 mm Elongated, a 16 mm Elongated, and a 16 mm Widebody. Each one brings its own feel and court role, yet they all share RPM’s aggressively gritty carbon surface engineered for maximum spin and a plush, controlled response.
The Friction Pro represents a thoughtful engineering that often emphasizes dwell time and spin without sacrificing pop or stability. Across reviews and playing tests, it has landed as a top contender for players who want a high-ceiling paddle that rewards precision and intent.
Dink Sink Pickleball Club Score: 8.8/10
Who Should Get the RPM Friction Pro Paddle
Advanced players (4.0+) and competitive 3.5s who prioritize spin and precision but still want power and soft-game reliability. It is powerful for those who enjoy aggressive drives, shaping shots, and dynamic kitchen exchanges.
If you prefer a paddle that feels lively, controlled, and engineered for strategy over sheer forgiveness, the Friction Pro rewards commitment. Novice players or those who want maximum forgiveness may find it less intuitive out of the box, especially the thinner 14 mm variant.
RPM Friction Pro Performance Metrics
Power
Across models, the RPM delivers excellent pop and energy transfer, especially on drives and serves. The carbon “CarbonBite” surface paired with RPM’s core design gives drives a crisp, punchy feel without crossing into trampoline-like unpredictability. Taller, more aggressive swings generate noticeable extra pace, particularly with the elongated shapes.
Control
The paddle’s high dwell time helps keep shots on line, holding balls on the face for placement. The 16 mm cores feel plush and forgiving in soft exchanges, while the 14 mm model trades a bit of dwell and soft-game control for quick rebound and sharper contact.
Even so, none of the variations feel overly twitchy, just responsive.
Spin
Spin is the Friction Pro’s signature strength. The gritty carbon surface genuinely lives up to its name, allowing players to impart significant revolutions with wrist work and contact point manipulation. Reviewers consistently rate spin at or near the top of the scale for paddles in this class.
Design
Grip
Comfortable factory grip with a longer handle (about 5.5 inches), ideal for two-handers or quick repositioning. It is high-quality and often does not require an overgrip.
Weight
Around 7.8 to 8.0 ounces depending on model and thickness, keeping the paddle light enough for fast hands but sometimes flirting with lower stability in heavy drives unless customized with weight tape.
Aerodynamics
The elongated variants offer extra reach and whip, which is excellent for baseline drives and singles play, while the widebody shifts focus toward consistency and easier kitchen play.
Value
At its price point, the RPM packs performance that rivals all elite paddles. The choice of three shapes and thicknesses within the same model line adds value for players who want options tailored to their style.
Product Specs for the RPM Friction Pro
| Model | Thickness | Avg. Weight | Length × Width |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14mm Elongated | 14 mm | ~7.8 oz | 16.5″ × 7.5″ |
| 16 mm Elongated | 16 mm | ~7.9 oz | 16.5″ × 7.5″ |
| 16 mm Widebody | 16 mm | ~8.0 oz | 16.0″ × 8.0″ |
RPM Friction Pro Alternatives
- JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV: a benchmark paddle with a plush feel and strong all-around performance
- Thrive Fury: favored for soft-game control and stability.
- Engage Encore Pro: a balanced option with strong forgiveness for intermediate players
FAQs about the RPM Friction Pro
Are all RPM Friction models legal for tournament play?
Yes, all variants are USAPA and PBCoR approved.
Which RPM Friction Pro model is best for kitchen play?
The 16 mm Widebody is the most forgiving for dinks and consistency at the net.
Is the RPM Friction Pro paddle good for beginners?
It is playable, but beginners may find the spin-focused surface and lighter weight less forgiving than more balanced paddles.
What does RPM stand for?
RPM stands for “revolutions per minute,” which in pickleball refers to spin.
Is the RPM Friction Pro Right for You?
The RPM Friction Pro earns its place in the upper tier of performance paddles through elite spin generation, well-rounded power, and a thoughtfully varied model lineup. It is not a one-size-fits-all paddle, but players who enjoy shaping shots, commanding rallies with intentional aggression, and fine-tuning feel will appreciate what RPM engineered.
With clear options (14 mm for crisp feel and pop, 16 mm for plush control, and Widebody for kitchen consistency), you can match the paddle to your game rather than forcing your game to match the paddle. If you are an advanced player looking to elevate performance without sacrificing versatility, the Friction Pro is well worth consideration.
Our goal is to help you find the right paddle. Read our pickleball paddle reviews for more information.