From agile and lightweight models to robust and powerful ones, finding the best pickleball paddle for your game can shape your overall performance. Realistically, there isn’t a universal paddle that suits every player, which means finding the perfect paddle tailored to your needs can present a bit of a dilemma. From the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16 (our favorite pick overall) to the Prolite Bolt (suited for beginners), we’ve researched dozens of options from the industry’s top brands to bring you the best options available today.
Take to the court with one of the best pickleball paddles.
Despite appearances, subtle differences set each pickleball paddle apart—provided you know what to look for. Factors like grip size, weight, shape and materials come into play when discerning one paddle from another, all of which influence your gameplay. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Within this guide, which I’ve meticulously structured to cater to every player’s unique requisites, you’ll encounter a collection of the best pickleball paddles currently available. Read on to find the one that meets your needs and dominate every match.
- Best Pickleball Paddle Overall: Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16
- Best Budget Pickleball Paddle: Head Radical Elite
- Best Pickleball Paddle For Beginners: Prolite Bolt
- Best Pickleball Paddle For Advanced Players: Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro
- Best Pickleball Paddle Under $50: Gamma Quest
- Best Pickleball Paddle For Power: Onix Graphite Z5
- Best Pickleball Paddle For Control: Engage Pickleball Encore EX 6.0
- Best Wooden Pickleball Paddle: Amazin’ Aces Wooden Paddle Set
- Best Pickleball Paddle Upgrade: Joola Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16
- Best Pickleball Paddle For Kids: OneShot Juniorshot Series
- Best Styled Pickleball Paddle: Nettie The Ashbury
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Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16 Pickleball Paddle
If a paddle is good enough for the greatest pickleball player of all time, it should probably be good enough for the rest of us. Named after the number one player in all three divisions for most of the last three years, Ben Johns, the Joola Ben Johns Hyperion features a responsive honeycomb core that’s 16 millimeters thick (hence the “CAS 16” moniker), a carbon abrasion surface for better control, edge-guard protection for durability and an elongated handle that’s perfect for two-handed shots. It’s a bit pricey when you can’t find it on sale, but for those in need of a do-it-all paddle that beginners can grow with and veterans can take full advantage of, this is the one to get.
What the players say: “Great paddle. Been playing with it for a couple weeks now and has held up so far. Great control, power, fairly large sweet spot, and spin is great. I own a couple other paddles and this has been my go to recently.”
If you’d like to give pickleball a try without dropping a lot on a new paddle, Head’s Radical Elite model will serve you well (no pun intended). Featuring a fiberglass surface for excellent feel and power, it’s complete with a 4.25-inch handle and a polypropylene core that’s perfect for mid-level play. Head’s expertise in the tennis world plays a role in the paddle’s Ergo grip, which should add some confidence to your play as well. Best of all, the paddle’s $65 price tag makes it an affordable option, so you can get into the game with friends or play some pick-up in your free time without feeling guilty if you’re not on the court day in and day out.
What players say: “Great feel, lightweight. Useful for all skill levels. I thought about a more expensive paddle, but bought one for my wife and she liked it so much I bought another for myself.”
While materials, weight and dimensions will affect any player’s performance on the court, beginners should pay closer attention to these details as they’ll have a lasting impact on your long-term experience. For instance, the Prolite Bolt offers a number of features that are great for beginners, including a thicker core that absorbs impact, a carbon fiber frame that improves control and a 4-inch grip that allows you to add tape if need be. The Bolt is also an affordable option at $60, and it’s incredibly quiet to reduce unwanted noise.
What players say: “This is a terrific paddle. I didn’t want to spend a lot of money until I know if I am going to stick with this game. I have been using this several months and I love it. It is just the right weight for a beginner.”
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Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro
After you’ve got a few seasons of play under your belt, odds are you’re going to want to level up your paddle, at which point you should consider picking up the Paddletek Tempest Wave Pro. Delivering unmatched accuracy, power and forgiveness, it features a large sweet spot and balanced weight to increase your finesse, speed and maneuverability. The textured graphic surface pairs with a tacky performance grip to improve accuracy and control through every shot, and Paddletek offers the Tempest Wave Pro in multiple colors to suit your style.
What players say: “High quality paddle with large sweet spot. Paddle absorbs shock well but has plenty of power. It’s a fun paddle to play with because it can do so much.”
When the time comes to invest in a new paddle, you’ll probably look to top-tier models that feature a polymer core and fiberglass surface, but those same details can be found in the value-driven Gamma Quest. Weighing 7.8 ounces, this middleweight paddle blends a polypropylene core with a textured fiberglass surface to deliver more precision and power. the signature Gamma honeycomb grip features a tacky and firm surface to maintain control, and the paddle costs a mere $30, making it a suitable option for beginners seeking a paddle that’s big on value, and not on price.
What players say: “Just wanted to purchase an extra paddle to have in case, so far I’ve enjoyed using it, very similar to the micron, slightly heavy but still very good for those learning to play without paying so much for a paddle.”
You’ll spot various Onix paddles at tournaments across the country, and the Graphite Z5 is no exception. The slightly elongated shape gives you extra reach and shifts the sweet spot upward, while the traditional width makes it easier to block shots or dink to your heart’s content. But most importantly, all that real estate allows you to generate loads of power without sacrificing control. If that’s your style, this paddle’s for you.
What players say: “This is a great paddle for all levels. The weight is right in the middle so it’s not too light or too heavy. Has a large sweet spot for consistent hits and a great surface for putting spin on the ball. The grip issues seem to be resolved and it feels great in my hand.”
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Engage Pickleball Encore EX 6.0
As temping as it may be to strike the ball with all your might as soon as it’s lofted over the net, you’ll still want a paddle that prioritizes control to ensure technical shots land where you expect them to, and the Encore EX 6.0 is a standout performer in that regard. Rated highly among former tennis players that are used to playing with larger rackets, the paddle features a rough-textured skin that allows you to put more spin on the ball, and a larger sweet spot makes up for potential mistakes.
Weighing over eight ounces with a 15.8-millimeter thick polymer core, this paddle is technically on the heavier side, but the design is strategically engineered to ensure the core material doesn’t detract from the control. This paddle, like all Engage paddles, complies with USAPA guidelines, and it’s endorsed for sanctioned tournament play at US and international pickleball events. So while it may be a bit pricey up front, you can grow with this paddle and take it to tournaments once you’re ready to level up your game.
What players say: “I need more control than power out of a paddle, and it allows me to play a game more similar to my tennis game, which has given me extra confidence to hit the shots I want to hit. Buy this one first if you’re a tennis player looking for a paddle that will complement your tennis skills on the pickleball court.”
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Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Paddles
At the end of the day, we’ll always recommend fiberglass, graphite or carbon fiber paddles over wood whether you’re playing for the first time or taking your game to the next level. Generally speaking, wooden paddles are heavy, difficult to control and lacking in surface texture that’s required for solid spin. But if you want to play casually or really like the look and feel of a classic wooden paddle, this set of four paddles from Amazin’ Aces will do the trick. The seven-ply maple wood looks good on the court, and because this package comes in a set of four (with accompanying balls), you can easily play pickup games with friends and family all summer long. It doesn’t hurt that the set costs less than a tank of gas these days, so even if you pick up these paddles and find yourself neglecting them, you won’t have to feel bad about your purchase.
What players say: “They are very sturdy, consistent, and have a good balance between maneuverability and power. Edges are still going strong because they’re lined with impressively durable plastic. The grip is decent and absorbs some sweat as well.”
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Joola Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16
Once you’ve finally fallen in love with pickleball after a few months of play, you’ll soon wonder how your game might improve if you were to invest in a new paddle. When that day comes, consider picking up the Joola Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16 paddle—it makes for a suitable upgrade over your beloved entry- or mid-level model. The elongated handle improves grip in the midst of a heated match while a carbon surface and frame add texture and support, helping you put some added spin (and flair) on those placed shots. The paddle’s edge features a reinforced guard to strengthen the core and a carbon fiber core offers better feedback and control over that of an entry-level model.
What players say: “Fantastic paddle that has a lot control and spin. Worth every penny and seems to be more durable then last years model.”
Pickleball Central
OneShot Juniorshot Series
When the time comes for your little one to pick up a paddle, consider introducing them to the game by way of the OneShot Juniorshot paddle. The one-of-a-kind design includes Jurassic or Ocean illustrations that add a playful element to every match, and the paddle is built with durability in mind to withstand abuse. At 5.8 ounces, it’s light enough to prevent fatigue but wide enough to deliver a large sweet spot that prevents mis-hits.
What players say: “If you love pickleball and have kids in your life, these paddles are the best! Finally a real paddle for kids. They are the perfect weight and well made for kids.”
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If you’re simply looking for a paddle with a bit of pop (in terms of color), Nettie’s Ashbury should help you stand out on the court. The carbon fiber frame features a design inspired by the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood in San Francisco, which makes it an appealing choice for west coasters or those that just need to add a little style to their game. Complete with a 4.25-inch octagonal grip and a polymer honeycomb core, it plays just as good as it looks.
What players say: “Great style! Solid hitting capability. The grip is a bit larger than I expected, but it’s soft and doesn’t slip.”
How We Chose The Best Pickleball Paddles
When the time comes to invest in a pickleball paddle, you’ll quickly notice that options abound. Some paddles feature lightweight materials, others promote durability, and every paddle claims to be the best option when the time comes to up your game. With that in mind, we pored over expert opinions, online reviews and the latest in paddle technology to assemble a list of noteworthy options. From there, we considered each paddle’s weight, shape, length and construction to determine which paddles are worthy of the court, and which ones you can leave behind. This list represents the best paddles for players both casual and competitive, and it’s updated often for accuracy and integrity. It was last updated August 2023.
What To Consider When Shopping For A Pickleball Paddle
Take a gander at the best pickleball paddles and you’ll notice that while each model looks nearly identical from one to the next, they’re not quite the same. In reality, a handful of factors differentiate one paddle from another, and how you blend these factors will dictate your play.
Weight
A heavier paddle (over 8 ounces) will add power and stability to every shot, but will come at the cost of speed. If you’re a beginner, consider investing in a lighter paddle (less than 8 ounces) that allows you to focus on control.
Shape
A paddle’s shape dictates its sweet spot, power and control. Elongated paddles (like the Head Radical Elite mentioned above) offer more power to help you drive shots, while a squared paddle has a bigger sweet spot and offers more control. The latter shape is better for a beginner.
Thickness
Thickness refers to how thick the core of the paddle is. A thicker core (over 16 millimeters thick) offers a bigger sweet spot and greater potential for spins, which makes it harder for your opponent to return a shot. A thinner core (less than 16 millimeters thick) offers more power, but this comes at the cost of a smaller sweet spot and less control. Consider investing in a paddle with a thicker core if you’re new to the game, as this will allow you to control and place shots before settings your sights on power.
Core Type
The core of a pickleball paddle can be made of materials like polymer, aluminum or Nomex. Different cores influence the paddle’s responsiveness, sound and reactionary properties, but polymer cores offer a softer feel, while Nomex cores provide a more responsive touch as it’s stiffer than polymer. Reach for a polymer core if you’re looking for control, a Nomex core for speed and power (though these tend to be very noisy) and an aluminum core if you’re a beginner who’s learning the basics.
Surface Texture
The texture of the paddle’s face affects the spin and control you can achieve on the ball. A textured surface can help you generate spin for precise shots, while a smoother surface may offer a more consistent feel. Keep in mind that you can add texture to a paddle with tape or adhesive about the handle or frame, but very strict rules dictate how you can manipulate the face. Consult the official rulebook before modifying the face of your paddle to ensure it meets regulations.
Edge Guard
Some pickleball paddles feature edge guards that protect the side of the paddle from unwanted damage and add durability should it scrape against the ground. An edge guard won’t influence your play (sadly, it won’t make you a better player), but it will ensure your paddle lasts longer, and it’s a great idea for beginners who are more likely to scrape or scuff their paddle. You can buy a dedicated edge guard or bumper tape, but I recommend using electrical tape—it offers solid protection, and it’s what a lot of the pros use.
Handle Length
The length of the handle is largely a matter of preference. A shorter handle mimics the geometry of a Ping-Pong paddle, which gives you the opportunity to choke up on the grip, thereby reducing its rotational inertia to swing the paddle quicker, while a longer handle sacrifices some speed but plays a lot more like a tennis racket. Keep in mind that combined length and width of a paddle (including an edge guard and butt cap) cannot exceed 24 inches, per the official rulebook, so any length added to the handle will force the paddle to be smaller.
Grip Size
Similar to handle length, a paddle’s grip size will dictate comfort and control. Paddles typically come in different grip circumferences (small, medium, large), but again, the combined length and width of a paddle cannot exceed 24 inches, so don’t go overboard when refining with the grip. The correct grip size should allow you to comfortably hold the paddle while maintaining a relaxed grip.
Materials
Fiberglass, graphite, carbon fiber—pickleball paddles are made with different materials that perform a bit differently in the midst of play. Beginner-to-intermediate paddles are usually made with fiberglass, while intermediate-to-advanced paddles are made with carbon fiber and graphite. Read on to find out what differentiates these materials from one another, and how they might impact your play.
Noise Level
Pickleball is a pretty loud sport, so much so that non-players across the country are up in arms over the constant noise. Realistically, you can’t make the sport any quieter, but the materials and construction of a paddle can affect the noise it makes when striking the ball. Some tournaments and courts have noise regulations, so make sure to choose a paddle that complies with these regulations.
A close-up look at the Selkirk Vanguard Omni Hybrid paddle.
The Different Types Of Pickleball Paddles
It may surprise you to learn that there are several types of pickleball paddles on the market today, each designed to cater to different playing styles, skill levels and personal preferences. These different types include:
Graphite Paddles
Graphite paddles are incredibly popular among competitive players because they strike a balance between power and control. They’re made of lightweight materials that allow for quick, responsive shots, and are ideal for players who prefer a fast-paced game.
Composite Paddles
Composite paddles are made of a mix of materials, such as fiberglass, carbon fiber and polymer, and this combination makes them more durable than graphite paddles. They offer a good balance of power and control, and are a good choice for players of all skill levels, though beginners will probably find them more appealing.
Wood Paddles
Wood paddles are a classic choice, and are often used by beginners and recreational players. They’re affordable, durable and provide good ball control, but they don’t offer as much power as graphite or composite paddles. That said, they often look nice and sound even better as the ball pops off the paddle.
Edgeless Paddles
Edgeless paddles have a unique design that eliminates the edge guard, which can give players more surface area to hit the ball. They’re a good choice for players who prefer a softer touch and want to maximize their hitting surface.
Wide Paddles
Wide paddles have a larger hitting surface than standard paddles, which can make them easier to hit with, and thus a better option for beginners. They’re also a good choice for players who want to improve their accuracy.
Small Paddles
Small paddles are ideal for players who prefer to win with finesse. They offer greater control and precision, and they’re a great choice for players with smaller hands, as they offer a better grip.
Long Paddles
Long paddles have an elongated shape, which can offer more reach and power. They’re a solid choice for players who want to maximize their reach and hit harder shots.
How To Take Care Of Your Pickleball Paddle
Taking care of your pickleball paddle will ensure its longevity and optimal performance on the court. Here are some tips to help you keep your paddle in tip-top shape.
- Clean your paddle: After a day of play, wipe down your paddle with a damp cloth to remove dirt, sweat and debris from the surface. This prevents buildup that can affect the paddle’s surface and grip over time.
- Avoid excess moisture: While it’s important to clean your paddle, be sure to avoid excessive moisture. Don’t soak or submerge your paddle in water, or leave it out in the rain, as this can damage the core materials and adhesive layers.
- Protect it from extreme temperatures: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold can affect the integrity of the paddle’s materials. Avoid leaving your paddle in a hot car or exposed to freezing temperatures for extended periods.
- Proper storage: When not in use, store your paddle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, like a closet or gym bag. Use a paddle cover or case to protect it from dust and potential damage.
- Grip maintenance: Check the grip regularly for wear and tear. If the grip becomes worn or slippery, replace it with new grip tape to maintain a comfortable and secure hold on the paddle.
- Edge guard: If your paddle has an edge guard or bumper, make sure it’s securely attached. These components help protect the paddle from accidental hits against hard surfaces.
- Avoid hitting hard surfaces: Be cautious when hitting the paddle against hard surfaces such as the court, net posts or walls. Avoid doing your best impression of John McEnroe and don’t slam your paddle on the ground, as this can cause damage to the edge guard and paddle face.
- Inspect it for damage: Regularly inspect your paddle for any cracks, dents or signs of damage. If you notice any issues, address them in the short term to avoid further damage, or a full-on replacement.
- Rotate paddles: If you play with multiple paddles, rotate them like you would a pair of running shoes to distribute wear evenly. This can help extend the lifespan of your paddles.
- Avoid excessive force: While pickleball paddles are designed for gameplay, avoid excessive forceful actions, such as slamming the paddle on the ground after a point. Treat your paddle with tender love and care.
People play pickleball at a pubic court in Brooklyn, New York.
Is Graphite Or Fiberglass Better For Pickleball Paddles?
Fiberglass typically weighs more than graphite, but the added weight allows you to generate more power when smashing. Graphite, on the other hand, provides more control or finesse so you can place shots with accuracy. While pickleball paddles were once primarily made of wood, these modern materials deliver greater comfort, control and long-term durability, and both make for great options whether you’re new to the sport or looking to level up your game.
What Is The Most Popular Pickleball Paddle Size?
The most popular pickleball paddle size is 8 inches wide and 15 3/4 inches long, with a grip circumference between 4 and 4.5 inches. This size is officially sanctioned by the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) and is the standard size used in most official pickleball tournaments.
While there are other sizes available on the market, the 8 x 15 3/4 inch paddle size has become the norm for most players—it offers a balance of power, control and maneuverability. It’s worth noting that players of different ages and skill levels may have different preferences when it comes to paddle size, so some players may find that a larger or smaller paddle better suits their playing style.
Do Expensive Pickleball Paddles Make A Difference?
In general, more expensive pickleball paddles will offer a series of advantages that include improved consistency, accuracy and durability as a result of higher-quality polymers that won’t break down as easily over time.
That said, don’t assume your game will drastically improve simply because you picked up an expensive paddle. If you’ve never played pickleball before, consider investing in a budget- or beginner-friendly option that costs less but still offers consistency so you can focus on the basics before upgrading your paddle in time.
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