10 Best Pickleball Paddles in 2022: Editor’s Choices after Testing

Whether you do believe it or not, but choosing the best Pickleball paddles among the pile can, indeed, be quite challenging. In all honesty, you should always make your choice based upon your playing style and persona. 

For example, if you are more of an aggressive player, you can choose the heavier ones to generate more power. Conversely, if you like to defeat your opponents with your brain and not your brawn, then the lightweight models should be your go-to option. 

Nonetheless, the list does not end here. Besides choosing between these, you will also have to check out its grip size, core materials, and many more. Sounds too tiring, right? Hence, to save you from the researching job, we have compiled a list of the best paddles in the market. 

We have tried to cover almost everything in this aspect. So, make sure to go through the models meticulously. Otherwise, you may miss out on a few things and choose the wrong one for your purpose. Our experts of HonestPlayers has shortened the reviews of these paddle for your easiness.

Best Pickleball Paddles

Our Top 10 Picks for the Best Pickleball Paddles 2021:

10. Prolite Magnum Pickle Paddle

Prolite Magnum Pickle Paddle – Best Graphite Pickleball Paddle

Are you more of a technical player and strive to confuse your opponents with your exquisite topspins? Then, Magnum from Prolite should be the right Pickleball paddle for you. The product comes with a decent design and a firm handle, which perfectly fits one’s hand.

Moreover, there are around four different color options, too, available for the model. So, you will surely be able to find the one that suits your style perfectly. However, the only hitch is that it can be a little bit pricey. Otherwise, it should be an elegant option for you.

Build and Efficiency

In essence, the Prolite Magnum is new in the market. Therefore, in terms of build, it features almost all the latest trends in the market. For example, it comes with a Nomex-made core, which is both durable and lightweight. Therefore, with it in your arsenal, you can generate decent power and swerve while striking the balls.

That’s not all. The honeycomb core design can also help you to add some topspin to confuse your opponent entirely. Also, the overall durability of the paddle is quite top-notch as well. It has a smooth outline, which makes it easier for you to hit the ball correctly.

The external section of the bat has been made with responsive graphite carbon fiber. Therefore, with it, you can comfortably defend the powerful shots without losing control at all. 

The handle of the model is pretty much ergonomic as well. Besides, Prolite has also included the coveted Contour grip to make things more convenient for you. 

Specifications 

The core of the model is made from Nomex Honeycomb material, which is pretty light but durable. Besides, the model weighs around 6.5-6.8 ounces. 

Therefore, it can produce a decent amount of power while generating some spins as well. The Low-Profile 

Tapered Edge can prevent the damages of the product quite efficiently. Lastly, as it follows all the USAPA-based specifications, you can certainly use it in the tournaments.

PROS
• Does not weigh much
• Quite durable
• Ergonomic handle
• Huge sweet spot
• Perfect for both novices and pros
CONS
• Can be a bit expensive for a few
• The usage of the core could have been better.

09. E.P. Engage Encore 6.0 Pickleball Paddle

E.P. Engage Encore 6.0 Pickleball Paddle – Best Composite Pickleball Paddle

Since its inception, the Pickleball of range of Engage has been quite popular among both beginners and professionals. However, to make the brand even more prominent in the market, E.P. Engage has recently launched a new variant in the same lining, known as Encore.

The model is highly robust and lightweight. Thus, if you can use it to perfection, you will win against almost anyone. Nonetheless, there’s a hitch. The product was made solely for the professional and experienced players. 

Hence, it won’t be a decent option for newbie players.

Build and Efficiency 

The overall build of the product seems to be quite decent. For starters, it comes with a paddle face made of the coveted FiberTek Skin. It, in turn, provides the product with a fair bit of forgiveness and enhances your chances of spinning the ball. Moreover, it reduces the overall vibration-related issues as well. 

The paddle face of the product measures around 8.5-inches. Therefore, you can strike the balls correctly and, while doing so, have a high chance of hitting the sweet spot! 

The edge guard of the product is quite thick as well. Hence, it can comfortably block the damages that might occur when the balls hit in these sections. Anyway, let’s move on to the core of the paddle, which has been made with polymer and can generate enthralling power even with the faintest hits.

[For a Similar Experience: Head Extreme Tour Pickleball Paddle Review]

Furthermore, it also helps distribute the force throughout the ball’s surroundings owing to the ControlPro Polymer technology. Therefore, if you want to, you can mishmash between power and technicality with this model. 

Specifications

The handle of the model comes with a length of 5 inches. Hence, if you tend to hold the paddles with both of your hands, it should be perfect for you. 

Besides, there are two gripping options (4-3/8 inches and 4-1/8 inches) available with the product. Thus, you can test each of them out to find the one that suits your grip perfectly.  

PROS
• Available in ten different colour options
• Perfect for professionals
• Decent spin production
• Offers perfect balance
• Provides more control and power in every shot
CONS
• Not beginner-friendly
• Expensive

08. Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddles

Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddles - Best Fiberglass Pickleball Paddle

Since the last few years, Selkirk hasn’t launched a lot of products in the market. However, whatever the brand has released, in the meantime, has been a top hit since among the players. Amidst them, the Selkirk Amped is considered to be the most popular one. 

For starters, the model’s design and color scheme look quite attractive. It does come with an ergonomic handle, which can be gripped quite proficiently. Moreover, like any other good Pickleball paddle, it, too, features a high-end edge guard. 

Build and Efficiency 

So, let’s start by looking at the product’s overall durability first. As you can already guess, the face of the paddle has been made with FiberFlex fiberglass. Hence, it would not take a massive swing to produce enough power on the shot. 

Secondly, to manufacture the core of their offering, Selkirk has used pure polypropylene material. Owing to this, the model generally does not weigh much and, thus, can offer decent swerves and spins as well.

Thirdly, Selkirk has also reinforced its model with durable edge guards to help it to last for a prolonged period. The unique Unibody design of the model increases its overall durability even more and amplifies its capabilities as well.

Last yet not least, the model also features yet another advanced feature known as Edgesentry Tech. It is a type of guarding layer that lowers the overall weightiness of the product and makes it feel more balanced.

Specifications 

The Selkirk Amped comes with two weight options: mid-weight (8.4 ounces) and lightweight (7.9 ounces).

If you require a little bit more power, then you can choose the former. However, if your game is all about spins and swerves, then the latter should be ideal for you. The paddle comes with a length of 16.5-inch. Hence, it becomes more comfortable for the players to hit the sweet spot perfectly.

[Better Specs: Gamma voltage 2.0 Pickleball Paddle Review]

Also, the grip length of the model (5.5-inch) is quite decent as well. It would benefit those players more who tend to hold the paddles with both of their hands! 

PROS
• It has a balanced weight
• Excellent placement of the edge guards
• Offers a superior ball control
• Comes with a wide variety of colour choices
• Proficiently dampens the vibrations
CONS
• The paddle core quality could have been better
• Its produced power might not be enough for a few players.

If you want a similar paddle in budget, you should read our Head Extreme Tour Pickleball Paddle Review.

07. Prince Spectrum Pro Pickleball Paddle

Prince Spectrum Pro Pickleball Paddle - Best Large Grip Pickleball Paddle

Whether you are more of a power-enthused player or an avid follower of different strategies, the Prince Spectrum Pro can be perfect for each case. The paddle is highly maneuverable and, thus, can be swung without making any efforts. Moreover, it can also help you add that dangerous swerving touch when you are defending a powerful shot. So, in a way, it is a must-have weapon for you if you want to become better in this area.

Build and Efficiency 

As we were saying before, the model offers decent topspins, even with a mere touch. However, it is the composite-made face of the product that helps it to achieve that extraordinary feat. There is a two-layer skin attached in this section that improves its efficiency and durability even more.

On the other hand, the paddle’s internal section sits a durable honeycomb core, offering robust power and supremacy over the shots. Unlike the same of a few different models, the core material in this one also boasts high durability and stays intact even after completing a lot of games with it.

Besides, there is a unique component called progressive Core technology, available in the paddle. With it, the product can soak up even the most potent shots and counter it back in style. It can also help you to increase the overall power generation of the model even more. 

Specifications 

So, in terms of dimensions, the product comes with a height of around 15.3-inch and width of 8.1-inch. Well, yes, you have guessed it right – another standard measurement off the chart.

The model features two different weight options (7.2oz-7.6oz and 7.7oz-8.3oz). Hence, if you want to, you can choose either one of them, depending on your playing style.

Just like its weight, there are two grip circumference choices available for the model as well. However, the grip length (5-inch), in both cases, stays the same. 

PROS
• Decent sweet spot
• Eight different colour choices
• Comes with two different weight options
• The head does not have any dead spots
• USAPA-authorized
CONS
• It is a little bit pricey
• Not an ideal option for the beginners

06. Gamma Poly Core Pickleball Paddle

Gamma Poly Core Pickleball Paddle - Best Small Grip Pickleball Paddle

Unlike most other models on our list of the best Pickleball paddles 2021, this one from Gamma is quite a tad old. However, the product is still adored by most of the players who choose technicality and swerve overpower and precision. Besides being amazing from almost every angle, it also comes with 14 different color options. So, you will surely be able to find something that suits your style perfectly.

Build and Efficiency 

For starters, the paddle comes with a graphite-made outer surface, which can help you to produce decent power. However, as the model is quite lightweight, you will have to put enough force behind your shot to thrash your opponent.

The core of the model is made with the brand new Sensa Poly Core technology, which offers excellent swerve without making any effort. Moreover, if you master the art of control, you can win every game with this product.

The handle of the model is unique. It seems small initially, but once you hold it, you will feel the immense power and control running through your veins. Besides being durable, it is quite ergonomic as well. So, you won’t have any issue with swinging it. 

Specifications 

Unlike the previous model on the list, this one is a little bit larger. The product has a length of 16.625-inch and a width of 7.125-inch. 

On the other hand, as mentioned in the name, it features a smaller grip with a length of only 4.25 inches. However, it is quite ergonomic and, thus, helps you to handle it appropriately.

Moving on, the model weighs around only 7.6oz, making it quite easier to swing it. It also means that you are getting a much wider surface without having to carry more weight.

PROS
• The premium poly core material
• USAPA-approved
• Very lightweight
• Wide surface
• Textured graphite-made face for much better power
CONS
• Its overall construction could have been better
• Does not produce enough spin

05. ENGAGE PICKLEBALL Poach Advantage Paddle

ENGAGE PICKLEBALL Poach Advantage Paddle - Best Under 200$

In essence, like the other products of the Poach lining, the Poach Advantage, too, comes with the same appearance and design. However, in truth, it is quite different from them. As one of the newest models in this range, it comes with many features, which the others didn’t have. 

Moreover, it is also pretty much inexpensive compared to most other variants of the same organization. Nonetheless, the only issue with this product is that it comes with only one gripping option. Other than that, the Poach Advantage is perfect! 

Build and Efficiency 

In all honesty, almost each of the best Pickleball paddles 2021, these days, comes with a single layer of skin. Hence, sometimes, they tend to face durability issues. However, it does not happen with the Poach Advantage of Engage Pickleball. 

According to the manufacturers, it comes with six different skin layers, which improves its longevity and enhances its hard-hitting capability by a mile. 

Also, the product comes with an optimal angle-based pattern sequence. With it and the six skin layers, the model can offer excellent ball responsiveness and much-desired playability. Besides, it can also add a little bit of spin to your shots. 

In essence, the product is pretty heavy. Besides, the external section of the same has been made with high-end polymer composite materials. Therefore, with it, you will be able to generate enough power that, in turn, can help you to thrash your rivals in one shot.

[Recommended: Onix Stryker 4 Pickleball Paddle Review]

Specifications 

In essence, the primary variant of the Poach Advantage comes with a weight of 7.5 ounces. However, if you want something more substantial, then there are three other variants available for you. 

In terms of size, the product measures 16-inch in length and 8-inch in width. Therefore, as you can understand, it will have a pretty big sweet spot. However, as mentioned before, all of the model’s variants come with the same grip circumference (4-1/4″).

Hence, if you are a taller person and have bigger hands, it may not fit your hands properly!

PROS
• Has a larger sweet spot
• Comes with the 6-skin layer system
• Features the coveted vibration control technology
• Generate excellent power because of being heavyweight
• Composite core helps in getting viable swerves
CONS
• Might be a little too powerful for novices
• Handling it in a fast-paced match can be quite challenging

Well, you will find a similar paddle called Gamma voltage 2.0 Pickleball Paddle. You can check our in-detailed review of it.

04. Selkirk Sport NEO Polymer Starter Pickleball Paddles

Have you just started playing in the arena of Pickleball? Then, we would ask you not to go for the highly-expensive best pickleball paddle for beginner’s models in the market. Instead, you can opt for the NEO from Selkirk Sport. Moreover, it also comes as a set. So, you will get some balls if you do end up buying it.  

Build and Efficiency 

Like most starter paddles, the outer section of this product has also been made with the polymer material. Hence, with it, you will be able to pick up your power game quite efficiently. However, for doing so, you would also have to swing your bat somewhat ferociously.

Furthermore, the product comes with the coveted composite core module. Thus, if you are capable enough, then you can also add some swerve in your shot with it as well. So, in a way, it is a lot more flexible and versatile than many other paddles here. 

Last yet not least, the honeycomb-designed core, which sits under the single-skin layer of the model, increases its overall durability by quite a mile. However, in our opinion, this section’s performance does not seem good enough compared to others.

Specifications 

In essence, the entry-level version of the model weighs around eight ounces. Hence, it can certainly add some more value to the power-producing quotient of the model.

The grip circumference of NEO from Selkirk Sport has been measured at 4.125-inch, which is somewhat decent. It does not come with any other option in this aspect at all. 

When discussing the height and width of the model, it features the same standard size. However, when held in hands, it does feel a little bit due to the handle.

PROS
• The model is highly durable and lasts for many years
• Offers a consistent performance on every aspect
• Has a one-year warranty
• Comes with the USAPA approval
• Produces decent power through shots
CONS
• Does not perform well in the indoors
• Its Honeycomb core should have been more effective

03. Paddletek Bantam Sabre Pro Pickleball Paddle

Paddletek Bantam Sabre Pro Pickleball Paddle - Best for Advanced

The Bantam Sabre from Paddletek is, predominantly, a control freak. It is one of those models that rewards users who take pride in their touch, strategy, and control. With this model in your arsenal, you will be able to place the ball anywhere you want accurately. However, as you can already perceive, the product would not be ideal for the new players.

Build and Efficiency 

When you do look at the Paddletek Bantam Sabre, the first thing that you will notice is its elongated handle. It is quite long, well-built, and, thus, offers a decent grip for everyone. It also makes it easier for you to strike the balls more powerfully. 

To make their product more viable in the market, Paddletek has included the coveted Smart Response Technology. Due to its excellent efficacy, it can stop even the most compelling shots and help you to unleash a more controlled counter-attack.

The outer surface of the paddle has been made with polycarbonate material. Therefore, it can offer excellent performance game after game, without any inconvenience. However, you should still always do your part and take care of the product appropriately.

Specifications 

Like most of the products on our list of the best Pickleball paddles for all ages, this one comes with the standard size (15.75 inches x 1.875 inches). Hence, it can be used by both teenagers as well as adults alike.

The handle of the model comes with a height of 4.5-inch, which should be decent enough for you. Also, the product’s grip size, too, is pretty upright and can be held by almost everyone. 

Finally, the average weight of the variant is 7.5 ounces, which is much lower than most of the other paddles mentioned here. So, it can help you to generate enough swerve and topspin. However, it doesn’t do well in terms of producing power. 

PROS
• Offers precise spins
• Has a massive sweet spot
• Ergonomic handle
• Durable edge guards
• Super lightweight
CONS
• Does not generate enough power
• Not ideal for the beginners

02. ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle

ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle - Best for Intermediate

There are several paddles available worldwide that can be considered the best Pickleball paddle for intermediate players. However, none of them is as legendary as the Graphite Z5 from the famous sports brand, ONIX. Anyway, we have probably said a lot about the product through its title. So, it is time for us to start digging through the rabbit hole.

Read Full Review of this Paddle here: ONIX Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle

Build and Efficiency 

In essence, the core section of the product is top-notch. It has been made with the in-demand Nomex Honeycomb material, which offers a stable performance at any condition. Moreover, it reduces the overall weight of the model quite massively as well. 

However, the availability of honeycomb core doesn’t mean that you will have to compromise with its power. Also, as it has a large sweet spot, it would become a lot easier for you to unleash powerful shots without caring about the consequences! 

As you can already understand from the name, the face of the paddle has been made with graphite material. It is quite lightweight and, thus, can help you to add some swerves in your shots. Nonetheless, you won’t be able to create high-end topspins with it. We have listed the paddle as the best pickleball paddle for intermediate players.

Specifications 

The handle of the model comes with the shape of a tennis racket. Hence, it will be a lot easier for you to grip and swing it. However, it comes with only a single circumference option, which makes it somewhat restricted for a few people. 

The dimensions of the product are 15.5×8.3×1.5 inches. Thus, if you are not a kid, you will be able to handle it appropriately due to the standard size option. Additionally, it comes with a weight range of around 7.5 ounces to 8.2 ounces, which should be quite helpful.

PROS
• Generates enough power
• It is perfectly balanced
• Ideal for both outdoors and indoors
• Decent handling
• Highly durable
CONS
• The spin product isn’t enough
• Lacks proper surface grip

You can also read our in-detailed ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle Review!

01. Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro Pickleball Paddle

Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro Pickleball Paddle - Best for Beginner

When talking about the best Pickleball paddle for the beginners, the first name that comes to the mind is Paddletek Tempest Wave. It is one of the newest models of the brand. Hence, as you can expect, it comes with several new features as well. We have elaborately discussed them in the below section. Let’s check them out together! 

Build and Efficiency 

Let’s start with the appearance of the model. The model’s primary variant comes with a blackish background with a stylized touch of red in it. However, if you want to own something else, you can choose from four other options.

The product’s outer surface has been manufactured with textured graphite, which offers decent maneuverability, flexibility, and traction. Thus, you would not have to strike the ball forcefully to generate enough force or bounce on it. 

The handle of the paddle looks almost similar to that of a table tennis racket. Hence, it will be a lot easier for you to hold or grip it efficiently. Also, there are three different choices available in this section, as well. So, you will have the independence of choosing among them. 

One of the best things about the model is its broad textured face. It helps you to reach even the furthest shots quite efficiently and counter them tactfully. Also, due to the same reason, it becomes a lot easier for you to hit the sweet spot perfectly.

Specifications 

Besides knowing about the build, learning about the specifications of a paddle is pretty crucial as well. For example, if you do not have any idea about the size, face width, grip length, etc., of the model, you won’t understand if it suits you.

For starters, the Paddletek Tempest Wave comes with the dimensions of 16x8x1 inches. Hence, as you can understand, it is the standard measurement and, thus, suitable for everyone. The model weighs almost eight ounces, which is decent enough as well. 

Unlike any other model in our list of the best Pickleball paddles 2021, this one comes with a broad face (8-inch). Additionally, the handle of the model measures 5.5-inch, which should be suitable for everyone too. This is the best pickleball paddle your money can buy in 2020!

PROS
• Has a long handle
• Widespread paddle face
• Several grip options
• Perfect for the beginners
• Five different colour choices
CONS
• It is expensive
• The top quarter of the model is too stiff

We are sure that you will pick one of those as your daily driving pickleball paddle as we have tested them all and share our honest opinion/review with you.

Buying Guide for the Best Pickleball Paddles 2021:

Best Pickleball Paddle 2021

If you are a Pickleball player, you won’t ask me – What is Pickleball, right?

Let me ask you one thing – Do you intend to buy the right Pickleball paddle in the market? Then, naturally, you cannot start searching among the pile blindly. Before doing so, you will, first, have to jot down a few things that you need to check while going through the products. The following are some of them. 

Price of the Pickleball Paddles 

Well, yes, we do know that this pointer seems quite apparent. However, you will be astonished that many people tend to disregard their budget while purchasing their brand new Pickleball paddle. Hence, most of the time, they end up buying something that does not go well with their skill set in this arena.

For example, in essence, the beginner’s paddles generally come with the most affordable price tag. They are not technically advanced and miss out on a few features that the advanced players need for their purpose. On the other hand, intermediate and professional ones tend to be a lot more expensive. 

So, what did you learn from here? Well, the priciest options aren’t always the best one for you. When starting up, you will have to buy something that can help you learn the basics more efficiently. Once you have mastered it, you can, then, lash out a bit of cash and get the best Pickleball paddle from the market. 

Core Materials of the Pickleball Paddle 

If you are using the Pickleball paddles for quite some time, you probably do have an idea of its core materials. They are the backbones of the models. Their weight and construction can make a lot of difference in your playing style and efficiency. Hence, to give you a heads-up, we will be providing a few less-known details about the three types of paddle core materials. 

Aluminum Core

As you can already perceive, the aluminum-made cores tend to be highly durable and weighty. Hence, if your game is all about power and heavy-hitting, then this one should be ideal for you. However, because of being bulky, these types of cores do not offer control over the shots. Therefore, with it, you can’t make swerving shots or technically outclass your opponent. Nonetheless, you can undoubtedly outshine them with sheer power, strength, and supremacy.

Nomex Core

The Nomex cores are generally made with nylon-based polymer materials. Therefore, they usually tend to have a rather lightweight and flexible design. Moreover, to enhance its technicality, the manufacturers also tend to create them through the coveted honeycomb framework. As mentioned before, Nomex cores generally do not weigh and, thus, are easier to handle. However, it doesn’t mean that they are not durable or something. However, they are indeed pretty noisy, as they do not come with any cushioning pads or effects. However, there is no need to worry. It might affect your neighbor’s sound sleeping schedule a little bit, but it would not have your playing style in any way. 

Polypropylene Core

In essence, the polypropylene core-made products would be the best options for advanced players. They come with a decent amalgamation of power and lightweight properties. Hence, with it, you can both maintain an excellent shot accuracy while making some swings. Also, unlike the Nomex cores, polypropylene tends to be pretty soft and cushiony. Hence, no matter how hard you are swinging them, they won’t make any sounds. However, if you want to use them properly and bring out their true potential, you will have to hone your skills in this arena. 

The Pickleball Paddle Build Material 

As we have already discussed the cores, let’s talk a little bit about the paddle’s material. They generally are known to be responsible for determining the deflective attributes of the product. Hence, it’d be worth knowing about them.

Wood

The wooden paddles were the first ones to come into the market. Previously, they were being made only by keeping the fundamental functionalities in mind. However, since then, a lot of things have changed. These days, the wooden paddles usually feature high-end grips and wrist straps for gaining more control over the shots. Moreover, many manufacturers also tend to use plywood to provide more hitting power and durability.

Composite

The composite-made products ooze modernity and efficiency from their very core. These products are generally manufactured with a wide variety of materials (aluminum, fiberglass, polymer surfaces, vinyl, etc.). Therefore, they tend to be pretty durable and can help you strike the balls accurately with decent power. The more experience you do have, the better these products would perform. Hence, before buying them, make sure to practice as much as possible!

Polymer

The polymer paddles are generally made from a brilliant combination of resin and plastic. Thus, they tend to be a lot more lightweight than the previously-mentioned models. However, they are not technically advanced. They also cannot generate a lot of power to blow your opponent away. Make sure to only opt for them if you are more of a casual gamer and play the game for fun and enjoyment. 

Graphite

Since the inception of professional Pickleball tournaments, the metaphorical brawl between graphite-made and polymer-made products has been quite prominent. Nonetheless, in the end, the choice would solely depend on your playing style. For example, if you want to play defensive and outshine your opponent with your technical strategies, then composite would be the ideal choice for you. Nevertheless, if you are more of an aggressive player and love to mix up between power and precision, then graphite-made paddles should be your weapon of choice.

Pickleball Paddle Technology 

Whether you do believe it or not, but the Pickleball paddles are not usually as simple as they tend to appear. Almost every top-notch Pickleball paddles in the market have its unique technology and promote different play styles. For example, the products with textured faces can create more swerve than any other similar items.

On the other hand, the vibration-canceling ones can help you to play without making any noise or having to encounter the vibrations. Moreover, liquid graphite technology can help you get a much better topspin. Nevertheless, if you are still a novice, you do not have to worry about all these. Make sure to improve your skills first and then go for something advanced and well-organized.

Pickleball Paddle Size 

The paddle size generally depends on the type of product you have chosen for yourself. However, if you want to get an idea about what you should opt for your purpose, we would suggest that you not go over 24 inches. If you are just starting up, you may select the products with a measurement of 8 by 16 inches.

They will help you to have a proper balance and strike the ball with a much better force and efficiency. On the other hand, if you are more advanced, it will be better to opt for the models with larger handles. In essence, with them, you will have a better reach and, thus, can comfortably retaliate even the toughest shots from your rivals. However, broader paddles tend to have a lot of weight. So, if you are more of a technical player, you will have to look for smaller options.

Size of the Grip

You will have to keep in mind several things while buying the best Pickleball paddle among the pile. However, among them, one of the most crucial ones is its gripping section. If you have a decent grip size, naturally, it will be a lot easier to hold it properly. It, in turn, may help you to unleash powerful shots without using much force at all.

However, that’s not all. Besides, inflicting lighting-speed shots, you will also be to add a much better spin on the ball as well. However, if you opt for a longer or shorter grip, it will become almost impossible to achieve the previously-mentioned traits. So, make sure to go for something that fits in your hands perfectly. 

Deflective Capabilities 

In all honesty, if you are more of a technical player, then you don’t have to bang your head for this feature. However, if your primary weapon is brute strength, you will have to choose something with a decent amount of deflection.

A paddle with a substantial amount of deflection will naturally have a better spring in its core. Therefore, even if you hit the ball mildly with it, the product will still make decent contact and powerfully strike it.

However, there is a hitch. If you want to have more power, then you will have to sacrifice your accuracy. You would not have much control over your shots as well. Hence, if you are playing with a defensive player with excellent technical capabilities, you may lose.

The noise of a P.B. Paddle

In truth, the game of Pickleball is a game of pure focus and concentration. If you are playing defensively, you will have to both find a way to counter them and, in the meantime, block their thoughts. Hence, while doing so, if you do get distracted even for a second, it might cost you the whole game. 

Thus, to avoid such a situation, we recommend buying a model that comes with a proper cushioning. In turn, it would help the product suppress the noise decently and, thus, help you create your strategy at utmost peace. The propylene-made cores can be your best option in this aspect.

Edge Guard

Just like the name of the feature suggests, an edge guard helps save the edged sections of your Pickleball paddle. They generally help keep the edges safe, secure, and resistant to almost any kind of damage.

As a rule of thumb, you should always go for the models that have a medium-sized guard. They are readily available, less expensive, and offer much better efficiency than others. However, if you want to, then you can also opt for the larger ones.

Due to their immense size, they will offer a much better guarding-related success, which may provide you with an advantage in the bigger games. However, they can also make the paddle a lot heavier than usual. Thus, you may encounter some difficulties while swinging them. 

Nevertheless, if you have been using a heavy paddle all of your life, you will not have any issues with it at all.

USAPA Approval for Pickleball Paddle

If you are a casual gamer, you probably will not need a paddle with a USAPA Approval. However, if you are thinking about joining a sanctioned tournament, you will require an approved product.

But how can you understand if the model has been approved by the USAPA organization or not? Well, it is quite easy. There will be a tag available on the package of the model, which will indicate the same.

Like everything else, the famous and more expensive models usually come with the approval of USAPA. Hence, when buying them, you would not have to check anything. However, make sure to locate the tags of endorsement first before purchasing the affordable ones, as most of the time, they generally do not come with one. 

Color of a Pickleball Paddle

In all sincerity, the Pickleball paddles’ aesthetics do not affect your gameplay in any way. Thus, you should always choose the color combination after you are done with the other pointers in your checklist.

Anyways, we do not have anything to say about the hue of your brand new paddle. It, indeed, falls upon your personal choice and likings. However, we suggest you go for a bright colored product, just for showcasing, nothing else.

Choosing the Most Popular (Right) Pickleball Paddle:

Only checking out the right features will not help you buy the best Pickleball paddle in the market. Besides, you would also have to determine some fundamental parameters, like your skills or playing style. The following are a few pointers that can help you out in this aspect. 

Control or Power – That is the Question

Some people prefer a powerful approach to the game, while others try to add more control to their playing style. Hence, now, you will have to choose one among them. 

If you want to have more power, then you can go for a heavyweight model. Conversely, for creating more swerve and spin, you would require a lightweight paddle. 

Skill Level – Novice or Professional

In all honesty, if you are a beginner, then you cannot just choose any type of paddle from the market. It would not be viable for you. For instance, the composite-based models are not known as the best option for the beginner. But what’s the reason behind it? 

Well, in essence, these types of bats can effectively generate decent power while keeping the spinning quotient intact. Thus, if you do want to use them properly, then you would require years of experience. Hence, you should always start your journey with either lightweight or a heavyweight model!

Back to the Basics – Price or Quality 

While buying the best Pickleball paddle, you will always encounter the same question – should you go for an affordable model or prioritize the quality? In essence, if you are a beginner, then you can always go with the budget-friendly products.  

You do not require a high-end model while you are still a novice. You would not be able to unleash its full potential. On the other hand, if you are a professional, you should always go for quality products. It will increase your overall potency and proficiency by quite a mile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ for the Best Pickleball Paddle for beginners

Why does having the right paddle for spin make a difference?

In all honesty, if you are all about, who likes to thrash their opponents with sheer strength, you wouldn’t have to care about it. However, if you are thinking about becoming a fox-in-the-box, then you should go for the best Pickleball paddles for a spin. As a defensive player, you will always want to outwit your rivals, not overpower them. Hence, when you meet such an opponent, all you need to do is wait for them to drain their stamina.

Once they are out of their breath, you can, then, add spins on your shots to confuse them. You can do the same while defending as well. It, in turn, will make them think twice before striking the ball. Due to this reason, in this aspect, at least, you would require a paddle that has decent spinning.

What Pickleball paddle do the pros use?

As mentioned before, the paddle generally depends on your playing style and your overall approach to it. Among the people who usually play at a professional level, the propylene-made core-based paddles are mainly more popular than others. This type of core tends to create decent power while adding an excellent topspin.

Hence, in a way, you can say that they are the most balanced models in the market. However, they can be quite hard to handle or manage properly. Therefore, you should always make sure to start with something beginner-friendly, like the graphite cores!

What weight Pickleball paddle should I use?

If you are a beginner and aspire to be a power-hitter, we would ask you to start with 8.5 ounces paddles. Once you get habituated with it, you can, then, move on and start using a product of around 9.5 to 10 ounces of weight. However, be warned, with these heavyweight bats, you will not be able to generate enough spin or possess proper control over your shots.

So, in that aspect, you will have to select something lightweight, weighing around 4.5-5.5 ounces. You may choose a paddle weighing of 6.5-7 ounces as well for a more balanced approach.

Which is better graphite or composite Pickleball paddle?

In essence, the composite core-based paddles are more of a happy medium. They generally come with a super-affordable price tag, have a wide variety of weight options, and feature several size options. Hence, in a way, they can be the best option for both the beginners as well as professionals. On the other hand, the graphite-made models tend to be highly expensive. However, they are more beginner-friendly and highly-balanced.

Thus, it will be better for you if you practice a few times with each of them. This way, you will be able to find the one that suits you perfectly.  

How do you improve control of your shots?

Possessing proper control over the shots, especially in a competitive match, can be pretty challenging. However, only having a lightweight paddle would not help you to achieve this feat. Besides, you will also need to practice a lot (at least three to four hours a day), especially if you are a beginner.

As you probably do already know, controlling your shot is all about quick reflexes and proper maneuverability. Therefore, you will have to, first, master them and, then, move onto the next step and buy a superlight paddle.

Which is the best Pickleball Paddle manufacturer in the market?

In all honesty, there is not even a single piece of brand available in the market that can be called the best. That’s because each of these manufacturers has quite a different approach and creates their products differently.

Hence, it becomes almost impossible for us to compare them with each other. Nevertheless, if you want to know some famous names in this arena, you can try out Paddletek, Prolite, Selkirk, etc.

Why is hitting at the sweet spot of a paddle so crucial?

Well, the term ‘sweet spot’ generally refers to the centre of any paddle. Now, if you can hit the ball with the same place each time, you will be able to generate a lot of power, even if you are using a lightweight bat. Moreover, proper usage can also help you have enough control over the ball.

However, in all honesty, most of the Pickleball paddles generally come with a smaller sweet spot. Thus, hitting them correctly is not going to be easy for you, especially if you are still a beginner.

Conclusion

These are a few of the models you can choose from while searching for the best paddle for playing Pickleball. However, in all honesty, each of the models, which we have mentioned above, is different from one another. Therefore, depending on their features, they might offer decent performance in one aspect of your gameplay or another.

Moreover, they may also define the results of the games. Hence, before choosing anyone among them, you would have to determine your playing style and how you do approach each of the games first. Hopefully, if you follow it, you will be able to find the paddle that is perfectly suitable for you.

Readout More about Pickleball at HonestPlayers. Comment down below any queries about Pickleball Paddles.

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