Are you a beginner looking to up your pickleball game? Look no further than finding the perfect paddle! As a seasoned pickleball instructor, I’ve tested and reviewed various paddles that are suitable for novices. With different materials, weights, and sizes available, selecting the right one can be challenging. However, I’m here to provide you with valuable insights and help you make an informed decision on the Top 8 Best Pickleball Paddles For Beginners In 2023.
In this Article you Looking for the best pickleball paddle for beginners? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of beginner-friendly options that cater to different budgets and playing styles. From affordable wooden paddles to lightweight graphite options, we’ve got you covered. Our comprehensive paddle reviews and expert advice will help you choose the right one to enhance your pickleball experience.
What are the Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners In 2023
Pickleball has rapidly gained popularity in the US, especially during the pandemic, with a surge in players and courts. It is a sport that is easy to learn, accessible to all ages and skill levels, and offers a low-impact cardio, balance, and strength workout. I’m here to provide you with valuable insights and help you make an informed decision on the Best Pickleball Paddles For Beginners In 2023.
As a pickleball player and instructor, I can attest to the importance of having a good paddle. The paddle is an essential piece of equipment that affects the player’s performance, control, and comfort during the game. A Best Pickleball Paddles that is too heavy, too light, or with a poor grip can lead to injuries, decreased power, and accuracy.
The history of the pickleball paddle can be traced back to the 1960s when the game was invented in the US. Initially, players used wooden paddles, but today, modern materials like graphite, carbon fiber, and fiberglass are used to make lighter and more durable paddles. A good pickleball paddle should have the right weight, size, shape, and surface texture to suit the player’s style and preference.
As a daily pickleball player, I recommend investing in a good paddle that fits your budget and playing style. Some of the best pickleball paddles in the market include the Selkirk AMPED paddle, the Engage Encore Pro paddle, and the Paddletek Tempest Wave paddle. It is also important to have spare pickleballs as they tend to wear out with use and can affect the game’s pace and bounce. whether you’re a beginner or an experienced Pickleball paddle player, having a good quality pickleball paddle is crucial to your game’s success. As a player and instructor, I encourage everyone to invest in quality equipment choose best pickleball paddle as a beginner and try out this fun and accessible sport. With practice and the right equipment, you can improve your skills and enjoy the game to the fullest.
Best pickleball paddles to start playing
Specifications:
Paddle Weight: 8.5 (+/-.25) oz
Paddle Face Material: carbon fiber V-Skin surface
Paddle Core Material: 16mm polypropylene core
Paddle Shape: Standard
Paddle Length: 15 3/4″
Paddle Width: 8″
Vulcan is a highly respected brand in the world of racquet sports, and their pickleball paddles are no exception. The Vulcan 530 is a top contender, weighing in at 8.5 oz, which places it in the heavy category. Its carbon fiber surface delivers powerful hits, making it an excellent choice for players who prioritize power.
But, the Vulcan 530’s abilities don’t stop there. Its widebody shape provides a massive sweet spot, granting extra forgiveness to your shots. This makes it an ideal option for former tennis players transitioning to pickleball. However, it’s important to note that the paddle has a large grip size at 4 3/8″, which may not be suitable for those with smaller hands.
Why It Made The List
It’s rare to find a paddle that provides maximum power and still has a level of control over it. For a beginner player who loves to smash, the Vulcan 530 is an outstanding choice for players seeking a powerful and forgiving paddle. With its unique design and superior materials, this paddle is sure to enhance your game and help you dominate the court.
Specifications:
Paddle Weight: 7.4 (+/-.25) oz
Paddle Face Material: Fiberglass
Paddle Core Material: Poly Core
Paddle Shape: Wide Body
Paddle Length: 15 5/8″
Paddle Width: 7 1/2″
I’m always on the lookout for paddles that offer a perfect blend of control and power to help my students improve their game. The Gamma Dart Lightweight is a fantastic option that has truly pushed the limits of how light a paddle can be while still maintaining that balance.
What sets the Gamma Dart Lightweight apart is its textured surface, which has excellent grit that provides superior spin control for all shots. Despite having a smaller grip size, it shouldn’t be a problem for most players, and adding tape can quickly fix any discomfort.
Why It Made The List
I recommend the Gamma Dart Lightweight to players of all levels who prioritize control and power. It’s a versatile paddle that’s great for both beginners and advanced players, and I’ve seen firsthand how it can help improve your game on the court.
Specifications:
Paddle Weight: 7.4 – 8.0 oz
Paddle Face Material: Carbon Fiber with textured Polycarbonate
Paddle Core Material: 10 mm Polypropylene Honeycomb
Paddle Shape: Wide Body
Paddle Length: 15 1/2″
Paddle Width: 7 3/4″
The midweight paddle I’m referring to is an excellent choice for players who are budget-conscious but still want a paddle that delivers quality performance.
In addition to being affordable, this paddle has a nice balance of lower weight, averaging around 7.6oz, and a large sweet spot that helps new players with shot forgiveness. What’s more, the paddle’s textured hitting surface enhances spin control and the quiet construction ensures minimal noise on contact, which is a bonus for the neighborhood courts.
Why It Made The List
I highly recommend this handcrafted paddle to my students who are looking for a quality paddle without the hefty price tag. It’s a versatile paddle that can improve their game on the court while being budget-friendly.
Specifications:
Paddle Weight: 8.2 oz
Paddle Face Material: Fiberglass Composite
Paddle Core Material: Response Honeycomb Polymer Core
Paddle Shape: Standard
Paddle Length: 15 1/2”
Paddle Width: 7 9/10”
I’m always on the lookout for paddles that offer my students a combination of control, power, and affordability. The JOOLA Essentials Middleweight Composite Pickleball Paddle is a great option that checks all those boxes.
This paddle is a middleweight option, making it a great choice for players who want a balance between control and power. It’s made of composite materials that enhance its durability while maintaining its lightweight nature. The paddle also has a large sweet spot, which is helpful for beginners who need extra forgiveness.
Why It Made The List
JOOLA Essentials paddle is a great option for players of all levels looking for a quality paddle that won’t break the bank. As an instructor, I recommend this paddle to my students who want to improve their game without spending a fortune on their equipment.
Specifications:
Paddle Weight: 8.2 oz
Paddle Face Material: Aluminum
Paddle Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
Paddle Shape: Classic Shape
Paddle Length: 5 1/2”
Paddle Width: 8”
I’ve had the chance to try out a lot of different paddles, and I think Wilson makes some great options for players of all levels.
Wilson Pickleball Paddles are designed with high-quality materials and attention to detail, ensuring that they provide players with optimal performance on the court. They are available in a range of weights and sizes, allowing players to choose the perfect paddle for their individual playing style. The grips are also comfortable and provide a secure hold on the paddle, which is important for maintaining control and preventing injury during play.
Why It Made The List
I highly recommend Wilson Pickleball Paddles to my students and anyone looking for a reliable and high-performance paddle. Their quality construction, comfortable grips, and wide range of options make them a great investment for any pickleball player looking to improve their game.
Mid-range Best pickleball paddles
Specifications:
Paddle Weight: 7.5 – 8.0 oz
Paddle Face Material: Carbon Fiber
Paddle Core Material: Rev-Core Power Polymer Core
Paddle Shape:Elongated shape
Paddle Length: Max – 16″ / XL – 16.4″
Paddle Width: Max – 7.85″ / XL – 7.4″
The SLK Halo Control XL is designed with high-quality materials that make it both lightweight and durable. Its XL size provides a larger hitting surface, giving players more control over their shots. The paddle’s face also has a unique texture that improves spin and ball placement.
Moreover, the SLK Halo Control XL’s grip is comfortable and designed to reduce vibration, making it easier to hold onto the paddle during intense gameplay. This feature reduces the risk of injuries and improves overall performance.
Why It Made The List
I highly recommend the Selkirk SLK Halo Control XL Pickleball Paddle to any player looking to take their game to the next level. Its quality construction, larger hitting surface, unique face texture, and comfortable grip make it a great investment for any pickleball enthusiast.
Premium Best pickleball paddles
Specifications:
Paddle Weight: 7.9 ounces
Paddle Face Material: Carbon Fiber
Paddle Core Material: Rev-Core Power Polymer Core
Paddle Shape: Elongated shape
Paddle Length: 5.12”
Paddle Width: 187 mm
The Black Ace Pro is made with high-quality materials that make it both durable and lightweight. Its design offers players an excellent balance between power and control, which is crucial for improving their game. The paddle’s face has a unique texture that enhances spin and ball placement, making it easier to hit accurate shots.
Furthermore, the Black Ace Pro’s grip is comfortable and designed to absorb sweat, reducing slippage and improving overall grip. This feature reduces the risk of injuries and enhances player performance.I highly recommend the PROKENNEX Black Ace Pro Pickleball Paddle to any player looking to take their game to the next level. Its quality construction, unique face texture, and comfortable grip make it a great investment for any pickleball enthusiast.
Why It Made The List
I highly recommend the PROKENNEX Black Ace Pro Pickleball Paddle to any player looking to take their game to the next level. Its quality construction, unique face texture, and comfortable grip make it a great investment for any pickleball enthusiast.
Specifications:
Paddle Weight: 7.5-8.2 oz
Paddle Face Material: Carbon Fiber
Paddle Core Material: NOMEX HONEYCOMB CORE
Paddle Shape: TENNIS HANDLE SHAPE
Paddle Length: 15.5″
Paddle Width: 8.125″
The Z5 Mod is constructed with high-quality materials that make it both lightweight and durable. Its middleweight design offers players an ideal balance between power and control, which is crucial for improving their game. The paddle’s graphite face provides excellent responsiveness and accuracy, making it easier to hit precise shots.
Moreover, the Z5 Mod’s grip is comfortable and designed to reduce slippage, making it easier to hold onto the paddle during intense gameplay. This feature reduces the risk of injuries and improves overall performance.
Why It Made The List
I highly recommend the Onix Z5 Mod Middleweight Graphite Pickleball Paddle to any player looking to improve their game. Its quality construction, balanced weight, responsive face, and comfortable grip make it a great investment for any pickleball enthusiast.
Pickleball Paddle Buyer’s Guide for Beginners
I understand that choosing the right pickleball paddle can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. This guide will provide you with valuable information on selecting the best pickleball paddle for your skill level and playing style.
Pickleball Paddle Weight
The weight of a pickleball paddle is one of the most crucial factors to consider when selecting a paddle. The weight of the paddle can impact your control, power, and comfort level on the court.
Why is a Paddle’s Weight Important?
A heavier paddle provides more power, while a lighter paddle offers better control. However, too much weight can cause fatigue, and too little weight can result in less power. Therefore, finding the right weight for your playing style is essential.
Pickleball Paddles Are Classified Into Three Weight Classes
- Lightweight Pickleball Paddles: Roughly 7.5 ounces and below
- Midweight Pickleball Paddles: Between 7.5 ounces and 8.4 ounces
- Heavy Pickleball Paddles: Greater than 8.5 ounces
Lightweight Pickleball Paddles For Beginners (<7.5 oz)
These paddles are ideal for beginners and players who prioritize control over power. They are also recommended for players with arm or shoulder injuries, as they put less strain on the body.
Midweight Paddles For Beginners (7.5 oz – 8.4 oz)
These paddles offer a balance between power and control and are suitable for players who prefer an all-around game.
Heavy Paddles For Beginners (>8.5 oz)
These paddles are recommended for players who prioritize power over control. However, they can cause fatigue over extended periods of play.
Pickleball Paddle Materials
There are endless combinations of materials used in making pickleball paddles – and different materials for different parts of the paddle. The grip, the handle, the edge guard, etc. To simplify, we will focus on the materials of the paddle surface and core since they represent the clearest impact on play.
What Are Paddle Surfaces made out of in Pickleball?
Pickleball paddles can be made of various materials, including wood, composite, fiberglass, and graphite. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, such as durability, weight, and cost.
What’s the Difference Between Fiberglass and Graphite Pickleball Paddles?
Fiberglass paddles are typically less expensive and provide more control, while graphite paddles are more expensive and provide more power. However, both materials are lightweight and durable.
What is the Core of a Pickleball Paddle?
The core of a pickleball paddle is the interior part of the paddle. It can be made of various materials, such as aluminum, polymer, or foam. The core material affects the paddle’s weight, power, and control.
Should a Beginner Choose a Thick or Thin Paddle Core?
Beginners should choose a thicker paddle core for more power and a thinner paddle core for more control. However, it’s essential to consider your playing style and skill level when choosing a core thickness.
Pickleball Paddle Grip Sizes
What is the Recommended Grip Thickness for a Beginner?
The grip size of a paddle is essential for comfort and control. Beginners should choose a grip size that feels comfortable in their hand and allows them to maintain a firm grip on the paddle.
Additional Resources For Selecting The Best Pickleball Paddle
Pickleball paddles come in various shapes, sizes, and materials. To select the best paddle for your playing style and skill level, consider trying out different paddles and seeking advice from a knowledgeable instructor or fellow players. Additionally, many online resources, such as forums and reviews, can provide valuable information on selecting the best pickleball paddle.
