Best Pickleball Paddles For 2024

A Pickleball paddle plays an important role in how you perform on the court-and finding the right one can be challenging. Shoppers today have a lot to consider in terms of composition, shape, weight, durability, control, spin, and power. You should also take personal factors into account when searching for a new paddle. People with large hands who like two hands on the paddle should purchase a paddle over 5.25 inches in handle length. For someone that wants a little more agility on the court might choose a lightweight paddle under 7.6 oz.

Our testing team uses a comprehensive methodology when evaluating pickleball paddles. This process consists of multiple stages, during which our testers play with the paddles to gauge factors such as weight, length, control, power, and spin. Additional tests evaluate the paddles overall performance and durability. Our selections for the best pickleball paddles are chosen using our testers’ scores along with in-depth research and analysis.

Joola Ben Johns Hyperion CAS 16 Pickleball Paddle

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Price *$159.95	Sold ByJoola	Shop Amazon

92 Overall Score

The CAS (carbon abrasion surface) model within the Ben Johnson Hyperion series, showcases a carbon fiber face layer on top of a fiberglass layer to add more pop. The surface grit is akin to a sandpaper feel. Unfortunately, the grit tends to wear off with use. The CFS models tend to wear better, as the grit is built into the surface material. The polymer honeycomb cells are larger than the CFS models, for a more responsive feel. The CAS model is much less head heavy than the CFS. The paddle is easy to maneuver while providing ample control. If you prefer a strong power paddle and don’t mind the head weight, the CFS may be a better option for you. With a long handle, the CAS is excellent for two handed shots.

Product Details

Specifications

Weight : 8.3ozHandle Length : 5.5"Core : Honeycomb PolymerFace Material: Carbon abrasionGrip: Ridge,Perforated

Pros

Known for power and supreme spinUSAPA approvedSpin & popGreat for double handed shotsBalanced

Cons

White handle dirties quicklyOn the heavier side

Volair Mach 2 Forza 16mm Pickleball Paddle

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Price *$179.99	Sold ByVolair	Shop Amazon

94 Overall Score

The Volair Mach 2 Forza edition is a wide body paddle almost a half inch shorter and wider than your typical elongated paddle. The Mach 2 has a softer feel while being very stable and forgiving. The wide-body does slightly reduce power but it offers great control with a large sweet spot. However, due to the design, we've found the sweet spot sits slightly lower than the traditional pickleball paddle. The Volair Mach 2 is another great option for those seeking a cheaper option. The Forza edition is slightly lighter with a higher swing weight to twist rate ratio. The 16mm options will give you more control while the 14mm option will give you more power.

Product Details

Specifications

Material: T700 Carbon FiberCore: PolypropyleneEdge Guard: Yes: TPUThickness: 14mm or 16mmWeight: 7.7-8ozDimensions: 15.88" x 8.12"Handle Length: 5.5"Grip Circumference : 4.15"Swing Weight: 110-112

Pros

USAPA ApprovedComes with cover, Eraser, Replacement grip, Paddle bandLarge handleWidebody

Cons

Selkirk Luxx Pickleball Paddle

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Price *$249.99	Sold BySelkirk	Shop Amazon

94 Overall Score

Overview: Available in three shapes: S2,Epic, and Invikta; the Selkirk Luxx paddle is the thickness paddles on the market at 20mm. It is a unique feeling springy paddle ideal for players who want to get better at soft games and kitchen fights. The Selkirk Luxx is similar to the 003 line except a bit muted when it comes to power. We’d recommend adding lead tape if your focus is adding more power. This is definitely a control paddle and will turn you into a reset machine.

Performance: The Selkirk Luxx paddle is a softer and lighter paddle with minor upgrades of the Project 003. The weight distribution, increased swing weight, and balance gives it a robust solid feel. It’s one of the most forgiving paddles we’ve tested, similar to a Vatic Prism or Vanguard 2.0. The highlight of this paddle is the large sweet spot thanks to the thermofoam injection around the perimeter walls.

Product Details

Specifications

Weight: 7.8-8.1ozGrip Circumference: 4.25"Handle Length: 5.35"Dimensions: 16.45"x7.5"Face Material: Carbon FiberCore Material: Thikset HoneycombThickness: 20mmEdge Guard: Aero-DuraEdge Edgeless

Pros

USAPA ApprovedLong handleHigh spin and control

Cons

No Cover

Single Double Pickleball Paddle

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Price *$82.00	Sold BySingle Double	Shop Website

83 Overall Score

Made with a strong fiberglass surface and lightweight honeycomb core the single double paddle is a great value paddle given the price. The sweatproof leather handle is a nice feature that proves itself on the court. Each paddle has a sanded texture surface allowing for greater ball spin. Overall, single double paddles are a great choice with intermediate players. They also come in some eye catching designs.

Product Details

Specifications

Weight: 7.7ozGrip: 4.2"Dimensions: 15.8” H x 7.8”' WThickness: 13mmSurface: Strong textured fiberglassCore: Durable hot pressed honeycomb polypropylene

Pros

EdgeguardSweatproof leatherCover includedMultiple designs

Cons

Smaller grip

Paddletek Phoenix G6 Pickleball Paddle

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Price *$69.99	Sold ByPaddletek	Shop Amazon

87 Overall Score

Light enough for kitchen exchanges yet powerful enough to drive the ball across the court, the Phoenix G6 boasts a large sweet spot along with better accuracy, forgiveness and control. Our PolyCore interior combines with an embedded graphite layer to dampen vibration and sound for more comfortable play. Manufactured in the USA.  

Product Details

Specifications

Weight : 7.8-8.1 ozLength: 15 ⅝"Width: 7.75"Thickness: 12.7 mmHandle Length: 5"Grip Size: 4.25"Face Material: Velvet textured carbonateCore : Graphite polymer composite honeycomb Grip : Ultra cushion high tack performanceEdge Guard: Yes

Pros

Large sweet spotUSAPA approved1 year warrantyTexture allows for good spin

Cons

To activate coverage, customers must register their paddles within 14 days of purchase at paddletek.com

PCKL Launch Series Premium Pickleball Paddle

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Price *$64.99	Sold ByPCKL	Shop Amazon

83 Overall Score

This wide-body paddle is a real sleeper on the court. The PCKL paddle offers all around consistency from control, spin, and power. Its lightweight design, durable construction, superior performance, attractive design, and affordability make it a smart purchase for players of all skill levels.

Product Details

Specifications

Weight: 7.5ozFace: Fiber GlassGrip: 4.25" cushionedFrame: PolypropyleneDimensions: 16"L x 8"WColors: 2

Pros

USAPA approvedLarge Sweet Spot

Cons

Does not come with paddle cover

Recess Pickleball Paddle

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Price *$86.00	Sold ByRecess	Shop Website

85 Overall Score

For intermediate pickleball players looking for a paddle that combines durability, power, and control, the Recess Pickleball Paddle is an excellent option. Its sensitive core, spin-friendly design, and carbon fiber face make it a dependable and adaptable instrument on the court. The Recess paddle offers exceptional value for money due to its performance, longevity, and general high-quality build, even though it may be slightly more expensive.

Product Details

Specifications

Weight: 7.5-8ozGrip: 4.25"Surface: FiberglassCore: 0.53” thick honeycomb interior

Pros

USAPA Approved Comes with coverGrip cushion

Cons

Not ideal for advanced players

Vatic Pro V7 Carbon Fiber

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Price *$139.99	Sold ByVatic Pro	Shop Amazon

The Vatic Pro 7 offers a thermoformed one piece heat compressed T700 raw carbon fiber paddle with edge foam injection. This unibody technology provides plenty of spin, pop and power. The surface provides a long-lasting grit due to the heat-press technology. The handle consists of two polyurethane inserts that absorb vibration. It has an elongated shape with a swing weight of 119. If you prefer a standard shape, give the Vatic Pro Flash 14mm paddle a try. If you’re used to playing with a Gen. 1 carbon paddle, you’ll notice a lot more pop. Due to the foam injection, this paddle provides balanced control. Again, keep in mind, you will need to learn control if you’re coming from a Gen 1 paddle. This paddle offers a terrific blend of power, spin and control for the price point.

Product Details

Specifications

Face Material: T700 carbon fiber/heat compressedCore : Polymer honeycomb cellsGrit: YesWeight: 8.1-8.5ozEdge Guard: Anti abrasion TPUHandle Length: 5.3"

Pros

USAPA approvedOne piece constructionReduced vibration technologyThermoforming seal with foamNeoprene cover includedGreat Power, pop, and spin

Cons

May have a learning curve due to its power3 month warranty

How to choose a pickleball paddle

The best pickleball paddle varies from person to person, and there is no single perfect paddle for everyone. To find your ideal pickleball paddle, you must consider your playing preferences, as well as many aspects of the paddle you’re considering. 

This section guides you through the various paddle options to evaluate when choosing the right paddle for you. Once you know what to look for, you can feel confident that you’re truly buying the paddle that best fits your needs. 

What to consider when purchasing a pickleball paddle

You should consider many factors when purchasing a pickleball paddle. In this section, we provide more information about the factors to consider, simplifying the buying process:

1. Grip Size: A pickleball paddle that fits snug in your hand is important to improve your performance on the court. An improperly sized grip can cause strain on the hand and wrist overtime, leading to “pickleball elbow”. Paddle grips range from 4” to 5”. To determine your size, simply measure from the crease of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. 

You can also measure your grip size by your height (although less accurate) with this table:

2. Weight: Pickleball paddles weigh between 7 to 9 ounces and can be broken down into the       following categories:

Lightweight paddles provides more agility and control, but lacks power. A heavier paddle adds stability and power but hinders control and accuracy. A midweight pickleball paddle gives you a decent look at both sides of quality.

3. Power Vs. Control Vs. Spin: Which do you prefer? Pickleball manufactures use a variety of materials that cater to either power, control, or spin. These changes may be adjusting the weight, size, core materiel, or face of the paddle. Here is a guide on which paddles features offer elements of each option:

• Power: Longer, thinner, fiberglass, heavier
• Control: Wider, Thicker, Graphite or Carbon Fiber, Lighter
• Spin: Paddle has high grit, comfortable grip, elongated shape.

What types of paddles are there?

Pickleball paddles come in 3 main surface materials, each with a specific purpose. Choosing the right one is essential for how you play.  

1. Graphite Paddles: Graphite pickleball paddles are incredibly lightweight. Graphite is composed of stacked sheets of carbon atoms making it very strong. However, due to its thin lightweight nature, this option is best for players that have good maneuverability and are control oriented.  Perfect for drop shots and dinks.
2.  Carbon Fiber Paddles: Carbon Fiber pickleball paddles are extremely strong and durable. Carbon fiber is a form of graphite in which the sheets are long and thin, but more tightly packed.  It’s the perfect middle ground material. 
3. Fiberglass Paddles: Fiberglass is essentially plastic with glass fiber embedded in it. It’s about 15% heavier than fiberglass making it harder to control but good for power shots. Fiberglass is also less stiff, meaning it will transfer the ball off the paddle better resulting in even more power. Think of throwing a ball at a brick wall vs. throwing the ball at a trampoline. 

What sizes of pickleball paddles are there?

   Pickleball paddles come in many different sizes and shapes. Although, the USAPA does have requirements that paddle manufacturers must adhere to. A pickleball paddle cannot be longer than 17 inches. The combined length and width cannot exceed 24 inches. 

   The average pickleball paddle is between 15-17 inches long and 7-8.25 inches wide. While the differences may seem small, picking the right size is very important to overall performance. A longer paddle will provide more reach allowing you to take shots you otherwise might not. On the other hand, a shorter paddle will be lighter and allow for more maneuverability. Longer (elongated) paddles however, tend to have a tighter sweet spot and allow for more power. 

How much does a paddle cost?

Pickleball paddles can range anywhere from $40 to $300. There’s a lot of factors that affect the price of a paddle. The biggest factor being the actual material of the paddle. Some questions to consider: is the grip high quality? Does the paddle have a textured surface? Does it come with a paddle cover? 

Generally you can expect paddles to be priced based on the following:

• Beginner: $50
• Intermediate: $75
• Advanced: $125
• Expert: $200+

   We would recommend starting off with a beginner to intermediate paddle to understand your playing style. After playing some games you may realize you prefer a paddle that has a bigger grip. You may realize you like playing up and want to focus on a paddle specializing in “dink” shots. Or maybe the paddle just feels too heavy. Learn how you play before you go all out. Once you understand your game, it’s certainly worth investing in a good paddle that will last for years to come.