A-1 Paddleball A1GC-18FR 'Teardrop' Paddleball Paddle

After years of development, we’re thrilled to unveil the A1GC-18-FR “Tear Drop” shape paddle, a flagship model to our 2K25 collection.This model is part of an innovative new series featuring six distinct designs, all built using our proprietary tear drop shape mold. This unique mold design was carefully developed by A-1’s team to ensure a paddle that was perfectly balanced, lightweight, plus offers the greatest amount of power, control and durability.

One of several standout features of the A1GC-18-FR is its hole-free design, producing the largest sweet spot of any tear drop paddle. The sleek, smooth, proprietary Poly-X Transparent Coating finish reveals the advanced 3K carbon fiber face, elevating both the look and feel of the paddle. The lack of surface texture grit was intentional.  The Poly-X coating applied to the paddle face helps to ensure optimal contact between the ball and racket face is superior, providing the ability to create greater spin when desired, delivering unmatched power, control, and responsiveness. Its lightweight build ensures quicker swing speeds, making your game faster and more dynamic than ever before.

The slightly rectangular handle was designed for ultimate comfort, offering a symmetrical shape that fits any hand size.   It was specifically designed to be a bit small, accommodating a smaller hand, but can easily be customized using grip tape for those who prefer a larger handle.   The unique handle shape allows a player to instinctively orient the paddle with the face forward, purely by feel. The ergonomic butt is precisely tapered, with a smooth, seamless edge,    unlike the sharp-edged, slip-on plastic butts found on most other paddles. The full 5-inch handle adds extra reach and leverage, boosting both swing speed and power.  For added convenience, the paddle includes a built-in pin at the butt for easy attachment of a tether string.

The full 3k face material coupled with an 18-degree shock-absorbing EVA core gives this paddle exceptional power while maintaining maximum control.

Built with premium materials and rigorously tested, the A1GC-18-FR paddle delivers a perfect combination of power, control, and durability, suitable for players of all skill levels.  A-1 engineers spent countless hours perfecting the size, shape, balance, and materials use,d resulting in a paddle that we promise will not disappoint!  Our fresh design is bold, dynamic, and makes a statement like never before!  This paddle is guaranteed to elevate your game to new heights.

Face Material: Full 3K Carbon Fiber
EVA Core: Medium-Density / 18-20 Degree Hardness
Face Texture: Smooth (No Grit)
Hole Pattern: None
Weight: 320g / 11.28 oz. (+-5g)
Frame: 100% Carbon Fiber
Size: 216mm x 435mm / 8.5” x 17.125”
Balancing Point: Approx. 6.5” From Top
Profile: 20mm / 3/4”
Grip Circumference: 3.25”
Grip Material: Rubber Padded
Butt Circumference: 5”
Handle Length: 5”
Best For “Small” Ball or “Big Blue” Ball

• UNIBODY FRAME: Every A-1 paddle features an exceptionally strong carbon fiber frame. It’s one of the most important materials used in making A-1 Paddles. This high performance material is known for its strength and lightweight properties. Unlike other brands that connect the handle to a separate paddle face, which creates weak points at the joint and leads to unwanted flex and potential breakage, A-1 paddles are engineered with a continuous carbon fiber frame that runs seamlessly from the top of the paddle all the way through the handle. This integrated design enhances the paddle's stiffness, delivering increased responsiveness, power, and durability—ensuring more accurate, controlled shots.
• PADDLE FACE MATERIAL: Full 3K Carbon Fiber face for superior rebound and rigidity, offering excellent power
• PADDLE-FACE TEXTURE & HOLE PATTERN: The A1GC-18-FR has no grit or holes on the paddle face by design. It’s a popular choice for players seeking the ideal balance of spin, control, and precision. The lack of surface texture grit was intentional as well. The proprietary Poly-X Transparent Coating applied to the paddle face helps to ensure optimal contact between the ball and racket face is superior, providing the ability to create greater spin when desired - delivering unmatched power, durability, control and responsiveness. No texture option provides the perfect grip to generate consistent spin across all levels of play, while ensuring exceptional control. This tear-drop design, intentionally free of holes, enhances the sweet spot, delivering remarkable power without compromising on control. It’s the ideal paddle for players who demand both power, control and precision in their game.
• EVA CORE MATERIAL: EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) rubber is a premium choice for paddleball racket cores. A-1 paddles use two specific, advanced EVA densities to enhance performance. The 18-degree core, used on this model, offers a perfect blend of softness, flexibility and rebound, maximizing attacking power, while, the 15 degree core offers exceptional control while still providing solid striking power. Both cores feature excellent shock-absorbing properties that minimize impact on your arm and wrist, making them especially beneficial for players prone to injuries. These high-performance cores are used exclusively in every A-1 paddle.
• HANDLE/BUTT DESIGN: This new generation of paddle features a proprietary handle and butt design focused on comfort and performance. The symmetrical butt and slightly rectangular handle provides a secure, comfortable grip for all hand sizes, designed smaller for smaller hands but customizable with grip tape for larger ones. Unlike most paddles with sharp-edged, detachable eight-sided plastic butt caps, our paddles feature an ergonomically molded butt which blends seamlessly into the handle, ensuring a smooth edge experience for improved comfort and feel. Additionally, a pin is built into the butt which allows for a tether to easily be attached if desired.