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
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| $74.99 |
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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
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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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| $82.00 |
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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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| $70.00 |
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The On holiday paddle is a great option for beginners looking for a durable paddle with a lot of power.
Product Details
Specifications
Material: FiberglassCore: HoneycombGrip: Condensed foamGrip Size: 4.25"Weight: 7.5 - 8 OZ
Recess Pickleball Paddle
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| $86.00 |
Recess |
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The Recess Pickleball Paddle is a top-notch choice for intermediate players seeking a paddle that combines power, control, and durability. Its carbon fiber face, responsive core, and spin-friendly design make it a reliable and versatile tool on the court. While it may come at a slightly higher price point, the Recess paddle offers excellent value for money with its performance, durability, and overall quality construction.
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
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| $79.99 |
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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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| $69.00 |
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Recently, I came across the Swinton Hero Pickleball Paddle and was intrigued by its unique features and designs. The Swinton hero paddle has a standard polypropylene core with a premium graphite carbon blended face. It is well balanced and lightweight for optimum ball control. It features a black edge guard along with a padded synthetic grip. The Hero paddle is great for newbies to intermediate players. This is a great “bang for your buck” paddle with many color options.
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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| $85.00 |
Tangerine |
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If your looking for a solid paddle for a good price Tangerine is the way to go. With over 15 different designs, Tangerine has the best selection for pickleball paddles. Their paddles are visually pleasing, have a nice sweat spot, and extremely comfy grip. Tangerine paddles are competitively priced for what you get with the added bonus of cool colors.
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.
