The paddle market has exploded in the last three years. Choosing the wrong paddle for your game can hold you back — here is how to find the right one.
Understanding Paddle Construction
- Core: Polypropylene honeycomb cores offer a good balance of power and feel. Nomex cores produce more power but less control. Aluminum cores are softer and quieter.
- Face: Graphite faces are lightweight with excellent feel. Fiberglass faces generate more power and spin. Raw carbon fiber faces create exceptional spin but can be less forgiving.
Choosing by Player Level
Beginners ($40-$80)
Look for a mid-weight paddle (7.5-8.2 oz) with a fiberglass face and polypropylene core. Avoid paddles under 7 oz or over 8.5 oz.
Top picks: Paddletek Tempest Wave, Selkirk SLK Halo, Onix Graphite Z5.
Intermediate Players ($80-$150)
Decide what your game needs: more control (graphite or carbon fiber face, thicker core) or more power (fiberglass face, thinner core). Elongated paddle shapes give extra reach and leverage.
Top picks: Selkirk Vanguard Power Air, Joola Hyperion CFS 16, Franklin Ben Johns Signature.
Advanced Players ($150-$250+)
At this price range you are paying for premium raw carbon fiber faces, thermoformed cores, and precise weight balance. Check USAPA approval status before purchasing for competition.
Top picks: Joola Vision CGS 16, Selkirk Vanguard 6.0 Invikta, Six Zero Double Black Diamond.
Grip Size: Don’t Overlook It
The most common grip sizes are 4 inch and 4.25 inch. An incorrect grip size is one of the biggest contributors to pickleball elbow. To test: hold the paddle and check if you can fit your index finger in the gap between your fingertips and palm. Tight squeeze — go up a size. Lots of room — go down.
Demo Before You Buy
The single best advice: demo a paddle before you buy it. Many local courts offer paddle demo programs. Ask your instructor at Ace Pickleball School — we often have demo paddles available during lessons.
