Best Pickleball Paddles in 2023

Are you a pickleball enthusiast looking for the right paddle? Then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve done the research for you and have compiled a list of the best pickleball paddles of 2023 so you can make an informed decision when purchasing.

We’ve reviewed different paddle features and considered the type of player you are – whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced. We even have recommendations for those who are looking for custom pickleball paddles. And to make sure you have the advantage out on the court, we’ve given our picks for the best paddles for spin, power, accuracy, and touch. So, grab your paddle, and let’s get ready to hit the court.

Our Top Pick of Best Pickleball Paddles 2023

Product Image

Product Name

Rating on Amazon

Price

JOOLA Vision Pickleball Paddle

GAMMA Sports Shard NeuCore Pickleball Paddle

ONIX Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle

Vulcan V550 Pickleball Paddle

Franklin Sports Signature Series 16MM Pickleball Paddle

JOOLA Vision Pickleball Paddle

best pickleball

The JOOLA Vision Pickleball Paddle with Textured Carbon Grip Surface Technology is the perfect choice for those looking to maximize spin and control with added power. This professional pickleball paddle is designed to improve your game with its USAPA approved Carbon Flex3 textured surface that grips the ball to create more spin. With its unique Aero Curve head design, it reduces drag and increases swing speed, so you can play with confidence.

The Response Polypropylene Honeycomb Core adds extra durability and performance, especially noticeable due to its reduced vibration and increased control. Its honeycomb cells compress for a better feel while also prolonging the life of the racket. Furthermore, its Sure-Grip technology offers a perforated anti-slip ridge grip that reduces moisture from the surface of the handle for an enhanced grip and increased shock absorption.

The JOOLA Vision Pickleball Paddle is the official paddle sponsor of World #1 Pickleball Player Ben Johns and the PPA Tour, which makes it a great choice for those who want to up their game. Being crafted by innovators and global leaders of table tennis for over 70 years, this paddle is sure to satisfy even the most discerning players.

Key Features:

  1. Carbon Grip Surface Technology
  2. Aero Curve Head Design
  3. Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
  4. Response Polymer Core
  5. Sure-Grip Technology

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Crisp “pop” when hitting forehand drives or slams
  • Combination of power and control
  • Great spin and pop
  • Elongated handle
  • CGS face provides for plenty of spin
  • Lightweight materials saving elbow
  • Good blend of power, control and spin

Cons

  • Edge guard can easily be scuffed or nicked
  • Elongated handle may not be ideal for some players

GAMMA Sports Shard NeuCore Pickleball Paddle

pickleball paddle

TheGamma Sports Shard NeuCore Pickleball Paddle is an ideal choice for players looking to take their game to the next level. With its textured graphite hitting surface and extra spin shard, this pickleball paddle provides high-level performance and unbeatable control.

The ergonomically designed honeycomb cushion grip provides better control for players, allowing them to hit with more confidence. The NeuCore technology also adds a 25% thicker large-cell core for a quieter and more responsive feel. This allows players to balance their playstyle and have better control of the ball during games.

The Gamma pickleball paddle is perfect for both friendly and professional games as it has been approved by the USAPA for sanctioned tournament play. It has a 7.75 ounce middle-weight paddle design, ensuring a balanced feel in the user’s hand during each shot. Its graphite power surface also provides an enhanced responsive feel, allowing players to optimize their performance during each match.

Overall, the Gamma Sports Shard NeuCore Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for players looking to perform at a higher level. Its cutting edge construction helps enhance gameplay and transform it into something special. Its excellent balance and control make it perfect for competitive play, while its ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended matches. With its enhanced responsive feels and USAPA approval, this is certainly an excellent choice for pickleball enthusiasts everywhere.

Key Features:

  1. Honeycomb cushion grip
  2. NeuCore Technology
  3. Textured graphite hitting surface
  4. USAPA-approved for tournament play
  5. Extra spin shard
  6. Middle-weight (~7.75oz)

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Quieter sound
  • Good grip & handle design
  • Large sweet spot
  • Good power and control
  • Adds spin to the ball
  • Extended handle for two-handed backhand ease
  • Graphics are nice and not over-bearing

Cons

  • Expensive for what it actually does
  • Sweet spot is too small
  • Not suitable for advanced players

ONIX Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle

pickleball paddle

The ONIX Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle, Red, Medium is the perfect choice for those seeking to take their pickleball game to the next level. As the leading pickleball manufacturer, ONIX has spared no expense in creating a top-of-the-line product. Developed by National Champions Matt Wright and Lucy Kovalova, the Evoke Premier paddle features the new Atomic13 Edge Technology. This provides both incredible touch and shock dispersal in order to deliver maximum power, precision, and speed.

The Evoke Premier was designed with an ideal shape of 16” x 8”. This allows players to slightly extend their reach and maximize baseline power. This makes this paddle one of the most powerful and solid paddles in the ONIX line-up.

The Evoke Premier also meets and has been approved by USAPA and USA Pickleball requirements, allowing players to use this paddle in official tournament play with confidence.

All in all, Onix’s Evoke Premier Pickleball Paddle, Red, Medium is a top-of-the-line product that is sure to energize your pickleball game. It offers unbeatable power, precision, and speed in an approved product that is guaranteed to test your opponents’ mettle.

Key Features:

  1. Leading Pickleball Manufacturer
  2. Co-developed by Pro Players
  3. Atomic13 Edge Technology
  4. Impact Paddle Shape
  5. USAPA/USA Pickleball Approved

Large and durable sweet spot

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Large and durable sweet spot
  • Excellent power and control
  • Soft game with good spin
  • Ergonomic handle for longer reach and proper thickness
  • Lightweight model available for smaller players

Cons

  • Design issue leading to dead spots after a while
  • Grip is slippery and dull
  • Lightweight version not very hardy

Vulcan V550 Pickleball Paddle

pickleball paddle

The Vulcan V550 Pickleball Paddle (Purple Entropy) is an amazing paddle that is sure to take your game to the next level. The paddle features a medium-weight core that offers excellent stability and consistent power. The 5-plywood blade construction gives this paddle a large sweet spot while adding extra control and feel. With the special vinyl edge guard, the Vulcan V 550 Pickleball Paddle provides superior durability for long lasting performance on the court.

The grip of the paddle is also noteworthy and provides a comfortable hold that will enable better control and accuracy when it comes to shots. The handle is designed with cushion grip technology that becomes grippier as it gets sweaty, ensuring players have a secure hold on the handle in even the most intense matches.

Finally, the stylish purple entropy design of the Vulcan V550 Pickleball Paddle adds an extra touch of uniqueness and style. This vibrant design can be seen from a distance and will definitely stand out in any pickleball court. Additionally, this paddle features a glossy finish that will last for quite some time without fading away or losing its vibrancy.

Overall, the Vulcan V550 Pickleball Paddle (Purple Entropy) is an excellent choice for any pickleball enthusiast looking to take their game to the next level. Offering great power with consistent accuracy, as well as a comfortable grip and stylish design, this paddle is sure to please any player looking for superior performance on the court.

Key Features:

  1. Textured grip handle
  2. Comfort cushion grip
  3. Polypropylene core material
  4. 5.5-inch long handle
  5. 7.75-inch wide head
  6. 0.50-inch head thickness
  7. 4.0-inch ultra slim edge guard

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Lightweight model available for smaller players
  • Excellent power and control
  • Large sweet spot
  • Good grip & handle design
  • Good blend of power, control and spin

Cons

  • High initial cost

Franklin Sports Signature Series 16MM Pickleball Paddle

pickleball paddles

The Franklin Sports Signature Series 16MM Pickleball Paddle – Blue is a professional-quality paddle that takes pickleball performance to the next level. It is designed with MaxGrit technology to dampen vibration and provide optimal control, allowing for precision play. The paddle features a strong, durable polypropylene core that is designed to last through countless games. Additionally, this paddle has a fiberglass surface layer that creates a larger sweet spot in the center of the paddle for consistent contact and increased control.

This paddle is officially approved by the USA Pickleball Association for tournament and competitive play. Its size measures 16.5″ X 7.3″, has a handle length of 5.6″ and a handle circumference of 4.75″. It weighs between 7.9 – 8.3oz, making it lightweight and easy to maneuver for those long rallies.

If you’re a serious pickleball player who demands the best quality products to take your game to the next level, the Franklin Sports Signature Series 16MM Pickleball Paddle – Blue is an excellent choice. This paddle will give you an edge over your competition and help you take your game to the professional level.

Key Features:

  1. MaxGrit technology
  2. Polypropylene core
  3. Fiberglass surface layer
  4. USAPA approved for competitive and tournament play
  5. 16.5″ x 7.3″ paddle
  6. 5.6″ handle length
  7. 4.75″ handle circumference
  8. 7.9 – 8.3oz weight

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Weighs 8.18 ounces, toward the top of the mid weight range
  • Slightly longer and thinner shape provides more reach and power
  • Longer handle is great for two handed backhand shots
  • Medium springy with medium/hard hardness
  • Medium/large size sweet spot
  • Above average spin and control

Cons

  • Grit wears off quickly if paddle is used frequently
  • May require lead tape to increase weight for some players’ preference

Best Pickleball Paddles 2023: buying Guide

Choosing the best pickleball paddles can be a daunting task. With all of the different options available, it is important to consider all of the product features that will affect your playing style and needs. Here is a comprehensive buyers guide to help you select the right pickleball paddle for you:

WEIGHT OF PADDLE:

The weight of the paddle is an important factor when choosing the best pickleball paddles. Generally, best pickleball paddles range from 6 to 8 ounces. A lighter paddle can be easier to handle, but might be too light for some people. On the other hand, a heavier paddle will offer more power and control, but will be harder to maneuver. Consider your playing style and hand size when selecting a paddle weight that suits your needs.

HANDLE LENGTH:

Handles come in three lengths – short, mid and long. It is important to choose one that fits your hand size and playing style. For example, if you have smaller hands, you should choose a shorter handle. If you have larger hands or like to play with a two-handed grip, then choose a longer handle.

GRIP SIZE:

Grips come in four different sizes – small, medium, large and extra-large. Choose a grip size that fits the size of your hand comfortably. If it’s too tight, it might cause hand fatigue or discomfort after prolonged use. Too loose and you may lose control of the paddle when swinging it. Make sure to select a grip size that will optimize comfort and performance while playing.

PADDLE FACE SHAPE:

The shape of the paddle face affects how the ball is hit. The most popular face shapes are perforated (honeycomb-like) or flat with edges (teardrop). Consider your playing style and skill level when choosing the right face shape for your needs. For instance, if you want more spin and control when hitting the ball then look for a perforated face shape. If you are looking for more power then opt for a flat faced teardrop shaped paddle.

PADDLE MATERIAL:

Best pickleball paddles come in a variety of materials including carbon fiber, wood, aluminum and composite materials. The material affects how much power and control you have when hitting the ball. Carbon fiber paddles are lightweight but provide excellent power and control while aluminum and composite materials provide durability and balance at an affordable price point. Consider these factors when selecting the right material for your paddle needs.

PADDLE EDGE GUARD:

Edge guards help prevent damage to your paddle while it is stored or during playtime. Look for edge guards that are durable and provide extra protection to the edges of your paddle while still allowing flexibility in shots such as touch shots or dinks close to the net post.

BALANCE POINT:

The balance point is where the paddle is evenly balanced when held horizontally by your hand. It affects how the ball is hit and how fast it travels off of the paddle after being struck. Selecting one with a balance point that suits your playing style helps improve accuracy, spin and control on shots while also making it easier to move around with on court movements such as backhand swings or volleys near or at net posts.

PRICE:

Price range should also be taken into consideration when selecting the beat pickleball paddles since some models can get quite expensive given their features such as carbon fiber construction or specialty grips/edges/faces for optimized performance on court playability. Consider your budget before selecting one that best suits your needs without breaking the bank!

WARRANTY:

Some companies offer warranty information on select models so you can be assured of their quality even in case something goes wrong with your purchase in the future. Look for companies that offer warranties on best pickleball paddles so you can get some peace of mind knowing that they stand behind their products even after a certain period of time has passed since purchase date.

FAQs About Best Pickleball Paddles

What is the best pickleball paddles?

The best pickleball paddles depend on an individual’s skill level, playing style, and budget. For beginners, a good option is the Engage Encore Pro, which combines a good balance of power and control. For advanced players, the Selkirk Amped Maxima is a great choice for its higher performance level.

What materials are used to make pickleball paddles?

Pickleball paddles are typically made from composite materials such as graphite, fiberglass, or carbon fiber. The cores of the paddles can also vary and can be made of nomex, aluminum, polypropylene, or foam.

How much do pickleball paddles typically cost?

Best pickleball paddles range in price from about $20 to over $200. Mid-range paddles tend to cost around $50-$100 and provide an excellent balance between performance and price.

Are there different sizes of pickleball paddles?

Yes, best pickleball paddles come in different sizes and shapes. The most common size is between 7” and 15” in length, while some companies offer larger sizes up to 18” or even longer if requested.

What types of grips are available on pickleball paddles?

Most best pickleball paddles come with either a traditional cork grip or a more modern cushion grip for extra comfort during play. Both options provide great control and feedback but the cushion grip offers more cushioning to reduce hand fatigue during long matches.

Is it better to use a lighter or heavier paddle?

This depends on personal preference and playing style. Generally speaking, heavier paddles produce more power while lighter paddles are easier to maneuver and generate less fatigue during long rallies. Therefore, it’s best to try both options and find the one that suits you best.

Do different paddles have different shapes and textures?

Yes, best pickleball paddles come in different shapes such as round or square heads as well as various textures that affect both feel and spin generation potential on contact with the ball. Some textures like perforated surfaces also offer better grip when playing with wet hands due to sweat or rain.

Do pickleball paddles come with warranties?

Yes, some manufacturers offer warranties ranging from 1-3 years depending on the quality of the paddle itself. It’s important to check this before purchasing as some cheaper models may not have warranties at all.

Are there any special features that make one paddle better than another?

Yes, some special features may include extended handles for increased reach on wide shots, surface treatments such as honeycomb texturing for better spin potential, larger sweet spots for better control of shots, and core materials for improved power or feel depending on the type of paddle purchased..

What is the difference between an indoor and outdoor pickleball paddle?

Outdoor best pickleball paddles are typically slightly heavier than indoor ones due to their thicker cores intended for outdoor use which offer more stability when playing under windy conditions or on tougher surfaces like concrete courts while indoor ones usually have lighter cores designed for use on smoother indoor courts like those found in gyms or community centers.

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