- Paradox Black

First Impressions
The Track Paradox Black was released on November 14, 2017 and marks the return of one of the most successful concepts in the manufacturer's history. Visually the ball comes in a plain black and smoke pearl, which gives it an aggressive yet classy look. Inside works the proven asymmetric I-Core 2.0 (Dual Density), developed specifically for high flare potential. In a 15-pound ball this core provides a low 2.48 RG, a high 0.057 differential and a 0.015 intermediate differential. For the cover the Paradox Black uses the QR-9 Hybrid Reactive coverstock, which ships from the factory with a dull 500/2000 Abralon finish. This combination of a massive asymmetric core and a rough hybrid cover is designed to generate maximum traction on heavily oiled lanes.
Comparison The Paradox Black is technically identical to the original blue Track Paradox, but due to the pigmentation and the manufacturing process it should show a marginally later reaction and a more continuous backend motion. Compared to the Track Paradox Trilogy, which uses a QR-10 hybrid cover and a polished finish, the Paradox Black offers considerably more traction in oil and an earlier reaction in the midlane. While the Trilogy is designed for length and an angular breakpoint, the Paradox Black gets into a roll much earlier. Compared to the Storm Phaze II, the Paradox Black shows a stronger change of direction and higher flare potential thanks to its asymmetric core, which makes it superior on extreme oil. In contrast to the Track Mako, which offers even more overall hook coverage, the Paradox Black is more angular at the breakpoint and provides more recovery when the game has to be moved deeper inside.
On the Lanes The Track Paradox Black is a powerhouse for heavy to medium-heavy oil conditions. It was developed to still find the pocket when other balls are already sliding out on the oil film. The QR-9 hybrid surface delivers a quick response to friction, while the I-Core 2.0 makes sure the ball rolls stably through the transition. In practice the ball shows impressive continuation and strong pin action, since it stores energy efficiently despite the early friction. It works extremely well if you struggle to generate enough motion on long oil patterns, or as the first ball in a tournament player's set. Since the surface is very absorbent, it should be cleaned and refreshed regularly to maintain full performance. Once the lanes dry up significantly, however, the ball can react too early and lose its punch, which makes a move to a weaker pearl model necessary.