The Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners and Pros (2024)

FAQs

How do I choose a pickleball paddle for beginners? ›

PICKLEBALL PLAYER TYPE

Beginner paddles should be comfortable to hold and easy to swing. Key features include light to medium weight, comfortable grip, large sweet spot and balance of power and control.

Picking a thin or thick paddle core largely depends on experience. For new players, it's typically recommended to go with a medium or thick core to help with control. More experienced players can use any thickness but would choose a thinner core if they are trying to supplement for power.

The thicker the polymer core, the more control, and a thinner core profile delivers more power. Besides offering all-around playability, polymer cores are also quieter than aluminum and Nomex cores. If you aren't sure which to choose, we recommend picking a paddle with a polymer core for its versatility.

Take your ruler and align it until it's parallel with your third finger (ring finger) with one end of the ruler in line with the bottom of the palm's second (or middle) crease. Your paddle grip size is then determined by the length between the tip of your ring finger and the bottom lateral palm crease.

If you're looking for a lightweight, responsive paddle that offers more power on your shots, you may want to consider a carbon fiber paddle. However, if you're looking for a more durable and comfortable paddle that offers greater control, a graphite paddle might be the better choice.

Whether you feel something off or there's significant damage to your paddle, having a second paddle in your bag is a "must" for any competitive player. Here's a list of good reasons and recommendations on why you should always have at least two paddles in your bag.

With so many different options to choose from, knowing what you are looking to do when you step onto the court is paramount. The most popular paddle for intermediate players is made from composite materials. Composite pickleball paddles offer more weight and power compared to graphite pickleball paddles.

For pickleball, court shoes are the best choice. They're made for court surfaces, offering the right traction for quick moves. They balance cushioning and stability, perfect for the game's fast pace.

For someone without pre-existing injuries, your choice of paddle weight is entirely up to your personal fitness level and comfort. Pickleball paddles range from six ounces to 14 ounces. A heavier paddle will help you to drive the ball, but offers less control of the ball.

But if you're like most of us, you'll enjoy the game more with a higher-quality paddle designed to meet your needs as a player. More expensive paddles are made from better raw materials, with higher quality processes, and using the latest technology. If you need help finding that perfect paddle, feel free to reach out!

Are there illegal pickleball paddles? ›

They must meet a deflection test so as the paddle does not have a trampoline effect like a stringed racquet. The deflection test measures how rigid and compressible the material is. Foam core paddles are illegal Pickleball paddles.

Pickleball Paddle Lifespan

Your paddle's longevity will also depend on your frequency and style of play. If you play six times a week, your paddle may need to be replaced in less than a year. However, if you play more casually, it may last longer than a year.

Figuring out the right size (length) of paddle is surprisingly straightforward. The wider your boat is, the longer your paddle needs to be. Your height is also a factor, especially for a narrower boat: Taller paddlers need longer paddles.

To measure a perfect fit, hold the paddle with your elbows bent at 90°. Your hands should be about one hand's width from where each blade begins. For creek boating or general river running you might want to go longer and get a paddle at least 196cm. The extra length will provide more leverage and bracing for rolling.

16mm is the standard thick core paddle. A handful of paddles go over 16mm, but they aren't very common. Typically when you purchase a 16mm or thicker paddle, it's because you want more control. A thicker core gives you less power but usually improves your blocks, resets, and drop shots.

Once you have all your equipment, you can watch some of the many online tutorials offered by top pickleball coaches to get started. But the most effective way to learn the game is to head to your local courts and sign up for lessons.

Beginner/Novice: (Level 2.5 -3.0).

Knows where to stand on the court during serve, serve receive and general play. Is mastering keeping score, working on form for ground strokes, accuracy is variable and is beginning to approach the non-volley zone to hit volleys.