Introducing the Selkirk Boomstik: Boom, Bias, and the Bottom Line

Pickleball Partners added the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik to our paddle testing lineup—and we couldn’t be more thrilled to put it through its paces. Billed as a game-changer in power paddles, the Boomstik delivers on innovation—but not without stirring some controversy along the way. Let’s unpack what makes it special—and what’s got players divided.

1. What Makes the Boomstik Stand Out

BoomCore Construction

At its heart lies Selkirk’s BoomCore—a full-foam core fused with an EVA Power Ring designed to eliminate the dreaded “core crush” common in traditional paddle materials. Expect immediate feel, consistent energy rebound, and no break-in period.
Selkirk Sportwww.justpaddles.com

MOI Tuning System

Edge-mounted weighting positioned at 3 and 9 o’clock enhances the paddle’s moment of inertia, widening the sweet spot and adding stability—particularly on off-center shots.
Selkirk SportThePickleballStudio

InfiniGrit Surface

This advanced surface coating promises up to three times the durability—and plenty of spin—compared to raw carbon textures.
Selkirk Sportwww.justpaddles.com

NFC Paddle Portal

Hidden in the handle is an NFC chip that links you to a custom Paddle Portal. This makes warranty claims smoother, lets you give feedback, and tracks your paddle’s history. Truly smart gear for the digital age.
Selkirk Sport

Warranty & Durability

Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, the Boomstik covers edge guard issues, face cracks, end cap damage, and handle breaks. Selkirk also boasts they can’t even break it in stress testing labs.
Selkirk SportPickleheadswww.justpaddles.com

2. What Critics Are Saying

Certification Conundrum: MOI Weights & UPA Rules

Here’s the immediate controversy: the version submitted for UPA (formerly USAPA) approval did not include the MOI weights. That’s the paddle they approved—but now the retail version does include them. Some tournament organizers are flagging this as a mismatch—and thus not tournament-legal until reapproved.
From Reddit:

“They submitted it for testing without the clamps. … The released version has the clamps. … It’s not the same paddle.”
Reddit

A post from the UPA echoed this concern:

“The Selkirk Boomstik may not be played with the MOI clamps.”
X (formerly Twitter)

In most casual or club play, this isn’t a deal-breaker—but if you're eyeing sanctioned tournaments, watch this space for updates.

Quality Control Quibbles

Several reviewers noted edge guard issues near the MOI weights in early units. While Selkirk replaced those and positioned them as isolated early-production glitches, it highlights a potential Achilles’ heel in the design.
ThePickleballStudiomattspickleball.com

Premium Price Tag

Retailing at $333 USD, the Boomstik commands top-dollar—$80–100 more than many comparable paddles. Reviewers question if its high-tech features justify the steep price.
mattspickleball.comwww.justpaddles.com

3. Performance & Reviews Snapshot

4. Final Take for Pickleball Partners

The Boomstik is bold, innovative, and tailor-made for players who crave power without sacrificing longevity. Its technical upgrades—from cushionless durability to NFC smart features—really push the limits of what a paddle can be.

But… if you value control over power and spin, you may be disappointed. Also, if you are focused on sanctioned play, the MOI weight certification gap is a serious red flag until it is resolved. And for players mindful of budget or reliability, the early QC notes and premium price may cause pause.

Bottom Line

• Club players, power hunters, and gear enthusiasts: This paddle is worth adding to your bag.

• Competitive tournament players: Hold tight until the UPA approves the weighted version.

• Budget-aware or control-focused players: Plenty of paddles offer solid performance for a lot less money.

BREAKING NEWS:

UPA-A Ruling on the Selkirk Boomstik

The United Pickleball Association of America (UPA-A) has released an official notice regarding the Selkirk Project Boomstik Elongated 16mm:

• Approved for play only in the configuration it was tested — without MOI clamps.

• Removable parts, including MOI clamps, are not permitted on any certified paddle.

• Using the Boomstik with MOI clamps attached is considered a violation and is banned in all UPA-A sanctioned professional events (effective September 1, 2025).

This ruling confirms what many players have speculated: while the Boomstik introduces cutting-edge technology, tournament players must remove the MOI clamps to stay within certification standards.

👉 For everyday and club play, this may not be a big deal, but for professional and sanctioned competition, the difference is critical.