Hi All - several of you have been asking for more details about how the Ruby compares to the Pickleball Apes Pro Line Energy-S. Here are my thoughts on that: The Ruby and PLE-S have a similar feel off the face in terms of plushness (less plush than the original PLE, more plush than most thermoformed RCF paddles). But the Ruby has a larger sweet spot than the PLE-S, and much less pop. So the Ruby is more of a control paddle than the PLE-S. Something else that makes these paddles feel different is the balance point, which is at the 61st percentile for the PLE-S, and the 35th percentile for the Ruby. So the Ruby plays more head light than the PLE-S.
Thanks for the excellent review. I ordered one to replace my Ronbus. FYI - from my tennis elbow research with tennis, I learned: 1) handle-heavy helps keep swing weight manageable, while allowing the racquet to absorb more of the impact. 2) flexible strings and racquet preferable to stiff Therefore, I'd expect the extra handle weight to help the Ruby with TE. I'd also expect adding weight to a lighter, more flexible paddle's handle to help with TE.
Thank you. You seem to be part of a trend of players moving from elongated paddles to hybrid or even more standard size. The faster hand speed and improved materials seem to strike a balance between power and control in favor of these shorter paddles. I wonder if this trend will continue.
Should’ve listened to JohnKews reviews over others. I’d be a Ruby owner already. I didn’t purchase because there was a lot of “it’s barely better than the DBD.” In my opinion (after playing with it today)it’s clearly better than the DBD and will be purchasing once it is back in stock.
The analogies to other paddles on the market is great, a lot more useful than just throwing numbers out. Production continues to improve. I feel like I just got out of class.
Thanks for being the 1st to release formal review of the Ruby -- love everything that SixZero is doing. Ruby seems like another hit in the making for them
Yeah, my serve speed for both Ruby units came in even slightly above the BD. I think some of that can be explained by the difference in swing weight (Ruby: 117, DBD: 114, BD: 116). But given similar numbers on the Apes models, I'm putting my money on some kind of alchemy juju in the kevlar 😆
Your paddle reviews are wonderful - detailed, clear, with no beating around the bush. The comparison to other similar paddles is also very helpful. Thank you.
@@KurtMueller love it, a little heavier than my DBD which took a little getting used to, a little better control and a softer feel. Great sweet spot. Purrs like a kitten and pretty as a movie star
Thanks for the review. I bought this paddle on Dec 6th using your code and have played with it now for over a week. The first few games it felt stiff but now feels much softer. Perhaps it’s me adjusting more so than the paddle changing (?). Anyway I’m really enjoying the Ruby and your review is bang on. I weighed mine with two independent scales and it is 8.1 ounces. The swing rate also seems much lighter than 117 as it seems fast but that I can’t confirm. Regardless it is my new favorite paddle. Thanks for the review and the code.
This is crazy. The main paddle youtube reviewers are all over the place with this paddle. This video states there's a noticeable difference from the DBD, pickleball studio says there's barely a difference.... Others say more pop whiles others say less pop... Guess I just gotta buy the paddle and find out :)
Hey John, great review as always. I have been playing with the Komodo Katana paddle for a couple of weeks. It is a Kevlar paddle also. They are based in Colorado.
I've only used the Ruby once so far, and my initial impression is that it is more plush (numb) than the DBD. I will continue using it, but I think what makes the DBD so special is the tactile feel one gets when hitting the ball. It just feels good to hit with the DBD. Time will tell. I need to play a lot more with the Ruby.
Thx John for the review and the discount code. Hope they have stock in hand for this afternoon grand opening and it’ll be my upgrade from the dbd. My 3rd paddles from 6.0.
Thank you for this review John! I love my Ruby, but the head is a bit heavier than I like. I'm older, and need a paddle that helps me have quicker reaction time. Do you think SixZero will come out with a Kevlar paddle that's lighter in weight?
Thanks John you are my favorite reviewer. I do have one question though do you think the Kevlar pill ply face will last longer than the current crop of carbon fiber, face paddles?
Thanks! The durability of the peel-ply texture is still an unknown. I'm going to assume the same rate of attrition as RCF. But I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the peel-ply over 3K Kevlar proves to be more resistant to wear.
I think a big factor is the thickness /texture and type / composition of the resin. At what point in wear attributes, does the resin actually wear out to the point of the ball physically making contact with the Kevlar cloth . I think the next big advancement will be centered around new tech that doesn't involve peel ply for embossing texture to standard resin that wears out while the paddle underneath is still performing its job.@@johnkewpickleball
To what degree do you think the Ruby will maintain spin over heavy use? Do you think it will degrade at roughly the same rate as other carbon fiber paddles? I'm curious if the grit will be more durable despite the same peel ply method.
That's a big unknown right now. I'm going to assume the same rate of attrition as RCF. But I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the peel-ply over 3K Kevlar proves to be more resistant to wear.
@@johnkewpickleball If anyone wants to see what all the "Peel Ply" fuss is , its just a fabric layer that imprints a texture into the resin that is impregnated on the face cloth of the paddle, then after the curing time its peeled off , leaving the imprint of texture. Here is a quick vid that shows Poly Peel ply process and they show peeling it off after they take it out of the vacuum bag. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-y3FsxsISYIQ.html
I know there are more than a few of us looking at this vs the GB Pro Control El or fusion. Any quick thought between the 2 for all around playability, power ,pop and spin? (not regarding the price difference). Thanks!!!
Great review! I saw my first Ruby in the wild today and it appeared to have some wear on the face. Almost like a pick in a sweater. Have you seen issues like this?
Hi John - are you going to do an "autopsy" of the Ruby? From Six Zero's website it sounds like the Ruby just has a Kevlar face sheet cold-formed ontop of the carbon fiber thermoformed construction. Can you confirm that the Ruby only uses Kevlar on the face and has six-zero's carbon fiber thermoform layup under the Kevlar? "multi-stage cold and hot mold process technology", "Kevlar textured surface", "Carbon Fusion Edge Technology", and "3D Carbon Forged Elongated Handle" Descriptions on the six zero website all point to the kevlar only being used as a cold-pressed face sheet. I asked Six Zero to clarify, but have received no response. Thanks!
WOW what a review! You sure know your stuff. Would there be paddles to consider that offer similar advantages as the Ruby but around the $100 value? Thanks again, keep up the good work!
I don't think there's anything in the $100 range that gets close to the Ruby. But there are some solid choices in that range (the Vatic Prism Flash and Hudef Mage Pro are two good options)
OK thanks @johnkewpickleball I saw your review on those 2 paddles. Interesting that you made the switch to the Ruby from the Apes Pro Line Energy.. Have you ever tried any paddles from 11six24, or Markpickleball Keneticand Kyrpton, or Gospartus or Honolulu Pickleball Company Sword & Shield. Thanks again, love your reviews, definitely my favorites!!
John, great work as always. I guess I am still struggling to understand what the Kevlar material is doing for this paddle v. the CF versions. It seems like the spin is more of the change to the top ply like they have done on the BD version and I wonder when they change to it on the DBD if we see similar spin numbers. Power would seem to be at least partially due to the heavier weight? Since the face uses a peel ply like all of their paddles, will we really see any increase in longevity? So is the main thing Kevlar is bringing to the table a "softer" less poppy experience? Thanks again and would love to hear your thoughts.
Good questions and observations - besides using Kevlar, the main difference is the use of a 3K woven cloth as the surface material, rather than unidirectional pre-preg. Then the peel-ply is placed over the top. The underlying surface material definitely has an effect on performance and feel, even if the ball is technically only touching the peel-ply epoxy (which is only microns thick). So the 3K cloth has tows that are woven over and under each other, providing texture of its own underneath the peel-ply texture. So that alone makes the Ruby different than the rest of the Six Zero line. And then when you factor in the Kevlar properties, things get even more interesting. The main differences to me are the slightly more plush feel, more power with full swings, less pop with shorter swings, and more dwell time for great feel and spin. The increased power is pretty clear in my data, for both Ruby paddles I've tested. Serve speed falls at the 88th percentile for the Ruby, versus 62nd percentile for the DBD, and 80th percentile for the BD. So the Ruby plays more like the BD power-wise, but with better control. I'd say the control is even better than the DBD. (Edit: the reason these percentiles are slightly different than the ones I used in the video is because I took out EVA foam paddles for these calculations; I forgot to do that in the video).
Thanks@@johnkewpickleball I appreciate you taking the time to explain these things and it is why I trust your work so much. Not looking for any more of your time, but just wonder if the concepts used in the Ruby could be somewhat done using CF. Mainly to replicate the weave or texture under the peel-ply. Then you could have two similar paddles for spin and possibly for power if you get the weights to be similar but different on pop v. control. I did see some comment from Six Zero Dale saying that they will likely do a thinner version of the Ruby. If they do that, I think they achieve more pop for those that are looking for that. Just rambling thoughts but thanks again for the great review and answering my questions.
@@markcrapeau4748 I do find it curious that other companies haven't experimented much with raw texture (peel-ply) over 3K woven carbon fiber. Props to Pickleball Apes for being the first to do it on a kevlar-carbon fiber weave (as far as I know). It's starting to happen with larger tows, like the 12K carbon fiber used in the Labs 006 (with peel-ply texture over it), and the Diadem Edge 18K (also with peel-ply). But off the top of my head, I don't know of any paddles with a 3K carbon fiber weave and raw peel-ply texture.
@johnkew I received my Ruby today and noticed that one side of it was gritty like the BD power and one side was almost as smooth as my DBD 14MM. Was yours like that or what may cause such thing? Poor quality control? Two difference version of the peel ply?
That's odd, I doubt it's two versions of peel ply. Maybe a slightly less 'fresh' face on one edge. You'll notice the rough feel decrease after a few hours of use, but the spin is still there. Probably just the thin ridges of the epoxy breaking off. Are you noticing any difference in spin from one side to the other?
Thanks for the reply John. I did some digging on Chris’s discord and it sounds like something others are seeing as well. I reached out to 6.0 support and they agreed this is not supposed to be the case and offered a refund but couldn’t exchange due to the paddle being out of stock. You’re right - I have noticed the “rough” side becoming less rough relatively quick but no both sides seem to play the same - in terms of their ability to generate spin.
Thanks for taking the time to share knowledge. Looking for next paddle currently playing Legacy pro, could you please tell me if Ruby has more power and pop? Thanks again
John, Great review as always. Any idea as to why the swing weight of the Ruby is higher than 16mm DBD? Rest of the spec seems the same except for the swing weight.
I have a Ruby and use it to drill with my Titan ball machine. I clean it after each session with an eraser, but it seems like the sweet spot is getting slick. I probably do 500 balls a day with my machine 5 days a week. Should I get a separate Ruby for play and just keep using this one for drilling?
Great review! Wondering if hand speed is noticeably slower with the Ruby compared to DBD? Seems like a few points difference shouldn’t be that noticeable…?
I don't notice too much difference in hand speed btwn the Ruby and DBD, but there is a small difference, mostly noticeable right after you switch from one to the other, and then you get used to it.
I have the Proline P Ape Energy and I placed some lead tape at 8 and 4. It now weighs 8.5 ounces and feels incredible. Would you still recommend the Ruby to replace the original PLE? Fantastic reviews, BTW.👍🏼
Glad you got your PLE dialed-in. I wouldn't necessarily recommend replacing it with the Ruby, especially if you're happy with it. The Ruby offers slightly different perks, but they're both great paddles.
Hey John; Does the brand of adhesive every get talked about in your research? Seems that could play some part in durability and delam or crushing issues.
Order came in a few days ago, immediate thoughts were this paddle was lacking power, I added lead tape, still felt weaker than my bread n butter filth. The spin was not as good either. I don’t measure rpms but I do the same slice technique and can see the ruby has less ball flight changing ability than filth or my volair. Ended up selling it after 2 days, just not for me 🤷♂️
Used your code and got the Volair Forza Mach 2 16mm! Will you be reviewing this soon? Curious on your thoughts of that high twist weight and wide-body shape.
hi, i got my ruby back in november. and as of the end of dec i have developed pain in my elbow. i loved the shot making with the ruby but i have had to put it down. switched back to my DBD 16mm and 14mm as well as the legacy and the pain has gone away. so wondering if yu have had hte same experience?? thanks or maybe i was over using it.
@johnkewpickleball Is there a break in period for Ruby? I used it today and I'm not satisfied with the performance. My 40$ paddle plays almost the same. Ruby is head heavy.
currently playing Ronbus R1 Pulsar, love the pop and power but dislike it on resets and dinks, any recommendations for a softer paddle without giving of too much pop and power? On good for control, was thinking of Loco or Apes Proline S??
How resistant is the Ruby to damage from tension as the surface layers compress and rebound the ball? Is it significantly different compared to raw carbon fiber paddles which have higher tensile strength?
Made the order based on your recommendation. Thanks for your videos. Wondering about cleaning the Kevlar face? Use an eraser like carbon fiber or something different? Thanks!
How does the grit feel to you after 2 weeks? I saw reports that it has already worn down significantly compared to the bottom of the paddle. Just a little concerned about that.
I started with the original Hyperion and weighted it per Ben Johns. Liked it but was very inexperienced . DBD came out to rave reviews. Weighted it as I had the Hyperion. Had lots of trouble. The "control" translated into lots of net errors. Went back to Hyperion but later decided to give the DBD another go. I compared both for total weight and longitudinal bakance point and thus removed some lead from the DBD: All from the top and some from the neck. DBD was better! Now, I find i am able to hit very hard drives with good top-spin with a tad more elevation. Now, deep drives, powerful serves, nuch fewer net errors and amazing control of power attacks! So ... many variables ... both technical and personal. Now, it's obvious that taking a reviewer's opinion is iffy. I thus most enjoy hearing a contrast with other paddles. Just MHO and I am very new to the sport. Who knows if two paddles off the same production line will play exactly the same?
I currently use the DBD 16mm and like the paddle and how it functions. You think shifting to ruby is a better upgrade? Or more beneficial as compared to DBD 16mm?
Hi John, Thank you for the review. I just ordered a Ruby (using your discount code) and will be going to it from a Double Black Diamond. Can you tell me if it's safe to use the carbon eraser on the Kevlar face?
How do suggest cleaning it? To keep your Ruby paddle in top condition, it's recommended to clean the surface with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the Aramid fiber face. For the handle, if it's leather, a mild leather cleaner can be used sparingly. It's best to clean your paddle after each use to maintain the textured surface's grip and overall performance. 🧼🏓 If you need more detailed care instructions or have specific concerns, please let me know, and I can look further into it for you! More detailed cleaning directions please. Absolutely, I'll provide you with more detailed cleaning instructions for your Ruby paddle. 🧽✨ Since the Ruby paddle is made with 100% DuPont™ Kevlar® fiber, it's important to treat it a bit differently than the raw carbon fiber-faced paddles. Here are the steps to ensure a thorough clean while maintaining the integrity of your paddle: 1. Gently wipe the surface of the paddle with a soft, damp cloth to remove any loose dirt or debris. It's best to use water only, as harsh chemicals can damage the Aramid fibers. 2. For more stubborn spots or to remove buildup from the textured surface, you can use a mild soap solution. Apply the soap solution to the cloth, not directly onto the paddle, and gently rub the affected areas. 3. Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe the paddle to remove any soap residue. 4. Allow the paddle to air dry completely before storing it or using it again. 5. For the handle, if it requires cleaning and is made of leather, use a leather cleaner according to the product's instructions, applying it sparingly with a soft cloth. It's important not to use the Six Zero Cleaning Rubber or any abrasive tools on the Kevlar® surface, as this could damage the material and affect the performance of your paddle. If you need further assistance or have any more questions, feel free to reach out. And remember, regular cleaning after use will help maintain the paddle's performance and longevity. Happy playing! 🏓😄 For any other inquiries or
My Ruby went from insanely gritty to smoother than my DBD. I do feel like my spin has dropped off considerably. Have you done any RPM retesting after several weeks of use? Thanks!
I haven’t retested, but I’m still getting good spin. There is a quick smoothing of the surface to the touch, as with all raw surfaces, as the sharp edges of the peel ply embossing shear off. But that doesn’t affect spin in any major way. So if there is a significant drop in spin, it could be defective
When I use edge tape, I usually go all the way around, mostly for aesthetic reasons. You can get away with tape just around the top if you don't mind the color discrepancy with the edge guard (or get the same color tape). But yes, it's always recommended to cover your lead tape with edge tape
Can you use the carbon eraser to clean the ruby paddle or the pickleball pars pro line energy paddle since they are made of Kevlar ? Would it damage the paddle?
