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Pickleball Paddles in 2025
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Apr. 11, 2025

Best Pickleball Paddles in 2025 for All Levels

Pickleball has taken the sports world by storm, blending elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong into one incredibly fun and fast-paced game. Whether you're a beginner looking to dive into the sport or a seasoned player aiming to upgrade your gear, choosing the right paddle is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we break down the best pickleball paddles available in 2025, catering to pickleball paddles for all levels.

Why the Right Pickleball Paddle Matters

The paddle you choose can significantly affect your performance on the court. The weight, material, grip size, and core construction all influence your control, power, and comfort. Selecting the right paddle can reduce injury risk and enhance your overall game, no matter your skill level.

What to Look for in a Pickleball Paddle

Before diving into our top picks, let’s look at the key factors to consider:

1. Paddle Weight

  • Lightweight (6.7–7.3 oz): Great for control and faster reaction.

  • Midweight (7.4–8.4 oz): Balanced control and power—ideal for most players.

  • Heavyweight (8.5+ oz): Offers more power but less control—best for aggressive players.

2. Core Material

  • Polymer Core: Most common—provides balance and noise reduction.

  • Nomex Core: Durable and loud, ideal for power hitters.

  • Aluminum Core: Light and responsive, good for touch players.

3. Surface Material

  • Graphite: Lightweight and powerful.

  • Composite: Offers a balance of power and control.

  • Carbon Fiber: High-end material offering excellent touch and durability.

4. Grip Size

  • Small (4” to 4.25”): Better for control and maneuverability.

  • Medium (4.5”): Suitable for most adult players.

  • Large (4.75”+): Offers more stability but may reduce wrist action.

Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners

1. Selkirk SLK Latitude

  • Why We Love It: Affordable, lightweight, and forgiving.

  • Core: Polymer

  • Surface: Graphite

  • Weight: 6.9–7.4 oz

2. Niupipo MX-06

  • Why We Love It: Great entry-level paddle with USAPA approval.

  • Core: Honeycomb polymer

  • Surface: Fiberglass

  • Weight: 8 oz

3. Onix Recruit 2.0

  • Why We Love It: Great starter bundle with solid performance.

  • Core: Polypropylene

  • Surface: Composite

  • Weight: 7.5 oz

Best Pickleball Paddles for Intermediate Players

1. Paddletek Bantam EX-L

  • Why We Love It: Offers a great balance of power and control.

  • Core: Polymer honeycomb

  • Surface: Fiberglass

  • Weight: 7.8–8.4 oz

2. Head Radical Elite

  • Why We Love It: Extended reach with solid grip and feel.

  • Core: Polymer

  • Surface: Fiberglass

  • Weight: 8.1 oz

3. Engage Encore EX 6.0

  • Why We Love It: Expanded sweet spot and noise-dampening.

  • Core: ControlPro polymer

  • Surface: Fiberglass

  • Weight: 8.0 oz

Best Pickleball Paddles for Advanced Players

1. JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16

  • Why We Love It: Top-of-the-line paddle used by pros.

  • Core: Reactive Honeycomb

  • Surface: Carbon Friction Surface (CFS)

  • Weight: 8.4 oz

2. Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta

  • Why We Love It: Delivers unmatched power and precision.

  • Core: QuadFlex Polymer

  • Surface: Hybrid Carbon Fiber

  • Weight: 7.7–8.2 oz

3. CRBN-1 Pickleball Paddle

  • Why We Love It: Ultimate touch and control with pro-level specs.

  • Core: Polypropylene

  • Surface: Raw Carbon Fiber

  • Weight: 7.8–8.1 oz

Comparing the Top Picks

Paddle Best For Core Weight
Selkirk SLK Latitude Beginners Polymer 6.9–7.4 oz
Paddletek Bantam EX-L Intermediates Polymer 7.8–8.4 oz
JOOLA Hyperion CFS 16 Advanced Honeycomb 8.4 oz

How to Choose Based on Your Playing Style

  • Control-Oriented Players: Look for lighter paddles with smaller grip sizes and polymer cores.

  • Power Players: Opt for heavier paddles with carbon fiber surfaces.

  • All-Around Players: Midweight paddles with composite surfaces are your best bet.

What is Pickleball

Conclusion: Pickleball Paddles for All Levels

No matter your skill level or playing style, there's a perfect paddle out there for you. Whether you're just picking up a paddle for the first time or looking to upgrade to a high-performance model, our list of the best pickleball paddles has got you covered.

At Rankd, we’re passionate about helping players find the right gear and the best places to play. From finding local courts to connecting with fellow players, Rankd is your pickleball partner—on and off the court.

Ready to up your game? Grab your perfect paddle and let’s play!