Monarch Jelly Bean Pickleball Paddle Review | Fun & Performance
11SIX24 Monarch Jelly Bean Pickleball Paddle Review
The 11SIX24 Monarch Jelly Bean might have a funny name, but it delivers exceptional performance for its price. This Gen 1.5 paddle is designed for beginner to intermediate players and advanced defensive players who prioritize control, forgiveness, and spin. The Jelly Bean features a widebody shape, an extended handle length, and is known for its oversized sweet spot and maneuverability. At under $100 after discount, it’s considered one of the best budget paddles that plays very well, providing high-end performance without the high-end price tag.
Monarch Jelly Bean Specifications
- Weight: 8.1 oz
- Dimensions: 15.8″ x 8.04″
- Thickness: 16mm
- Material: CFC Surface – Three layers: two Toray T700 carbon fiber layers with a fiberglass layer in between
- Handle Length: 5.75 inches
- Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches
- Core: 16mm Polypropylene Honeycomb
- Special Features: Perimeter foam injection, Unibody construction
- Price: $99.99 ($89.99 after discount code: PICKLETIP)
Performance Analysis
- Control/Feel: 9.5 – Outstanding control with a softer, more dwell time feel
- Power: 8.0 – More power than expected for a control paddle
- Spin: 9.5 – Exceptional spin due to longer dwell time
- Pop: 8.0 – Moderate pop with great responsiveness
- Forgiveness: 9.5 – High forgiveness on off-center hits
- Maneuverability: 9.5 – Excellent maneuverability with a low swing weight
Monarch Jelly Bean In-Depth Review
Design & Build Quality
The 11SIX24 Monarch Jelly Bean paddle is built with a unique CFC surface that combines three layers: two Toray T700 carbon fiber layers sandwiching a fiberglass layer. This construction provides durability and a highly responsive playing experience. The paddle’s unibody construction with perimeter foam ensures a solid feel with a larger sweet spot and better shock absorption. The Jelly Bean’s slightly narrower bottom and wider, flatter area toward the top help move the sweet spot higher on the face, which makes up for the shorter reach—a significant enhancement for a widebody paddle.
On-Court Performance
On the court, the Monarch Jelly Bean shines in control, spin, and maneuverability. As a non-thermoformed paddle, it provides a softer feel and longer dwell time, allowing players to shape the ball better. Despite being a control-oriented paddle, it offers more power and pop than most cold-pressed paddles, thanks to its fiberglass layer. The paddle excels in resets, blocks, dinks, and drops, making it one of the best under $100 for players looking to improve their soft game. Compared to the Mach 2 Forza 16mm, the Jelly Bean offers more offense and pop, ranking slightly above it in terms of power.
Control
The control offered by the Jelly Bean is top-notch. Players can easily place the ball where they want, making it ideal for precision shots, resets, and dinks. The paddle’s non-thermoformed construction allows for a softer feel, giving players more time to shape their shots. This makes it perfect for those who want to develop their control game.
Power
While not a pure power paddle, the Jelly Bean provides more power than typical control paddles due to its fiberglass layer. It strikes a perfect balance between control and offense, allowing players to hit powerful shots without sacrificing control. It offers slightly more power than the Mach 2 Forza 16mm, making it a great choice for those seeking a bit of extra punch.
Spin
Spin is another area where the Jelly Bean excels. The longer dwell time and CFC surface enable players to generate substantial spin, making it easier to control the ball’s trajectory and placement. This characteristic, combined with its unique surface, makes it one of the best paddles for spin in its price range.
Pop
The paddle offers moderate pop, making it responsive yet not overly stiff. This balance allows for both finesse shots and offensive plays when needed. The fiberglass layer adds to the pop, making it more dynamic compared to other cold-pressed paddles.
Forgiveness
With a high forgiveness rating, the Jelly Bean is perfect for players who may not always hit the sweet spot. The large sweet spot, enhanced by the perimeter foam, ensures that even off-center hits are well-controlled, making it an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate players. The slightly raised sweet spot due to its unique shape also aids in maintaining reach, a common concern with widebody paddles.
Maneuverability
The low swing weight of 110 allows for fast reactions at the net, making it ideal for quick volleys and rapid exchanges. The handle length also caters to both one-handed and two-handed players, adding to its versatility. The Jelly Bean is fast in every way, offering excellent speed for blocks and counters.
Monarch Jelly Bean Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional control and spin
- Great forgiveness with a large sweet spot
- Comfortable grip and handle length
- Excellent value under $100
- Durable CFC surface with perimeter foam for added stability
- Offers more power and pop compared to other cold-pressed paddles
Cons:
- Not as powerful as thermoformed paddles
- May lack reach for players used to elongated paddles
Player Feedback
Players who tested the Monarch Jelly Bean praised its exceptional control and spin capabilities. Many noted the paddle’s forgiving nature and its ability to perform well in resets and soft game situations. Some advanced players felt it lacked the power of thermoformed paddles, but it was still seen as a strong contender in its category, especially for its price point.
Final Thoughts
The 11SIX24 Monarch Jelly Bean is one of the best widebody paddles available under $100. I have not tested a better widebody paddle at this price point. It is an excellent option for players looking to step up from their starter paddles or seeking a control-focused paddle that doesn’t compromise on spin or power. It is ideal for beginner to intermediate players and advanced defensive style players who value control, forgiveness, and hand speed. Compared to other paddles like the Vatic Pro Prism Flash and Bread & Butter Fat Boy, the Jelly Bean offers more spin and control, making it a better option for players looking for precision in their game. Additionally, the Monarch Jelly Bean offers a longer handle for two-handed backhands..
Comparable Paddles
Q&A
What is the difference between a widebody and an elongated paddle?
A widebody paddle offers increased forgiveness and paddle speed but may sacrifice some reach compared to an elongated paddle.
Is the Monarch Jelly Bean paddle good for spin?
Yes, the paddle is excellent for spin due to its longer dwell time and unique CFC surface.
Who should use the Monarch Jelly Bean paddle?
It is perfect for beginner to intermediate players and also advanced defensive style players who prefer control, forgiveness, and spin.
How does the Monarch Jelly Bean compare to the Mach 2 Forza 16mm?
The Jelly Bean offers more offense and pop compared to the Mach 2 Forza 16mm, making it a better option for players looking for a bit more power in their game.
Where can I buy the 11SIX24 Monarch Jelly Bean?
This pickleball paddle can be purchased from the 11SIX24 website for $89.99 by using the discount code PICKLETIP
I’m really happy with this paddle. My resets and control shots feel smoother, and I’ve noticed a big improvement in my hands at the net. It’s not the most powerful paddle, but I find the control it offers helps me win more points. I’ve already let a bunch of friends play with it, and they’ve loved it too. Great buy!
This paddle is really solid. I’ve been using it for a couple of weeks, and my control is so much better now. It’s got a big sweet spot, and my backhand flicks are coming along nicely. I wish it had a little more power, but overall, this paddle has made a difference in my play. I would definitely recommend it!
This paddle is awesome. It’s lightweight and quick, and my shots feel a lot more accurate since I started using it. I like the grip a lot too. It’s comfortable to hold during longer games. I’m thinking of trying the all-court version next. Really happy with it! Big Sam Out!