Guide to the Best Pickleball Paddles
By: Tracy Rolling
Introduction
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. It combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, offering a low-impact workout and a great way to meet people. With more than 50 million players worldwide, choosing the right equipment is essential, and your paddle is the most critical piece. Whether you’re a beginner, transitioning from tennis, or a seasoned player, here are five of the best-selling pickleball paddles and tips for finding the perfect paddle.
Top Pickleball Paddles
Selkirk AMPED Pro Air Epic
Founded in 2014, Selkirk has produced some of the best pickleball paddles on the market, including the Selkirk AMPED Pro Air Epic. Crafted to merge power and control into one exceptional design, it makes shots feel effortless and ensures precision with every swing.
- Average Weight: 8.0 oz
- Length: 15.75”
- Grip Circumference: 4 1/4"
- Handle Length: 5.25”
- Width: 8”
- Paddle Face: FiberFlex+ Fiberglass
- Thickness: 16mm
- Core: X5+ Honeycomb, FlexFoam Perimeter
Paddletek Tempest TKO-C 14.3
The Tempest TKO by Paddletek will unlock your spin and give you a bigger sweet spot. It features technology that responds to your needs, whether that’s power or control. It’s great for intermediate and advanced players who can control their ‘dink or set up an aggressive play like the shake and bake.
- Average Weight: 8.0 oz
- Length: 16 1/2''
- Grip Circumference: 4 1/4''
- Handle Length: 5 1/4''
- Width: 7 1/2''
- Paddle Face: PT- 700 Unidirectional RAW Carbon Fiber
- Thickness: 14.3mm
- Core: Advanced High Grade Polymer Composite Honeycomb
Engage Pursuit Pro
Designed specifically for tennis players transitioning to pickleball and advanced pickleball players, the Engage Pursuit Pro1 is an excellent choice. Available in various weights and sizes, this paddle features a Polymer Core for power and control, and an aerodynamic shape to promote swing speed.
- Average Paddle Weight: Various
- Paddle Face: Carbon Fiber
- Core Material: Control Pro 'Black' Polymer Honeycomb
- Paddle Length: Various
- Paddle Width: Various
- Core Thickness: Various
- Grip Length: Various
JOOLA Vision and Radius
Endorsed by professional pickleball player Ben Johns, JOOLA offers paddles designed for beginner and intermediate players. The Vision and Radius provide a nice balance between power and control, making them easy to use from the start.
- Vision Average Weight: 7.8 oz
- Radius Average Weight: 7.6 oz
- Both Paddle Face: Textured (CGS) Carbon Grip Surface
- Both Core Material: Response Polymer Core
- Vision Length: 16.4"
- Radius Length: 15.8"
- Vision Width: 7.3"
- Radius Width: 8.2"
- Vision Grip Length: 5.5"
- Radius Grip Length: 5"
Wilson Fierce Team Pickleball Paddle
Designed for beginners, the Wilson Fierce Team Paddle features a hybrid shape with a larger sweet spot and vibration-reducing technology. This paddle is ideal for those starting their pickleball journey.
- Average Weight: 8.2 oz
- Face: Textured Fiberglass
- Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
- Length: 16"
- Width: 8"
- Grip Length: 5.2"
- Thickness: 13mm
- Grip Circumference: 4 1/4"
5 Tips for Picking the Perfect Paddle
- Weight: Choose a paddle weight that fits your needs. Heavier paddles provide more power, while lighter ones are easier to swing.
- Grip Size: Select a comfortable grip to avoid discomfort or injury. You can add an over-grip to customize the feel.
- Core Material: Different cores affect power, control, and vibration. Choose based on your playing style and skill level.
- USAPA Approved: Ensure your paddle is approved by the USA Pickleball Association if you plan to compete.
- Brand Reputation: Invest in a reputable brand for quality and durability.
Shop at Midwest Racquet Sports
Choosing the best pickleball paddle might be challenging, but deciding where to buy it is easy! Shop at Midwest Racquet Sports and discover why our prices and customer service ACE the competition!