The Best Pickleball Paddles for Winning Every Match | Gear Patrol (2024)

Ben Emminger

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Don’t let your shots drop off due to poor equipment. Take the court by storm with one of these top-performing picks.

Pickleball has screamed onto the scene in recent years, with millions of athletes taking up the sport to stay social with friends, get the blood pumping and unleash that competitive spirit that’s laid dormant since high school or college. The craze surrounding the activity is a result of its easy-to-follow gameplay, low-impact nature and simple, affordable gear requirements.

As is the case with your other fitness interests like running or yoga, however, sooner or later you’ll (likely) want to advance your performance beyond the entry level status. In pickleball, there’s no simpler way to elevate your in-kitchen confidence than with a worthwhile paddle.

But with new athletes investing in the sport on a daily basis, and the rush of brands offering premium silhouettes ranging in build quality, shot style and price, finding the right paddle for your play can seem daunting at first. Thankfully, we’ve taken to the line and landed plenty of dinks, smashes and lobs to help narrow down the playing field.

How We Tested

Ben Emminger

I’m by no means a professional pickleball player, but I have a few matches under my belt and have a good understanding of my personal shot preferences. I held court with a number of these top-performing paddles, taking note of how comfortable each grip and handle felt in-hand, as well as how efficiently the faces cut through the air during my swing.

Sweet spots and paddle weight were also considered, as I varied my play to either a power-focused style or one favoring more control and touch. Finally, I examined each paddle’s shape and face quality, as these can features can make all the difference when reaching for that far-off drive or finessing a backspin return serve past your opponent.

Now, get your arms loose, gather a few friends and let’s get into this roundup.

The Best Pickleball Paddles:

Selkirk Amped S2

Amazon

BEST OVERALL PICKLEBALL PADDLE

Selkirk Amped S2

• $150.00 at Amazon

• Weights Available: Lightweight, Mid-weight
• Handle Length: 4.5″
• Paddle Width: 8″
• Paddle Height: 15.75″

If you’re looking for a premium paddle to do it all, there are few out there as impressive as the Amped S2 from Selkirk. I really appreciate the shorter 4.5-inch handle, as it provides excellent control and maneuverability in a number of shots. Plus, the large face and FiberFlex surface tech give you plenty of power, control and spin in one silhouette.

The Amped S2 is available in both lightweight and mid-weight options, and while I doubt most athletes will find either profile difficult to get through the zone, those looking for that featherweight feel may be left wanting more (err, less). According to the brand, lightweight profiles typically weight between 7.4–7.8 ounces, which is a little above most lightweight readings you’d find in other profiles. Still, if you want to upgrade your game and stand out in the kitchen, this is an excellent option for your next match.

Joola Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16mm

Dick’s Sporting Goods

BEST UPGRADE PICKLEBALL PADDLE

JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus CFS 16mm Pickleball Paddle, Carbon

• $249.95 at Dick's Sporting Goods

• Weights Available: 8 oz.
• Handle Length: 5.5″
• Paddle Width: 7.5″
• Paddle Height: 16.5″

Don’t let the elongated shape of this premium pickleball paddle fool you. Despite the lengthier profile, the Perseus CFS feels incredibly smooth through swings, and I didn’t experience any top-heavy sensations other athletes have commented on in past Joola models. Plus, this impressive paddle is a thermoformed unibody design, so there’s no joint or point of weakness where the face meets the handle.

Ben Emminger

I also enjoy how snappy this paddle is, as there’s little give at contact and the ball pops quickly off the face. This can be great for fast-paced play where you don’t want the ball compressing and sitting on your paddle for too long. This premium paddle requires a ton of focus, though, which I experienced in some off-center shots. While other paddles may allow you to get away with these errors, there’s a definite deadening when you don’t connect at the sweet spot. Oh well, if you’re spending over $200 on a pickleball paddle, I’m sure you want every shot to be as precise and on-point as possible.

Head Radical Elite

Dick’s Sporting Goods

BEST BUDGET PICKLEBALL PADDLE

Head Radical Elite

• $69.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods

• Weights Available: 8.1 oz.
• Handle Length: 5″
• Paddle Width: 7.875″
• Paddle Height: 16″

Quality pickleball paddles don’t need to break the bank. This sleek, sturdy profile from Head provides an excellent sweet spot ideal for beginners and veterans alike. I also enjoy the thicker core makeup of the Radical Elite, which translates well to hard-hit power shots and slams.

Ben Emminger

Additionally, this Radical Elite pickleball paddle comes equipped with Head’s Composite Hitting Surface. This fiberglass feature can be more forgiving than other silhouettes, increasing this paddle’s playability as you take on a weekend’s worth of games. Admittedly, though, I found this component to lack the grit and friction you’d want when trying to really put spin on returns. Also, it can be helpful to have a gym towel handy when playing with the Head Radical Elite. The grip wrap is somewhat smooth, which can lead to slips and slides as your palms begin to sweat in the throws of competition.

Selkirk Power Air Invikta

Dick’s Sporting Goods

BEST PICKLEBALL PADDLE FOR POWER

Selkirk Power Air Invikta

• $249.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods

• Weights Available: Mid-weight
• Handle Length: 5.25″
• Paddle Width: 7.375″
• Paddle Height: 16.5″

Need a paddle that’s one heck of a heavy hitter? Consider this unique profile from Selkirk. Boasting an aerodynamic cut-out at the throat for increased swing speed, the Power Air Invikta is a definite standout amongst pickleball enthusiasts. I also appreciate the elongated shape that extends your reach. Plus, that extra surface area and longer handle do wonders for creating the torque you want in a power-based shot.

There’s also a noticeable grit to the Quadflex 4-Layer Hybrid Face, which can be excellent for putting a lot of spin on those muscle-bound returns. All that power does limit your control, though, which is why this may not be the best silhouette for beginners. Fine-tuning your touch with the Power Air Invikta takes plenty of practice, so unless you have dreams of (literally) smashing through an upcoming local tournament, you may be better off with another option.

Engage Pursuit EX 6.0

Amazon

BEST PICKLEBALL PADDLE FOR CONTROL

Engage Pursuit EX 6.0

• $0.00 at Amazon

• Weights Available: Lightweight, Standard
• Handle Length: 5″
• Paddle Width: 8″
• Paddle Height: 16″

Athletes relying on finesse and precision in their pickleball games should look at this impressive silhouette from Engage. The Pursuit EX 6.0 showcases a polymer core and graphite surface that packs every shot with ample control and touch. I have no problem placing returns with this paddle, and there’s just enough spin to really up my game when needed.

I do recommend taking breathers in-between matches with this paddle, though. Despite Engage offering the Pursuit EX 6.0 in both lightweight and standard frames, the lowest measured weight clocks in around 7.6 ounces. Extended volleys and multiple games in an afternoon can leave your wrists and arms plenty tired. Additionally, while I was able to get off a few power shots with this paddle, I wouldn’t recommend it for the practice. I occasionally felt a “whip” sensation on these harder drives, which made placement and control more difficult.

Gearbox CX14 Elongated

Dick’s Sporting Goods

BEST PICKLEBALL PADDLE FOR SPIN

Gearbox CX14 Elongated

• $219.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods

  See Also

  We Tested Over 30 Pickleball Paddles and Found This Model Is the Best

• Weights Available: 8 oz.
• Handle Length: 5.625″
• Paddle Width: 7.375″
• Paddle Height: 16.625″

Adding spin to your pickleball shots can be a great way to keep your opponent on their toes, but in order to get that zip, you want a paddle that can put the play in motion more easily. Thanks to a ribbed core, urethane coating and friction-causing texture, the CX14 from Gearbox is a must-have for athletes wanting to twist things up in the kitchen. I recommend the elongated profile that helps extend your reach, and the narrower head can also lend itself to even more mustard on every return.

The Gearbox CX14 is also plenty durable with a carbon fiber construction. That is, if you care for your paddles properly. There’s no edge guard across this silhouette, which can lead to some dings, dents and scratches if you mishandle your paddle in either play or storage.

Onix Graphite Z5

Dick’s Sporting Goods

BEST PICKLEBALL PADDLE FOR BEGINNERS

Onix Graphite Z5

• $89.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods

• Weights Available: 7.5–8.2 oz.
• Handle Length: 5″
• Paddle Width: 8.125″
• Paddle Height: 15.5″

If you’re looking to learn the sport of pickleball, this is the paddle I’d recommend. The Graphite Z5 boasts a wide sweet spot across the face, which can be excellent at forgiving those all-too-common mish*ts when just starting out. Additionally, I appreciate the inclusion of a Nomex core, as this build quality gives you a great feel for the ball and let’s you know when you really connected correctly.

Ben Emminger

While the Nomex core is a perk for ball feel, those looking to keep their gameplay quiet may want to look elsewhere. There’s definitely a “clunk” at each contact, which could be annoying if you get into a hard-fought rally. Plus, don’t expect two Graphite Z5s to feel the same across the board. Despite the singular profile and cut, the weight of a given paddle can vary by nearly an ounce.

Tangerine Gardiner’s Bay

Courtesy

MOST STYLISH PICKLEBALL PADDLE

Tangerine Gardiner’s Bay

• $85.00 at tangerinepaddle.com

• Weights Available: 7.6 oz.
• Handle Length: 5″
• Paddle Width: 7.7″
• Paddle Height: 15.65″

Admittedly, a majority of your personal flair in pickleball comes from your attire, but there are a few paddles out there that can help you stand out even further. Take this sleek and stylish silhouette from Tangerine. While I favor the Gardiner’s Bay profile with its striped vibe that screams summer, the brand has a slew of designs and colorways that easily upgrade your on-court look (regardless of the shot’s outcome).

Ben Emminger

From a performance standpoint, I think these Tangerine pickleball paddles can hold their own, too. For one the grip wrap is very tacky and I never question my handles in the kitchen or service areas. Additionally, the slightly longer face does improve your reach. I wouldn’t take on a more competitive tournament with these paddles — there’s other, more performance-based profiles for those tasks — but for a quick match with friends or a casual afternoon on the court, this is a solid option.

Amazin’ Aces Wood Paddle Set

Amazon

BEST WOODEN PICKLEBALL PADDLE

Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Wood Paddle Set

• $25.99 at Amazon

• Weights Available: 10 oz.
• Handle Length: 5.5″
• Paddle Width: 7.5″
• Paddle Height: 15.6″

There’s a lot of flash and performance across many of the included pickleball paddles in this guide, but on occasion, it’s just fun to go back to the basics. Well, this Wooden Pickleball Paddle Set from Amazin’ Aces is prime for taking your game back to yesteryear and even comes with four pickleballs in tote, so there’s no excuse to not get a pickup game going amongst friends.

Additionally, these wooden pickleball paddles boast a comfortable 5-inch handle that feels great mid-swing, and the grip wrap can also absorb some of that hard-earned sweat to help ensure proper control. You’ll definitely need this perk if taking this set into a more advanced environment, though. Wooden paddles can be difficult to control given the added weight, and there’s not a lot of tech at play to help facilitate well-groomed shots. This means, for example, that those power slams you idolize? Yeah, you’ll need to work extra to generate enough steam behind the ball.

Recess Vista

Courtesy

BEST PICKLEBALL PADDLE FOR CASUAL PLAY

Recess Vista

• $86.00 at recesspickleball.com

  $386.00(78% off)

• Weights Available: 7.5–8 oz.
• Handle Length: N/A
• Paddle Width: 7.8″
• Paddle Height: 15.67″

Another stylish pick for casual play, this pickleball paddle from Recess is ideal for those slow-paced get-togethers where getting out is the end goal. I appreciate the comfortable grip, and the vibrant faces across the lineup are eye-catching and appealing. Plus, these pickleball paddles come with a convenient canvas pouch for more secure storage, so while your level of play may not be competitive at heart, at least you’ll look like you’re ready to dominate the court.

Of course, there’s a reason these paddles are best suited for the recreational athlete, and that lies in the polypropylene core. Sure, it’s a lightweight material that flexes enough for ample feel and control, but when it comes time to send your opponent home with a hard slam, you may not enough gas in the tank to land the shot.

Paddletek Tempest Wave II

Dick’s Sporting Goods

BEST PICKLEBALL PADDLE FOR INTERMEDIATE PLAY

Paddletek Tempest Wave II

• $129.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods

• Weights Available: 7.4–7.8 oz.
• Handle Length: 5.25″
• Paddle Width: 8″
• Paddle Height: 15.875″

Think you’re ready to move beyond the casual match? You’ll need a pickleball paddle that’s up for the task, like this impressive profile from Paddletek. The Tempest Wave II is one of my favorites, as the design components can easily elevate your game with heightened control and touch, yet the sweet spot is still large and reactive enough to let you mish*t a few balls and generate enough feel for a worthwhile return or serve.

I also appreciate the balanced weight of this pickleball paddle that’s easy to get through the zone. A textured graphite surface also gives room for toying around with ball spin, yet it’s not so aggressive like other, more advanced silhouettes. This paddle is designed more so for control and finesse, though, so if you’re looking for a powerful drive, you’ll need to put some extra oomph behind your swing.

Joola Simone Jardim Hyperion CFS 16mm

Dick’s Sporting Goods

BEST PICKLEBALL PADDLE FOR ADVANCED PLAY

Joola Simone Jardim Hyperion CFS 16mm

• $219.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods

• Weights Available: 8.4″
• Handle Length: 5.5″
• Paddle Width: 7.5″
• Paddle Height: 16.5″

So, you’ve graduated from the competitive pickups and think you’re ready to take on some pickleball tournaments or rule the roost at your local park. Well, this Hyperion CFS profile from Joola is a perfect tool for the job thanks to impeccable quality throughout the silhouette. I enjoy this paddle’s blend of power, control, touch and spin — it’s clear you’re playing with an advanced piece of equipment. Additionally, the perforated anti-slip ridge grip wrap is one of my favorites for shoring up my handles.

Ben Emminger

While this is a definite contender and nearly placed higher in this roundup, there are a few pitfalls to this pristine paddle profile. For one, those wanting a more balanced feel may want to look elsewhere, as this pickleball paddle has a tendency to feel somewhat top heavy. Also, while I admire the power capabilities of this silhouette, there are more muscle-bound options out there if that’s your sole intention on the court.

Different Types of Pickleball Paddles

When deciphering between the different “types” of pickleball paddles, you’re really looking at the main material used across the profile. Below are five of the most widely-available paddle styles to choose from, each with their own perks catering to varied playing styles, experience levels and personal tastes.

Polymer

Polymer pickleball paddles can be excellent for beginners thanks to their lightweight frames, durable construction and approachable price points. The flexible plastic material can offer a good mix of power and control, too, which is perfect for athletes just getting used to controlling their shots.

Graphite

For athletes wanting a little more performance and quality, graphite can be a top option. These pickleball paddles are lightweight and feature excellent response, touch and control. Plus, the durability is prime for extended play. While not the best for power-minded athletes, this premium paddle type can be a great pick for those that favor the dink shot over the hard smash.

Composite

“Composite” is an umbrella term when it comes to pickleball paddles. Profiles under this type can be made from a blend of carbon fiber, fiberglass, vinyl and other synthetics. In comparison to other styles, these are often the heaviest silhouettes to choose from, making them great for hard-hitting power players. Be mindful, though, that composite paddles can carry a heftier price tag due to the more intricate makeup.

Wood

Wooden pickleball paddles are as simple as they come. These profiles can be good for casual players or beginners, as they can control the ball well at contact and create that classic “pop.” Other than that, however, these simple profiles lack the responsiveness and power available in other types. It’s best to keep these for recreational get-togethers where competition it as its lowest.

Edgeless

The fifth type of paddle you’re likely to find differs in design rather than material. Edgeless pickleball paddles remove the edge guard from the silhouette, which can help increase your hitting surface. This lack of a guard rail around the rim of the face can sacrifice some durability, though, so be sure to take care of this pick when used and stored.

How to Choose the Best Pickleball Paddle

Grip and Handle Length

Your swing control is reliant on your grip, so be sure to look for a pickleball paddle with a comfortable wrap and enough handle length to fit your hand. Most pickleball paddles will feature a handle length between 4–5 inches, but athletes with smaller or larger hands may need to adjust accordingly. Additionally, shorter handles can be great for those more accustomed to ping pong, while longer lengths may be a great way to transition from tennis.

Weight

In addition to grip, your paddle’s weight can influence your game as well. Most profiles will weight between 6–14 ounces and are broken down by three categories:

• Lightweight: Typically under 7.2 oz.
• Mid-weight: Typically between 7.3–8.4 oz.
• Heavyweight: Typically over 8.5 oz.

Lightweight paddles can be excellent for fast-paced shots and control, while heavier silhouettes can bring heightened power and stability to your play, albeit while sacrificing some speed in the process. For beginner athletes, a mid-weight paddle can be a good mix of both as you learn and understand which style you prefer on the court.

Thickness

When it comes to thickness, you’re essentially thinking about how much shock absorption you want to occur at contact. For athletes wanting more control and potential for spin, consider a pickleball paddle over 16mm thick. For those wanting power in every drive and smash, look for thinner paddles less than 16mm. Be mindful, though, that thinner paddles can sacrifice some control and sweet spot coverage, so it may be best to start thicker and work your way down as your experience progresses.

Shape

Most pickleball paddles boast a squared face with rounded edges. This helps create a large sweet spot that can cater to beginner and experienced players, alike. Some paddles use a longer, rectangular profile to increase your reach on the court, but this can affect the size of your sweet spot overall.

You can also find pickleball paddles with a rounded or teardrop-shaped profile. These silhouettes showcase the smallest sweet spots of the bunch, but can be excellent for creating a light in-hand feel and potential for boosted spin. As such, these more rounded profiles are better suited for more advanced athletes.

Core Materials

Your paddle’s core influences your feel and power in each shot, so which material you choose is vital. Nomex cores are lightweight and durable yet lack some cushioning on impact. This can lead to a louder “thunk” when hitting a pickleball. Aluminum cores can be great for facilitating a powerful shot, but the added weight can begin to wear on your wrist if you play a lot. Polypropylene cores are popular across many pickleball paddles thanks to its lightweight, flexible and well-cushioned performance.

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