Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Pro Pickleball Paddle vs Selkirk Sport Tour Pickleball Bag
Head-to-head spec comparison to help you pick the right paddle for your needs.
Paddletek
$130
Selkirk
$65
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
| Spec | Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Pro Pickleball Paddle | Selkirk Sport Tour Pickleball Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.6 oz | 28 oz |
| Face Material | Textured Fiberglass | Polyester |
| Core Type | Polymer Honeycomb | Thermal-Lined |
| Grip Size | 4 1/4 in | N/A in |
| Grip Length | 4.5 in | 0 in |
| Paddle Length | 15.75 in | 0 in |
| Paddle Width | 8 in | 0 in |
| Elbow Friendly | Yes | No |
| USAPA Approved | Yes | No |
| Price | $130 | $65 |
| Rating | 8.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Pros & Cons
Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Pro Pickleball Paddle
Pros
- Textured fiberglass face adds spin without the stiffness that causes elbow flare-ups
- 7.6 oz sits in the sweet spot — light enough for arm protection, substantial enough for controlled drives
- Paddletek explicitly designs for arm safety — the polymer core dampens shock throughout the entire paddle, not just the sweet spot
- Solid rep for durability — this paddle routinely lasts 2-3 years with regular recreational play
- USAPA approved, well-regarded in the 55-70 recreational community
Cons
- Higher price point than HEAD entry options without a dramatic performance leap at recreational level
- Grip length (4.5in) is shorter than some players prefer for two-handed backhand shots
- Less forgiveness on off-center hits than the Selkirk Halo XL due to standard-width face
Selkirk Sport Tour Pickleball Bag
Pros
- Holds 2-4 paddles with dedicated paddle compartment — protects face and edge guard during transport
- Thermal-lined paddle compartment prevents heat damage when bag is left in a hot car
- Separate ball pocket holds 20+ balls — keeps gear organized without unpacking everything
- Padded shoulder straps distribute weight comfortably for players carrying gear on longer walks to courts
- Selkirk brand purchase pairs naturally with Selkirk Halo paddle — converts well as a bundle recommendation
Cons
- At $65 it's a premium bag at the low end of its price tier — functional alternatives exist for $35
- Thermal lining adds bulk — the bag is noticeably larger than a basic tote even when not full
- No dedicated water bottle pocket on the exterior — minor inconvenience at outdoor courts
Our Verdicts
Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Pro Pickleball Paddle
Excellent second pick for arm-protection seekers. The textured fiberglass face is a meaningful differentiator — it creates spin without the aggressive stiff-carbon feel that strains elbows. Recommended for players who want both comfort and a slight competitive edge over pure entry paddles.
Selkirk Sport Tour Pickleball Bag
The right bag for players who play 3+ times a week and want their gear organized. The thermal paddle compartment is a genuine differentiator — heat damage to polymer cores is real in hot climates. The Selkirk brand coherence makes it a natural second purchase for Halo paddle buyers.