Pickleball can be enjoyed by all skill levels including beginners. One of the most important aspects of transitioning from a beginner to a pro is selecting the right paddle. A right paddle can make a huge difference in the players performance and enjoyment of the game. When selecting a paddle for a beginner it’s important to review many different features. Our list includes beginner paddles that offer great all around, spin, power, control, weight, and price.
As a beginner it’s important to get a good quality paddle without breaking the bank. As you progress in your skill level you won’t want to continuously keep purchasing paddles. At the same time a cheap paddle will certainly hold you back. Our selection of best beginner paddles for 2023 is the perfect guide for higher quality entry level paddles that will stand the test of time.
Big Dill Infinity Fiberglass Pickleball Paddle
Tired of boring paddles? This company put the fun in functional, with awesome designs that bring a smile to your face with every game. But don't worry, the paddles are versatile, and balanced for all types of players and play
Product Details
Specifications
Weight: 7.7 ozLength: 15.5"Width: 8.0"Thickness: .5"Handle Length: 4.75"Handle Shape: StandardGrip Size: 4.5"Face Material: FiberglassCore: Polypropylene honeycombGrip: Padded, absorbentEdge Guard: Yes
Pros
USAPA approvedLimited lifetime warrantyCover includedUSA based company
Cons
No trial period (30 day refund is for non used paddles)Face is smooth (non textured)States the paddle is for all playing levels, but it is best for beginners to intermediate
Single Double Pickleball Paddle
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| Price *$82.00 |
Sold BySingle Double |
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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
On Holiday Pickleball paddle
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| Price *$70.00 |
Sold ByOn Holiday |
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With its colorful and whimsical design that includes waves, beach chairs, and palm palms, the On Holiday Pickleball Paddle sticks out and gives your gaming a tropical feel. This paddle has a playful look, but it's made for serious performance. Its fiberglass face and robust polypropylene core make it lightweight and strong.
Beginners looking for better accuracy and consistency will find its wider shape, which offers a larger sweet spot, ideal. It guarantees hours of comfortable play for players of all skill levels with a slightly smaller circumference and a comfortable cushioned grip.
Product Details
Specifications
Material: FiberglassCore: HoneycombGrip: Condensed foamGrip Size: 4.25"Weight: 7.5 - 8 OZ
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
Onix Composite Z5 Pickleball Paddle
The Z5 comes in two different face (or hitting surface) options. The Z5 shines in the spin category for both the graphite and composite paddles because of the extra grit added to the surface. The composite face is heavier, yet offers more stability and power. It’s spin, gives a slight edge to the Z5 composite due to the composite's already gritty nature. The Z5 is wider than most paddles, providing a large sweet spot while focusing on control. Manufactured in Mexico.
Product Details
Specifications
Weight : 7.5-8.2 ozLength : 15.5”Width: 8.125"Thickness : 11mmHandle Length: 5”Handle Shape: TennisGrip Size : 4.25”Face Material: Composite Core: Nomex honeycombSpin: MediumGrip: Grip by Onix, CushionEdge Guard: Yes
Pros
Wide body provides a larger sweet spot Beginner friendlyExtra weight provides more powerPrice is less than the graphite model
Cons
8.2 ounces may be a bit heavy, especially those with tennis elbowBeginners may lack ball controlVibration in the grip
Swinton Hero Breeze Pickleball Paddle
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| Price *$69.00 |
Sold BySwinton |
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We were drawn to the Swinton Hero Pickleball Paddle's distinctive features and patterns when we recently came across it. The premium graphite carbon blended face of the Swinton Hero paddle is paired with a conventional polypropylene core. For the best ball control, it is lightweight and perfectly balanced. It has a padded synthetic grip and a black edge guard. A fantastic paddle for beginning to advanced players is the Hero.
Product Details
Specifications
Weight: 7.75 ozLength: 15.8”Width: 7.8”Grip: Padded Synthetic PerforatedFace Material: Carbon GraphiteCore: PolypropyleneColors: 6
Pros
Affordable beginner paddleUSAPA approved
Tangerine Pickleball Paddle
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| Price *$85.00 |
Sold ByTangerine |
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Tangerine is the best option if you're searching for a reliable paddle at a reasonable cost. Tangerine offers the most variety of pickleball paddles, featuring over 15 distinct styles. Their paddles have a great sweat spot, a visually appealing design, and an incredibly comfortable grip. Tangerine paddles offer attractive hues and a decent price for what you receive.
Product Details
Specifications
Weight: 7.6 ozGrip Circumference: 4.25"Handle: 5"Thickness: 13mmSurface: FiberglassCore: Polypropylene honeycomb
Pros
LightweightUSAPA ApprovedGood power and accuracyOver 15 design options
Cons
Does not come with cover
Things to consider in a beginner pickleball paddle:
Price
All the beginner paddles in this list are in the “mid-range” price spectrum. Pickleball paddles range from $30-$300. These paddles may not have all the bells and whistles but also aren’t the cheapest. It’s important to get a good beginner paddle to try out and understand your preferences before going all out. Think of these as trial paddles for regular play.
Material
Take this chance to discover what material you like. Most beginner paddles will feature a fiberglass or graphite face. Players that like powerful shots will opt for a fiberglass paddle while others prefer the simplicity of graphite construction.
Weight
Pickleball paddles vary up to 2 ounces in weight. This may not seem like a huge difference but it is noticeable on the court. After playing with your beginner paddle, notice how it feels. Our beginner paddle nominees are mid weight for balanced play. If you play in windy conditions or prefer hard hitting shots, you may elect for a heavier paddle. Lighter paddles are great options for quick players that want good control.
Handle length and grip size
It’s important to start off selecting the appropriate grip size for your paddle early on. Below is a chart to help determine which size fits based on your height.
