The Omega Arctic by EngagePickleball is a great paddle for those looking to get into the game, or to just have a paddle for the casual play with friends. It is Polymer core paddle with a soft skin to provide plenty of power, feel and control. The Arctic paddle is one of the best made low-cost paddle (sub-$50) on the market. Made with the same premium trim and grips found on higher-end paddles. Most other paddles in the same price range have plastic trims with thin over-grip type grips. Not the Arctic. Why buy any other paddle on the market if you are new to the sport or a casual player.