13 Best Pickleball Paddles 2024 – Review & Buying Guide

Last Updated on January 18, 2024

We wanted to make things easier for you, so we put in the hard work of rigorously testing and reviewing Best pickleball paddles from various brands. We carefully examined their design, grip, control, power, weight, durability, and feel.

Now, we’re excited to share our insights with you to help you make an informed decision and discover the perfect pickleball paddle that fits your playing style.

Let’s dive into our research findings and get you one step closer to your pickleball goals!

Our Top Pick

Joola paddle is the ultimate winner, offering versatility, durability, and endorsed performance for superior ball control, fewer errors, and increased power.

List of Top Pickleball Paddles in 2024

We have created a list of some of the top pickleball paddles to help you choose the best one for you. We considered important factors like how well they perform, how much they cost, and how long they last, so you can make a smart decision and improve your game.

Best Overall: Joola Vision Pickleball Paddle

The Joola pickleball paddle has earned its place at the very top of the list, and for good reason. During my testing, I was blown away by its incredible features. The solid, mid-weight design delivers the perfect balance of power and control, making each shot a blast. And here’s the best part—it’s not just for pros; it’s a paddle for everyone! Whether you’re an intermediate player or a seasoned pro, this paddle has got your back.

But wait, there’s more! The paddle takes your ball control to a whole new level, making it easier to execute precise shots. It also works like magic in reducing those pesky pop-ups and errors that can disrupt your game. And when you need that extra punch of power, pace, or spin, the Joola paddle steps up and delivers like a true champion.

It’s no surprise that everyone’s raving about it, and it’s hands down the top choice on the list. If you want to up your pickleball game and experience the thrill of improved performance, this paddle is the way to go! Give it a try, and you’ll understand why it’s highly regarded among players of all levels.

ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle

The Onix Z5 Graphite paddle combines excellent control, balance, and touch with the stiffness to dominate your opponent. Due to the face’s design, this 45.72 x 27.94 x 7.62 cm Paddle provides superior ball control.

This paddle gives you power and precision, giving you total control over your game. The core of the racket produces strong and precise smashes, while the ball control face provides a smooth feel.

Further, the Graphite Carbon Fiber paddle offers superior control. Consequently, it’s perfect for pickleball players who play powerful shots and are experienced.

A lightweight graphite shaft and a durable plastic face make up this paddle’s standard grip. These pickleball paddles are made utilizing advanced high density graphite and paddle like this will give the player a better feel as well as greater control and maneuverability. This makes it useful for novice and intermediate players.

Why Onix Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle?

There is no better addition to any collection than graphite pickleball paddles! Graphite paddles are easier to handle than wooden paddles as they are less heavy.

This pickleball paddle provides the right combination of lightweight, maneuverability, power, and accuracy for beginners. Therefore, if you are a beginner, you should purchase this pickleball.

Paddletek Bantam Ex-L Composite Pickleball Paddle

Bantam EX-L Pro features polycarbonate technology that provides maximum power, spin, and control. The front of the paddle is medium weight with an authoritative feel.

More than half of the Elite US Team players, collegiate players, and more than 10,000 competitive pickleball players worldwide use this paddle.

With the advanced Bantam Polycore interior, it delivers superior responsiveness and power. Paddletek EX-L Pro Pickleball paddles are a true game-changer for serious players.

Additionally, the EX-L weighs between 7.8 and 8.4 ounces, maximizing power while maintaining control. A VELOX design enhances player comfort.

The Bantam is the perfect racquet for a severe player. This is a full-sized pickleball paddle with a poly-core composite core. With its extra-long length, many of your shots are easier to reach each grip has varying-sized holes that stick to your fingers for consistent motion every time.

This paddle also allows you to get the necessary power in front of your shot from the backline. In addition, this paddle is suitable for both amateurs and professionals. Aside from that, the EX-L Pro paddle is ideal for the intermediate player looking to take their game to the next level.

This Array Grip Size paddle is ideal for robust, professional players with quick reaction times. This 5″ length grip is made of EVA, and the tapered shape and lightweight make it easy to maneuver and control your shots!

This new EX-L Pro pickleball paddle has an extended length with a large sweet spot for play anywhere on the paddle. The EX-L has an interior rubber coating that offers more protection against slipping on your shots.

It also provides excellent traction control and will increase the speed of your player on softball lines.

Why Paddletek EX-L PRO Pickleball Paddle?

Bantam EX-L Pro paddle provides maximum power and control. The lightweight, top-weighted design produces more power and makes it easy to control the returns.

Bantam EX-L Pro is extremely strong and stable due to its medium-weighted, high-quality polycarbonate construction.

Selkirk Amped X5 Pickleball Paddle

The Selkirk Amplified Pickleball paddle offers a significant impact zone, so balls tend to bounce off the paddle. This is a lightweight paddle.

Also, its unique Amped design provides a modern look. this edge protectors are substantial yet hidden within the creation of the paddle, keeping it elegant and attractive. This Selkirk Paddle is made with extra padding to ensure comfort during gameplay.

The paddle offers a more extensive impact zone, and most of the balls will bounce off of your paddle instead of cycling over the edge. Your Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle is highly durable as well as eco-friendly.

As it is FSC certified, from certified sources of renewable wood. Selkirk is offering an average length of 15 ½ inches with a 4 ½ inch grip circumference.

The two-piece design features a 60-degree angle on each end for a consistent bounce. While incorporating a FiberFlex face to produce a sound that other players can hear from great distances.

It has a sturdy fiberglass core with strategically placed sidewalls to absorb vibration produced during high-speed rallies.

However, it produces a lightweight and high-performance paddle that is comfortable in all playing situations. This unique pickleball paddle design looks as good as it plays by including appealing graphics and colors on one side of the paddle blade.

Its average weight and range are about 7.5 ounces and 7.4-7.9 ounces, respectively.

Additionally, the size and shape of this paddle are ideal for exceptional all-around play, spin serves, and counterattacks. In fact, this Amped Pickleball paddle has FiberFlex face technology that allows you to play faster and more aggressively.

This paddle is crafted to be strong and very durable. It also comes with a beautiful and colorful design to make your game lively.

Why Selkirk Amped X5 Fiberglass Pickleball Paddle?

The Selkirk with FiberFlex face is a suitable paddle for those players who want to play with a paddle having a significant impact zone. Also, its unique Amped design offers a modern look.

The size and shape of this paddle are ideal for exceptional all-around play, spin serves, and counterattacks. Thus, it is a perfect choice for experienced pickleball players.

Gamma Legend NeuCore Pickleball Paddle

This paddle designs primarily for the competitive player who wants more than the standard recreational paddle. Any severe game player will notice the quality of construction.

The classic pickleball racket is constructed with significant NeuCore honeycomb technology. This paddle is lightweight and considerably more robust than the standard paddle.

Furthermore, these are prominent Gamma Honeycomb Cushion Grips. In fact, the Gamma Legend handle is as long as 4-3/4 inches. It has an exclusive material with large cells that dissipate energy during impact, giving you a softer feel. It contains large cells to create a quieter sound.

Further, Gamma Legend NeuCore Honeycomb Grip Pickleball Paddles have a USAPA Approved technology diameter of 1 inch. The paddle features a honeycomb cushion grip for sturdiness.

NeuCore paddles incorporate a 25% extra thick core. In fact, it helps to dampen ball impact sound and helps maintain ball speed for unmatched power and control. All paddles include a free introductory instructional brochure.

Additionally, it offers a solid feel and an excellent transfer of energy for a great ball reaction. The durable and lightweight composite honeycomb core ensures you’ll never over-hit the ball.

Moreover, it includes a honeycomb grip, 7.75 ounces, and an elongated face for an enhanced sweet spot. The slip-free honeycomb grip is simple to hold onto for improved swing precision.

The Gamma Legend NeuCore is a the pickleball paddle featuring a half-cored design that maximizes durability and absorbs shock.

This pickleball is available in various colors and is excellent for any skill level, making it ideal for pickleball players of any age. Thus, this particular paddle is designed for both Pros and beginners.

Why would you buy it?

In short, The Legend NeuCore paddle by Gamma – Try the new NeuCore paddle line and experience premium performance and unmatched feel.

The legendary honeycomb grip is smooth and easy on the hand. Thus, an excellent pick for those wanting to take their play to the professional level!

Niupipo Carbon Fiber Face Pickleball Paddle set

The Niupipo Carbon Fiber Face Paddle is a medium-weight pickleball paddle. This paddle is 12″ long and can be adjusted to fit individuals and players of all skill levels. it is made out of Carbon FiberAlloy, weighing only 230g (8-0z) with an overall 15-5/8 inches length.

it has a perfect 0.63″ L x 7.87″ W x 0.59″ H Lightweight paddle face for the player with wide-body movements and the paddle face dimensions allow the player to strike the ball with massive power while still providing wrist action, spin, power, and quick changes in hand placement.

This pickleball paddle gives players more control while swinging. Additionally, it comes with two neoprene paddles covers.

The 4-1/2 inch grip length is suitable for adults and children and it also comes in two different levels of weight:

The blades are made from Niupipo unique Carbon fiber to reduce shock and vibration. This paddle is perfect for those who suffer from hand fatigue or those with sensitive hands.

This paddle has a blade length of 3-11/16 inches which is making it the perfect Lightweight pickleball paddle for players at all levels.

It offers a medium level of power, making it great for beginners and intermediate players alike. The paddle comes with a Lifetime Warranty from the manufacturer.

The Neoprene Paddle Cover designs to protect the paddle from bumps or dust. Although it is designed for hard-hitting defensive players.

The iPF-2002 can be used effectively to set up attacking shots as well. The continuous taper of the blade provides plenty of string contact with enhanced power and top-spin performance.

Why Niupipo Carbon Fiber Pickleball paddle?

The Niupipo Carbon Fiber Face Widebody Pickleball Paddle designs for intermediate through advanced play at the recreation to intermediate levels. In fact, it is ideal for rec-level players or players looking for a lightweight pickleball paddle that offers excellent durability. Thus, it is recommended for recreational pickleball players or players.

Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Set

The Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Set is perfect for beginners to new players. The Amazin’ Aces set comes with two paddles and a mesh carry bag. It features a polymer honeycomb core face paired with a graphite face. Moreover, it has a hand-stitched grip for more power as well as perfect control. Enjoy your pickleball matches with Pickleball Pro Amazin’ Aces, a lightweight and portable pickleball paddle.

These high-quality paddles are more comfortable than aluminum, and they will not rust or dent like steel and are lighter than wood. They are easy to maintain and won’t twist or warp like plastic paddles either.

And they will beat up on your buddy’s cheap paddles every time. Each paddle weighs 8.3 oz. It’s perfect for children, teens, adults, and seniors! It’s lightweight, making it easy to swing for players of all ages and levels. The Amazin’ Aces Pickleball is a polymer honeycomb core, graphite-faced paddle with contour grip, and a quality leather strap.

The plastic paddles and balls allow players of all types of players. The durable polycarbonate paddles are lightweight and comfortable and will help take your game to the next level.

The graphite paddle engineers with a polymer honeycomb core, contour grip, and flexible graphite face. The paddle is hand-stitched and features the best smooth and comfortable handle rubber grip.

The 1.85 Pounds Amazin’ Aces Pickleball is a polymer honeycomb core, graphite-faced paddle with contour grip, and a quality leather strap. The 1-year warranty plastic paddles and balls allow players to learn beginning to professional level.

Why would you buy it?

In short, pickleball is one of the best on the list, with either two or four players on each side. Try it! This no-frills paddle features a polymer honeycomb core that is paired with a graphite face. Thus, this pickleball set is designed exclusively for players who want to improve their skills.

Prince Response Pro Pickleball Paddle

Prince’s Response Pro the best paddle results from several decades of improvement over tens of thousands of frames. The Response Pro responds to and complements every shot and play style with a broader face than the original Response model. The pips are designed to hold firm on contact with the ball even at higher swing speeds.

The innovative light/standard weight configuration and 2 grip circumference options (4 1/8 and 4 3/8). And XL grip length (5 1/2) provides an unprecedented level of customization. This new generation paddle has improved sweet spot size, reducing disruptive vibrations. Moreover, it is built from the highest quality components, this paddle’s 100%.

The Prince Pro Response paddle gives you the option to choose between 7.1oz or 7.7oz. And it depends on how light or heavy you would like the paddle to be. The two grip diameters allow the player to emphasize forehand vs. backhand gameplay while still feeling comfortable with their stroke. They are lightweight, so you don’t have to sacrifice power for control.

The Prince Pickleball Paddle Response Pro is the #1 choice of USAPA players rated 4.5+. These professional quality rackets include an enlarged sweet spot to make shots easier to hit. If you want a paddle that can help take your game to the next level, the Response Pro is for you.

The size of the sweet spot is enhanced on the Pro line. It provides a more predictable response from head to handle for more consistency and control. A new narrower frame profile also makes hitting difficult angles and close net shots easier. The Prince Paddle is the ultimate combination of style, craftsmanship, and performance.

Why would you buy it?

In short, Pair these rackets with your favorite entry-level balls, and enjoy the convenience of the Response Pro series. Perfect for recreational play, these rackets are an ideal pick for improving your game skills. Their lightweight design is comfortable to use. Thus, it’s made to withstand high-level competition – perfect for professional pickleball.

Gamma Poly Core

The new Gamma RZR Pickleball Paddle is an 8mm pure graphite paddle for the player to upgrade to a higher performance grade. The Poly Core technology enhances touch for consistent control. While just 7.6 oz. Provides supreme handle balance and swift hand motions while at the kitchen line.

The new textured graphite face enhances touch and control, whiles the 4-inch cushion grip. In fact, it provides extra cushion and comfort. The new RZR performance line will revolutionize the game with its lightweight, superior playing properties for the competitive pickleball player. It combines premium construction with technologies to create a balanced play experience.

The handle features Honeycomb Gamma Cushion Grip technology for extra cushion while providing superior control. To perfect your game, the paddle has an industry-leading textured graphite face that enhances touch and control to elevate your game to new heights. Thus, this paddle’s sensa-poly core technology adds an extra layer of speed.

In fact, control even at the lightest swing weight of only 7.6 ounces. The 4 inch Gamma texture gives you a sure grip on all of your serves. And the honeycombing cushion reduces impact shock for more comfort on your hands and wrists. Made to be lightweight and handle like a pro, this paddle offers a great feel and control to help you return shots with authority.

In addition, the textured graphite face enhances touch to help you put a spin on the ball without much effort. This paddle features a soft, cushioned 4″-diameter honeycomb-textured grip for best control. This paddle does it all in the kitchen, in the dining room, and at a picnic. Hence, it is perfect for people learning to play or professionals playing in tournaments.

Why would you buy it?

In short, the Gamma RZR paddle delivers the ultimate combination of craftsmanship and technology, wrapped up in a lightweight, stylish design. It is ideal for those seeking a better feel and control of the net and the durability to last. Thus, it’s a paddle that will help you reach new heights on the court.

Engage Pickleball Poach Review

The Engage Pickleball Poach Advantage paddle blends high-end materials with cutting-edge technology to deliver the ultimate power. This paddle boasts a unique Polymer Composite core enhanced with Control Pro Black Technology designed especially for hard-hitting, aggressive play. Designed to fit the demands of pickleball, this paddle is ideal for intermediate and advanced level play.

The patented P (D) technology gives this paddle a highly durable polymer composite core with a variable release 6-layer fiberglass polymer mixed skin for excellent control and feel. The Engage Pickleball Poach Advantage is approved for use in USAPA tournaments. Take control with a durable engagement paddle that provides comfort and superior pickleball maneuverability.

Crisp, responsive play is provided with our Proprietary Polymer Composite core. These new paddles spank other paddles, hands down. Made with a proprietary polymer composite core, these paddles retain less water weight and provide a more actual bounce.

In addition, the holes in the polymer face cradle the ball firmly to create more outstanding durability and stability. The Pickleball Poach Advantage has graphics and colors that pop and is designed to look like a paddle with net and lines. This 16″ long x 8″ wide paddle will help most players get the most out of the game.

The pickleball paddle features a hole in the centre to help control the ball’s direction. The grip on engagement paddles is designed to feel like the bottom of your shoe. So no matter how your wrist hits the ball, it feels comfortable and smooth. Engage Pickleball paddles are offered in multiple styles, colors, and weight patterns.

Why would you buy it?

In short, for better contact, play with the Engage Pickleball Poach paddle. The midsize grip provides excellent control over your shots. With its durable, high-quality construction, the Poach is best for play. Thus, this paddle is perfect for players to buy.

XS XSPAK Review

The XS XSPAK Lightweight Pickleball Paddles Set is another excellent product by U.S. Sports. Its pickleball paddles set will be loved by kids who are in love with pickleball. Further, the grips of the paddle consist of an overlapped 1/5″ edge guard. Great for all skill levels!

These Top Pickleball Paddles are designed for beginner and intermediate players. Polymer material makes a high-quality product for a low price. The pickleball paddles offer a medium grip circumference of 4 1/4″ and come in a paddle length of 15.6″ and paddle width of 8″.

Furthermore, XSPAK paddles are durable, portable, and are available in various colors. These are designed for intermediate to pro players. The paddles have a carbon fiber face for optimal accuracy for strength and improved durability. It is a high-quality starter set that gives you everything you need from the paddles, pickleball balls all the way down to the bag.

In addition, pickleball is a fun sport that helps develop hand-eye coordination while simultaneously boosting your fitness level. Packed in a convenient carrying/storage bag, this set includes two paddles, four balls, and everything you need to play. Perfectly suits intermediate and advanced players, as well as younger players just starting to learn the game.

In addition, they are handy for the game of paddle, which is similar to tennis. Its low-profile edge guard combines with a slick surface to give you high performance without sacrificing durability. I

improve your game by making some shots with this fantastic paddle set. These racquets are lightweight and exceptionally well balanced, which makes them easy to handle when starting out. 

Why would you buy it?

In short, excellent quality pickleball paddles for intermediate to high level expert players. Lightweight Pickleball Paddles Set is ideal for any beginners and for those who want to play leisure pickleball. Thus, these lightweight and the paddle help you to enjoy yourself more and better of this fun.

Paddletek Tempest Wave II Pickleball Paddle

This lightweight pickleball paddle is excellent for recreational play. And has the entire high-track performance grip you’d expect to find on expensive paddles.

Its durable honeycomb polymer core creates a light paddle weight for quick gameplay. The contoured edges provide excellent ball feedback.

All paddles are hand-made with 100% Canadian Maple. This paddle weighs in the 7.5-7.7 ounce range with a length in the 15 ⅞” range.  The lightweight but highly durable paddle is constructed with premium-grade wood products kiln-dried for maximum dimensional stability. Its low-profile edge guard combines with a slick surface to give you high performance without sacrificing durability.

A larger sweet spot area with rounded edges also helps to reduce bounce-outs and allows for more power and spin. Each paddle has an overgrip attached. The perfect grip handle ensures a comfortable play experience for players of all ages. Additionally, the foam polymer core decreases weight without sacrificing strength.

It offers an open sweet spot that has an excellent feel for soft shots, while the solid face design gives you the option of crushing the opposing team’s defense. The Tempest Wave II is a professional-quality, all-around paddle built with a comfortable, polymer honeycomb core and a large sweet spot.

The Tempest gives you excellent maneuverability and top-spin because of its thin profile. This paddle is ideal for anyone looking for a thin paddle. Moreover, it helps protect your arms from fatigue at the end of the game. Dense yet incredibly light, the Tempest Wave II offers an all-around great paddling feel, whether it’s hard or soft hitting.

Why would you buy it?

In short, pickleball is a fast-paced paddle sport played by people of all ages and fitness levels. This easy-to-play, fun activity makes its way into schools, retirement communities, and city parks nationwide.

Furthermore, it features a high-density, durable core and edge guard protection. The paddles are protected from core damage. Thus, pickleball is a sport suitable for all ages.

JP WinLook Review

Play on the go with the J.P. Official Outdoor Portable Pickleball Set. This portable set includes two 9-inch paddles, three pickleball on guard, and a large bag. The composite core for this racquet is made of graphite and allows you to play competitively.

The paddles are 7.8 oz. for a lightweight feel that helps with rapid strokes and strategy. Each paddle has an aluminum face and is 4 ¼ inches in grip size. A set is perfectly matched paddles that are made in the USA.

These are perfect fit for any player, you can rest assured knowing they are USAPA approved paddles with composite cores. The paddles are constructed of a combination of oak, ash, graphite for durability and longevity.

Whether you are a professional looking for a new paddle or just starting the game of pickleball, these paddles are for you. Furthermore, it is easily carried with the handle grip circumference at 4-1/4 inches. And it is constructed with 3 pickleball to get you to play with the pickleball game. The J.P. paddles are built for beginners to professionals.

Two paddles are included in the deal to allow you to play with a family member or friend when you buy the JP the pickleball paddle Set.

This pickleball paddle set provides more comfort and smoothness to play competitively right out of the box.

They are very lightweight due to the use of graphite in the core. The wood used gives the paddles reasonable control since they will travel through your hand slightly slower. However, they are still slim enough to promote the fluid momentum needed in high-level play.

Why would you buy it?

In short, The JP WinLook Pickleball paddles are the perfect equipment for the beginner looking to become familiar with the rules of playing pickleball or for the seasoned pickleball player.

The paddles are meant to be used for indoor and outdoor play, according to USAPA rules. Thus, the balls in this package will help get you started out right so you can learn to play this fun game.

Pickleball paddles are like any other complex product. They have many parts, some of which make the paddle better and others that don’t.

You have to figure out what factors matter to you, then figure out which paddles have them.

We’ve developed detailed factors that break down the features of pickleball paddles. We’ll walk through each element and explain what each does.

Essential Terms Before Buying a Pickleball Paddle

For people who are not used to playing pickleball, it’s essential to understand a few important terms for them.

• A paddle is the core piece of equipment and comes in 2 varieties – solid and composite.
• A solid paddle is made of wood and is a more traditional-looking paddle. A composite paddle is made entirely of plastic and is considered slightly lighter and more durable.
• The shaft is 1-7/8″ to 1-9/16″ in diameter and is either wood or graphite (a material made of graphite and resin).
• A grip is a material that wraps around the paddle and is made in plastic, rubber, or leather.
• A grommet is a metal ring that attaches a grip to the shaft. Most paddles are strung with 5 grommets.
• A handle is the part of the paddle that you hold. The grip and handle are both designed to prevent slippage when gripping the paddle.
• A grommet cover is a piece of rubber or leather placed over each grommet to prevent the string from slipping.
• Finally, a handle cover is a piece of rubber or leather placed over the handle to prevent sweat from slipping down it.

Types of the Pickleball Paddles

First, try to prefer the type of pickleball paddle that you are looking for. There are two primary types, each having its own pros and cons:

• Natural Pickleball Paddles
• Composite Pickleball Paddles

Natural pickleball paddles are made of wood (or synthetic materials) and usually come in one standard size. They include the Wilson Natural Series, the Dunlop Pickleball Paddles, and the ProKennex Series.

How to Choose Pickleball Paddles

We chose to write this guide to cut through the clutter and simplify the purchasing process so that you can find the best paddle:

• Select a grip size that is appropriate for your hand
• Select a weight that allows you to play the best
• Have a body shape type and build

Below, we describe how to decide your appropriate grip size, the perfect weight, and style. So please keep reading to learn about everything to consider.

Paddle Weight

Pickleball paddles typically weigh 6 to 14 ounces, and the weight affects power and control. Light paddles give you more control without sacrificing drive. Alternatively, a heavier paddle provides more power and drive, but less control.

In addition, a heavy paddle could put strain on your elbows and trigger fatigue in your arms.

Weight Ranges of Pickleball Paddle

Lightweight Paddle or Heavy Paddles?

The primary difference is that a lighter paddle necessitates a quicker reaction time and swing speed than a heavy-weight paddle. That’s why novices prefer heavy-weight variants. Because of their more significant deflection, hitting the ball requires less power and reaction time.

When it comes to games, though, speed is not everything. Light paddles are really good for beginners looking to learn the game, while heavier variants are for those who have already mastered the basics and want to improve.

Heavy paddles offer greater power when you hit the ball, but carry a greater risk of arm fatigue. Therefore, the heavier variants are not ideal for beginners. On the other hand, the lighter variants are popular among beginners. They lead to more shots, higher ball speeds, and quicker reactions, contributing to a better game.

However, beginners face another problem – these heavier paddles tend to cause arm fatigue, primarily when used for extended periods, which calls for a switch to a lighter variant. Beginners should ideally opt for 12″–15″ paddles, while more experienced players should weigh the options of the 17″–18″ variants.

Materials used in Pickleball Paddle

Pickleball paddles are made from three primary materials:

• Wood
• Composite
• Graphite

The heaviest paddles are made of wood and are also the least expensive. The temptation to buy a wood paddle may appeal to beginners or inexperienced players. But keep in mind the weight issue. Composite paddles offer a reasonable compromise. Their price range is mid-range, and they come in various weights and sizes.

Graphite paddles can be extremely light and powerful, but they are also the most expensive.

When choosing a paddle, it is advisable to try out a few and see what feels right and helps your game. If this is not an option, consider a paddle made of composite material in a mid-weight size. With this paddle, you’ll discover what to look for next time!

Wooden Paddles

Wood is the most common type of paddle and the least expensive. It is generally heavy but has a varied range of colors, wood grains, and designs.

Composite Paddles

Composite paddles typically include fiberglass or carbon fiber reinforcement and usually come in various colors, designs, and weights. They are generally lighter than wood but more expensive than wood paddles.

Graphite Paddles

The graphite paddles are lightweight and robust but are very expensive.

Polymer Paddles

A polymer paddle is created of a plastic and resin blend. They are very well known for being incredibly lightweight, that they’re the most affordable pickleball paddles on the market today.

The paddle you choose depends on several things.

Length of Pickleball Paddle

The length of a paddle can be significant, especially if you’re new to pickleball. Shorter paddles are easier to hit and are generally recommended for beginner players. However, longer paddles make it easier to block shots and dive for balls, so they are better for advanced players.

The length of the pickleball paddle is a trade-off. Most players, including me, use 48-inch paddles, which have a 3/4-inch face. That face is 1 1/16 inches longer than a 42-inch face, the same length as a 40-inch face.

Short paddle vs Long paddle

The main difference is that you move your hands and arms forward with a short paddle, such as the 36-inch face, allowing the balls to come at you more quickly, though with less feel. Playing with a short paddle will cause you to move faster, and you can reach further behind the ball and feel the ball more strongly, and playing with a long paddle slows you down.

Paddle surface size

A smaller surface (like a 29-inch) is suitable for new players because it generates more power and efficiently controls the ball. However, a giant head (like a 35-inch) generates more power and is excellent for advanced players.

Grip size

When you are going to pick a new pickleball paddle, consider the grip size. The right side of the grip is the next consideration. Always select a grip size that is appropriate for your hand. A pickleball paddle with a firm grip can slip out of your grip and cause injury. The relatively small grip provides more control and freedom of movement.

Larger grip

A larger grip provides more excellent stability. The best way is to experiment with new paddle grip sizes. If you are unsure in between the 2 sizes, then you must pick the grip  with a smaller size. If you think it’s too tiny, you can make it longer with duct tape.

Wrong or Bad Grip

The grip of a pickleball paddle is essential, as the false grip can cause blisters and pain. The handle should be long enough to fit both your hands without overlapping and wide enough to allow full finger placement. A bad grip is a poor stroke and gives you less control. A bad grip creates wasted energy that can damage your elbow, wrist, and hand.

Good Grip

When you are going to pick a new pickleball paddle, consider the grip size. The right side of the grip is the next consideration. Always select a grip size that is appropriate for your hand. Paddle with a firm grip can slip out of your grip and cause injury. The relatively small grip provides more control and freedom of movement.

Power vs Control

First, as with any sports equipment, you want one that fits your style of play. Are you a serve-and-volley or A rally player? A player who hits a lot of winners? Maybe a control-oriented player? Then it would help if you had a heavy paddle. If you are a power player, you probably want a lightweight implementation.

Second, consider your level of play. If you are a beginner player looking to improve, stick with lightweight paddles. If you are an intermediate starting from scratch, use a lightweight paddle.

Third, consider your playing conditions. Do you play indoors or outdoors? Indoors, you may want the extra weight for reasonable control. Outside, you may wish for a lightweight for more power.

Fourth, consider your playing surface. Do you play on concrete, clay, carpet, or wood? A control-oriented player should probably use a heavy paddle on wood, and an aggressive player will probably want to use a light paddle on wood. A serve-and-volley will probably want to use a heavy paddle on concrete or clay.

Pickleball Paddle Core Materials Guide

The pickleball paddle core is comprised of a variety of materials nowadays. Due to market competitiveness, paddle quality is increasing with the aid of cutting-edge technology.

Nomex Core

These paddles are light, flexible, and are great for all-around play. They are trendy for recreational play and perform best on hard or indoor courts or urethane-coated indoor courts.

Nomex cores are lighter and more flexible. These are 1.5 to 2.0 inches in diameter and are typically made with 2.75 inches of honeycomb sidewalls. Further, the sidewalls, which are reinforced by Kevlar fibers, are 0.375 inches thick.

Aluminum core

Aluminum cores are a little heavier but offer more power. The aluminum alloys used for paddle cores do not oxidize and maintain their mechanical properties over wide temperature ranges. Aluminum cores are 1.0 to 1.25 inches in diameter and are typically 3.0 inches thick.

 Their honeycomb walls are 0.6 inches thick and are hollow, which provides both strength and lightness. Aluminum cores are most popular in recreational play and on hard or indoor courts. They perform well on hard courts, with deep pips, and against opponents with similar playing styles.

Polypropylene core

Polypropylene cores are heavier but offer excellent spin. The better your balance and control, the more important these factors are. These cores have a very high abrasion resistance. They are resistant to modification in temperature and often cause corrosive materials to deteriorate.

Furthermore, these cores have a much smaller density than aluminum ones, so they weigh less, making it easier to swing a paddle. Moreover, they have a very high abrasion resistance and therefore don’t tend to wear down as quickly as aluminum cores.

Paddles’ Sound

The material makes the paddle sound different when you hit it with the paddleball, so other people in the room will hear what you’re doing.

Materials like Nome cores will also have a different feel when you hit them with your paddle, so you’ll also use more force. The additional weight might not be problematic for stronger players. Still, the extra effort and power required to hit the ball can be tiring and frustrating for players with weaker arms.

How to choose Pickleball paddle color?

Pickleball paddles come in all sorts of colors. Most are white, but many Pickleball brands offer black, red, blue, green, or purple colors.

Some colors are more associated with one brand than another. For example, Wilson has traditionally offered its paddles in white with a blue accent stripe. But in recent years, it has added more colors to its line – including red, purple, green, and black.

Some brands are better known for the color they offer. For example, paddles made by Extreme, Spalding, and Wilson are usually white. Still, Wilson also provides paddles in red, blue, green, and black. Just as important, different players prefer different colors.

what are the Price of Pickleball Paddle?

The best composite paddles are within the reach of most recreational players. But just to be sure, compare prices from several retailers.

This is especially so for high-end paddles, which have significant variations in price between retailers. If you’re buying online, check the retailer’s return policy; sometimes you can get a better price by returning a paddle you don’t like.

And check to see whether your paddle comes with a warranty. Most composite paddle companies warranty their paddles, but they may not cover damage caused by abuse or neglect.

For introductory paddles, which cost less than $100, price is probably the only factor that comes into play. A $100 paddle that’s good for 90 percent of players is probably worth the money; a $100 paddle good for 95 percent is worth the money.

The cost of pickleball paddles varies depending on the brand, and the material heavily influences the price of making the paddles.

Wooden paddles range from $25 to $345. You can expect to pay between $50 and $100 for composite pickleball paddles, and graphite pickleball paddles range from $100 to $250.

Furthermore, the cheapest paddle is not always a low-quality paddle, and a well-constructed composite paddle can negate the best blade in the game by costing considerably less. Therefore, paddlers should compare prices among the various manufacturers.

Conclusion

The best pickleball paddle in 2023 for you will be determined by your playing style as well as your personal preferences. A few paddles are better suited to a clear objective than others. Always keep in mind all the above-discussed factors while buying pickleball.

ONIX Z5 Graphite Carbon Fiber and Selkirk Amped are the top paddles in this list. Both are so lightweight, have the best grip, and are robust material. In addition, their prices are affordable for pro-level players as well.

All of the paddles mentioned in this review are test by experts and they are the Best Picks for 2023.

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Jhon Wells

Meet John Wells, the passionate pickleball player and founder of Pickleball Advisor. With his love for the sport, John has been on a mission to empower others to succeed in pickleball by providing comprehensive reviews of the latest pickleball gear since 2020.