The CORE Reaction Pro feels purpose-built for doubles play. It has a T700 carbon fiber face, a polypropylene honeycomb core, and a forgiving shape with an 8-inch broad face and a shorter 4.75-inch handle. On court, this design stands out in quick exchanges. Blocks feel steadier, off-center contact stays playable, and the paddle does not punish you for being a little late to volley battles.
We tried both thicknesses, and each one feels a bit different. The 14mm version gives you more pop for counters and finishing shots. The 16mm version is better for soft play and feels steadier on resets. Both are balanced and predictable, which is great for players looking to improve without needing a highly specialized paddle.
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Dink Sink Pickleball Club Score: 8.2/10
Who Should Get the CORE Reaction Pro Paddle
The Reaction Pro is a strong fit for players who want a stable carbon-faced paddle with a wide sweet spot and a straightforward response. It is especially good for doubles players who live at the kitchen line, block hard drives, and rely on resets to neutralize points.
Get this paddle if you are:
- An all-court player who wants a blend of touch and drive potential
- A doubles player who values stability and forgiveness during hand battles
- Deciding between 14mm pop and 16mm touch without jumping into premium pricing
You may want to skip this paddle if you need a longer handle for a two-handed backhand or if you prefer a longer face for extra reach.
CORE Reaction Pro Paddle Performance Metrics
Power
The 14mm Reaction Pro feels more powerful. Counters are faster, and you can finish high balls more easily. The 16mm still has good power, but it is more controlled and less bouncy, which we like when points get quick at the kitchen.
Control
Control is the backbone of this paddle, especially in the 16mm. Dinks sit on the face long enough to place them with intent, and resets feel dependable when you are absorbing pace. The wide face helps because slight mishits do not immediately turn into floaters.
Spin
The T700 carbon face gives you strong access to spin. We could shape third-shot drops with a bit of cut, roll volleys cleanly, and add topspin to passing shots without feeling like we needed perfect technique to get movement. It is not an extreme, “sticky” spin monster, but it is more than enough to play a modern spin-forward game.
Design
Grip
The 4.125-inch grip circumference feels neutral in the hand. It is comfortable out of the box, and it is easy to build up with an overgrip if you like a thicker handle.
Weight
At 7.8 to 8.1 ounces, the paddle sits in a stability-friendly range. It holds up well against pace and feels solid on blocks. If you are sensitive to swing weight, the first session may feel a touch hefty, but the tradeoff is a calmer paddle face under pressure.
Aerodynamics
This is not a speed-first, super-whippy shape. It is built to feel stable and predictable, especially in fast exchanges.
Value
At $99 with a cover included, the Reaction Pro lands in a sweet spot. You are getting a carbon-faced feel and a stable, forgiving shape at a price that makes it an easy recommendation for players upgrading from a starter paddle.
Product Specs for the CORE Reaction Pro Paddle
- Price: $99
- Face: T700 carbon fiber
- Core: Polypropylene honeycomb
- Thickness options: 14mm or 16mm
- Total length: 15.75″
- Width: 8″
- Weight: 7.8 to 8.1 oz
- Handle length: 4.75″
- Grip circumference: 4.125″
- Approval: USA Pickleball approved
- Included: Paddle cover
CORE Reaction Pro Paddle Alternatives
- If you want more plush control: Vatic Pro Prism Flash (16mm)
- If you want a more premium all-court carbon option: Six Zero Double Black Diamond
- If you want more raw power: Selkirk Power Air series
- If you want an elongated control paddle with more reach: Engage Pursuit Pro1 (or similar elongated carbon builds)
FAQs about the CORE Reaction Pro Paddle
Is the CORE Reaction Pro USA Pickleball approved?
Yes. The CORE Reaction Pro Paddle is listed as USA Pickleball approved.
Should I get 14mm or 16mm Reaction Pro Paddle?
Choose 14mm if you want more pop for counters, drives, and quick put-aways. Choose 16mm if you want a softer feel for dinks, drops, and resets.
Is the handle CORE Reaction Pro long enough for a two-handed backhand?
The 4.75-inch handle is on the shorter side. Some two-handed players will make it work, but if you rely heavily on a two-handed backhand, you may prefer a longer handle.
Does the Reaction Pro have a big sweet spot?
Yes. The wider 8-inch face plays forgiving, especially left-to-right, and it helps during fast hand battles.
Is the CORE Reaction Pro Paddle Right for You?
If you are looking for a stable, forgiving carbon paddle that works well for soft shots and still has enough power to finish points, the CORE Reaction Pro is a smart choice.
The wide face helps you feel confident during quick hand exchanges, and the paddle stays reliable when blocking or resetting under pressure. You can choose the thickness that fits your style: pick 14mm for faster counters and a livelier feel, or 16mm if you want more touch and control for drops and resets.
The main thing to consider is the shorter handle. If you want a longer handle or an elongated shape, this may not be the best fit. But if you want a steady all-court paddle that helps make doubles play more consistent, the Reaction Pro is a solid choice.
Our goal is to help you find the right paddle. Read our pickleball paddle reviews for more information.