It seems like everywhere you go now you’re either seeing people play pickleball or are hearing about a new pickleball league popping up. That’s because it’s actually the fastest growing sport in America right now!
I’m certainly not a pro pickeballer but have researched this over the past 1 year learning as much as I can, especially when it comes to the best equipment, like the must-have pickleball paddles. They’re not all the same and certain makes and models can really make a difference in your game.
Table of Contents
WHAT IS PICKLEBALL ALL ABOUT
So what actually is pickleball? It dates back to 1965 when it was first invented. How late to the game am I?!
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. You play with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes, similar to a wiffle ball. Oh the nostalgia!
The game itself is typically played on a court that’s about one-third the size of a tennis court, with a net that is lower than a tennis net. You can play indoors or outdoors if you have the size of a badminton court and a slightly modified tennis net (don’t worry they sell specific pickleball nets).
HOW TO PLAY
From a quick and high-level, here’s how you play pickleball. The ball is served across the court, underhand, without making the ball bounce in your own court. You get a point when your opponent can’t get the ball back to you (or it goes out of bounds).
Each team must play their first shot off of the bounce. Players on each side have to allow the ball bounce once before you can volley. Whoever gets to 11 points first, wins! Check out more of the rules here.
THE DIFFERENCES IN PICKLEBALL PADDLES
So, let’s talk pickleball paddles. First things first, the paddles come in all shapes and sizes, and are made out of a variety of materials. Some of the most common materials include wood, graphite, and composite materials.
If you’re trying to decide which paddle is the best for you and your game, especially if you’re a newbie like I was you may want to go with a lightweight paddle. Typically lightweight paddles are easy to handle and offer decent control. I recommend going with one made out of graphite. But if you’re looking for a more traditional feel, a wooden paddle might be more up your alley.
Now, when it comes to size, pickleball paddles come in different widths, lengths, and thicknesses. Usually, wider paddles are easier to use for beginners. Narrower paddles offer greater precision and control. And as for length, well, that’s a matter of personal preference. Some people like a longer paddle for greater reach, while others prefer a shorter paddle for greater maneuverability.
One thing you want to consider when choosing a pickleball paddle is the grip. The grip is the part of the paddle that you hold onto, and it can be made out of a variety of materials, such as cork, foam, or rubber. A good grip is essential for comfort and control, so make sure you choose one that feels good in your hand.
Another thing to consider is the shape of the paddle. Most pickleball paddles are shaped like an elongated oval, but some have a more rounded shape, which can affect the way you hit the ball. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and playing style.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie to the game, the right paddle can make all the difference. Just remember to choose one that feels comfortable, offers good control, and fits your playing style!
WHAT KIND OF PADDLES ARE THE BEST
1.
ONIX Graphite Z5
Known for its excellent combo of power and control this top selling paddle from ONIX is made with a graphite face and a nomex core, which provides a lightweight yet powerful feel. It has a wide body shape, which gives players a larger sweet spot to hit the ball, and also provides greater reach for players when hitting balls on the edge of the court. Score!
One thing to note is that it has a tennis-style handle, which is longer than traditional pickleball paddles and allows you to use a two-handed grip. The handle is wrapped with a comfortable cushion grip, which helps you maintain a secure hold on the paddle even during intense games – or if you’re a newbie and afraid of it flying out of your hands (it happened to me).
Personally, I love its blend of power, control, and versatility which makes it a great choice for those looking to improve their game and take their pickleball skills to the next level.
SPECS:
GRIP
4.25-inches
WEIGHT
.51lbs
LENGTH
18-inches
WIDTH
11-inches
2.
Adidas ADIPOWER ATTK
I loved this one from Adidas because it’s truly a high-performance paddle designed for intermediate to advanced players who are seeking power and control on the court. A beginner could use it, for sure, but it’s not really geared towards newbies.
The paddle is constructed with a carbon fiber face and a soft polymer core that work together to provide a balance of power and touch. The carbon fiber face adds stiffness to the paddle, which increases the power and control of each shot, while the soft polymer core dampens the impact of the ball, making it easier to direct and return.
This one also features Adidas’ Power Embossed Ridge technology, which is a unique texture on the paddle face that enhances spin and control, allowing you to better manipulate the ball’s trajectory.
It has a slightly elongated shape, which increases the sweet spot and provides a larger hitting area, making it easier to hit the ball with precision and power. The handle is wrapped in Adidas’ Smart Grip technology, which is a polyurethane material that provides a comfortable and secure grip, even when the handle is wet.
SPECS:
GRIP
4.25-inches
WEIGHT
7.7 ounces
LENGTH
16.5-inches
WIDTH
7.5-inches
3.
JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pickleball Paddle
Another high-performance paddle for the serious pickleballer. It’s designed in collaboration with Ben Johns, one of the top pickleball players in the world.
This paddle is constructed with a carbon fiber face and a honeycomb polymer core, which provides a balance of power and control on the court. The carbon fiber face adds stiffness to the paddle, which increases the power and control of each shot, while the honeycomb polymer core dampens the impact of the ball, making it easier to direct and return.
The Hyperion also features JOOLA’s Spin-Tech technology, which is a unique texture on the paddle face that enhances spin and control, allowing players to better manipulate the ball’s trajectory.
Overall, it has a teardrop shape, which provides a larger sweet spot and a larger hitting area, making it easier to hit the ball with precision and power. In terms of comfort, the handle is wrapped in a comfortable, perforated grip that provides a secure hold and helps absorb moisture.
SPECS:
GRIP
4.25-inches
WEIGHT
8.5 ounces
LENGTH
18.5-inches
WIDTH
10-inches
4.
ProKennex Kinetic Ovation Flight Paddle
If you’re an intermediate player, you’ll want to take a look at this one from ProKennex. Their paddle is constructed with a blend of materials that includes a carbon fiber face, a polymer honeycomb core, and ProKennex’s Kinetic technology. The carbon fiber face provides a solid and responsive hitting surface, while the polymer honeycomb core helps dampen the impact of the ball, reducing vibration and providing excellent control.
The Kinetic technology is a unique feature of ProKennex paddles, which uses micro-bearings to absorb and distribute impact shock throughout the paddle, resulting in a more comfortable and stable feel. This technology can also help reduce the risk of injury, as it helps protect the player’s arm from excessive vibration.
SPECS:
GRIP
4-inches
WEIGHT
7.3 ounces
LENGTH
15.4-inches
WIDTH
7.6-inches
5.
Panel Sound Set of 2 Pickleball Paddles
I wanted to add in at least one pick that comes as set or a bundle. This set from Panel Sound is actually USAPA approved and, overall, pretty lightweight.
I think this one is perfect for beginners and kids of almost all ages. It’s really a great starting point paddle so that they get used to the feel and hold.
It has a strong fiberglass face, honeycomb core, and a firm, yet comfortable grip that also is slip-resistant and can even help to absorb light-to-moderate sweat.
If you’re looking for more bang for your buck, this set comes with 2 paddles, 4 balls, 2 cooling towels, and even a carry bag. Makes a great gift idea too!
SPECS:
GRIP
4-inches
WEIGHT
8 ounces
LENGTH
15.4-inches
WIDTH
7.8-inches
So there you have it. I hope you found the perfect paddle for you, regardless of your current pickleball level. Now get out onto that court and kick some pickle ass!
