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Friday Aura W vs Gherkin Wraith S

Side-by-side comparison with lab-tested specs

Specs Comparison

Spec
Friday Aura W
Gherkin Wraith S
Price
$129
$135
Swing Weight
106
107
Twist Weight
6.44
6.5
Weight
7.8 oz
8 oz
Core
16mm
16mm
Power
56.3 MPH
56.6 MPH
Pop
36.5 MPH
36.5 MPH
Spin
—
2043 RPM
Shape
Wide body
Wide body
Face
Composite
Carbon
Build
Gen 4
Gen 3
Balance
234mm
232mm

Friday Aura W

This paddle delivers mid-range 56.3 MPH power, plush 16mm+ feel — a versatile option in a wide body shape.

Pros

  • +Quick hands — swing weight of 106 is in the bottom 10% (avg 114), easy to maneuver
  • +Wide body maximizes the sweet spot for more forgiveness on off-center hits
  • +Thick core (16mm+) provides a soft, controlled feel with a large sweet spot
  • +Great value at $129 — cheaper than 88% of paddles (avg $197)
  • +Latest-generation thermoformed construction for premium feel and consistency

Cons

  • −Very light swing weight of 106 (bottom 10%) sacrifices power and plow-through
  • −Shorter face reduces reach compared to elongated paddles
  • −Thick core trades some pop and hand speed for control

Best For

Doubles SpecialistsBudget-Conscious Buyers
Buy at Official StoreAlso on Amazon
Code: PBEFFECT
Full details

Gherkin Wraith S

This paddle delivers mid-range 56.6 MPH power, plush 16mm+ feel — a all-court option in a wide body shape.

Pros

  • +Quick hands — swing weight of 107 is in the 13th percentile (avg 114), easy to maneuver
  • +Wide body maximizes the sweet spot for more forgiveness on off-center hits
  • +Thick core (16mm+) provides a soft, controlled feel with a large sweet spot
  • +Great value at $135 — cheaper than 85% of paddles (avg $197)
  • +Latest-generation thermoformed construction for premium feel and consistency

Cons

  • −Shorter face reduces reach compared to elongated paddles
  • −Thick core trades some pop and hand speed for control

Best For

BeginnersAdvanced / Tournament PlayersDoubles SpecialistsBudget-Conscious Buyers
Buy at Official StoreAlso on Amazon
Code: PBEFFECT
Full details

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