Price Range
There are certainly many paddles of very good quality available for any budget , so don ’ t feel like you have to spend a fortune to get a good paddle . But resist the urge to get the cheapest paddle you can find when starting out . A higher quality paddle will allow you to enjoy learning the game more , and when you are ready for something more advanced , you can resell it or give it to a friend . I would also recommend sticking with the more well-known brands that have been doing this for a while . They will stand behind their products and always offer cutting-edge technology and high-grade materials .
PADDLE RECOMMENDATIONS BY SKILL LEVEL
To help narrow things down , here are five great choices for each skill level ( in no particular order ) and what makes them special .
Beginner
CRBN 2X Power Series – This is for the “ athletic beginner ” who wants the best right away . Medium weight , traditional shape . Good power with a textured surface to help add spin . A paddle you will not outgrow anytime soon .
Engage Evolution Extreme X – Another top-notch paddle for the beginner who wants high quality and a paddle to grow with . Standard shape for all-around great playability .
Head Extreme Elite Fiberglass – This is a very affordable choice that will do the job . Fiberglass composite gives great power and nice light , manageable swing weight .
Onix Graphite Z5 – Very popular paddle for all levels but will work well for beginners too . Another affordable choice and the tennis-style handle shape will feel familiar to those coming from that sport .
Selkirk SLK Omega Max – Large surface area and a huge sweet spot make this a great choice . Selkirk is a leader in the sport and this paddle is very balanced between power , control and spin .
Intermediate
CRBN 3X Power Series – CRBN has recently emerged as a top paddle company , and this is a fantastic choice for any intermediate . Large sweet spot and forgiving , this paddle gives you everything — spin , power and touch . Get the 14mm for more pop and the 16mm for more control .
Engage Pursuit EX 6.0 – Engage paddles have always been one of my favorites and this model will not disappoint . Long handle is great for two-handed backhands , and it has a large sweet spot . Good power but balanced with adequate control and spin potential .
Gamma Obsidian – Affordable choice that comes in 13 or 16mm thickness . Unique teardrop shape , which widens the sweet spot toward the tip . Great touch and control with the carbon surface make this a great choice for finesse players . Also very moderately priced .
Joola Scorpeus – This traditionally shaped paddle has a nice medium weight and balance , making it easy for all intermediates to pick up and play . It really suits patient players who play defensively and let their opponents make the mistakes . Great for blocking and touch shots .
Trnity Pathos Revolution – This versatile paddle will suit mid-level to advanced players who prioritize control and spin . Very quick through the air , with a carbon face that adds loads of spin . Perfect for “ all court ” type of players .
Advanced
Engage Pursuit Pro MX – Revolutionary design from Engage gives this paddle a feel like no other . Very predictable accuracy for advanced players who need that . Has great touch and control , with just the right amount of power . Brilliant paddle !
Joola Perseus – Ben Johns ’ paddle of choice , this is a serious weapon in the right hands . It is a premium “ all court ” paddle , but it ’ s not the most forgiving . Great control , with adequate spin and power .
Paddletek Tempest V3 – Best-selling , legendary control paddle for advanced players who want the utmost in touch and feel . One of the first graphite paddles , the Tempest is still one of the best . Very maneuverable and quick at the net , it offers surgical placement .
Selkirk Luxx Control Air Invikta – The Invikta has been my favorite paddle since its inception , and Selkirk has been adding new tech and improving it . This latest edition leans toward control but can do everything amazingly well . The open throat design makes the paddle feel quick through the air . The thick 20mm core is great for absorbing hard hits . For more power , try the Power Air model instead .
Six Zero Double Black Diamond Control – Wellbalanced , all-court paddle that offers superb control with enough power when you need it . This paddle has it all — crazy spin , deadly accuracy , finesse … and all with a large sweet spot . One of the best paddles for the price available today . •
Jack Bandel writes Pickleball Magazine ’ s Paddle Reviews column . His reviews are playertested and unbiased to help you find the perfect paddle for your skill level . Over the years , Jack has interviewed dozens of top pros about their paddles and preferences . He also oversees the largest paddle review group on Facebook .
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