The Best Pickleball Paddles
Whether you're new to the sport or a seasoned veteran, a good pickleball paddle can make all the difference in your game. The best paddles are versatile, durable, and made of high-quality materials, giving players the best chance to excel on the court. Your strengths and weaknesses will also play a role when deciding the best pickleball paddle for you. With all of that in mind, we've rounded up the best pickleball paddles on the market.
What to Look For
We asked ourselves the following four questions while searching for the best pickleball paddles on the market: Is it lightweight? Is it made of high-quality materials? Is it easy to grip? Is the price fair for the quality? During our research, we found several paddles that fulfilled these criteria with flying colors. Our favorite was the fiberglass paddle from Niupipo, which is lightweight and easy to handle. We were also impressed by Niupipo’s graphite paddle, which provides an excellent balance between control and power. Read on below to learn more about our top picks and discover the best pickleball paddle for you.
Niupipo Fiberglass Pickleball Paddles
Power up your game
There’s a lot to like about these pickleball paddles from Niupipo, including the durability provided by their honeycomb and fiberglass construction. The paddles are lightweight yet have enough strength and stiffness to allow players to launch powerful hits with solid control. It doesn’t end there; the paddles’ cushioned grips help absorb sweat and are comfortable to hold for long periods.
Pros:
- We love how good these paddles feel in hand and that they provide an experience comparable to that of more expensive paddles.
- The handles are soft and easy to grip, and they don’t become slick or sticky from sweat.
Cons:
- If you have large hands, you may find the paddles’ handles too small.
Niupipo Pro Graphite Pickleball Paddles
If you’re looking for a paddle that’ll give you power when you hit the ball, look no further than these graphite pickle paddles from Niupipo. The paddles allow you to feel the pop when you strike the ball while providing a reasonable level of control. Plus, it features a very comfortable sweat-absorbent grip, and its size makes it an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate players.
Pros:
- We were impressed that these paddles use the same materials as higher-end models but cost a fraction of the price.
- These paddles are lightweight, sturdy, and responsive, making them easy to maneuver during a game.
Cons:
- The variation in the hardness of the paddle makes slices a bit harder to predict.
Amicoson Wood Pickleball Paddle
Four of a kind
With four paddles and eight balls, this set from Amicoson has everything you need to get started playing the sport. The paddles are well-made and perfect for a pickup game. They have a comfortable cushioned grip that’s flexible enough to allow you to hit your shots without getting tired. They also have an eye-catching design, so you look stylish while playing.
Pros:
- We especially liked the durability of these paddles; they’re sturdy and stand up to many hours of regular play.
- These are a great set to buy if you’re new to the game and want to try out pickleball without paying a fortune.
Cons:
- The bag is a bit small for the amount of equipment, so everything fits without much room to spare.
Panel Sound Lightweight Pickleball Paddles
Somewhere to start
These paddles from Panel Sound are an excellent choice if you’re new to playing pickleball. Their fiberglass faces and polymer honeycomb cores make them lightweight yet sturdy and durable, so you can expect them to last for quite a while. The handle is just the right size for a comfortable grip. Plus, it’s slip-resistant and sweat-resistant, making it easy to maintain a firm grip.
Pros:
- These paddles help immensely with aim and spin, allowing beginners to learn the fundamentals of the sport without much trouble.
- The lightweight design of these paddles reduces wrist fatigue, making it comfortable to play with them for long periods.
Cons:
- It would be nice if they were available in a four-pack.
Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddles
Blast through the competition
If you’ve been playing pickleball for a while, you may be ready to upgrade to a professional-level racquet. This paddle from Onix allows you to do just that, and for a reasonable price. The paddle excels at speed and maneuverability, giving advanced players the control they need to control drop shots. It also does an excellent job of adding power to hits.
Pros:
- The paddle’s wide body has a substantial sweet spot, making it easier to land tough shots and get off-center shots over the net.
- We found that this paddle struck the right balance between power and control, making spinning the ball easier and providing a good response on volleys.
Cons:
- The grip is somewhat small, so it may not be a good fit for those with extra-large hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal weight of a pickleball paddle?
Your playing style will determine the ideal weight of a pickleball paddle. Heavy paddles are best for players that place a premium on power over control. In contrast, light paddles provide players with more control but less paddle. If you’re looking for something in between, you can choose a paddle weighing between 6 and 9 ounces to achieve the best balance between power and control.
What is the best material for a pickleball paddle?
The best material depends on how long you’ve been playing the game. Many beginners start off playing pickleball with a wooden paddle because they tend to be inexpensive and are convenient for learning the game. On the other hand, advanced players tend to gravitate towards paddles made of graphite, composite, or carbon fiber. These materials give players more control and help them land their shots. They’re also less likely to cause fatigue compared to wooden paddles.
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