Pop N Pink First Impressions
First Look: The Pickle Poppers "Pop N Pink" — The Ultimate Lightweight Foam Paddle?
South Korean brand Pickle Poppers is moving away from standard "catalog" paddles and stepping into the innovation ring with their latest release: the Pop N Pink.
While most manufacturers are racing to make paddles longer and heavier, the Pop N Pink takes a different route. This paddle is specifically engineered for players with smaller hands, kids, or anyone who prioritizes lightning-fast maneuverability over raw, heavy power.
The Specs: Built for Speed
The Pop N Pink features a sophisticated MPP foam core surrounded by TPE foam. But the real story is in the dimensions and weight:
Shape: Widebody (15.59" length / 7.74" width)
Core: 16mm
Handle: 5.26" length with a 4-inch circumference (thinner than the industry average of 4.25").
The Metrics: A staggering 96 swingweight and 6.65 twistweight.
For context, most widebody paddles sit between 105–110 swingweight. Being 10–15 points lower makes this one of the fastest paddles currently on the market.
On-Court Performance: Small But Solid
We tested the Pop N Pink in its stock form—no lead tape added—to see if it could hold its own despite its feather-light weight.
Maneuverability: Top-tier. Hand speed at the kitchen is where this paddle shines; it feels almost weightless during fast exchanges.
The Feel: Unlike some lightweight paddles that feel "pingy" or hollow, the Pop N Pink feels surprisingly solid. It offers a "foam feel" that is more pleasant and damp than the stiff feedback found in paddles like the Franklin C45 Tempo.
Power & Sweet Spot: As expected, the firepower is in the lower all-court category. The sweet spot is slightly below average compared to heavier foam paddles, which is the natural trade-off for such a low stock weight.
Who is this paddle for?
The Pop N Pink isn't trying to be a power-hitter's dream. Instead, it’s a perfect match for:
Junior Players: The 4-inch grip is ideal for smaller hands.
The "Customizer": With a starting swingweight of 96, you have a massive "canvas" to add lead tape exactly where you want it without making the paddle too heavy.
Finesse Players: If you find standard paddles too bulky or tiring for your wrist/arm, this provides a much-needed relief.
Final Thoughts & Pre-Order Info
The Pop N Pink is essentially a more refined, foam-core version of the Franklin C45 Tempo. It’s solid, incredibly fast, and solves the "small hand" problem that many major brands ignore.
The paddle is available for pre-order now at a retail price of $169.99.
Want to save some cash? Use code DMVPBALL at checkout to get a discount on your order!
