The Best Pickleball Paddles of 2024

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Unless you live off the grid (and out of earshot of the trademark “thwacks”) you’ve probably heard about pickleball, America’s fastest-growing sport. If you’ve already taken the plunge into playing pickleball, you may have been trying to talk yourself into upgrading from your starter paddle. Well, consider this your sign that it’s time. After all, the paddle is the key instrument among players of pickleball, a hybrid of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. And if you can find the best pickleball paddle to suit your game, you just might boost your standing from casual player to pickleball pro.

That is precisely why experienced pickleball players recommend buying a top-notch paddle: Investing in a high-performance paddle with better control, balance, grip and materials can up your potential on the court. Whether you’re ready to take up the sport as a newbie, gain a competitive edge in future matches or give the gift of a better paddle to that friend or family member who loves clinging to gear that’s past its prime, we found a pickleball paddle for every type of player. Read on to explore our top picks:

Our Picks for the Best Pickleball Paddle:

• Best Pickleball Paddles For Intermediate Players: Volair Mach 1
• Best Pickleball Paddles For Beginners: Paddletek New Era Bantam EX-L
• Best Pickleball Paddles For Advanced Players: Volair Mach 1 Forza
• Best Pickleball Paddle For Women: On Holiday Pickleball Paddle
• Best Pickleball Paddle For Spin: Joola Vision Pickleball Paddle
• Best Pickleball Paddles Under $100: Helium Atmos Pickleball Paddles
• Best Rated Pickleball Paddle: Joola Journey Pickleball Paddle
• Best Budget Pickleball Paddle: Helium Versus Pickleball Paddles
• Best Lightweight Pickleball Paddle: Selkirk AMPED 2021 Epic Lightweight Pickleball Paddle

Best Pickleball Paddles For Intermediate Players: Volair Mach 1

Key features & specs:

• Material: Core material polypropylene honeycomb, Toray T700 carbon fiber paddle face
• Skill level: All levels
• Price: $139.99

When you’re no longer a newbie but also not fully over the learning curve, it can be hard to find that just-right feel in a pickleball paddle, which is why we love that the Volair Mach 1 caters specifically to intermediate players. It has a thinner core than other options on this list, so it's lighter and more maneuverable.

“I’ve been playing for about a year and noticed my skill level increasing, but my paddle is lacking in spin and control. I played with a friend's Mach 1 and loved it. Now that I’ve played a few games with it, I know I made the right decision. It’s amazing; slightly longer handle than normal for good double backhands. Super grippy surface for crazy spin and just the right amount of pop. Not a ton of power, but I play more tactically, so this was the perfect fit for me,” says verified reviewer Logan S. on the Volair website.

The Mach 1 is endorsed by Julian Arnold, a top-10 ranked singles player and top-20 ranked mixed and men’s doubles player. However, you don’t have to be a pro to use this paddle. The carbon fiber paddle face is less forgiving than thermoformed paddles but offers more power behind the shot. Verified reviewer John Weaver says, “It helped me elevate my game by enabling more control over shot placement. The surface provides an excellent grip for adding topspin or slicing. It took significant stress off my shoulder trying to generate speed from my old paddle, [and] much less effort to generate more speed. Highly recommend this paddle to help elevate your game!”

What we like:

• Nice upgrade from a beginner paddle, without the pricey additional features
• Lightweight allows control in angles
• Reviewers state they are happy with the control and that it provides just enough power

What to consider:

• Grip circumference of 4.3 inches is slightly thicker than other options on this list
• One color option

Best Pickleball Paddles For Beginners: Paddletek New Era Bantam EX-L Pickleball Paddle

Key features & specs:

• Material: Polycarbonate, carbon fiber shaft
• Skill level: All levels
• Price: $99.99

One of the most important aspects of any fledgling sport is to be accommodating to beginners, and it’s one of the reasons pickleball has taken off. The Paddletek New Era Bantam is a paddle that’ll have you looking like a pro, but in reality, you’re paired with an excellent paddle for beginners. One Amazon reviewer summed it up nicely: “Great paddle. Perfect weight for a novice player.” And you’ll see mention of paddle weight often. Similar to how advanced players use heavier bowling balls for higher impact, the use of a heavier paddle is often what separates pickleball master from a novice player.

If you don’t want to get schooled too hard in your introductory pickleball matches, a lighter paddle is the way to go. But you don’t have to fret that a lightweight paddle will hinder your game with Paddletek. Reviewers also praise the paddle for elevating their game, including one who wrote that “the power I get from this is wowza.”

What we like:

• Lightweight and USA Pickleball (USAP) approved
• Solid balance of power and control
• Available in red, purple, red and blue colors

What to consider:

• Some reviewers were disappointed in the paddle’s durability.
• Not the paddle for someone who wants a gritty surface and longer grip

Best Pickleball Paddles For Advanced Players: Volair Mach 1 Forza

Key features & specs:

• Material: Polypropylene core, Toray T700 carbon fiber paddle face with foam injection, foam walls
• Skill level: Intermediate and advanced
• Price: $179.99

Buyer beware: Not all pickleball paddles are meant to be picked up and played with by the casual pickleball enjoyer. Instead, some, like the Volair Mach 1 Forza, are tougher to play with by design. The Mach 1 Forza is a step up from the Mach 1—our pick for best intermediate—with features like a foam-injected core to absorb shock and reduce hand vibrations and edge guards to improve durability and longevity.

“The feel is uniform throughout the face, and you get consistent, brutal power even if you hit the ball off center. The Forza produces nasty spin. Between the power and the whip, I can make the ball dip and dive at an incredible rate. Roll and flick volleys that would go out with other paddles stay in the court,“ says one reviewer on the Volair website.

Other reviewers concurred, citing the paddle’s combo of control and power and ability to add spin. “Paddle lives up to its name, massive spin. I looked at the laminate under a microscope. Great quality,” summarized one happy consumer. This pickleball paddle is an investment, with a price tag of $179.99, so keep in mind it’s definitely for those who are serious about their pickleball practice.

What we like:

• Reviewers state that it's a good mix of power and control
• Heat-sealed foam edges provide longevity
• Paddle headcover, carbon touch-up eraser, replacement grip and neckband and other accessories are included

What to consider:

• Several reviewers state they had to contact Volair for an exchange because one side of the paddle had no grit

Best Pickleball Paddle For Women: On Holiday

Key features & specs:

• Material: Fiberglass
• Skill level: All levels
• Price: $75

The suitability of a pickleball paddle isn’t exactly gender-specific, but like with all things, there are some of us who prefer our equipment to have a visual appeal in addition to functionality (one example that comes to mind is the chic Bala bangles, which are much more attractive than many other ankle and wrist weights out there). And it is admittedly for aesthetic reasons that I was first drawn to the On Holiday pickleball paddle—these are some seriously cute pickleball paddles.

I get numerous compliments on the court when toting my adorable pink and green “Palma'' pickleball paddle, and reviewers attest to having similar experiences: “[If] you are seeking compliments, buy this paddle. Every time I play someone has to say how cute the Palma paddle is.” Another reviewer writes “So many compliments. Top-tier looks. Top tier play.” Users also noted that the grips are comfy and the paddles’ overall quality are “top-notch.” Plus, I can safely say I sacrificed none of my (albeit limited) pickleball skills when switching to this paddle.

What we like:

• Custom brown grip condensed foam tape helps with sweaty hands
• Fun and creative paddle patterns

What to consider:

• Players who prefer a gritty surface for spin may not like the paddle’s smooth, fiberglass surface

Best Pickleball Paddle For Spin: Joola Vision Pickleball Paddle

Key features & specs:

• Material: Carbon grip surface, polypropylene honeycomb core
• Skill level: Intermediate and advanced
• Price: $169.95

You’ll want any competitive edge you can get playing pickleball, since by design the holes in the wiffleball create a physics-based way to “level the playing field,” so to speak. One way advanced players love to gain an edge is by placing spin on the wiffleball, which allows you to have better control over the ball, makes your returns more unpredictable and helps you execute perfect dinks (a term that sounds vaguely pejorative but is in fact part of the well-versed pickleball player’s vocabulary).

Reviewers on Amazon say the Joola Vision is “great if you like to spin,” attributing the impressive amount of spin the paddle gives the ball to its grippy, textured surface: “Smooth surface paddles are harder for spin because the ball will just slide across it without spinning, but this grippy surface will do the job for you if you hit it correctly,” writes a reviewer who left 5/5 stars. Reviewers also say the paddle has a nice weight for big power, without overpowering your arm.

What we like:

• Excellent balance of control and spin
• The textured surface that grips the ball for spin
• More subdued sound compared to the loud pop other paddles make, reviewers said

What to consider:

• Some reviewers said the roughness of the surface eroded over time

Best Pickleball Paddles Under $100: Helium Atmos Pickleball Paddles

Key features & specs:

• Material: Carbon fiber and polypropylene frame, graphite and carbon fiber shaft
• Skill level: Beginner
• Price: $89.99 (Set of two paddles, four balls, carrying bag)

Always looking for ways to encourage activity, editor Rachel Pasche gifted her parents this set when she heard them mentioning their interest in trying pickleball. The Helium Atmos set is by far one of the best “bang for the buck” pickleball sets out there, complete with two paddles and four balls for $89.99, putting the cost per paddle at less than $40. Her experience was resoundingly positive: “These paddles were awesome for getting my parents started, and they’re hooked. I played a few matches with these paddles too, and found them to be way better quality than I had anticipated. Certainly of a higher caliber than many of the other inexpensive paddles on the market. I anticipate these lasting a good long while.”

Reviewers on Amazon say the paddles don’t feel cheap, despite the price point saying otherwise: “The paddles have a nice weight to them, not too heavy or flimsy, and the grip feels comfortable in my hand,” writes one reviewer. “Played a few matches with a friend, and the paddles held up well, giving us good control and power on the court. Overall, a decent set for pickleball enthusiasts.”

Another reviewer agreed, writing that they “love the quality of the paddles” and that while cheap pickleballs are easy to find, finding a good value paddle is rare—which possibly explains why this set is periodically out-of-stock, so catch it when you can.

What we like:

• Amazing value to get a complete pickleball set
• Includes oversized carrying case to stash your gear

What to consider:

• Paddles will lack long-term durability under heavy use

Best Rated Pickleball Paddle: Joola Journey Pickleball Paddle

Key features & specs:

• Material: Fiberglass, graphite frame
• Skill level: Beginner
• Price: $69.99

To be clear, all of the pickleball paddles on this list are well-rated, as determined by our testers or denizens of the internet. However, this pickleball paddle from the brand Joola, a name familiar to this list, is exceptionally well-regarded even among its siblings. The paddle notched 4.7/5 stars among reviewers on Amazon, who write that this paddle can help you seriously level up in the sport, offering control, spin, balance and good grip. One reviewer writes that the paddle is “light with a generous sweet spot, offers good action of the surface, and has a comfortable, grippy handle,” adding that the paddle is nice to look at as well—indeed, this paddle comes in a range of fun patterns and bold colors. And since I can’t wrap up my thoughts on the Joola Journey better than how one reviewer cheekily concluded their review, I’ll just leave that here: “I do recommend this paddle for all your dinking pleasure.”

What we like:

• One of the most affordable paddles from Joola
• Lots of vibrant color options available
• Lightweight and well-balanced for beginners

What to consider:

• Some reviewers said the edging was prone to peeling off
• Smaller sweet spot than other Joola paddles, reviewers said

Best Budget Pickleball Paddle: Helium Versus Pickleball Paddles

Key features & specs:

• Material: Graphite fiberglass core, honeycomb frame and shaft
• Skill level: Beginner
• Price: $81.95 (set of 4 paddles)

Helium once again takes the cake when it comes to affordability, boasting yet another budget-friendly four-pack of paddles. Reviewers describe the paddles as the perfect starter kit to engage the entire family in the pickleball experience: “These paddles are great, and they are cheaper priced than comparable products. This is definitely a beginner set. But the price makes it easy to upgrade later when you become addicted to pickleball like me and my family.”

Pasche has also tried the Helium Versus paddles, and describes it as an ideal paddle for new players: “I had never played pickleball before, but found this paddle to be a great starting point. The grip was comfortable, the paddle was lightweight and made good contact with the ball. Plus, the fact that it came in a pack of four made it really easy to recruit other people to play with me, which was perhaps the best bonus of all. Having the set made it easy to get a group together to play, rather than having to jump onto a court with some high-intensity players, which likely would have scared me off. As a result, I got a lot better and am looking to upgrade my paddles sometime in the future, though I’ll definitely keep this set to keep encouraging people to play with me.”

What we like:

• An extremely budget-friendly way to get introduced to pickleball
• Great set for families
• Two fun, distinct patterns to choose from

What to consider:

• May lack durability under heavy use
• Less control and power compared to pricier paddles

Best Lightweight Pickleball Paddle: Selkirk AMPED 2021 Epic Lightweight Pickleball Paddle

Key features & specs:

• Material: Polypropylene core and fiberglass frame
• Skill level: Any level
• Price: $150

Pickleball is all about being nimble on your toes, so most players, especially newer ones, prefer a lightweight paddle over swinging heavier equipment. You’ll also want a lightweight paddle if you battle joint pain, which one reviewer on Amazon cited as their reason for buying the Selkirk AMPED Epic Lightweight paddle: “I got this paddle to help with my ‘tennis elbow.’ Plays really well, comfortable and lightweight. It's a little thicker than my last paddle, but that doesn't affect my play,” the verified purchaser wrote.

Related Post: The Best Joint Supplements for Knee Pain

Another reviewer said that the paddle is good for a “beginner to intermediate player who wants to improve on skill level,” citing the lightweight paddle’s finesse with the ball and ease of use. Handmade in the U.S., the paddles do come at a premium price. But with 1,800-plus reviews giving the AMPED 4.6/5 stars on Amazon, the paddles seem to be worth their weight—all 7.2 ounces.

What we like:

• Good for any skill level, so you can grow with this paddle
• Multiple bold color choices
• Go-to brand for many pro pickleballers and USAPA approved

What to consider:

• Some reviewers reported cracking at the shaft after moderate usage
• Less budget-friendly than other options

How to Hold A Pickleball Paddle Like A Pro

There’s more than one way to hold a pickleball paddle, but I’ll cover what’s called the “continental grip” across racquet sports: you’ll see pickleball, ping pong and tennis players alike use this grip. The grip creates a neutral paddle face suitable for many shots and returns.

• Hold the handle as if you're reaching out to shake hands. Your knuckles should be on top of the handle, and the V-shape between your thumb and index finger should align with the center of the paddle face. The heel of your hand should rest against the end of the paddle.
• Keep a good grip—but don’t squeeze too hard. The rule of thumb you’ll see among pickleball pros is to hold the paddle tight, but not so tight that you’d crack an egg.
• Relax your wrist into a neutral position and try to keep it straight, rather than curving forward or backward, for more precise shots.

How Do I Pick Out A Pickleball Paddle?

For starters, assess how fluent you are in the game of pickleball. Can you go so far as to describe your playing style (power player, finesse player, etc.)? If so, read reviews to see how fellow players think of the paddles’ suitability for your game.

The next consideration should be physical. Do your hands, wrists or arms quickly fatigue? If so, you’ll want to more carefully assess the comfort and weight of your pickleball paddle. A high-quality paddle is often lighter and better balanced, reducing fatigue during play.

If you plan to play in pickleball tournaments, check that your paddle complies with a size officially sanctioned by the USA Pickleball Association, which may be a requirement.

Finally, budget is a big consideration in deciding which pickleball paddle to pick out, and paddles run the gamut of costs, with price per paddle as low as $20, to as high as $200. Find an option that will strike the right balance between longevity and affordability, since you don’t want to be discarding paddles willy-nilly. A pricier, more durable paddle may be worth the investment.

What To Consider When Picking Out A Pickleball Paddle

• Weight: Paddles weigh anywhere from six ounces to over 8.5 ounces. If you rely on your speedy reflexes and maneuverability, you might favor a lighter paddle, whereas more aggressive power players tend to rely on the heft of a mid-weight or heavyweight paddle.
• Materials: Pickleball paddles come with different core materials, typically either polymer or Nomex (often referred to as “honeycomb” for its trademark shape). Polymer cores are known for a softer, quieter feel and more control, while Nomex honeycomb cores offer more power and the distinctive "pop" sound.
• Thickness: Paddle thickness can impact the amount of control, power and feel you have. Thicker paddles (usually 0.5 inches) tend to provide more power for your smashes, while thinner paddles (usually 0.44 inches) offer greater control and awareness.
• Handle length: Handle length can influence your grip and reach. Generally, pickleball paddles have short handles. However, you can find some with slightly longer handles for players who prefer a two-handed backhand or specific grip variations.
• Shape: Paddle shape can affect the “sweet spot,” or the place on the paddle that delivers the most consistency and power. A traditional, symmetrical paddle will have a consistent, well-defined sweet spot. Wider and elongated paddles may have a larger sweet spot, but may come at the expense of ball placement and control.

Different Types of Pickleball Paddles

• Graphite: Graphite paddles are known for being lightweight and boasting excellent control. They are a popular choice for those who play with finesse, favoring “touch” shots over power shots.
• Composite: A composite paddle will be a fiberglass or carbon fiber blend, making for a paddle with a greater balance of finesse and power.
• Wood: Often favored by beginners, wooden paddles are some of the most affordable pickleball paddles. They offer a good feel but might lack the power and durability of composite or graphite paddles.
• Short: A paddle is considered to be “short” when it’s between 15 and 16 inches in length, although some are even more petite. Short paddles offer excellent control and maneuverability, especially around the kitchen (the zone where you cannot volley the ball) and the net. Short paddles are well-suited for dinking, which is a dainty, low shot played near the net.
• Long: A paddle that’s at least 16.5 inches is considered a long paddle, and they boast greater reach and power, ideal for players who swing for the deep baseline of the pickleball court.
• Edgeless: An edgeless pickleball paddle, also known as a "smooth" or "edgeless" paddle, lacks the traditional protective edge guard present on most paddles (including every paddle in this round-up). Some players favor edgeless paddles because the smooth, continuous hitting surface area creates a more robust, consistent sweet spot.

Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Pickleball Paddles

As a fledgling pickleball enthusiast with a keen eye for quality equipment, I embarked on the task of thoroughly assessing the best pickleball paddles. A team of writers and editors was also on deck to test some of the paddles, paying close attention to their performance, comfort and style on the court. I also identified the most popular models of top pickleball paddles, scouring non-incentivized reviews from reputable sources, including feedback from players who made these paddle purchases independently.

Our evaluation considered different aspects of the paddles, including their core material, weight, grip size and shape. These features played a pivotal role in determining the paddles' comfort, durability and overall performance on the court. Our goal was to uncover paddles that catered to a diverse range of playing styles, budgets and personal preferences, ensuring that we provide you with a list of nine top pickleball paddles that we can stand behind.

Pickleball Paddles FAQs

How do I know if I need a new pickleball paddle?

Knowing when you need a new paddle may seemingly mostly come down to common sense, i.e., you’ll know it when you see the trademark signs of wear and tear. However, you should also be on the lookout for more insidious, lower visibility signs that it’s time to upgrade, like reduced performance on the court, or a change in your personal playing style.

What is a composite pickleball paddle?

A composite pickleball paddle is a popular type of pickleball paddle constructed using a combination of materials to achieve a balance of power, control and durability.

Where should I add weight to my pickleball paddle?

Former tennis players who are used to a heavy tennis racket might be inclined to add weight to their pickleball paddle. As to where you should add weight to your pickleball paddle, the answer will depend on your desired outcome. Placing weight in the handle or the butt end of the paddle can enhance control and maneuverability, making it easier to react quickly to the ball. Adding weight to the head of the paddle can increase the power of your shots, making it easier to hit deep balls and add power to your game—a valuable tool for baseline players. Finally, adding weight around the perimeter of the paddle can enhance stability and reduce vibration. The added weight can also lend itself to a large sweet spot, making the paddle easier to connect with the ball cleanly.

How do I know what size pickleball paddle that I need?

Playstyle will determine the right pickleball paddle size for you. If you prioritize control, finesse and quick reactions at the net, a smaller-sized paddle might be suitable. You might opt for a larger paddle if you prefer power and reach for baseline shots. If you plan to participate in sanctioned tournaments, ensure your paddle complies with designated rules and regulations regarding paddle size.

What is a standard pickleball paddle?

A standard pickleball paddle is one that complies with the regulations and guidelines set by the USA Pickleball Association, ensuring match fairness, consistency and safety. As set by the USAPA, a paddle cannot exceed 24 inches in length, 16 inches in width and 0.25 inches in thickness, and that includes the paddle’s edge guard, if present. The paddle's weight cannot exceed one pound. USAPA rules do not specify grip size limitations, so simply be sure you find a paddle with an appropriate grip circumference for your hand size.

Final Thoughts

You want to be ready for pickleball head to toe. For most anyone, that means finding the best pickleball shoes to swaddle your feet in the highly nimble game, and for others, that may mean a good pair of water-resistant pants for your climate (although good news on that front: more and more courts are moving inside). But what you absolutely cannot go without, regardless of where you live, is a pickleball paddle. And if you’re competitive, you’ll want a good paddle at that—a superior pickleball paddle will lend better ball control, power and accuracy. After all, just because pickleball has a goofy name doesn’t make it any less competitive when you’re facing off mere feet from your opponent.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.