All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
You don’t need special skills to try your hand at pickleball, America’s fastest-growing sport—but you do need the right equipment. The best pickleball paddles can help you comfortably serve, volley, and drive the ball across the court. We tapped coaches, pros, and avid players to learn more about which options stand above the rest, no matter your experience level, and how to pick the right one for you (more on that below). crbn 1 16mm pickleball paddle
Based on expert recommendations and reviews from shoppers, these are the best pickleball paddles to try now.
Pros: Sleek design, USAPA-approved, great spin (according to reviewers) Cons: Pricey
Beloved by Jessica Coughlin, a certified pickleball coach in Connecticut, Selkirk’s Halo paddle offers stellar control and a gritty surface that “helps you to grip the ball better when making contact,” she tells SELF. Reviewers describe it as a “great all-around paddle” and praise its “excellent spin capability” as well as the fact that the ball “pops nicely” off the face.
It’s not the least expensive option on the market, but it is approved by the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA), meaning you can use it to play in official tournaments. Note: There are several variations of the Selkirk Halo that differ slightly in style and shape. Coughlin uses the Halo Parris Todd, named for a pro women’s pickleball player.
Pros: Easy to control, USAPA-approved Cons: Some reviewers say it’s not light enough
If you’re brand new to pickleball, you don’t need to blow your entire budget to find a solid paddle. Case in point: This affordable pick from MTEN that’s ideal for beginner players. The wide-body shape provides an ample sweet spot, the honeycomb core offers good ball control, and the midweight design helps ease newbies into the game without overloading their arms. Shoppers appreciate the bold color combinations and how this paddle feels in their hands. Another bonus: It’s also USAPA-approved.
Pros: Affordable, has everything you need to get started, USAPA-approved Cons: Some reviewers say balls aren’t durable
One big perk of pickleball is that it’s a really social sport, which is why it never hurts to have an extra paddle on hand. That way, you can “bring other people to the court without having to tell them to go and buy something,” Landon Uetz, PT, DPT, a physical therapist and certified TeachMe.To pickleball coach in Arizona, tells SELF. With this popular, affordable bundle, you can snag two paddles—plus three balls and a drawstring bag to haul everything around—for under $100. These essentials are USAPA-approved, designed for all skill levels, and crafted by well-known brand Selkirk.
Pros: Lots of colors to choose from, USAPA-approved Cons: Some reviewers say the handle is too thin
The Onix Z5 is a well-crafted, quality pick—and it was the first paddle Uetz used when he started playing pickleball. “It lasted me for a couple years playing recreationally,” he says. Ping pong players may find this option especially appealing, as the flared, wooden handle resembles the shape of a table tennis racquet. It’s USAPA-approved, comes in 13 different colors, and has that familiar, wide-body shape.
Pros: USAPA-approved, comes in six weights Cons: Pricier than other picks, some reviewers report durability issues
Coughlin’s other paddle of choice is the USAPA-approved Paddletek Bantam TS-5, which is crafted with a honeycomb core for good ball control. It’s available in six different weights (ranging in increments of 0.1 oz), so you can find the perfect heft for your hands. Amazon reviewers love how the lightweight design allows them to make precise shots and play long games without fatiguing.
Pros: Approachable price, sleek design, also sold in a set Cons: Some players report that the handle is too thin
If you’re new to pickleball and overwhelmed by all the paddle varieties, consider this raved-about option from popular brand Joola. It’s excellent for first-timers, since it’s both well-priced and high-performing, David Dutrieuille, Minnesota-based national pickleball director for LifeTime and certified professional with the Professional Pickleball Registry, tells SELF. Reviewers compliment its durability, lightweight feel, and generous sweet spot. Bonus: Amazon offers a bundle option—two paddles, two balls, and a bag—for folks looking to jump into the game with a friend.
Pros: Edgeless, lightweight Cons: Some reviewers report durability issues
Folks who are ready to step up their game will love this paddle from PCKL. “The most impressive feature for a paddle at this price is that it is edgeless, which creates a slightly larger hitting surface. It is also thinner and lighter than most paddles,” David Satka, a Professional Pickleball Registry coach and author of Winning Pickleball, tells SELF. “This paddle is designed to give beginning players a little more ‘pop’ on their shots. It has the ability to continue to satisfy players as they move from beginner to intermediate level,” he adds, meaning you won’t need to upgrade right away after you get the hang of the sport.
Pros: Elongated shape, long handle Cons: Expensive
This paddle is modeled off of Six Zero’s Black Diamond paddle, which quickly became famous in the pickleball world for the amount of power and pop it produced. The Ruby has the same unique design and shape, with a Kevlar surface that provides more control than the pure power of the Black Diamond, notes Satka. “The $199 price tag seems like a bargain for the quality of this paddle,” he says. “All levels of players could not go wrong buying this paddle, but advanced intermediate to advanced players will appreciate it even more.”
Pros: Long handle, grippy surface, soft core Cons: Pricey
This elongated paddle has an extended, 7.75-inch long handle that makes it a great choice for tennis players and those with a two-handed backhand, notes Satka. “The Engage brand is one of the industry leaders and long-time makers of top-quality paddles,” he says. This model combines the friction of a grippy carbon fiber surface with a soft polymer core that “allows a player to ‘feel’ the ball much better,” Satka says. This blend makes the paddle a great option for anyone who wants to prioritize power and control at the same time.
Pros: Beautiful design, lots of colors and patterns, comes with paddle cases Cons: Basic design, some reviewers report quality issues
Shopping for you and a partner (romantic or doubles)? We recommend this aesthetically pleasing set from Recess. “This is a great gift idea for the couple considering giving pickleball a try,” says Satka. “It’s the only paddle on the market that allows buyers to choose from dozens of attractive designs for the hitting surface, and each paddle even comes with an embroidered canvas cover.” Other nice-to-haves include a faux leather grip around the handle and guards on the edges to protect your investment.
Pros: Multiple thickness options available, offers good control and spin Cons: Shape and length won’t work for everyone
This paddle’s shape will feel more familiar to tennis players, thanks to its longer body and handle. It comes in two different thickness options too—Satka says the thicker 16-millimeter paddle will help players with control. “This is an excellent choice for the more experienced intermediate-level player,” he says. “CRBN’s claim to fame is the use of a ‘raw’ carbon fiber hitting surface that is said to allow for maximum spin.” We’re game.
Pros: Comes in bright colors, long handle, USAPA-approved Cons: On the expensive side
This USAPA-approved paddle is designed by Franklin for Ben Johns, the number one ranked pickleball player in the world in men’s singles and men’s mixed doubles. Dutrieuille recommends it for anyone who is a step above beginner-level. It has a long handle, which allows you to make two-handed shots easily. Another plus: Its gritty surface is designed to promote traction on the ball and boost its spin. It comes in lots of bright colors and two different thicknesses: 13 millimeters and 16 millimeters.
Pros: Budget-friendly, cute designs Cons: None—practically perfect
Introduce your little one to pickleball with this paddle that’s designed specifically for younger players. Available in two models—kids and toddler—it’s smaller and lighter than a typical adult paddle, making it easier for children to grip and use. The colorful illustrations on the paddle’s face are super fun and kid-friendly. Reviewers rave about the “adorable” designs and describe it as the “perfect” size for young pickleballers.
Pros: USAPA-approved, sleek design Cons: Pricey, some players say it’s too soft
Both Coughlin and Dutrieuille recommend this USAPA-approved paddle, especially for intermediate to advanced players. The curve of the head is designed to minimize drag and boost swing speed, while the honeycomb core provides ample power. It’s on the pricier side, but if you’re committed to pickleball, this paddle might just be a worthwhile investment for leveling up your game.
Sure, every paddle’s a little different—but how do you find the right one? Experts recommend paying attention to these key factors while you shop.
Paddles generally range in weight from 7 ounces or less to around 8.5 ounces, says Uetz. Heavier ones often deliver more power, helping you hit the ball with more velocity, while lightweight options are easier to control. Not sure what you prefer? Opt for a midweight option—between 7.5 and 8 ounces—that will likely strike a comfortable middle ground, says Uetz.
Two common shapes are wide-body (which looks square-ish) and elongated (which looks rectangular), says Coughlin. Wide-body paddles have a bigger sweet spot—the area where the ball bounces off best—making them a solid pick for beginners. Elongated paddles may be more comfortable for folks with a background in court sports, since their shape more closely resembles a tennis racquet.
You want a paddle that’s comfortable to hold, says Dutrieuille. That “feel” can be tough to suss out online, which is why Uetz suggests heading to a local sporting goods store and testing a few paddles of varying weights and shapes. You can then use that intel to make your purchase. “It will at least give you an idea as to where to start,” he explains.
Material isn’t just a matter of personal preference—it also affects how much a paddle costs and how it performs during play. Wood paddles tend to be less expensive, but they have a small sweet spot, says Uetz. Plus, you may find that they make it more difficult to control the ball, and they also tend to be less durable.
It’s a better bet to go with a paddle made from a composite material, graphite, or carbon fiber, says Coughlin. She also suggests looking for ones crafted with a honeycomb core, a design element that helps them absorb the impact of the ball and aids in control.
Another pro tip? Note the paddle’s thickness: Typically, thicker ones offer more control because they’re better at absorbing the impact of the ball, Coughlin explains.
Get more of SELF’s great product recommendations delivered right to your inbox (for free!).
SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.
rally graphite pickleball paddle © 2024 Condé Nast. All rights reserved. SELF may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Condé Nast. Ad Choices