Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Pro Pickleball Paddle vs Tourna Grip XL Overgrip 30-Pack
Head-to-head spec comparison to help you pick the right paddle for your needs.
Paddletek
$130
Tourna
$15
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
| Spec | Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Pro Pickleball Paddle | Tourna Grip XL Overgrip 30-Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.6 oz | 0 oz |
| Face Material | Textured Fiberglass | Polyurethane |
| Core Type | Polymer Honeycomb | Overgrip |
| Grip Size | 4 1/4 in | XL in |
| Grip Length | 4.5 in | 0 in |
| Paddle Length | 15.75 in | 0 in |
| Paddle Width | 8 in | 0 in |
| Elbow Friendly | Yes | Yes |
| USAPA Approved | Yes | No |
| Price | $130 | $15 |
| Rating | 8.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 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
Tourna Grip XL Overgrip 30-Pack
Pros
- XL width matters for 55-75 players — larger grip circumference reduces the tight grip force that aggravates tennis elbow
- Tourna's tacky-when-sweaty formula is the gold standard for outdoor play in warm conditions
- 30-pack provides 6-12 months of grip tape for regular players — excellent consumable value
- Works on any paddle handle — universal sizing, applies in 5 minutes
- Consistent texture from first use to last — doesn't degrade suddenly like cheaper overgrips
Cons
- XL adds bulk — players with smaller hands may find the added diameter uncomfortable
- Not ideal for cold/dry conditions where the tacky formula requires sweat to activate
- Color selection is limited (blue or white — no neutral or matching options)
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.
Tourna Grip XL Overgrip 30-Pack
The highest-leverage $15 purchase for players with tennis elbow. A larger grip circumference mechanically reduces the squeezing force on the medial epicondyle — this is basic ergonomics. Many players see elbow improvement by grip-sizing up before spending $130 on a new paddle.
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