Last Updated on April 23, 2026 by Drew Pierce
If you’ve been following my journey, you know I’ve been a die-hard Engage Pursuit Pro MX (13mm) user for a long time. I lived for that “pingy” pop and the raw power it delivered on drives. But as my game moved into 4.0+ territory, my Engage MX started to feel like a liability. In fast-paced kitchen exchanges, the stiff 13mm core was just too “hot”—I was popping up dinks that should have been dead.
I needed a “cheat code”: a paddle with explosive drive power, elite spin longevity, and a handle longer than 5.5 inches for my two-handed backhand. Most importantly, I needed to fix my soft game without losing my identity as a power player.
After weeks of court testing, two Gen 4 monsters emerged as the top contenders: the 11six24 Hurache-X Power 2 and the Volair Shift EL.
11six24 Hurache-X Power 2 vs. Volair Shift EL: Comparison Table
| Feature | 11six24 Hurache-X Power 2 | Volair Shift EL (14mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Thickness | 16mm Gen 4 Floating Core | 14mm Dual-Density Foam |
| Handle Length | 6.0 Inches (Max Leverage) | 5.6 Inches |
| Swing Weight | 114 – 118 (Fast Hands) | 119 – 120 (Plow-through) |
| Spin Potential | 2,335 RPM (HexGrit) | 2,284 – 2,400 RPM |
| Best For | Reach & Soft Touch | Heavy Drives & Thin Feel |
The 11six24 Hurache-X Power 2: The Leverage King
The 11six24 Hurache-X Power 2 is a revelation for ex-tennis players. While I was initially worried that a 16mm core would feel “mushy,” the Gen 4 Floating Core technology actually feels more explosive than my old 13mm Engage.
The 6.0-inch handle is the star of the show. It provides massive leverage on serves and overheads. But the real “magic” is the HexGrit surface. In my testing, the spin didn’t fall off after 100+ games, unlike my previous carbon paddles that went “bald” in a month. If you want a plush feel that still hits a 94% power rating, this is your weapon.
The Volair Shift EL: The “Heavy” 14mm Hitter
If you’re a 14mm purist, the Volair Shift EL is the only paddle that has successfully replicated a 16mm touch in a thin frame. Volair engineered “flex zones” into the foam core that pocket the ball, giving you incredible dwell time.
When I’m at the kitchen, the Shift EL feels linear and honest. There are no “hot spots”—the ball goes exactly where you tell it to. It produces a heavy ball on drives that forces opponents to block high. With a 2284+ RPM spin rate, it’s a top-tier choice for players who win by curving the ball into the corners.
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Listen to the Live Broadcast →Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
- Buy the 11six24 Hurache-X Power 2 if you want the longest handle and the most forgiving sweet spot for dinking. It’s the ultimate all-court paddle that fixes your soft game instantly.
- Buy the Volair Shift EL if you want to keep the aerodynamic 14mm feel and want the most consistent, heavy-hitting drive in the game.