We Found the Best Pickleball Paddles After Playing for 1,000 Hours

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Pickleball offers a challenging cardio workout, improves balance, and boosts hand-eye coordination. Some studies have also found that pickleball can improve a person’s well-being, happiness, and life satisfaction and reduce stress and depression. But no pickleball game is complete without a quality pickleball paddle. Choosing the best pickleball paddle for you depends largely on your skill level and playing style. Beginners who have yet to master the game of pickleball should choose a lightweight paddle with a large sweet spot for more control, while advanced players may benefit from a medium-weight, textured paddle with great power potential and spin.

To find the best pickleball paddles for every player, we interviewed four experts—two certified pickleball coaches and two professional pickleball players—for advice on key features to look for when shopping. We then played for over 1,000 hours on the courts, testing 35 expert-approved paddles. Our top picks received high scores for comfort, grip, durability, control, and value. We also had a physical therapist and RRCA-certified run coach review this article for accuracy surrounding what to look for in pickleball paddles.

What to Know Before You Shop

While many pickleball paddles look similar, they are not all created equal. As you begin to shop for your next pickleball paddle, here are some important pickleball terms you’ll want to keep in mind: 

  • Power: Power refers to how hard and fast you hit the ball. Intermediate and advanced players who have solid paddle control may want to opt for a heavier paddle made from a fiberglass surface material that delivers extra weight and density for power shots.
  • Control: Control is about hitting the ball with precision. Novice and intermediate players should select a lightweight paddle made from a carbon fiber surface material that makes it easier to aim the ball. 
  • Spin: When you hit a ball with spin—meaning it rotates as it travels through the air—it can be more difficult for your opponent to hit it back, potentially earning you points. Paddles made with a gritty, textured surface help generate topspin and backspin. 
  • Core: The material inside your pickleball paddle, the core, can affect power and control. Typically, the core is made from polymer or polypropylene in a honeycomb chamber that helps limit vibration and distribute energy as you hit the ball.
  • Sweet Spot: When you hit a ball with the sweet spot (the middle of your paddle), you get a bouncy pop, more power, and better precision. Some paddles, especially most beginner paddles, are designed with larger sweet spots for easier play. 
  • Paddle Face: The surface of the paddle that makes contact with the ball. A paddle can have different shapes, like square, rectangular, or teardrop, and can be made with different materials—the shape and material you choose will depend on your playing style.
  • Pop: A term that refers to the responsiveness of your paddle when it strikes the ball. An advanced player looking for a paddle that’ll generate more speed and power during play will want to opt for a paddle with more “pop.”

PHOTO: Amazon

Key Specs

Core Materials: Polymer | Surface Materials: Carbon fiber | Weight: 7.8–8.2 ounces | Shape: Standard | Handle Length: 5.75 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who It’s For

Best for beginner to advanced players who need a durable paddle for power and control.

Why We Love It

One of the most important things to look for in any pickleball paddle is grip, as it’s essential for comfort and precision play. The grip on Selkirk’s SLK Evo Power 2.0 Paddle is exceptional—it’s well-ventilated, tacky, and cushioned without feeling thick or bulky in our hands. Even after hours on the court, we never experienced any soreness or discomfort, and the racquet never once slipped in our palms. 

We love this paddle for beginners to advanced players because it’s the ideal weight for precise control and speedy power. We also noticed that this standard-shaped paddle has a large sweet spot, making it even more desirable for beginners. Plus, the paddle’s surface features a fine, grainy texture, which helps with spin when you’re ready to level up your pickleball game.

Potential Flaws

  • Though we found this paddle well priced for its features, it’s not as durable as other options on our list, so you may have to replace it down the road if you play frequently.

Most Valuable Insight

“Wow. I was honestly blown away that this paddle was so reasonably priced! I’d absolutely recommend it to others.” —Kristen Geil, Verywell Fit product tester

Brooklyn Paddle Co. Classic Paddle

PHOTO: Brooklyn Paddle Co.

Key Specs

Core Materials: Honeycomb polypropylene | Surface Materials: Carbon fiber | Weight: 8 ounces | Shape: Standard | Handle Length: Not listed | Grip Circumference: 4.3 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who It’s For

Best for novice players who want a comfy, cushioned handle for recreational play.

Why We Love It

Brooklyn Paddle Co.’s Classic Paddle has an exceptionally comfortable handle, ideal for recreational players who focus on fun. The handle is wrapped in a cushioned, perforated, non-slip, sweat-wicking grip and feels good in both small and large hands. 

During testing, we found the lightweight paddle easy to control. After hours of play, we noticed no arm or wrist soreness. The shape is standard, but it feels less elongated and more compact than other options we tested, which made it easier to maneuver. Plus, the textured carbon fiber surface helps with spin and precision.

Potential Flaws

  • The lightweight construction limits power hits.
  • We noticed that the edges of the paddle scuffed over time.

Most Valuable Insight

“This paddle has the best handle of the ones I tested: Ultra-padded with spiral lines that helped to prevent my hand from moving. It was very comfortable to hold for short and long games and would suit all players.” —Riddley Schirm, Verywell Fit product tester

Engage Pickleball Encore Pro Pickleball Paddle

PHOTO: Amazon

Key Specs

Core Materials: Honeycomb polypropylene and polymer | Surface Materials: Fiberglass | Weight: 7.5–8.3 ounces | Shape: Standard | Handle Length: 5 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.5 inches | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who It’s For

Best for intermediate players who have sweaty hands.

Why We Love It

Engage Encore’s Pro Pickleball Paddle has a perforated grip that is non-slip, sweat-wicking, and stays cool to the touch. One tester, who has particularly sweaty hands, appreciated that he didn’t have to worry about the paddle slipping out of his hands during fast and powerful shots. 

We love the generous sweet spot and textured surface that help us hit consistently and with spin. Plus, the fiberglass material and lightweight feel deliver a great balance of power and control. We also noticed that it’s easy to switch between front-hand and backhand swings since the paddle feels like a seamless extension of our hands.

Potential Flaws

  • The handle is a bit short for a two-handed backhand. 

Most Valuable Insight

“This was by far my favorite paddle I tested. The perforated grip is great for me since I have sweaty hands—it never slipped or felt loose in my hand.” —Chris Ader, Verywell Fit product tester

Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta Paddle

PHOTO: Dicks Sporting Goods

Key Specs

Core Materials: Honeycomb polymer | Surface Materials: Fiberglass and carbon fiber | Weight: 7.7–8.1 ounces | Shape: Standard | Handle Length: 5.3 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.3 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who It’s For

Best for intermediate to advanced players who have solid control and want more power.

Why We Love It

Made from a combination of fiberglass and carbon fiber, Selkirk’s Vanguard Power Air Invikta Paddle delivers maximum power and control. During testing, we noticed that the paddle felt like a natural extension of our hands—making it easy to hit power shots with precision. 

The paddle’s surface, a great balance of textured and smooth, also helps ensure the ball lands where you want it to. And we found that the non-slip grip is comfortable to hold and fits well in most hand sizes. Showing no signs of wear and tear throughout testing, we’re confident that this durable paddle is built to last for aggressive, competitive play.

Potential Flaws

  • While great for power, we found it difficult to generate a lot of spin with this paddle.

Most Valuable Insight

“This paddle provided the most power compared to any other paddle I’ve used and tested.” —Boris Kharlamenko, Verywell Fit product tester

Legacy Pro Pickleball Paddle

PHOTO: Legacy

Key Specs

Core Materials: Reactive honeycomb | Surface Materials: Carbon fiber | Weight: 8.4 ounces | Shape: Elongated | Handle Length: 5.3 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.1 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who It’s For

Best for intermediate to advanced players who want a large sweet spot for maximum control.

Why We Love It

Legacy’s Pro Pickleball Paddle is crafted with an elongated face and a large sweet spot to enhance your gameplay by providing maximum ball control. Its extensive surface area and slightly weighted tip make the paddle fantastic for precision aiming with no dead spots. Even with the weighted tip, the paddle feels light and easy to maneuver.

During testing, we said goodbye to sweaty palms thanks to the perforated grip, which absorbs moisture and feels comfy in our hands. Plus, the textured surface delivers a great spin for confusing your opponents. Built to last, this paddle’s durable carbon fiber surface shows no signs of wear or scuffs, even after rigorous testing sessions.

Potential Flaws

  • Players who prefer a standard-shaped paddle may find it takes some time to get used to the narrow, elongated shape.

Most Valuable Insight

“The slight weight at the tip of the paddle helps with control. I was able to place shots very well while using this paddle.” —Rafa Soriano, Verwell Fit product tester

Joola Ben Johns Hyperion Swift Pickleball Paddle

PHOTO: Amazon

Key Specs

Core Materials: Reactive honeycomb | Surface Materials: Carbon fiber | Weight: 7.9 ounces | Shape: Standard | Handle Length: 5.25 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.1 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who It’s For

Best for precision players who want a paddle to enhance their skill.

Why We Love It

Experience unrivaled spin, precision, and control with JOOLA’s Ben Johns Hyperion CFS Swift Pickleball Paddle. Engineered for effortless returns on both forehand and backhand shots, this paddle boasts a generous sweet spot that we found delivers pinpoint accuracy with every swing. Even with less-than-perfect form, we effortlessly directed the ball exactly where we wanted it to land. 

During testing, we also noticed that the paddle’s highly textured face makes it easy to generate spin. The comfortable, sweat-wicking grip enhanced our performance during intense matches under the sun.

Potential Flaws

  • Some strikes left impact marks, or scuffs, on the edging around the paddle face, but this didn’t affect the paddle’s overall performance.

Most Valuable Insight

“My favorite part of the paddle is that it fixes your mistakes. Even if I have bad form, the ball goes in the direction I want it to.” —Boris Kharlamenko, Verywell Fit product tester

OWL The OWL CX Pickleball Paddle

PHOTO: OWL

Key Specs

Core Materials: Honeycomb polypropylene | Surface Materials: Carbon fiber | Weight: 7.8–8.2 ounces | Shape: Standard | Handle Length: 4.6 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.6 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who It’s For

Best for advanced, aggressive play.

Why We Love It

The Owl CX Paddle’s noise-dampening felt-covered surface effectively reduces impact sound, making it the quietest option we tested. But don’t let its soft touch fool you; it packs a punch, delivering ample power and pop for aggressive, competitive play. Plus, we found it easy to generate spin, keeping our opponents on their toes.

This paddle excels at ball control and precision. Its weight strikes the perfect balance between lightness for control and heaviness for power—a winning combination for most players. Comfort-wise, it feels just right in our hands, and the non-slip grip ensures sweaty palms won’t be an issue. Despite the felt material, this paddle is reliably durable.

Potential Flaws

  • We love the felt-covered surface for noise control, but we found that it attracts and shows dirt easily.

Most Valuable Insight

“I felt very powerful hitting with this paddle. It’s very sturdy and the heaviness allows for a lot of force.” —Smith Carpenter, Verywell Fit product tester

JOOLA Anna Bright Scorpeus CFS 14 Pickleball Paddle

PHOTO: JOOLA

Key Specs

Core Materials: Honeycomb polymer | Surface Materials: Carbon fiber | Weight: 7.8 ounces | Shape: Standard | Handle Length: 5.3 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.1 inches | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who It’s For

Best for advanced players who want to invest in a top-quality paddle for competitive play.

Why We Love It

If you play often and competitively, investing in high-quality pickleball shoes, pickleball balls, and a pickleball paddle can help level up your game. With a strong, durable carbon fiber surface, we love that JOOLA’s Anna Bright Scorpeus CFS 14 showed no signs of wear and tear after weeks of aggressive play. Plus, we found that the grip is tacky, sweat-wicking, and comfortable.

We also love that this paddle allows for quick switching between forehand and backhand, which is essential during speedy games. While testing, we found that the thick surface delivers a generous power pop, solid energy return, and great spin. Still, with all that power, we could maintain precise control.

Potential Flaws

  • This paddle delivers too much power and spin for beginners and intermediate-level players.

Most Valuable Insight

“I love this paddle—it’s my all-time favorite so far.” —Jack Geil, Verywell Fit product tester

PCKL Premium Pickleball Paddle

PHOTO: Amazon

Key Specs

Core Materials: Honeycomb polypropylene | Surface Materials: Carbon fiber | Weight: 7.8–8.1 ounces | Shape: Standard | Handle Length: 5.5 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.2 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who It’s For

Best for intermediate players who need a paddle for control and power.

Why We Love It

With a generous sweet spot and comfortable grip, PCKL’s Power Series Paddle facilitates precise control and ample power. Its slightly textured surface enhances spin, giving us an edge over opponents. The lightweight, edgeless design allows for seamless transitions between forehand and backhand strokes, minimizing strain on our elbows, even during extended play sessions.

From the initial serve to the final point, the sweat-wicking grip ensures consistent control and power. Over time, we’ve been consistently impressed by the paddle’s enduring durability—it shows no signs of wear even after numerous matches. Given its exceptional quality and performance on the court, we believe this choice offers outstanding value for its price.

Potential Flaws

  • We wish the handle was a bit longer so that players with large hands could comfortably execute two-handed backhands.

Most Valuable Insight

“It suits me well as an intermediate player, but I think it would also work well for a beginner or an advanced player.” —Kyle Wegner, Verywell Fit product tester

Ronbus R3.16 Raw Toray T700 Carbon Fiber Pickleball Paddle

PHOTO: Amazon

Key Specs

Core Materials: Honeycomb polypropylene | Surface Materials: Carbon fiber | Weight: 8 ounces | Shape: Standard | Handle Length: 5.5 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.3 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who It’s For

Best for spin, control, and extended reach—especially for intermediate players.

Why We Love It

Ronbus’ R3.16 Raw Toray T700 Paddle offers precise control and a great pop, particularly with drop shots, making it a good transition paddle for tennis players. The longer handle is ergonomic and comfortable for extended and short play. And we found that the length helps with easy switches from forehand to two-handed backhand swings.

The lightweight feel helps us find a full range of motion, while the textured surface allows for easy topspins. Plus, we were pleased to notice no signs of wear after weeks of aggressive play—making this durable paddle great for years on the courts.

Potential Flaws

  • The grip material is smooth, which makes it slippery when hands get sweaty. 
  • We found that the lightweight feel makes it difficult to make power shots.

Most Valuable Insight

“This grip is comfortable during long and short play. I would recommend this paddle to an intermediate player because it excels at adding spin.” —Kathryn Braet, Verywell Fit product tester

Tangerine Newport R.I. Pickleball Paddle

PHOTO: Amazon

Key Specs

Core Materials: Polypropylene honeycomb | Surface Materials: Fiberglass | Weight: 7.6 ounces | Shape: Elongated | Handle Length: 5 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.3 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who It’s For

Best for beginners and intermediates who want a stylish paddle for recreational play.

Why We Love It

If you want to rock up to the courts in style, Tangerine’s Pickleball Paddle is the perfect pickleball accessory—along with a practical (and stylish) pickleball bag. The paddle comes in various fun colors and patterns, so you can cater to your own aesthetic or even find a unique gift for your pickleball-obsessed friend. Beyond style, this paddle has some really great features, too. 

During testing, we appreciated the comfortable, non-slip grip and generous sweet spot, which helped with overall control. We also love the super lightweight feel, which makes it easy to switch between forehand and backhand swings. Plus, after months of recreational play, the stylish, sturdy paddle still looks as good as new.

Potential Flaws

  • The smooth surface makes it difficult to generate spin. 
  • It’s not technical or heavy enough for advanced power play.

Most Valuable Insight

“I love all the colors and prints it comes in. I would definitely recommend it to others.” —Clare Moore, Verywell Fit product tester

VINSGUIR Pickleball Paddle Set

PHOTO: Amazon
Pros

  • Comes with additional gear

  • Attractive design details

  • Lightweight feel for control

Key Specs

Core Materials: Polypropylene honeycomb | Surface Materials: Fiberglass | Weight: 7.8 ounces | Shape: Standard | Handle Length: 4.9 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who It’s For

Best if you want an entry-level paddle for casual pickleball play.

Why We Love It

To get the most out of your purchase, opt for a set like VINSGUIR’s Pickleball Paddle Set. It comes with four balls, two paddles, and one pickleball bag—all at a lower price than many of the single paddles on our list. After thorough testing, we think it’s a solid choice for budget players, beginners, and casual family play. 

In addition to its exceptional value, this paddle set boasts remarkable quality. Despite frequent use, spanning over two years of several games per week, these paddles have outperformed pricier alternatives in terms of durability. The comfortable grip ensures prolonged play without discomfort, while the paddle’s solid control enhances our gameplay.

Potential Flaws

  • This paddle set is designed for beginners and recreational use, so it’s not the ideal choice for advanced and aggressive play.

Most Valuable Insight

“This set is an incredible value. I have bought it for many of my friends who are interested in trying pickleball. I also keep a set on hand for friends to use if they are visiting and want to try playing.” —Rafa Soriano, Verywell Fit product tester

CRBN² Square Pickleball Paddle

PHOTO: CRBN Pickleball

Key Specs

Core Materials: Carbon fiber | Surface Materials: Carbon fiber | Weight: 8.5 ounces | Shape: Square | Handle Length: 4.75 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who It’s For

Best for beginner to advanced players who prefer square-shaped paddles for maximum precision and control.

Why We Love It

Square-shaped paddles, like CRBN’s CRBN2 Pickleball Paddle, typically offer a larger surface area, providing a more forgiving sweet spot for players who prioritize control and accuracy. During testing, we found the paddle’s grip reminiscent of a tennis racquet, providing comfort and a wide range of motion. We experienced no fatigue, even after two hours of intense competitive play.

The square paddle face proved invaluable in maintaining control, particularly on off-center hits. And its lightly textured surface helped us effortlessly add spin to the ball. We also appreciated the paddle’s responsiveness, allowing us to swiftly adjust pace and execute precise shots. Plus, its reliable durability over time justifies the premium price point.

Potential Flaws

  • This paddle feels lighter than the others we tested, making it slightly harder to make really powerful shots.

Most Valuable Insight

“I LOVE this paddle! I feel like I have complete control over the game while using it.” —Meredith Butcher, Verywell Fit product tester 

Engage Pickleball Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 Standard Pickleball Paddle

PHOTO: Engage Pickleball

Key Specs

Core Materials: Carbon fiber | Surface Materials: Carbon fiber | Weight: 8.6-8.9 ounces | Shape: Standard | Handle Length: 5 inches | Grip Circumference: 4.38 inches | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who It’s For

Best for aggressive, competitive, and frequent pickleball players.

Why We Love It

We’ve been using Engage Pickleball’s Pursuit Pro EX 6.0 Paddle for weeks of intense play, and it still looks brand new—no scuffs or scratches in sight. While it’s designed to handle advanced and competitive play, we’ve found it equally suitable for beginners and intermediates, thanks to its balanced mix of control and power.

From sideline dinks to corner shots, the paddle feels fantastic in our hands, providing a secure grip and preventing fatigue. We were pleasantly surprised by how effectively it helped us return powerful serves. With this paddle, we feel confident in our ability to place the ball precisely where we want it. Plus, the weight is just right for seamless transitions between forehand and backhand shots.

Potential Flaws

  • The paddle’s cost might be a deterrent for some, but we believe it’s justified given its exceptional quality and performance.

Most Valuable Insight

“It is a great paddle. People have commented on how my game has improved since using it.” —Stacey Wegner, Verywell Fit product tester.

Pickleball Paddles We Also Tested

In total, we tested 35 pickleball paddles. While these paddles did have some noteworthy qualities, they didn’t end up meeting our rigorous testing standards.

  • We think Amazin’ Aces Pickleball Wood Paddle Set is a great price. However, compared to the others we tested, it felt heavier and less comfortable—causing wrist fatigue after an extended period of time.
  • The grip on JOOLA’s Ben Johns Hyperion C2 CFS 14 Pickleball Paddle held up on hot and humid days without slipping out of our sweaty hands. However, it might be difficult for beginner and intermediate players to control the ball until they get used to it.
  • HEAD’s Radical Tour Raw EX Pickleball Paddle has a super comfortable grip and feels light in our hands. However, compared to other paddles we tested, its overall performance is just not worth the price. 

What to Look for When Shopping for a Pickleball Paddle

  • Materials: When shopping for a pickleball paddle, check out its core and surface materials—choosing the right option for you will depend on your playing style and skill level. Typically, the core is made from a honeycomb polypropylene chamber that helps reduce vibration and distribute energy as the paddle contacts a ball. Surface materials generally include carbon fiber (best for control), fiberglass (best for power), graphite (best for quick shots), and wood. 
  • Skill Level: Pickleball paddles are an investment, so choosing a paddle that can evolve with your skills and playing style is an important consideration. If you’re a true beginner still learning the ins and outs of the game, you may want to opt for a light and sturdy paddle, while advanced players can benefit from a strong paddle that encourages optimal power and speed. 
  • Playing Style: Are you looking for control? Power? Speed? When selecting a pickleball paddle, it is essential to consider your personal playing style. Carbon fiber paddles are best for control, while fiberglass paddles are great for power. Some paddles are designed for both. 
  • Weight: The weight of your pickleball paddle will affect control and power. Lighter paddles are best for control, while heavier paddles can give you more power and speed. 
  • Handle Length and Grip: Choosing the right handle length and grip circumference depends on two things: your swing style and hand size. Pickleball paddle handles usually come in a standard length for those with a single-handed backhand swing or a long length for those with a two-handed backhand swing. Grip circumference is typically around 4 inches, but you can find smaller and larger options.
  • Surface Area and Shape: Generally, paddles with a larger surface area have a bigger sweet spot, so many players favor them. Just ensure you stay within regulation size—according to USA Pickleball, a paddle can’t be longer than 17 inches. (Some but not all of our top picks are USA Pickleball-approved. This designation may be important if you want to join a competitive pickleball league or tournament.) As for shape, elongated paddles have better reach, but they may have a smaller sweet spot because they are narrower. Commonly used standard-size paddles are a good mix between the two.

How We Tested the Pickleball Paddles

To find the best pickleball paddles on the market, we swung, hit, and volleyed for over 1,000 hours on the courts. In total, we tested 35 pickleball paddles from trusted brands, playing at least eight games with each paddle. When we test pickleball paddles, we evaluate them based on the following key criteria.

  • Comfort: If your pickleball paddle is too heavy, gives you blisters, or makes your hands sweat, you won’t enjoy the game. That’s why we assessed each paddle for comfort level: How did the grip feel during gameplay? How did our hands and arms feel after? We prioritize paddles that allow us to comfortably play for hours at a time without any elbow fatigue or strain.
  • Grip: The grip’s circumference, length, and material are all important considerations. We first check that each paddle’s grip is sized as described by the manufacturer and whether or not it is suitable for different hand sizes. We also take note of how the material feels: Tacky or slippery? Smooth or textured? Paddles with non-slip grips that absorb sweat and don’t trap heat receive a high score in this category. 
  • Durability: Throughout the testing period, we pay attention to how well the paddle holds up after hours of play. We record any signs of wear and tear, like chips, dents, breakage, loose threads, or scratches. We prioritize paddles that look and feel close to new after weeks of testing.
  • Control: Control is essential in any racquet sport—whether we’re talking about a pickleball, tennis, or padel racket—so we select pickleball paddles that allow for optimal precision. We evaluate how easy or difficult it is to generate power, spin, and accuracy, as well as flip between forehand and backhand swings. We also pay attention to each paddle’s weight and how it affects power and maneuverability. 
  • Value: After evaluating each paddle over the course of several games, we check its price to determine whether or not it’s worth the purchase—considering each of the previously mentioned criteria. We prioritize paddles that we would personally purchase at the listed price (or for even more). 

Pickleball Paddle Testing by the Numbers

  • 35 paddles tested
  • 14 winning paddles
  • 1,000+ hours of testing 
  • Rated 1-5 (5 being the highest) for comfort, grip, durability, control, and overall value
  • 4 experts interviewed

Pickleball Paddle Terms You Need to Know

Our Experts

We spoke to experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting for this story. Some helped us better understand which key features every pickleball paddle should have, while others provided insights that helped inform our testing process. 

  • Beth Bellamy, professional pickleball player and co-founder of the National Pickleball League
  • Laurie Coyne, certified pickleball coach at Aqua Lane Pickleball in Virginia Beach, Virginia
  • Wayne Dollard, professional pickleball player and founder of Pickleball Magazine and LevelUp Camps
  • Laurel Heilman, certified pickleball coach with her own practice in Pittsburgh

Verywell Fit / Alex Zeng


Frequently Asked Questions 

How much should you spend on a pickleball paddle?

Most high-quality pickleball paddles will cost between $100 and $180. Less expensive paddles might not be as durable, while more expensive paddles may have high-tech features that beginners and intermediate players don’t need.

What are the most popular pickleball paddles?

Our experts chose Selkirk, Joola, and Engage as some of their favorite brands. Competitive players must choose a USA Pickleball-approved regulation paddle. If an approved paddle is important to you, cross-reference your choice before you buy.

How do you know what size pickleball paddle you need?

Standard paddles are the most common, but larger-faced paddles have become popular as they have a bigger sweet spot for hitting the ball. Elongated paddles have a better reach but are narrower, limiting the size of the sweet spot.


Is it better to have a lighter or heavier pickleball paddle?

Heavier paddles are better for power shots, while lighter paddles are easier to maneuver. Testing paddles of different weights is a great way to find the best fit for your playing style and skill level. 

What is the lifespan of a pickleball paddle?

You’ll know when it is time to change your paddle when it stops performing. The core will start to deaden, Coyne says, and the paddle won’t be responsive anymore. As a rough guideline, if you play three days a week, three hours per session, your paddle should last for around a year.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Amy Scanlin is a fitness writer, certified group fitness instructor, and pickleball enthusiast who enjoys court time with family and friends. With gear being an essential component of the game, she chooses products based on expert guidance, feedback from our tests, as well as her own experience. As an intermediate player, she looks for paddles with a larger face, that are nicely weighted and are considered reliable and dependable by those who have tried them.

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