The Best Pickleball Paddles 2023

SPECS:

• Weight: 7.7 – 7.9 oz.
• Core Material: Polymer Honeycomb PowerCore
• Hitting Surface: composite
• Grip size: 4.125″

PROS

• Highly forgiving and excellent for beginners
• Affordable
• Lightweight and easy to use
• Available in red and blue
• A comfortable SLK ThinGrip

CONS

• There are better-looking pickleball paddles in the market

Summary

This ” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored”>Selkirk NEO pickleball paddle is a good pickleball paddle for beginners because it’s a high-quality paddle at an amazing price point.

And its forgiveness is such that anyone who doesn’t know what they want in a paddle can easily play with it.

Thanks to the honeycomb core, the paddle’s sweet spot is large and can help a player return a solid shot.

You’ll notice that the face of the paddle is a little broader which will help you return balls without concerns of over-the-edge guard hits.

Other helpful features include a small grip size for comfort and ease of use.

SPECS:

• Core: polymer
• Weight: 8.1 oz
• Paddle face: fiberglass
• Grip size: 4 1/4 in

PROS

• Secure and much more stable
• Enhanced feel and sound
• Ample power on the ball
• Gives better control
• Available in red-grey and black yellow

CONS

• May not have the excellent balance that beginners require

Summary

Learn pickleball at your own pace with Head Radical Elite Composite Paddle.

The paddle comes with an ergonomic grip and an elongated body for better control over the court.

Also, the powerful rebound capabilities keep the feelings of overswing away from your game so you feel more in control when hitting the shots.

It has excellent for control players who drive balls on the serve while also dinking over the net.

The tapered edge that appears to be going inwards allows extra maneuverability and feel.

The paddle’s length and grip size drive some extra power into the hits for those hard slams that some players love.

The distinct diamond shape stands out from the crowd, and it is a constant reminder that you are dealing with an original Head product – the brand known for some of the best pickleball paddles.

SPECS:

• Core: polypropylene honeycomb
• Weight: 7.9 oz
• Paddle face: Graphite Carbon Fiber
• Grip size: 4.25 in

PROS

• Better looking paddle
• A large sweet spot for fewer mishits
• It comes with a protective cover for off-court protection
• Approved for tournament use
• Easier to apply various kinds of spins

CONS

• Some users complain of less power
• It may develop an odor

Summary

ProBetter may be an underdog manufacturer of pickleball paddles, but their paddle has gathered some reputation for solid quality.

Typically this paddle is good for occasional and new players.

Its cushioned ergonomic grip reduces hand fatigue, vibrations, and slip. This means you can use it for longer and be more consistent in your game.

It’s a great paddle for use by kids as well.

You could start with a more economical choice (a cheaper-made paddle) or a wood paddle, but personally, I don’t think either choice is the best way to spend your money.

SPECS:

• Core: Nomex core, paper honeycomb
• Weight: 7.5-8.2 oz
• Paddle face: graphite
• Grip size: 4-1/4″

PROS

• The paddle is approved for competitions
• Relatively quiet
• A mid-range price point
• Built to last

CONS

• Some say its power is low

Summary

The ONIX Z5 graphite pickleball paddle is common in most recreational courts and competitions for its quality. It is one of the most versatile and comes in common and popular shapes.

The classic shape and build quality are highlights and why it is such a workhorse, and its solid feel and weight make it a staple for all-around pickleball players.

Of course, there is still a section of players that feel comfortable in simple and conventional widebody pickleball paddles, and ONIX Graphite Z5 ticks the right boxes.

But apart from its old shape, the paddle is highly functional, with an easier-to-find sweet spot and broad hitting surface.

The surface has some texture, allowing for a good spin on the ball.

SPECS:

• Core: polymer
• Weight: 6.9 oz
• Paddle face: graphite paddle
• Grip size: 4.25″

PROS

• Comfortable to use, cushioned grip
• Helps with power and control
• It comes in a variety of colors and styles
• Quality look and feel

CONS

• Some say the paddle is too light for effective power shots

Summary

The sleek graphite face of the Selkirk Latitude paddle has a unique feel and control that every new intermediate player will feel comfortable in.

It provides a consistent hit and feels like being on top of the game and developing skills.

At less than 6 ounces and characteristic of a graphite paddle, any player can leverage quicker hands and maintain control.

The cushioned and standard grip thickness absorbs impact and sweat for the highest comfort level. You can play longer without fatigue and consistently.

The low profile and durable edge guard technology combine to make it the perfect paddle for intermediate players.

The balance between power and control and sizable width is a source of excellent dinks and volleys.

An ample grip length gives you control of the paddle and the game, and the paddle’s sticky face produces versatility.

The unmistakable large paddle face allows players to leverage on its sweet spot and defend slams.

Selkirk Latitude Wide Body comes in a selection of stunning vibrant colors and designs to suit your style on the court and feel confident in the game.

SPECS:

• Core: polymer
• Weight: 8.1 oz
• Paddle face: fiberglass
• Grip size: 4 1/4″

PROS

• Lightweight but with ample power
• Any level of player can use it
• Great ball reflecting capabilities
• Increased accuracy on the ball through its grippy surface

CONS

• It may not be the best choice for people looking for an extra spin in the game

Summary

You’ll need control, strength, and reach to advance in pickleball.

That is where a quality pickleball paddle comes in. Through its textured surface, HEAD Radical Pro gives the players the ability to improve spin.

A fiberglass face gives ample power and excellent finish to stay in the competition.

In addition, you have a better grip on the ball for shot placement and improved spins, thanks to the paddle’s extreme spin texture.

The paddle also has a characteristic long face for a better reach. With good reflexes, no ball will go past your reach.

The advanced tech, plus the cushioned handle, reduces the vibration and makes every game pleasurable.

Issues such as the “pickleball elbow” are common, especially when you make wrong paddle choices, but HEAD helps you avoid that with this paddle.

HEAD Radical Pro is constructed from one piece of material, giving it a robust and stable feel during swings. It was designed to produce an extra pop during competitions, but one of its most important features is its lightweight construction.

SPECS:

PROS

• The paddle has less vibration and is comfortable to use
• Budget-friendly considering the quality
• Available in four colors
• Approved for tournament

CONS

• It may not be very comfortable for two-handed backhands

Summary

Most manufacturers will claim that their paddle has the perfect blend of control and power, but that is not always the case. Engage Encore Pro achieves this.

When it comes time to replace your pickleball paddle, you will want something better like the Engage Encore Pro.

At 7.8-8.3 oz, the paddle is a bit weightier than its peers, but for a purpose. The extra weight adds some power to the ball and has an extra-wide body shape to help with the reach. You don’t have to move a lot. And if you have a thing for one-handed backhands, the grip length of Engage Encore Pro allows it.

The gritty face gives the ball a good spin and is heavy enough for some power on the serve or response. The paddle’s design includes a fiberglass skin and polymer honeycomb to increase the time the ball is on the paddle (a concept that the brand came up with). It enhances the feel of the paddle. But that is not all that the rough skin helps achieve.

It also increases the spins in the shots. The overall build quality is excellent and a good value for money.

SPECS:

PROS

• Comfortable to use
• A good amount of forgiveness for beginners
• Ergonomic grip
• The paddles are affordable

CONS

• Premium-priced paddle set

Summary

The Selkirk Sport NEO may be a relatively new player in the game, but they have been making large strides with some of the best products in the market. Their high-end paddles use the latest technologies and attractive designs to make them an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate players.

The core of the paddles features the exclusive SX3 honeycomb core, and the entire face is FiberFlex fiberglass. The improved core, which features a large sweet spot, has been a hit among the beginner and intermediate players because of the associated power and feel. The honeycomb core also softens the impact and ensures a consistent speed.

Their build quality and weight are pretty much what make the paddles quite popular, especially among tennis and other racket sports crossover players. There have been some complaints about the weight, where some users felt it is a bit higher than others. The new line of graphite paddles is better at 7.5 ounces.

The majority of the pickleball paddles in the market are around 8 ounces. The 0.5 ounces difference is quite significant, and the best part is that it does not sacrifice power and balance.

Some players may notice the Neo paddles are relatively smaller, but that is not a major concern. On the flip side, they are easier to use and carry.

The set comes with an ultra-cushion grip that absorbs sweat and the impacts. This reduces fatigue, and you can play for longer.

You can also use the paddles in local and international tournaments since they are USAPA-approved.

SPECS:

●       Core: polymer

●       Weight: 8 oz

●       Paddle face: Carbon Fiber

●       Grip size: 4 1/4″

PROS

●       Suitable for all ages and player levels

●       Multifunctional pickleball bag for storage and transportation

●       Same weight and feel as premium paddles

CONS

●       The surface is not textured and may not give the best ball spin

Summary

A carbon fiber face has its advantages, and precise control is among them. The XSPAK Pickleball Paddle set accurately suits intermediate and advanced players.

The edge guard protects the edges. The low-profile edge guard is sufficiently slim to prevent the ball from bouncing of it.

Other important features include the soft and quiet polymer core, which redefined durability and performance. The lightweight characteristics of the polymer core add to the maneuverability, pop, and speed on the court. Most users love how the ball comes off the face of the paddle.

The hit is easy to control and comes off strongly to subdue the opponent or stop powerful serves.

It has a shorter handle, 4.9 inches, and some players say it’s

too short, but it is ideal for beginners and younger players. The length allows for easier maneuverability and the ability to try different styles. If you’re looking for a pickleball paddle with a long handle, check out the Selkirk Amped Invikta.

SPECS:

• Core: Wood
• Weight: 10 oz
• Paddle face: wood
• Grip size: 4.25″

PROS

• Inexpensive pickleball set
• Good quality box for gifting
• It can be used both indoors and outdoors

CONS

• Some players complain of splintering after a period of use
• It is relatively heavy

Summary

The Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Set includes four pickleballs, four wooden pickleball paddles, and one mesh bag to help beginners in their pickleball journey.

Some crossover tennis players grow fond of pickleball, especially when they buy an inexpensive, comfortable pickleball paddle such as Amazin Aces. The set is easy to use and allows the players some wiggle room to try out the game without breaking the bank.

The set is perfect for community centers and schools.

The construction of seven-plywood maple wood ensures that the paddle can withstand the constant abuse of learning the ropes. It motivates children and beginners to do more exercises and develop skills.

The paddles have a wrist strap, a cushion grip, and the weight is not so much for comfort. The feel and the comfort of the paddle depend so much on the paddle’s weight. Some of the premium paddles are as light as 7 ounces.

The Amazing Ace’s wooden paddles are 10 ounces, and while the difference might not seem much for some people, it can affect the game of some, especially those used to playing with lightest paddle.

Lighter may seem better, but it can lack power and balance. If you are tight on budget or trying to see if the pickleball game is right for you, then Amazin Aces is a good choice.

SPECS:

• Core: Wood
• Weight: 10 oz
• Paddle face: plywood
• Grip size: 4.25″

PROS

• Built based on USAPA specs
• Best for those tight on budget
• Good quality carry bag

CONS

• The plywood may separate after a period of use
• Users have reported fraying on the carry bag

Summary

If you have found a past-time activity in pickleball, you’ll be hesitant to make a significant investment in premium paddles. But at the same time, you want a quality paddle.

The Westop Sports Pickleball Paddle Set is a great choice for people uncomfortable with fiberglass and looking for an activity to increase the family bond time. Most users mention convenience and user-friendliness when using the paddles set.

The paddles have a comfortable small to medium-sized ribbed grip, with more cushion, and its strap secures your hand for good control.

This ergonomic handle reduces fatigue to play for longer and perfect the shots. The handle is sufficiently small for use by children and adults alike.

They also have a lighter than usual weight, and the larger 8-inch body allows for better forgiveness – there is more surface to catch the ball and something that beginners and young players appreciate.

The accuracy is less than other non-wooden and premium paddles but still subtler than other wooden paddle sets. Westop Sports is more balanced and easier to use.

The paddles have a fully painted face to safeguard against cracks and warping. The overall construction is durable, and the handle will not snap mid-game.

The balls included in the pickleball set are good quality, and their bounce is decent, and the included bag can carry everything you require for a good day of pickleball. A portion of the amount earned goes to supporting military professionals.

SPECS:

• Core: Wood
• Weight: 9.5-10.5 oz
• Paddle face: plywood
• Grip size: 4″

PROS

• Ergonomic grip
• Budget-friendly
• Lightweight and sturdy
• USAPA Approved

CONS

• The paddles are not very durable
• Relatively heavy

Summary

The Rally Meister wood pickleball paddles are constructed of seven-ply alternating wood for durability and strength.

Regardless, the paddles are lighter than their wooden peers but they’re a heavier paddle than polymer pickleball paddles.

Most budget-friendly paddles are the cheap grip, mostly covered with cheap tape. But that is not something you will see with Rally Meister Pickleball Paddle Set.

In fact, the paddles have a high quality and comfortable grip that reduces fatigue and hand discomfort, and safety straps add to its stability in your palms. The polyurethane grip is similar to what you see in more expensive models, and so you can play for longer and easier without the paddle flying out of your hand. You can also use the straps for storage.

The grip is also moisture-wicking and more comfortable on the palms – it compresses when squeezed slightly.

The attractive screen printing stands out and is a source of confidence for players. You can use the paddles for competitive sports since they are USAPA-approved. The green plastic wiffle pickleball is adequate for outdoor use.

A high-quality net system is also part of the package, which means you have everything to get started.