What Are The Best Pickleball Paddles?

With the rise in popularity of pickleball, more and more paddles are being developed by reputable brands to meet the demands of beginners, intermediate and advanced players. Choosing the right paddle is key to maximizing your performance and enjoyment of the game. The best pickleball paddle for you depends on your skill level, playstyle, and personal preferences.

The most important factors to consider when selecting a paddle are power, control, spin potential, durability, comfort, price and key technical specs like weight, grip size, shape, and materials. Top pickleball paddles are commonly made from fiberglass, graphite or carbon fiber as they offer weight savings, durability, power and control compared to wood paddles.

Brands like Selkirk, Engage, Paddletek, ProKennex and JOOLA dominate rankings for top rated paddles thanks to their innovative designs crafted for versatility and targeted benefits. Beginner paddles emphasize control and forgiveness while advanced pickleball paddles focus on power and spin.

Here’s an overview of the top pickleball paddles ideal for players of all skill levels based on expert reviews and buyer experiences.

Quick Answer: The Selkirk Halo is the overall best pickleball paddle combining composite Fiberflex face and PolyCoreTM core for excellent touch, power and durability. For advanced players, the JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus 16 offers premium graphite construction for power and spin. The Vanguard Power Air Invikta excels for power hitting while the Paddletek Bantam EX-L is ideal for beginners needing forgiveness and control. Those on a budget should consider the MTEN Fiberglass Paddle.

How to Choose the Best Pickleball Paddle?

With so many paddle options on the market, it’s essential to know how to select the right one tailored to your playing style, skill level and physical needs.

Here are the key factors to evaluate when choosing a pickleball paddle:

Match Your Skill Level

First evaluate your skill level and how often you play pickleball to choose a paddle with the right features.

Beginner paddles – Ideal for new players, these emphasize control, forgiveness and durability. Look for larger paddle faces sized 15-16 inches for more surface area to hit the ball solidly. Edgeless designs increase control while lighter weights under 8 ounces reduce arm fatigue. Materials like fiberglass offer durability.

Intermediate paddles – As you improve control, opt for a midweight paddle around 7.2-8 ounces for better maneuverability, spin potential and power. Faces sized 15-16 inches suit all-around play with fiberglass, graphite or composite materials.

Advanced paddles – Expert players benefit from lightweight paddles under 7.5 ounces for quick reactions and composite materials like carbon fiber to deliver touch, power and spin control. Smaller skill paddles with high grip handles aid advanced maneuvers.

Determine Your Grip Style

Knowing your grip helps choose the right paddle size and shape.

Two-handed backhand grip – A wider face like 15-16 inches helps two-handers get both hands on the grip. Rounder edges add flexibility.

One-handed grip – Narrower faces around 15 inches suit one-handed backhand shots for quick maneuverability. Square edges provide stability.

Power grip – Look for midsize faces 15-16 inches to drive power from a firm grip. Thicker grips absorb impact vibrations.

Consider Weight and Balance

The paddle’s weight significantly impacts playing performance and arm fatigue. Heavier paddles over 8 ounces provide power while lighter paddles around 7.2-7.5 ounces maximize control and quick reactions. Balanced paddles prevent fatigue for longer games.

Evaluate Grip Size

Matching your grip size to hand size ensures a comfortable, non-slip hold during play. Grips are sized from 4-4.625 inches in 0.125 inch increments. Measure hand size or test grips to get ideal fit. Large grips add stability but small grips provide better control.

Determine Face Material

Paddle faces come in fiberglass, graphite, composite polymers and carbon fiber, each offering distinct benefits.

Fiberglass – Most affordable and durable option ideal for beginners. Provides decent power, control and touch.

Graphite – Lightweight for maneuverability with good pop and touch. Less durable than fiberglass and pricier.

Composite – Mix of materials for excellent power, control and durability. Comes in polymer, copolymer and other blends.

Carbon fiber – Very lightweight and powerful but expensive. Responsive sweet spot and optimal spin capability.

Assess Shape and Design

Paddle shapes affect power and control. Wider, rounded shapes have a larger sweet spot for power while narrower, elongated shapes add touch and control. Other factors like edgeless vs. standard edges impact spin potential and control.

Compare Technical Specs

Look at technical construction elements like core material, string pattern, and handle length which influence performance, control and power. Test paddles to get a feel for these dynamics.

By matching key factors like grip style, weight, face material and design to your ability and needs, you’ll discover your ideal paddle match to take your pickleball game to the next level.

The 10 Best Pickleball Paddles

Now that you know how to select the right paddle for your game, here are the top rated pickleball paddles highlighting the best choices for players of all skill levels and playing styles.

1. Selkirk Halo – Best Overall

The Selkirk Halo earns rave reviews as the top pickleball paddle combining powerful performance with excellent touch and control. Weighing 7.8-8.3 ounces, the midweight design provides superior maneuverability and quick reactions for all-around play.

The innovative FiberFlexTM composite face offers the touch of fiberglass along with excellent pop thanks to ArmortecTM protection. The PolyCoreTM polymer honeycomb core amplifies power and sweet spot forgiveness. The Ergo(G) grip makes play comfortable even during extended games while AirLite edges maximize control and spin.

With its unbeatable blend of power, control and durability, the Halo suits beginners through advanced players. The standard face size of 15.75 inches provides a large sweet spot for consistent, accurate hits.

Pros: Ideal mix of power, control and forgiveness. Lightweight maneuverability. Premium composite build quality.

Cons: Expensive price point. Limited grip size options.

2. JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus 16 – Best Overall Paddle

Designed in collaboration with pro champion Ben Johns, the JOOLA Perseus 16 provides an outstanding graphite pickleball paddle for competitive, aggressive players.

Weighing just 7.4 ounces, the Perseus 16 is highly maneuverable with excellent pop and ball control thanks to its carbon graphite honeycomb core. The textured QuadCoreTM grip and ergonomic shape deliver superior comfort and reduced vibration.

With its 16-inch face, elongated head shape and thin core, the Perseus 16 maximizes touch and spin. The lightweight design reacts quickly while the large sweet spot provides power.

Pros: Superior pop and ball control. Lightweight and quick maneuvering. Ideal for competitive play.

Cons: Less durable than composite options. Pricey for recreational players.

3. Vanguard Power Air Invikta – Best for Power

The Vanguard Power Air Invikta excels at power shots, making it ideal for aggressive players with long, forceful strokes. The hexagonal face holes amplify power and sweet spot size for maximum ball velocity.

Weighing 7.8-8.3 ounces, the midweight design provides improved power over lightweight paddles. The polymer honeycomb core generates excellent touch, control and stability. The tacky dot grip pattern prevents slipping during active volleys and drives.

With its fiberglass face, the Invikta delivers consistent pop, though composite options add more finesse. The oversized blade provides beginners a large sweet spot while the design suits intermediate and advanced players.

Pros: Generates tremendous power and ball speed. Forgiving sweet spot for solid contact. Unique hexagonal face holes.

Cons: Lacks the finesse and control of composite paddles. Large size not ideal for small grip players.

4. Paddletek Bantam EX-L – Best Pickleball Paddle for Beginners

The Paddletek Bantam EX-L makes an excellent choice as the best paddle for beginners needing ample control and forgiveness. The EX-L steps up from the original Bantam with a graphite face for added pop and responsiveness.

Weighing 7.6-8.3 ounces, the midweight build combines maneuverability for beginners with stability for intermediates. The Edgeless design provides a massive sweet spot for outstanding control and accuracy. The ergonomic handle maximizes comfort and playability.

With its oversized face, lightweight feel and edgeless shape, the Bantam EX-L helps beginners develop solid fundamentals with exceptional touch and control. As skills progress, the EX-L transitions seamlessly into intermediate play.

Pros: Huge sweet spot maximizes control. Edgeless shape ideal for beginners. Lightweight graphite face adds pop.

Cons: Lacks versatility for competitive play. Graphite less durable than composite.

5. MTEN Fiberglass Pickleball Paddle – Best Budget

The MTEN Fiberglass earns top marks as the best budget pickleball paddle under $50. The quality fiberglass face delivers impressive power, control and durability. The honeycomb polymer core maximizes pop and stability.

Weighing 8 ounces, the MTEN provides a nice balance of maneuverability and stability for all-around play. The perforated soft grip absorbs sweat and allows for a secure, non-slip hold. The classic shape and standard 16-inch length work well for both one and two-handed players.

While high-end paddles use more responsive materials, the MTEN outperforms other budget wood and aluminum options for a fraction of the price. Ideal for beginners and casual players.

Pros: Excellent value under $50. Durable fiberglass face. Cushioned grip for comfort.

Cons: Lacks touch and finesse of graphite. Not for competitive tournament play.

6. Selkirk Power Air Paddles – Best for Spin

Selkirk’s Power Air paddle series utilizes FiberFlexTM Power Air technology to maximize spin potential for competitive players. Thesignature honeycomb pattern flexes on impact to grab and propel the ball with intense spin.

Weighing just 7.4-7.9 ounces, the ultra lightweight feel increases maneuverability for quick volleys and reaction shots. The PolyCoreTM polymer honeycomb core provides optimal touch and ball control. The slim ergonomic handle allows a secure grip.

With game-changing levels of spin, the Power Air line appeals to intermediate through pro players. The lightweight feel does sacrifice some stability and power, so these paddles complement certain playing styles best. Test for your preference.

Pros: Revolutionary design generates massive spin shots. Highly responsive and maneuverable. Polymer core improves control.

Cons: Lightweight makes power hits harder. Narrow design not ideal for all grips.

7. JOOLA Hyperion CFS 16 Series – Best Overall Paddles

JOOLA’s Hyperion CFS 16 paddles designed with pros Ben Johns and Irina Jardim provide tournament caliber performance with a comfortable, sleek design. The Hyperion combines a graphite face and honeycomb polymer core to deliver outstanding touch, control and power.

Weighing just 7.2-7.6 ounces, the Hyperion provides competitive players with quick reaction time, fast movement and spin generation. The QuadCore grip minimizes vibration and impact. Edgeless faces maximize the forgiving sweet spot.

With its thin profile, elongated shape and sweet spot extending to the edge, the Hyperion excels at touch shots and quick exchanges at the non-volley line. The lightweight versatility suits different playing styles.

Pros: Thin and lightweight profile ideal for competitive play. QuadCore grip reduces vibration. Added spin potential.

Cons: May lack stability for beginners. Less durable graphite face.

8. Ektelon Inferno Paddles – Best Value Pickleball Paddles

Ektelon’s Inferno paddles offer outstanding performance for intermediates and advanced players at a very affordable price point. The graphite face provides excellent touch and finesse along with good power. The polymer honeycomb core boosts power and stability.

Weighing 7.2 to 8.4 ounces, the Inferno line covers multiple weights for players that value maneuverability or stability. The perforated grip absorbs sweat and allows for hand expansion on grip shots. The standard shape accommodates different grip styles.

For current pricing just over $50, the Inferno delivers features and playability rivalling paddles double its cost. Ideal for aspiring competitors seeking quality gear that won’t break the bank.

Pros: High-performance graphite paddle under $60. Wide range of weights available. Cushioned, sweat-absorbent grip.

Cons: Lacks versatility of composite paddles. Narrower sweet spot than edgeless options.

9. Engage Pursuit Ultra Pickleball Paddles – Best for Control

Engage’s Pursuit Ultra paddle emphasizes outstanding control thanks to the super-soft Composite Fiberglass face mated with a Polypropylene Honeycomb core. The surface provides excellent touch and finesse with good shot feedback.

Weighing 7.8-8.6 ounces, the midweight build combines stability for control along with adequate maneuverability. The cushioned grip absorbs vibrations during play. The polymer edge border increases durability.

With its focus on control, touch and responsiveness, the Pursuit Ultra suits players that rely on ball placement, touch shots and keeping the ball in play. The larger sweet spot helps develop control skills.

Pros: Super soft face material increases touch, control and finesse. Cushioned grip minimizes arm fatigue. Durable construction with edge guard.

Cons: Generates less power and spin versus carbon fiber paddles.

10. ProKennex Black Ace Pro Pickleball Paddle – Best for Power

With its graphite fiberglass face and thick core, the ProKennex Black Ace Pro cranks up power for smashing drives and put away shots. The special core material increases pop and ball momentum as does the rough texture face.

The midweight 7.8-8.5 ounce design provides stability for power shots yet enough maneuverability for quick exchanges. The perforated handle absorbs moisture and the edge guards increase playability lifespan.

For competitive players with long, aggressive strokes that go on the attack, the Black Ace delivers forceful power and responsiveness to finish points. The rugged build stands up to hardcore play.

Pros: Graphite face emphasizes power and pop. Special core material maximizes ball speed. Rugged construction for frequent use.

Cons: Lacks control finesse of composite paddles. Large grip difficult for smaller hands.

Pickleball Paddle Buying FAQs

How much do pickleball paddles cost?

Pickleball paddles range from $20 for basic wood paddles up to $150+ for high-end graphite or carbon fiber tournament paddles. Here are average price ranges:

Beginner wood paddles: $20-$40
Midrange aluminum or fiberglass: $40-$80
Composite polymer: $60-$100
Professional graphite or carbon fiber: $100-$150+

Where can I buy a pickleball paddle?

You can buy pickleball paddles at most major sporting goods stores, online retailers like Amazon, directly from pickleball brands, pro shops at pickleball complexes and specialty pickleball retailers. It’s best to demo paddles if possible before buying.

How do I know what size pickleball paddle I need?

The right pickleball paddle size corresponds to your grip style and hand size. Paddle sizes are measured by weight and face size. For weight, lightweight 7-7.4 oz paddles enable quick maneuvering while 8+ oz paddles provide more power and stability.

The face or head size ranges from 15 to 16 inches for most grips, with midsize 15-15.5 in faces suiting one-handed grips and oversized 16 in faces fitting two-handed players best. Make sure the grip circumference fits your hand size comfortably.

How often should you replace your pickleball paddle?

With frequent play, most pickleball paddles need replacement every 1-2 years. Signs your old pickleball paddle needs replacement include the face denting easily, the grip tape wearing off, the face scratching or chipping and your performance being hindered.

Advanced graphite or carbon fiber paddles may need replacement more frequently than 1-2 years with daily play. Composite or fiberglass paddles can potentially last 2-3 years with proper care.

How do I clean my pickleball paddle?

Use a soft towel or sponge with warm water and a gentle soap to lightly clean your pickleball paddle face and grip.

What is the best weight for a pickleball paddle?

Paddle weight significantly impacts play. Lightweight paddles around 7.0-7.5 oz provide quick maneuverability for touch shots, control and spin. Heavier paddles 7.6-8.5 oz offer more power on drives plus stability and forgiveness.

Most recreational players do best with a midweight paddle around 7.8 ounces. Competitive players often prefer ultra lightweight paddles under 7.5 oz for quick reflexes.

What size pickleball paddle is best?

The paddle size that fits you best depends on your grip style, strength and hand size. Face sizes range from 15 to 16 inches for most paddles.

Average sizing recommendations:

15 inch face: Best for small hands using 1-handed grip
15.5 inch face: Versatile size for 1 or 2-handed players
16 inch face: Ideal for 2-handed grip for more reach

Grip circumferences range from 4 to 4 5/8 inches. Measure your hand to get ideal grip size.

Should I get an edgeless or regular face pickleball paddle?

Edgeless paddle faces with no defined rim maximize the overall sweet spot for outstanding control, touch and power accuracy. Regular paddle edges concentrate power in the center.

Edgeless paddles suit beginners needing to develop solid, consistent contact. Advanced players benefit from regular edges for fast exchanges and spin shots around the net.

How do I add grip tape to a pickleball paddle?

Upgrading worn out grip tape on your favorite paddle is easy. Start by removing the old tape. Clean the handle with mild soap. Apply new grip tape in opposing directions, overlapping half the width, until fully covered. Use a razor to trim any excess.

Can you use a tennis racquet for pickleball?

While tennis racquets can technically be used, their lightweight designs and tight string patterns make them poor choices for pickleball. Pickleball paddles provide ideal weights, shapes and face materials to maximize play. Tennis racquets also lack proper grip sizes for pickleball. Stick with sport-specific paddles.

Wrapping Up How To Choose the Best Pickleball Paddle

With pickleball’s rising popularity, pickleball paddle technology continues advancing rapidly to meet the needs of recreational and aspiring pro players. Major brands like Selkirk, JOOLA, Engage, Paddletek and ProKennex now craft specialized paddles delivering unprecedented power, control, spin and feel across every price point.

While high performance graphite and carbon fiber paddles cost over $100, beginners can find quality starter paddles for under $50 in materials like fiberglass and polymer composites. No matter your skill level, selecting the right pickleball paddle tailored to your game can elevate performance and enjoyment of this addicting sport.

Focus on key factors like your grip style, weight preference, ideal face material and shape along with technical construction when choosing your new paddle. Test demo paddles if possible. Investing in the ideal paddle to match your abilities and strengths on the court will have you volleying and serving your way to victory in no time!

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