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Head-to-Head Comparison

Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik vs Volair SHIFT EL

The Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik scores 9.4 and the Volair SHIFT EL scores 8.9 on our spec-based rating scale. Calculated from each maker’s published specs; we don’t play-test paddles.

Ratings Head to Head

Selkirk LABS Project BoomstikVolair SHIFT EL
Power9.510
Control98
Spin108.5
Sweet spot99
Research score9.48.9

Which Suits Your Game?

Player typeSelkirk LABS Project BoomstikVolair SHIFT EL
Beginners9.28.8
Touch players9.38.6
Power hitters9.49.2
Spin players9.68.8

Weighted from the four ratings. How these are weighted

Key Differences

  • The biggest gap is spin: the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik rates 10 to the Volair SHIFT EL’s 8.5.
  • On control, the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik is ahead: 9 vs 8.
  • On power, the Volair SHIFT EL is ahead: 10 vs 9.5.
  • They tie on sweet spot (9).
  • Core thickness: 16 mm for the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik against 14 mm for the Volair SHIFT EL. The thinner Volair SHIFT EL should give more pop; thicker cores lean toward control.
  • Price: the Volair SHIFT EL costs less at each brand’s own store.

The Verdict

Pick the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik if you want more control and more spin, especially if you’re a beginner or a touch player.

Choose the Volair SHIFT EL if you want more power and a lower price.

Buy at SelkirkBuy at Volair

Specs Side by Side

SpecSelkirk LABS Project BoomstikVolair SHIFT EL
Weight8.0–8.3 oz8.2 oz average
ShapeElongatedElongated
Length16.5 in16.5 in
Width7.45 in7.5 in
Core thickness16 mm14 mm
CoreBoomCore (PureFoam with EVA power ring)Full-foam floating core with flex channels, EVA perimeter and carbon-infused edge foam
FaceMultistrata T700 carbon (3 layers) with InfiniGrit surfaceT700 carbon fiber (four layers)
Handle length5.8 in5.6 in
Grip size4.25 in4.125 in
Price$333$99.99
USA Pickleball approvedYesYes

Specs as published by each manufacturer. Prices are checked daily on each brand’s own store; the checkout price is final.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik or the Volair SHIFT EL?

On our spec-based scale the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik scores higher (9.4 vs 8.9). By player type, the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik suits beginners, touch players, power hitters and spin players better.

Which has more power, the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik or the Volair SHIFT EL?

The Volair SHIFT EL rates higher for power on our scale (10 vs 9.5).

Which is better for beginners, the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik or the Volair SHIFT EL?

The Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik scores higher for beginners (9.2 vs 8.8), mainly from its sweet spot and control ratings.

Are the Selkirk LABS Project Boomstik and Volair SHIFT EL approved for tournament play?

Yes. Both are on the USA Pickleball approved paddle list.

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