Speedup has been quietly building a reputation for punching above its price point, and the Tide series is their most ambitious release yet. Two shapes — the 14L Elongated and the 14H Hybrid — both built around a 14mm foam core that aims to deliver a soft, controlled touch without sacrificing too much pop.
Specs at a Glance
- Core: 14mm foam
- Weight: ~8.0 oz
- Tide 14L (Elongated) — Swing Weight: 121.4, Twist Weight: 6.13
- Tide 14H (Hybrid) — Swing Weight: 113.74, Twist Weight: 6.09
- Price: $169.99 — use code PLAYBOOK for 10% off
On-Court Feel
The 14mm core gives both Tide paddles a noticeably softer feel at contact — great for resets and third-shot drops. The 14L's swing weight of 121.4 is unusually high for an elongated at this thickness, which means you get more drive-game pop than you'd expect from a control-oriented core. If you like a soft feel but still want to put balls away at the kitchen, the 14L delivers.
The 14H Hybrid is the more maneuverable of the two at SW 113.74. It's easier to whip through for quick exchanges and works well for players who live at the non-volley zone. The twist weight on both paddles sits around 6.1, giving solid off-center stability without going heavy.
Who Should Buy the Speedup Tide?
- All-court players who want a soft, responsive touch without breaking the bank
- Intermediate players moving from a power paddle who want more control
- Players who prioritize dink consistency but still need to finish points
- Buyers looking for serious performance under $170
Verdict
The Speedup Tide series punches well above its $169.99 price. The 14L is the go-to for players who want range — soft touch plus a surprise amount of drive power. The 14H fits true all-court grinders. Use code PLAYBOOK to save 10% at checkout.
