The Ultimate Pickleball Paddle Buying Guide

Pickleball is a fun and upcoming sport which is very exciting. Pickleball is a unique mix of badminton, table tennis and lawn tennis. It has gained a lot of popularity over the past decade.

There was a time when Pickleball was played only locally and barely anyone knew about it. Over the past few years, the popularity of Pickleball has increased tremendously. There is a lot of interest for Pickleball and people are playing it for leisure and professionally.

One of the best advantages of Pickleball over its other cousins, ping pong and tennis is that it can be played by all age groups. It is very simple and easy to learn so it is great for beginners.

The paddles can be light and you can play a match where you don’t need too much power so it’s perfect for kids and beginners. If you want to play power shots and have a good cardio exercise, you can play a fast and challenging game. The versatility of this game when it comes to the player’s expertise levels and the ease of playing it has slowly made it a favorite for thousands of players.

One issue though is that since Pickleball has gained so much popularity, there are hundreds of Pickleball Paddles on the market today from dozens of brands and manufacturers.

Choosing the Pickleball paddle which will be perfect for you in terms of construction, material used, weight and size gets difficult.

To save you time and to make sure that you get a Pickleball paddle that is most appropriate for you, we have researched the best Pickleball paddles in the market.

Each of the below ten Pickleball paddles are unique and each brand is perfect for a certain type of player. Read on to decide which is the best Pickleball paddle for you in 2025.

Detailed Analysis of 10 Pickleball Paddles

This comprehensive analysis evaluates 10 pickleball paddles based on their strengths, weaknesses, suitability, design, performance, value, specifications, and features.

The paddles were selected to cover a range of skill levels, playing styles, and budgets, ensuring you can find the right one for your needs.

Below, each paddle is presented in a pointwise format, followed by a summary table for quick comparison.

1. Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control

Why to Buy: Widely regarded as the best overall paddle for 2025, it offers an exceptional blend of power, control, and spin. Priced around $162, it’s a strong value for its high-quality Japanese Toray T700 carbon fiber and thermoformed construction. It includes a custom neoprene cover for protection.

Why To Pass: The 8.0 oz weight may feel heavy for players preferring lighter paddles. Some users report a slight learning curve for soft shots, requiring a few sessions to master.

Who It Suits: Ideal for players of all levels, from beginners to advanced, seeking a versatile paddle for all-court play. It’s particularly suited for those who value spin and control in competitive settings.

Design and Feel: Features a hybrid shape (16.3 inches long) with a raw carbon fiber face and a permanent textured surface for maximum spin Grip is ergonomic with a 5.5″ 3D Carbon Forged handle to reduce vibrations.

Performance: Delivers superior control and spin (up to 2000 RPMs), with a large sweet spot for consistent shots. The 16mm polymer honeycomb core provides a soft feel for touch shots, while the carbon fiber face adds power for drives.

Value for Money: Excellent value at $162, competing with pricier paddles like the JOOLA Hyperion while offering similar performance.

Paddle Specifications:

• Weight: 8.0 oz
• Length: 16.3 inches
• Width: ~8 inches (typical for hybrid shapes)
• Handle Length: 5.5 inches
• Grip Circumference: Medium (not specified)
• Face Material: Raw carbon fiber (TORAY T700)
• Core Material: Polymer honeycomb
• Core Thickness: 16mm
• Sweet Spot: Large

Features:

• High-quality Toray T700 carbon fiber for durability
• Thermoformed construction for control and spin
• Carbon Fusion Edge Technology for responsiveness
• Foam edgewall for vibration dampening
• Custom neoprene cover included
• Ergonomic 5.5″ handle for comfort

2. Selkirk SLK Evo Power 2.0

Why to Buy: Praised for its control and large sweet spot, it’s ideal for precision play. Priced around $100, it offers great value with a lifetime warranty and a cushioned SLK Ultra-Comfort Grip.

Why To Pass: May lack the power needed for aggressive play, making it less suitable for advanced players focused on drives.

Who It Suits: Best for intermediate to advanced players prioritizing control, as well as tennis converts due to its long handle and familiar feel.

Design and Feel: Standard shape with a C7-Flex Hybrid Fiberglass face and a 13mm polymer core. The SpinFlex surface enhances spin, and the medium grip is comfortable for extended play.

Performance: Excels in control with a large sweet spot for accurate shots. The fiberglass face provides decent spin, and the polymer core ensures a responsive feel, though it leans toward control over power.

Value for Money: Excellent at $100, offering high-end features at a budget price, backed by a lifetime warranty.

Paddle Specifications:

• Weight: 7.6-8.1 oz
• Length: 15 1/2 inches
• Width: 8 inches
• Handle Length: 5 inches
• Grip Circumference: 4 1/4″ (medium)
• Face Material: C7-Flex Hybrid Fiberglass
• Core Material: 13mm Rev-Power Polymer Honeycomb
• Core Thickness: 13mm
• Sweet Spot: Large

Features:

• SpinFlex surface for consistent spin
• Lightweight EdgeSentry edge guard
• Cushioned SLK Ultra-Comfort Grip
• Lifetime warranty
• USAPA-approved

3. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CGS 16

Why to Buy: Endorsed by Ben Johns, it’s a top-tier paddle for power and spin, with a Carbon Friction Surface (CFS) and USAPA approval. Priced at $212, it’s a premium choice with a lifetime warranty.

Why To Pass: Its 8.4 oz weight may be too heavy for players preferring lighter paddles, and it’s less beginner-friendly due to its advanced design.

Who It Suits: Advanced players seeking a powerful, all-court paddle for competitive play, especially those who favor heavier paddles.

Design and Feel: Elongated shape (16-1/2″ long) with a textured CFS for spin. The perforated, anti-slip grip is ideal for two-handed shots, and the carbon-forged handle adds flex.

Performance: Delivers high power and spin, with a large sweet spot enhanced by the Hyperfoam Edge Wall. The 16mm polymer core balances control and responsiveness for versatile play.

Value for Money: Good for serious players, though the $212 price may deter budget-conscious buyers. The lifetime warranty adds long-term value.

Paddle Specifications:

• Weight: 8.4 oz
• Length: 16-1/2 inches
• Width: ~8 inches (typical for elongated paddles)
• Handle Length: 5.5 inches
• Grip Circumference: Medium (not specified)
• Face Material: Carbon Friction Surface (CFS)
• Core Material: Polymer
• Core Thickness: 16mm
• Sweet Spot: Large

Features:

• CFS for maximum spin
• Hyperfoam Edge Wall for consistency
• Perforated, anti-slip grip
• Carbon-forged handle for power
• Lifetime warranty
• USAPA-approved

4. Paddletek Bantam EX-L

• Why to Buy: Offers a great balance of power and control, with a quiet polymer core ideal for noise-restricted communities. Priced at $99, it’s durable with a five-year “no dead spot” guarantee.
• Why To Pass: Slightly heavy at 7.8-8.4 oz, which may not suit players seeking lighter paddles.
• Who It Suits: Intermediate to advanced players needing a versatile paddle for all-court play, especially in quiet environments.
• Design and Feel: Standard shape with a velvet-textured polycarbonate face and a polymer honeycomb core. The Gamma Ultra Cushion Contour grip provides comfort and tack.
• Performance: Excels in power and spin, with an ample sweet spot for consistent shots. The quiet core ensures minimal noise, and the textured face enhances spin control.
• Value for Money: Excellent at $99, offering durability and performance comparable to pricier paddles.
• Paddle Specifications:
  • Weight: 7.8-8.4 oz
  • Length: 15 5/8 inches
  • Width: 7.75 inches
  • Handle Length: 5 1/8 inches
  • Grip Circumference: 4.25″ (small)
  • Face Material: Velvet-textured polycarbonate
  • Core Material: Polymer honeycomb
  • Core Thickness: ~13-16mm (typical)
  • Sweet Spot: Ample
• Features:
  • Quiet polymer core for noise-restricted areas
  • Velvet-textured surface for spin
  • Gamma Ultra Cushion Contour grip
  • Five-year “no dead spot” guarantee
  • USAPA-approved

5. Onix Composite Z5

• Why to Buy: A legendary paddle known for its touch and control, with a large sweet spot. Priced at $80, it’s a budget-friendly option for all skill levels.
• Why To Pass: At 7.5-8.2 oz, it may feel heavy for players preferring lighter paddles.
• Who It Suits: Beginners to advanced players seeking a forgiving paddle with a widebody shape for control-oriented play.
• Design and Feel: Widebody shape (15 1/2″ long, 8-1/8″ wide) with a graphite face and Nomex core. The perforated cushion grip offers medium tack and comfort.
• Performance: Provides excellent control and finesse, with a large sweet spot for consistent shots. The Nomex core adds power, making it versatile for all shots.
• Value for Money: Great at $80, offering reliable performance at a low cost.
• Paddle Specifications:
  • Weight: 7.5-8.2 oz
  • Length: 15 1/2 inches
  • Width: 8-1/8 inches
  • Handle Length: 5 inches
  • Grip Circumference: 4 1/4″ (medium)
  • Face Material: Graphite
  • Core Material: Nomex honeycomb
  • Core Thickness: ~13-16mm (typical)
  • Sweet Spot: Large
• Features:
  • Widebody shape for a large sweet spot
  • Graphite face for control
  • Nomex core for power
  • Perforated cushion grip
  • USAPA-approved

6. Friday Original

• Why to Buy: One of the best budget paddles, offering carbon fiber and thermoformed technology for $69.99 (2 for $99). It balances power, control, and spin, with a 99-day happiness guarantee.
• Why To Pass: The sweet spot is medium-sized, which may lead to mishits for some players.
• Who It Suits: Beginners and intermediates seeking an affordable, high-performance paddle for all-court play.
• Design and Feel: Standard shape with a carbon fiber face and polymer core. The textured surface enhances spin, and the grip is comfortable, with multiple color options.
• Performance: Delivers solid performance with high spin (over 2000 RPMs) and a lively feel. It’s versatile but may not match premium paddles in finesse.
• Value for Money: Outstanding, offering high-end features at a low price, especially with the 2-for-$99 deal.
• Paddle Specifications:
  • Weight: Medium (not specified)
  • Length: ~15-16 inches (typical)
  • Width: ~8 inches (typical)
  • Handle Length: Not specified
  • Grip Circumference: Not specified
  • Face Material: Carbon fiber
  • Core Material: Polymer
  • Core Thickness: Not specified
  • Sweet Spot: Medium-sized
• Features:
  • Carbon fiber face for durability
  • Thermoformed technology for performance
  • Multiple color designs
  • 99-day happiness guarantee
  • USAPA-approved

7. Vatic Pro PRISM Flash

• Why to Buy: Exceptional value at $99.99, offering control, spin, and power with TORAY T700 carbon fiber. Includes a paddle cover and a 99-day guarantee.
• Why To Pass: The sweet spot can be inconsistent, potentially affecting shot accuracy.
• Who It Suits: Intermediate players seeking a high-performance paddle at a budget price for all-court play.
• Design and Feel: Standard shape with a textured carbon fiber face and polymer core. Available in 14mm and 16mm thicknesses, with standard or long handle options.
• Performance: Excels in control and spin, with good power. The foam edge walls enhance durability, though the sweet spot’s inconsistency is a minor drawback.
• Value for Money: Excellent, rivaling paddles over $200 with similar features.
• Paddle Specifications:
  • Weight: 7.7-7.9 oz (14mm), 7.9-8.2 oz (16mm)
  • Length: 16.2 in (14mm), 16.3 in (16mm)
  • Width: ~8 inches (typical)
  • Handle Length: 5.3in (standard), 5.75in (long)
  • Grip Circumference: Not specified
  • Face Material: TORAY T700 carbon fiber
  • Core Material: Polymer
  • Core Thickness: 14mm or 16mm
  • Sweet Spot: Effective but inconsistent
• Features:
  • TORAY T700 carbon fiber for performance
  • Foam edge walls and unibody design
  • Multiple thickness and handle options
  • Paddle cover included
  • 99-day happiness guarantee
  • USAPA-approved

8. Engage Encore Pro

• Why to Buy: Offers a balanced mix of power, control, and spin, made in the USA with a lifetime warranty. Priced at $99.99, it’s a great value.
• Why To Pass: The handle may feel less premium compared to competitors, potentially affecting comfort.
• Who It Suits: Intermediate to advanced players seeking a versatile paddle for all-court play.
• Design and Feel: Standard shape with a fiberglass face and polymer core. The gritty surface enhances spin, and the perforated cushion grip is comfortable.
• Performance: Provides excellent control and decent power, with a large sweet spot for consistent shots. The gritty surface boosts spin for versatile play.
• Value for Money: Good, offering solid performance and durability at a reasonable price.
• Paddle Specifications:
  • Weight: 7.5-7.8 oz (LITE), 7.9-8.3 oz (Standard)
  • Length: 15 1/4 inches
  • Width: 8 inches
  • Handle Length: 4 3/4 inches
  • Grip Circumference: 4 1/4″ (medium)
  • Face Material: Fiberglass
  • Core Material: Polymer honeycomb
  • Core Thickness: ~15 mm
  • Sweet Spot: Large
• Features:
  • Fiberglass face for control
  • Gritty surface for spin
  • Perforated cushion grip
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Made in the USA
  • USAPA-approved

9. Gamma Sports Photon 2.0

• Why to Buy: Likely referring to a Gamma 2.0 series paddle (e.g., Atomic 2.0, Voltage 2.0), it offers excellent control and feel at $50-$70. USAPA-approved with a lifetime warranty.
• Why To Pass: May be noisy, unsuitable for quiet communities. Edge guards can chip, though covered by warranty.
• Who It Suits: Intermediate to advanced players prioritizing control and affordability.
• Design and Feel: Standard shape with a graphite or fiberglass face and polymer core. The honeycomb grip provides comfort and tack.
• Performance: Excels in control with a large sweet spot for precision. The polymer core ensures responsiveness, though power is moderate.
• Value for Money: Good, offering reliable performance at a low price.
• Paddle Specifications:
  • Weight: 7.5-8.5 oz (varies by model)
  • Length: ~15-16 inches
  • Width: ~8 inches
  • Handle Length: ~5 inches
  • Grip Circumference: 4 1/4″ (medium)
  • Face Material: Graphite or fiberglass
  • Core Material: Polymer honeycomb
  • Core Thickness: ~13-16mm
  • Sweet Spot: Large
• Features:
  • Graphite or fiberglass face for control
  • Polymer core for responsiveness
  • Honeycomb grip for comfort
  • Lifetime warranty
  • USAPA-approved

10. Selkirk Power Air Invikta

• Why to Buy: A top power paddle with high spin and maneuverability, featuring innovative Air Dynamic Throat technology. Priced at $250, it’s premium with a lifetime warranty.
• Why To Pass: Expensive and has a learning curve due to its unique feel and smaller sweet spot.
• Who It Suits: Advanced players seeking maximum power and spin for aggressive play.
• Design and Feel: Elongated shape (16.5″ long) with a hybrid carbon fiber and Fiberflex fiberglass face. The edgeless design and open-throat reduce drag.
• Performance: Exceptional power and spin (up to 2000 RPMs), with fast swing speed. The smaller sweet spot requires precision but rewards skilled players.
• Value for Money: Good for serious players, justified by its advanced technology and durability.
• Paddle Specifications:
  • Weight: 8.0 oz
  • Length: 16.5 inches
  • Width: ~7.5-8 inches
  • Handle Length: ~5.5 inches
  • Grip Circumference: Not specified
  • Face Material: Hybrid (carbon fiber and Fiberflex fiberglass)
  • Core Material: Polymer honeycomb
  • Core Thickness: 0.5 inches
  • Sweet Spot: Smaller
• Features:
  • Air Dynamic Throat for swing speed
  • ProSpin+ NextGen Texture for spin
  • Edgeless design for consistency
  • Lifetime warranty
  • USAPA-approved

Summary Table

Paddle	Weight (oz)	Price	Best For	Key Strength	Key Weakness
Six Zero DBD Control	8.0	$162	All levels	Balanced performance	Slight learning curve
Selkirk SLK Evo Power 2.0	7.6-8.1	$100	Intermediates	Control, large sweet spot	Less power
JOOLA Hyperion CGS 16	8.4	$212	Advanced	Power, spin	Heavy
Paddletek Bantam EX-L	7.8-8.4	$99	Intermediates	Quiet, durable	Slightly heavy
Onix Composite Z5	7.5-8.2	$80	All levels	Control, large sweet spot	Heavy for some
Friday Original	Medium	$69.99	Beginners	Budget-friendly	Smaller sweet spot
Vatic Pro PRISM Flash	7.7-8.2	$99.99	Intermediates	Value, spin	Inconsistent sweet spot
Engage Encore Pro	7.5-8.3	$99.99	Intermediates	Balanced, durable	Handle comfort
Gamma Photon 2.0	7.5-8.5	$50-$70	Intermediates	Control, affordable	Noisy
Selkirk Power Air Invikta	8.0	$250	Advanced	Power, spin	Expensive, small sweet spot

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Understanding Pickleball Paddle Types

Pickleball paddles are categorized by their construction materials, which influence weight, feel, power, control, and spin. The main types include:

• Wood Paddles: Heavy (10+ oz), durable, and cost-effective, best for beginners or casual play, but less suitable for competitive settings due to fatigue.
• Composite Paddles: Feature carbon fiber or fiberglass faces with cores like Nomex, aluminum, or polymer. They offer a balance of power, control, and spin, suitable for all levels.
• Graphite Paddles: Lightweight (6-9 oz), with graphite faces and various cores, ideal for control and maneuverability, popular among intermediate to advanced players.
• Foam Core Paddles: A 2025 innovation using materials like expanded polypropylene (EPP), offering softer feel, reduced vibration, and enhanced durability, great for control-focused players.
• Titanium Mesh Paddles: High-end with a titanium mesh layer for stiffness, paired with carbon fiber, designed for advanced players seeking maximum power and precision.

Key features to consider include weight (lightweight for control, heavyweight for power), grip size (4 1/4″ to 4 3/8″ standard), shape (elongated for reach, widebody for forgiveness), and noise level (polymer or foam for quieter play in noise-sensitive areas).

Feature Summary-Top 10 Best Pickleball Paddles for 2025

Paddle Name	Best For	Key Features	Weight Range	Price Range	Amazon Availability
Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control	All Levels	16mm polymer honeycomb core, raw carbon fiber face, textured surface	8.0 oz	~$150	Yes
Selkirk SLK Evo Power 2.0	Control-Focused Players	13mm Rev-Power Polymer Core, C7-Flex Hybrid Fiberglass face, SpinFlex surface	7.6-8.1 oz	~$100	Yes
JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CGS 16	Advanced, Power Players	16mm Response Polymer Core, textured Carbon Grip Surface, elongated shape	7.9 oz	~$212	Yes
Paddletek Bantam EX-L	Intermediate, Value	Bantam PolyCore, polycarbonate surface, ultra-cushion grip	7.8-8.4 oz	~$99	Yes
Onix Composite Z5	All Levels, Versatile	Nomex honeycomb core, fiberglass face	8.4-9.2 oz	~$80	Yes
Friday Original	Beginners, Budget	Thermoformed carbon fiber face, honeycomb core, 2-for-$99 deal	8.1 oz	~$69.99	Yes
Vatic Pro PRISM Flash	Budget Control	Composite construction, designed for precision, under $100	Not specified	~$90	Yes
Engage Encore Pro	Professional-Grade	Polymer core, fiberglass skin, large sweet spot	8.4 oz	~$120	Yes
Gamma Sports Photon 2.0	Control-Oriented	Aluminum core, fiberglass face, lightweight design	Not specified	~$110	Yes
Selkirk Power Air Invikta	Advanced, Power & Spin	FlexFoam Perimeter core, carbon fiber face with ProSpin+ texture, 8.0 oz	8.0 oz	~$250	Yes

Why is there a need for a Comfortable pickleball paddle?

A comfortable pickleball paddle can transform the game completely!  Your confidence level will be increased leading you to win more games. It is vital to find the right paddle with the much needed attributes complimenting your style of playing. Hence the right handle size and weight, the material, and the hitting surface size need to be looked at before buying a paddle.  The following are the advantages for buying the right paddle:

More power

Earlier, to play powerful shots, players had to go for the heavier paddles.  Today, this has thankfully changed because of the pickleball paddle modern technology.  Graphite, composite and polymer material paddles are lightweight but can deliver a powerful shot.  One such example is The Selkirk Sport 200P L which is a composite material power paddle. If you use the latest pickleball paddle that is comfortable for you, you will be able to deliver powerful shots easily.

Less body strain

A pickleball paddle that is not comfortable and is wrong can lead to injuries. For instance, for someone suffering from tendonitis, a light weight pickleball paddle could worsen the condition for them. This happens because the light weight paddle needs more movement while delivering powerful shots.  The elbow and the wrist also could feel more strain as a result of this.

How to Choose the Right Pickleball Paddle

Selecting the perfect paddle depends on your skill level, playing style, and preferences. Here are detailed considerations:

Skill Level:

Beginners: Opt for paddles with larger sweet spots and lighter weights to build confidence. Examples include the Friday Original (lightweight, forgiving) and Onix Composite Z5 (versatile for all levels).

Intermediate Players:

Choose paddles that offer a balance of power and control, such as the Selkirk SLK Evo Power 2.0 (control-focused) and Paddletek Bantam EX-L (value with power).

Advanced Players:

Invest in high-performance paddles with advanced features for power and spin, like the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CGS 16 and Selkirk Power Air Invikta.

Playing Style:

Power Players: Select paddles with stiffer cores and thinner faces for more pop, such as JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CGS 16 (16mm core, textured surface) and Paddletek Bantam EX-L (polycarbonate surface for power).

Control Players:

Choose paddles with softer cores and larger sweet spots for better touch, like Selkirk SLK Evo Power 2.0 (13mm polymer core) and Gamma Sports Photon 2.0 (aluminum core for feel).

All-Court Players:

Look for paddles that offer a good balance, such as Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control (balanced 16mm core) and Engage Encore Pro (polymer core for versatility).

Weight:

Lightweight (6-8 oz):

Easier to maneuver, ideal for control, reducing fatigue (e.g., Selkirk SLK Evo Power 2.0, Gamma Sports Photon 2.0).

Medium Weight (8-9 oz):

Balanced for most players, offering a mix of power and control (e.g., Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control, JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CGS 16).

Heavyweight (9-10 oz):

Provides more power but may cause fatigue, best for strong players (e.g., Onix Composite Z5).

Grip Size:

Choose a comfortable grip size (4 1/4″ to 4 3/8″), with options for overgrips to customize fit, ensuring control and reducing injury risk.

Paddle Shape:

Elongated:

Offers more reach, great for baseline players (e.g., JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CGS 16).

Widebody:

Larger hitting surface, more forgiving for beginners (e.g., Onix Composite Z5).

Oversized:

Maximizes hitting area but may be less maneuverable (e.g., Selkirk Power Air Invikta).

Core Material:

Polymer:

Quiet, good for control, ideal for noise-sensitive areas (e.g., Selkirk SLK Evo Power 2.0, Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control).

Nomex:

Loud, provides more power, great for aggressive players (e.g., Onix Composite Z5).

Foam:

New technology offering enhanced control and reduced vibration (e.g., Selkirk Power Air Invikta).

Face Material:

Carbon Fiber:

Lightweight, provides good spin and power (e.g., Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control, Friday Original).

Fiberglass:

Durable, offers a balance of power and control (e.g., Selkirk SLK Evo Power 2.0, Engage Encore Pro).

Graphite:

Lightweight, excellent for control and feel (e.g., Gamma Sports Photon 2.0).

Budget:

Prices range from $69.99 for budget options like the Friday Original to $250 for premium models like the Selkirk Power Air Invikta. Set a budget and look for paddles offering the best features within that range.

Maintenance and Care

To ensure optimal performance, inspect and replace worn grips, clean the paddle face with a damp cloth to preserve spin, and store in a protective case to prevent damage from impacts or environmental factors.

Questions You need To ask to find the perfect pickleball paddle?

There are many things that one needs to consider while purchasing a good pickleball paddle!  In this section you will find few questions you need to ask yourself based on different types of players.

Are you a beginner when it comes to pickleball?

For beginners and inexperienced players, a pickleball paddle that is lightweight and whose hitting surface is oversized, can be good for a start. Dinking will be made easier because of this. And one will have more chance when a fast shot heads towards them.

Check out the Engage Encore Paddle.  This has a composite paddle that is lightweight with fiberglass skin and polymer core.  It doesn’t make much noise. Hence your family will not be annoyed much when you practice at home. Because it is USAPA approved, you can play competitively using the pickleball paddle as and when your skills keep improving.

Are you a lightweight or young player?

Players with less strength intheir upper body mostly are at an advantage when using a paddle that is nicely balanced and having medium weight.  This paddle is heavy enough to deliver easy powerful shots and light enough to hold on for longer periods.

Pro-Lite Rebel Pickleball Paddle is one of the best pickleball paddles for lightweight players.  This has a large QuadCore™ polymer surface area which is very strong, very quiet and lightweight.  This is beneficial when you want a quiet paddle and will be practicing for hours together.  The mid-weight paddle is light enough to be held for a longer period and heavy enough to deliver easy powerful shots. This paddle is approved by the USAPA and comes with a good manufacturer’s warranty.  In other words, for a lightweight or young player, it is a solid paddle.

What type of shots do you like to go for?

You will understand your style of playing, the type of shots you prefer, only after a few months of playing pickleball. You could master dinking wearing down your opponents by delivering most accurate shots. Or, you could be a heavy hitter by delivering powerful shots right towards the back of the court thus putting a lot of pressure on your opponents. 

Do you want more power as compared to control?

 For those who prefer power over control, heavier paddles and those that provide a good amount of deflection are best. One such example is the Champion Pickleball Paddle. It is a graphite paddle whose inner core comprises of Nomex honeycomb. This combination supports deflection excellently and makes the feel snappy. And the best part is this weighs only 7.4 ounces.

Do you want more control as compared to power?

For those who prefer control over power, there are lightweight paddles that are super responsive and maneuverable . These are also known as the “touch” paddles which enable players to deliver consistent and precise shots.

A very good touch paddle is the GAMMA Premium Pickleball Paddle. Its face is made of fiberglass while the core is made of aluminum. This paddle is super responsive and fun to play with. The edge guard is narrow and the 4 inch grip is very comfortable.

What other racket games are you good at?

Experienced players of another sport that use a racket, will prefer a particular kind of paddle. In table tennis the bat used is lighter and smaller. Hence a table tennis player would prefer a medium weight or lightweight paddle as he or she will be used to using their wrists while playing the shots. They could opt for a heavier paddle if they wish to deliver more powerful shots.

For lawn tennis players, they are more used to using their arms and moving back and forth. Also their rackets are heavier that have a long reach. A perfect paddle here would be The Selkirk Sport Maxima 21P MXO.

This paddle is made from composite polymer and its hitting surface is elongated. This paddle is most preferred by long tennis players as they can deliver out of reach shots easily. Also they are comfortable with it as it is a longer paddle. 

Where are you playing? Outdoors or indoors?

When you are playing outdoors, try to choose a UV resistant coating paddle apart from a strong edge guard paddle. This edge guard helps in protecting the paddle when dropped on an asphalt or concrete court. 

Are you planning to play pickleball professionally?

Pickleball is a sport that is very addictive!  Before you realize it, you will become a regular player and will be very eager to compete with other good talented players to test your playing skills. On becoming very serious about playing this game, you might prefer keeping different kinds of paddles to deliver different type of shots depending on the opponents, the weather and the game type. Some of the types are:

Are you playing Doubles or Singles games?

When playing along with a partner, one may follow a strategy that needs them to deliver certain type of shots more frequently.  For instance, you may be delivering targeted shots in between your two opponents or may be sometimes on the sidelines.  In such situations, a lighter paddle helps get more accuracy.

What is the Distinctive style of your opponent?

Many of the opponents have a particular play style. Delivering powerful shots to the back of the court or engage in fast volleys could be their style.  On recognizing their style of play, you will require a particular kind of pickleball paddle to respond to their shots successfully. For instance, a lightweight paddle helps combat your opponent’s fast-paced volleying.

How is The weather?

The weather conditions also can demand a particular type of pickleball paddle! On a very windy day, a heavier pickleball paddle will come in handy to get more power on the shots and keep them in bounds.

So many jargon and considerations?

Let me tell you some of the most important things that help you get started quickly on the ground. After that you can improve with other considerations as advised above:

What are the most important 3 things one must consider when shopping for a Pickball Paddle?

More than 80 different kinds of pickleball paddles are sold.  Finding the right paddle as per your needs can be difficult a bit.  It would be best if one could be allowed to try the different kind of paddles available in the market before zeroing down on the best one that meets their requirements, however not all customers have the option to try it before buying it.  Given below are three main points one should consider while searching for the right pickleball paddle that one would want to buy. 

Price

A really good composite pickleball paddle price starts from $80.

Paddles have three categories:

• Wood pickleball paddles which have a prices range from $20-$50
• Composite pickleball paddles which have a price range from $60-$150
• Graphite pickleball paddles which have a price range from $80-$155.

The ones that are least expensive are the Wood paddles. However, these are very heavy paddles that have a solid plywood core.  Hence the pickleball POP is not that wonderful which players prefer mostly.

It has been noticed that the customers who had bought the wood paddles, and tested composite paddles of other players, called to place their second order either for the graphite or composite paddle. 

For anyone for whom pickleball is new and they are looking to buy their first paddle, they must buy an inexpensive graphite or composite paddle before trying out the others.

Weight

One of the most crucial factors in deciding a paddle is its weight. These paddles weight range from six to fourteen ounces.

Graphite or composite paddles mostly weight between six to nine ounces.  The feel of the paddle on a court when picked up and swung, is determined by the weight of the paddle.

 The paddle weight choice depends on ones comfort and fitness level, unless there are some pre-existing injuries.

You will be able to hit the pickleball if the paddle is heavy, but this will not give you full control on the ball.

Also note, a heavier paddle increases fatigue in the arm. This could also strain the elbow.  But, a lighter paddle though will give more ball control, it will not support enough drive. 

Grip Size

A correct grip size for the hand is important in order to play well with the paddle. A loose paddle grip or an extra large grip could injure the elbow, as the paddle could slip.

Hence, whenever you have to chose between trying two sizes, always go first for the smaller size. These smaller grips support more action of the wrist which facilitate easy spinning of the ball and increased ball control.

You can give powerful serves as a result of the wrist action.  This also helps those players who prefer quick changes from one hand to another where in during play they switch hands. A pickleball paddle with larger grips provides stability and is easier on the arm.

Hence, it is very important to have the right size paddle that is just right for you. Pickleball players who are competitive mostly customize the grips of their paddle.

They use an over-grip and re-wrap their paddle so that it will fit their hand perfectly.

Conclusion–Best Pickleball Paddle Reviews

The pickleball paddle market in 2025 offers diverse options, from the versatile Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control to the powerful Selkirk Power Air Invikta.

By considering skill level, playing style, weight, and budget, you can select a paddle that enhances your game.

All listed paddles are available on Amazon, ensuring easy access to quality gear. Whether you’re a beginner or aiming for professional play, the right paddle can transform your performance on the court.