Advanced Performance for Pickleball & Beyond

Introduction
I’ll admit it—I still can’t make sense of the USAP paddle testing standards. When I tested the Body Helix F1 Elongated (the one Pickleball Studio dubbed “the most powerful paddle out there”), I had no trouble agreeing with their assessment. That thing is a rocket launcher. My serves were flying long more often than not, especially since I rely heavily on topspin.
So when Body Helix sent me their F1 Hybrid—nicknamed the “SMH” paddle (Smacking My Head)—and I saw it had failed the USAP power test, I braced myself. I even warned my neighbors to guard their windows. If this was somehow more powerful than the Elongated, I figured balls would be zipping past the baseline and straight into their living rooms.
First Impressions
But here’s the surprise: it wasn’t uncontrollably powerful. In fact, it felt close to perfect. Yes, it packs plenty of pop, but it’s not the kind of paddle that overwhelms you. Instead, it strikes a great balance—enough power to be dangerous without sacrificing control.
Performance
Spin is where the SMH really shines. My topspin had plenty of bite, but it was the side spin serves that left me grinning. More than once, I watched the ball land near the line and then skid violently sideways out of reach—completely unreturnable. Underspin shots? Wicked. The paddle gave me confidence to shape the ball any way I wanted.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Excellent balance of power and control
• Exceptional spin generation (topspin, sidespin, and underspin)
• Comfortable, confidence-boosting feel
• Huge discount currently available ($95 vs. $190)
Cons:
• Still powerful—bangers might find it a bit too powerful
• Limited availability (only in the Body Helix “sandbox”)

Final Thoughts
I CANNOT wait for this paddle to pass the USAP testing! Body Helix currently has the SMH Hybrid Paddle available in their “sandbox” for $95 (regularly $190). At that price, it’s absolutely worth trying if you’re looking for a paddle that blends power, spin, and control.

I'm disappointed it won't be USAP, but it's a really well designed paddle that is plenty of fun in rec play.

Amazing paddles and service!

2nd one I've bought. Love it

Hello, this has become my favorite paddle to use. I have owned pretty much a lot of Body Helix paddle. Most of them are pretty control paddles with some more focus on reset like X2 pro, some are allcourt X1, etc. I have always love these paddles but recently looks for something a bit more gearing toward power paddle. I came across this F1 paddle. I have been hitting with it for about 3.5 weeks and completely fall in love with this. The drive with this paddle is amazing. You can sort of control the drive precisely without going full power. This is what makes this paddle shine compare to other paddles. I would have to say the brand new paddle is a bit firmer and reset could be challenging if you come from a control paddle type. I added the 2 set of weight on middle and bottom half just to reduce the power of the paddle plus improve on reset/control. The 1st week of playing was quite challenging since all the reset would be skyhigh and especially those out in the air shot. However, the paddle does get a bit softer over time gradually. This actually benefits a lot since the reset is more dialed in. Compared with all other competitors, I think this paddle at this current price is really one of the best paddle in the market. The bad news is I might not be able to play with all the other control paddles from Body Helix that I had lol now that I am so used to the F1 XC paddle.

Nice paddle, added grip on the surface allows for extra controlled spins and power in the sweet spot.

The Flik F1 XC is the cake-frosting and sprinkles to paddle market. The counters with this paddle are absolutely sick, the control and spin are superior, and the sheer power for drives is fantastic. May take a few practice sessions to get the control of the power but it's totally worth it-it literally has everything you could want. Love it : )

I play a lot of cut and spin shots and it does a super job. Thanks.

Perfect fit. Does it job. Great fit

It feels like a tennis handle with a not too large/sharp end cap. The grit/spin is insane and the subject of envy from any who touch the face. I really like this paddle for the power and pop and spin, I really don’t get how Body Helix got so much right in one paddle. The only thing I’d fix are the graphics - they’re simple and inelegant, too plain. The cover is PLUUUUUSH111

Eddie nailed this review when he dubbed it "The Butter Truck". The feel is plush with a ton of power. Hard to believe the two can coexist. The paddle is a blast to use and hits absolute spinning rockets. One of the most fun paddles I have played with ever. Great job, Body Helix! Looking forward to trying this in a hybrid shape.

I have been playing with this paddle since I received it both outdoors and indoors and I can truly say that of the 3 (BH) paddles that I have this one is the best with good power pop control and as for the spin factor it is awesome I’ve added a little weight to the top for more pop lol I have an array of paddles and I’ve been playing for over 3yrs now and the F1 by far is my go to paddle looking forward to seeing what Body Helix has in store for the future well done 👍👍😎

POWERFULL and somewhat out of control
You have to be a 5.0 in order to really enjoy this beast.
Matt

It's a little early for a review, but for my first impressions: good power pop & spin. Having only played a few matches so far, I'm still trying to adapt and improve the control aspect of my game with this powerhouse' of a paddle.
Loving the smooth feel and low vibration 👍

The best paddle by far that I have ever played with. Added weight to throat area. You need to have soft hands, but if you do, this is the best paddle to play with for power, spin and even control