No special skills are required to try American pickleball. fastest growing sportbut you do You need the right equipment. Perhaps most important is the paddle you use to serve, volley, and launch the ball across the court. We spoke with pickleball coaches and pros to learn more about which paddles outperform others, regardless of your level of play.
How to choose a pickleball paddle
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing this all-important piece of gear.
weight: Paddle weights typically range from about 7 ounces to 2 ounces. (or less) to about 8.5 oz, Landon Wetts, PT, DPT, SELF, a physical therapist and certified pickleball coach in Arizona, said. Heavy paddles (8 ounces or more) often provide more power and help you hit the ball at higher speeds, while lighter paddles (around 7 ounces) are easier to control. Not sure what you like? Wetts says that mid-weight options, around 7.5 to 8 ounces, are likely to hit a comfortable middle ground.
shape: Two common shapes are wide-bodied (approximately square) and elongated-bodied (rectangular). Jessica CoughlinSELF, a licensed pickleball coach in Connecticut, said: Wide-body paddles are great for beginners because they have a larger sweet spot (the area where the ball bounces best). Elongated paddles, on the other hand, are more similar in shape, so the court may be more comfortable for those with experience in the sport. tennis racket.a standard shape paddle It falls in between the two.
felt: You need a paddle that feels good in your hands, says David Dutriil, Minnesota-based national pickleball director. lifetime fitness certified professional Professional Pickleball Registrytells SELF.
Finding that “feel” online can be difficult. That’s why Yutz suggests going to your local sporting goods store and grabbing paddles of different weights and shapes. He can then use that information to make virtual purchases. “At least it gives you an idea of where to start,” Wetz explains.
Surface material and thickness: Wood paddles may be cheaper, but they have a smaller sweet spot, says Wetts. Additionally, you may find that the ball tends to be harder to control and less durable. Paddles made of composites, graphite, or carbon fiber are better, Coughlin said. She also suggests looking for one made with a honeycomb core, a design element that absorbs the impact of the ball and aids in control. Also pay attention to the thickness of the paddle. Thicker paddles typically absorb ball impact better, giving you more control than thinner paddles, explains Coughlin.
best pickleball paddle
Based on expert recommendations and customer reviews, here are some of the best pickleball paddles to bring to the court.
1. Best overall paddle: Selkirk Halo
Pickleball Central
Selkirk SLK Halo Pickleball Paddle
Coughlin’s favorite paddle has great control and a rugged surface that “helps you get a better grip on the ball on contact.” Reviewers have described this paddle as a “great all-around paddle”, praising its “excellent spin ability” and the fact that the ball “pops off” the face well. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but the quality construction gives it a good chance of being used in many games in the future.Additionally, it is endorsed by American Pickleball Association (USAPA), meaning it can be used to play in official tournaments. Note: The Selkirk Halo has several variations with slightly different styles and shapes. Coughlin uses hello paris toddnamed after Professional female pickleball player.
weight: 7.6 to 8.2 ounces
shape: wide body
Surface material: carbon fiber
2. Best choice for your budget: MTEN fiberglass paddle
Amazon
Mten Fiberglass Surface Pickleball Set
Even if you’re new to pickleballs, you don’t have to spend all your budget to get a good paddle. Case in point: This affordable pick from Onix is perfect for beginner players. The wide-body shape provides ample sweet spot, the honeycomb core provides excellent ball control, and the mid-weight design allows players to easily get into the game without undue strain on their arms. Shoppers appreciate the sleek design, bold color combinations, and overall feel of this paddle in their hands.
weight: 7.8 to 8.1 ounces
shape: wide body
Surface material: composite aluminum
3. Best Bundle Deal: selkirk latitude
walmart
Selkirk Latitude Pickleball Bundle
One of the great advantages of pickleball is that it is a very social sport. So it doesn’t hurt to have a spare paddle. That way, “you can take other people to court without telling them to go buy something,” Wetz said. With this popular affordable bundle, you get 2 high-quality paddles, plus 3 balls and a drawstring bag to carry everything for around $100. USAPA approved, designed for all skill levels and made by renowned brand Selkirk.
weight: 6.9 to 7.5 ounces
shape: wide body
Surface material: graphite
Four. Best durable paddle: Onyx Z5 Graphite
Amazon
Onix Graphite Z5 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle
The Onix Z-Five is a well-made, high-quality pick and was the first paddle Yutz used when he started pickleball. “I played it for fun for a few years,” he says. Table tennis players will find this option particularly appealing, as the flared wooden handle resembles the shape of a table tennis racket. It is USAPA approved, comes in 13 different colors, and can also be purchased as part of a bundle with Pickleball His Balls.
weight: 7.5 to 8.2 ounces
shape: wide body
Surface material: graphite
Five. Best lightweight paddle: Paddle Tech Bantam TS-5
Amazon
Paddletek Bantam TS-5 Pickleball Paddle
Another paddle of choice for Coughlin is the USAPA-approved Paddletek Bantam TS-5, built with a honeycomb core for excellent ball control. Available in 6 weights (in 0.1 oz increments) so you can find the perfect weight for your hand. Amazon reviewers praised the lightweight design for precise shots and the ability to play long games without fatigue.
weight: 7 to 7.5 ounces
shape: wide body
Surface material: fiberglass epoxy
6. Best paddles for beginners: Joola Essential Pickleball Paddle
Amazon
Joola Essentials Pickleball Paddle
If you’re new to pickleball and overwhelmed by the variety of paddles, consider this critically acclaimed paddle from popular brand Joola. Mr. Dutriil says that the price is reasonable and the performance is high, so it is perfect for first-time users. Reviewers praise its durability, light weight and wide sweet spot. BONUS: Amazon offers a bundle option of 2 paddles, 2 balls and 1 bag. This is attractive for those who want to join the game with their friends.
weight: 8.2 ounces
shape: wide body
Surface material: fiberglass
7. Best paddles for advanced beginners: Pik Ninja Sports Assassin Pro 2.0
Picninja
Pikninja Assassin Pro 2.0 Paddle
This USAPA approved paddle was designed by Franklin for Ben Johns. #1 ranked pickleball player The world’s best in men’s singles and men’s mixed doubles. Dutrieuille is recommended for beginners who take it one step further. The handle is long and can be used with both hands. Another benefit: The textured surface is designed to promote ball traction and increase spin. Available in 5 colors and 2 thicknesses of 13mm and 16mm.
weight: 8.1 ounces
shape: elongated
Surface material: fiberglass
8. Best versatile paddle: Franklin’s signature
Amazon
Franklin Signature Pickleball Paddle
Coughlin and Dutrieuille recommend this USAPA approved paddle. The curve of the head is designed to minimize air resistance and increase swing speed, while the honeycomb core provides plenty of power. Coughlin recommends it for intermediate to advanced level players. It’s pricey, but if you’re into pickleball, this paddle might be a worthwhile investment to take your game to the next level.
weight: 8.4 ounces
shape: elongated
Surface material: carbon friction
9. Best paddles for kids: ONE SHOT JUNIOR SHOT SERIES PADDLE
Pickleball Central
ONE SHOT JUNIOR SHOT SERIES PADDLE
Introduce your child to pickleball with this paddle designed specifically for younger players. He comes in two models, one for children and one for toddlers, and is smaller and lighter than typical adult paddles, making it easier for children to grip and use. The colorful illustrations on the paddle face, with space, dinosaur, and ocean artwork to choose from, are super fun and kid-friendly. Reviewers rave about the paddle’s “adorable” beauty and describe it as the “perfect” size for young pickleballers.
weight: 5.3 to 6.0 ounces
shape: wide body
Surface material: fiberglass
Ten. Best splurge paddle: Jorah Ben John’s Hyperion 16mm
Jora
Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 Pickleball Paddle
Minnesota based creator pick ninja, this USAPA approved paddle is a Dutrieuille favorite who loves the simplicity of the design and the five vibrant color options. Suitable for a wide range of levels of players, from beginners to semi-pro players. Compared to a standard pickleball paddle, it may be especially great for someone with a tennis background, as the shape and length of the handle grip closely resembles a tennis racket.
weight: 7.8 to 8.2 ounces
shape: standard
Surface material: fiberglass composite
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