I recently caught up with Chandler Carney in Santiago De Chile to hear more about the brand taking over courts one dink at a time. It gave me a chance to do a KONDOR pickleball paddle review on their El Capitan 1.0 Pro and the 3K Carbon ATTK.
Elite players will want to scroll to my review of the El Capitan paddle. However, beginners and intermediates should focus on the ATTK model.
Table of Contents
The KONDOR Pickleball Paddle Story:
A passion for sports, building communities and the explosion of the padel in the USA, sparked Chandler and Michelle’s idea for KONDOR.
The dynamic duo were inspired by the impact padel had on their lives in Chile, and wanted to take that experience to Americans. Despite the growth of the sport states side, few paddle options existed, and the ones that did were outdated.
An opportunity presented itself to the founders and KONDOR was born. Finally, the USA had access to high-quality, stylish paddles that cater to advanced players.
KONDOR Pickleball Paddle Review
Kondor asked us to review their El Capitan 1.0 Pro paddle with no strings attached. It’s their premium paddle for advanced players. We also decided to briefly compare our experiences of the El Capitan and the 3K Carbon ATTK 1.0 paddles.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | KONDOR |
| Model | El Capitan 1.0 Pro |
| Skill Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Weight | 7.9-8.1 oz (standard mid-weight) |
| Paddle Dimensions | 16.3 x 7.44 |
| Grip Length | 5.7 inches |
| Paddle Surface | T700 Raw Carbon |
| Core | Honeycomb |
| Approval | USA Pickleball Approved |
Kondor El Capitan 1.0 vs 3K Carbon ATTK 1.0 Paddle
I tried the more affordable Kondor 3K Carbon ATTK 1.0 paddle three times before I tested the El Capitan 1.0 Pro. A friend of mine has owned it for a year, which speaks to its durability. I loved the plushy feel of the EVA Comfort Grip, but it was unforgiving on off center hits, causing the ball to die and drop short of the net.
Old El Capitan had no such issue, with its enlarged sweet spot. It delivers an all around performance with a soft grip, more spin and speed, and greater control. It totally warrants its higher price tag.
Verdict
The 3K Carbon ATTK is perfect for beginners or intermediates on a budget. However, experienced players will absolutely prefer the all around performance of the El Capitan 1.0 Pro.
Feel
Although the paddle weighs the same as most premium paddles, it feels lighter than most paddles I have tested, which is personally better for me as I appreciate a more controlled and spin-orientated style of pickleball play.
T700 Rough Textured Carbon Surface
The T700 Rough Textured Carbon surface is the true star. It offers more grip, generating a ton of spin on your attacking forehands and defensive drop shots.
Check out the new Tropixx Series Limited Edition paddle here
Pros and Cons
| PROS | CONS |
| Impressive spin | Premium price tag |
| Exceptional control | Not ideal for beginners |
| Soft, elongated grip | |
| USA Pickleball Approved |
Read More articles: 7 Best Pickleball Paddles For 2024
Kondor Sponsored Professionals
The brand has expanded beyond recreational players to sponsor top ranked professionals. Chandler and Michelle are focused on emerging pickleball markets from Uruguay to China. Players like Hasson and Muyasser Bresh will be in action at the 2024 Pickleball World Cup in Peru.
If you are a pickleball player, coach, or professional, the company is scoping for brand ambassadors. Send them an email and explain why you would be a great fit for the team.
Current Kondor Pickleball Professionals
Chandler Carney: Co-founder Of Kondor Paddles
Michelle Hasson: Co-founder Of Kondor Paddles
Rolo Pomalima: Mr.Peru and Pickleball Peru Champion
Muyasser Bresh: Number 1 Ranked Womens Doubles In Latin America
Pete Dellaluna: PPR certified pickleball coach at The Landings, Ft Myers
Brian Fanelli: Pickleball Pro and Coach At West Bay Club
John Urdangarin – Pickelball Pro in China
Final thoughts
Although not as popular as the likes of Selkirk or Joola paddle brands, these paddles are appreciated by players all over the world. Our Kondor pickleball paddle review revealed that their products can be found in the United States, China, Singapore, and Latin America.
Chandler and Michelle provide products for all pickleball players. The more affordable 3K Carbon Attack performs best in the hands of beginners and intermediates. Conversely, the El Capitan 1.0 Pro paddle is for skilled players seeking spin, control, power and a soft feel.
FAQ
Can KONDOR Paddles Be Used in USAPA Competitions?
Yes, KONDOR pickleball paddles can be used in USAPA competitions, because they brand is certified by the association.
Are KONDOR pickleball paddles suitable for players of all skill levels?
Absolutely! KONDOR has pickleball paddles for all skill levels. The El Capitan 1.0 Pro is best for experienced players, while the 3K Carbon ATTK 1.0 suits beginners and intermediates.
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