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Pickleball Paddle Guide

Choosing the Best Pickleball Paddle For Your Game

Choosing the Best Pickleball Paddle For Your Game

Our Pickleball Paddle Guide focuses on the main elements of all pickleball paddles: shape, weight and, width (thickness).

Choosing the best pickleball paddle for your game can be an overwhelming task. That's why our team of paddle experts created a pickleball paddle guide to help you find the paddle that bests fits your preferences and playing style. In our guide, we'll teach you about the main elements of all pickleball paddles and other things to consider when making your paddle purchase.
Pickleball Paddle Shapes
According to USAPA regulations, pickleball paddles must not surpass a length of 17 inches, and their combined length and height cannot exceed 24 inches in total. In an effort to stand out and optimize the "sweet spot" on the paddle, manufacturers have created a range of paddle shapes that fall within these permitted dimensions.
Standard Paddles
Modeled after the original paddle shape, standard paddles offer the widest sweet spot. They are great for beginners because they offer the most forgiveness and typically are more maneuveraable than longer paddles.  Some great options for standard shape paddles are the Engage Pursuit Pro EX or the JOOLA Scorpeus 3. 
Hybrid pickleball paddles
Hybrid Paddles
Hybrid pickleball paddles offer the best of both worlds. Hybrid paddles fall between the elongated and standard. They are growing in popularity because they offer moderate power and good hand speed. If you're looking for a  top-rated hybrid paddle, check out the Six Zero Ruby. 
Elongated Paddles
Elongated pickleball paddles offer the greatest reach and most power potential. These  are popular amongst pro players, and make great options for players transitioning to pickleball from other racquet sports, such as tennis. Check out the new JOOLA Tyson McGuffin Magnus, or try the CRUSH RQT which offers the maximum allowable length of 17 inches.
Pickleball Paddle Weight
Finding the ideal weight is crucial for maximizing power and stability on the court. Opting for a paddle that's too light may limit your performance potential, while one that's too heavy could lead to issues like pickleball elbow. Static weight refers to the weight of a paddle on a scale. This metric serves as a valuable starting point, as lower-weight paddles offer increased maneuverability, while higher-weight ones deliver enhanced stability and power. Some players may choose to add weighted lead tape in order to further customize a paddle to fit their needs.
Lightweight Paddles
Lightweight paddles offer the best maneuverability because they are very easy to swing. If you have lightning fast hands like the pros, check out the Engage Pursuit Pro line-up, which is chosen by top pros like Dekel Bar and Jessie Irvine.
Midweight Paddles
Midweight (7.8-8.2 oz) is the most common range because these paddles offer the best balance of mobility and power. If you're looking for a popular midweight paddle endorsed by the pros, check out the Selkirk Luxx Control Air Invikta, chosen by Jack Sock. 
Heavy Paddles
Performance paddles are typically designed toward the heavier end of the range, anything greater than 8.2 ounces. Heavy paddles are reommended for experienced players. The Babolat BALLR+ is on the heavier side, but at 8.3 oz it still offers managable power.
Pickleball Paddle Width (Thickness)

Thinner paddles are often dubbed "power paddles" by manufacturers due to their increased "pop" or rebound effect. However, their narrower profile comes with a trade-off: a smaller sweet spot. This feature demands precision and control, making them favored by advanced players who can consistently hit that sweet spot. Thicker paddles distribute force evenly, enhancing ball control. With a more uniform sweet spot and slightly reduced rebound, shots become more predictable. For those seeking forgiveness, opting for a thicker core paddle is a common strategy.

Comparing Paddle Widths

Paddles are available in a variety of thicknesses, with some models even offering multiple thickness options. While there are typical guidelines to follow when selecting the ideal thickness for your game, it's crucial to acknowledge that exceptions exist. In this video from Pickleball Effect, Braydon breaks down the difference between 14mm and 16mm paddles, the two most common paddle thicknesses.

Frequenly Asked Questions