Discover “Best Pickleball Paddles for Beginners” to get your hands on a paddle that suits the gameplay of a beginner player.
Pickleball is a fun game that has become trendy recently, especially among older adults. Choosing the right pickleball paddle is essential if you are a beginner looking to get into this sport. Pickleball paddles come in different sizes, shapes, weights, and materials, each with a unique feel and characteristics. In this article, we will explore some of the best pickleball paddles and help you choose the right one to suit your needs as a beginner. So shall we begin?
Best Pickleball Paddles For Beginners
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Onix Stryker 4 Paddle
|
9.8
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
Selkirk Pickleball Paddles
|
9.7
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
GAMMA Sports 2.0 Paddle
|
9.6
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
JOOLA Pickleball Paddle
|
9.5
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
Selkirk Amped Paddle
|
9.3
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
JOOLA Radius Pro Paddle
|
9.1
|
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 |
Onix Composite Z5 Paddle
|
9.0
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
PROKENNEX Speed II Paddle
|
8.9
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
Kinetic Ovation Paddle
|
8.7
|
Check on Amazon |
 |
Adidas Adipower Paddle
|
8.6
|
Check on Amazon |
1. Onix Stryker 4 Pickleball Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 0.42 Pounds
- Face Material: Graphite
- Core Material: Polypropylene Core
- Paddle Type: Spin/Power
If you are new to pickleball and are still trying to decide what pickleball paddle will be best for you, then look no further. As a beginner, I consider the Onix Stryker 4 paddle my best partner on the court for multiple reasons.
The paddle’s weight ranges from 7.8 to 8.4 ounces, making it a mid-weight paddle. The paddle’s weight best suited me as a beginner because it was easy to maneuver. The best pickleball paddles for beginners to intermediate also feature a comfortable paddle grip that minimizes vibration and reduces the risk of injury to the player’s arm, which is why I could play long matches without discomfort.
All the pickleball players who prefer a slightly heavier paddle with a larger sweet spot should go for the Onix Stryker 4. It has a high-quality carbon fiber face and a Nomex honeycomb core. The face and core material provided great power and control to hit every shot like a pro.
- Larger Sweet Spot
- Comfortable Grip
- Cheap
- Smaller Grip Size
Summary
It is a perfect blend of high-quality materials that offer power and control over the beginner-friendly paddle. The Onix Stryker 4 is a reliable and durable paddle suitable for beginners and intermediate players who want a paddle that stays with them for years.
2. SLK Selkirk Pickleball Paddles
- Paddle Weight: 0.46 Pounds
- Face Material: Graphite
- Core Material: Polymer SX4 13mm Core
- Paddle Type: Spin/Control
The Selkirk Paddles is a line of high-performance paddles designed for players at the beginning level. I usually take these graphite paddles with me on pickleball matches because they feature a quad-carbon fiber face that provides excellent ball control and power while reducing vibrations and preventing the ball from slipping off the paddle face.
Moreover, the core of the best graphite pickleball paddles for beginners is made of a polymer honeycomb that perfectly balances touch and feel. I never doubted this paddle’s durability and still use the one I bought years ago, so if you are looking for a high-performance paddle with mind-blowing durability, then SLK Paddles is built for you.
Additionally, the SLK paddles come in different weights and shapes to suit different playing styles and preferences. The paddle’s edge is reinforced with Selkirk’s EdgeSentry technology, which provides added protection against damage from accidental hits or falls. It also comes with a pickleball bag.
- Durable
- Affordable
- Available In Multiple Weight Options
- Produces Loud Sound
Summary
Overall, the SLK Pickleball Paddles are known for their premium quality, exceptional playability, and stylish designs that make you stand out on the court. So, if you want to improve your pickleball game, this best pickleball racket for beginners is for you.
3. GAMMA Sports 2.0 Pickleball Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 0.5 Pounds
- Face Material: Textured Fiberglass
- Core Material: Aramid Honeycomb Core
- Paddle Type: Spin/Power
The GAMMA Sports 2.0 Paddle is a popular paddle used in the game of pickleball. Its popularity made me curious to try it out myself and trust me, GAMMA Sports 2.0 is one of the finest high-quality pickleball equipment for beginners in the company.
The GAMMA Sports Paddle has a fiberglass face and a Nomex honeycomb core. Its manufacturing material is why this paddle is lightweight and durable. I am not good at pickleball, but this paddle offered me good control and power, improving my gameplay.
I also liked how the paddle features a textured surface on the face, which helps to provide extra grip and a smooth spin of the ball. It also has a comfortable grip, designed to reduce fatigue and allow players to maintain a firm grip on the paddle throughout the game. It is available in various colors and designs, so players can choose the one that best suits their preferences.
- Highly Affordable
- Available In Various Colors And Designs
- Comfortable Grip
- Smaller Paddle Size
Summary
Thanks to its combination of performance, durability, and comfort, GAMMA Sports 2.0 Paddle is a popular choice for casual and competitive pickleball players.
4. JOOLA Essentials Pickleball Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 0.51 Pounds
- Face Material: Carbon Fiber
- Core Material: Polypropylene Core
- Paddle Type: Spin
JOOLA, a well-known brand in the world of sports, makes the JOOLA Pickleball Paddle. A high-quality paddle designed for players who need to be more skilled in pickleball. As a beginner, I wanted to try JOOLA Paddle to know if it is what the company claims.
The paddle is made with a fiberglass face and a polymer honeycomb core to fulfill the requirements of beginner players’ gameplay.
Moreover, the fiberglass face is textured to give you an extra grip on the ball and helps players achieve better spin and placement. My performance surprised my friends because a beginner can never deliver such a mind-blowing performance with a good balance between power and control. The credit goes to JOOLA Essentials Performance Paddle.
Furthermore, this paddle has a lightweight design, which made maneuvering a piece of cake for me. It also has a comfortable grip to reduce hand fatigue and provide a secure hold on the paddle throughout the game. It will be the best gift for beginner pickleball players.
One notable feature of the JOOLA Paddle is its noise-reducing edge guard. This helps to reduce the sound that the paddle makes when it comes into contact with the ball. So, if you prefer a quieter game, choose JOOLA Pickleball Paddle as your game partner.
- Affordable Price
- Doesn’t Produce A Loud Noise
- Easy To Maneuver
- Handle Is Too Short For An Adult
Summary
The JOOLA Pickleball Paddle is a reliable and versatile paddle suitable for players of all skill levels. Its power, control, and comfort combination make it popular among pickleball players.
5. Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 0.68 Pounds
- Face Material: Fiberglass
- Core Material: Polypropylene Core
- Paddle Type: Spin/Power
If you want to take your game to the next level, the Selkirk Amped Paddle is for you. It offers a great balance of power, control, and durability in a paddle, making it a high-performing pickleball paddle for beginners.
The balance of control and power in a Selkirk Pickleball Paddle is because of its composite face and polymer core. I love how it feels in the hands. The composite face is textured, which provides extra grip on the ball. Moreover, I got better at spinning because of its textured face.
The Selkirk Paddle has an EdgeSentry edge guard, and this innovative design provides extra protection for the paddle while reducing the number of mis-hits that occur. Playing in the field with this elongated paddle improved my performance by many folds.
Another feature that helped me become a better player is its larger sweet spot, which made hitting the ball accurately and consistently much easier. Its comfortable grip provides a secure hold on the paddle throughout the game, so your hands don’t burn out after the match.
- Comfortable Grip
- Reduce Mis-Hits Number
- Offers Better Spin
- Expensive Than Other Options
Summary
The Selkirk Amped Paddle is perfect for players who want a good beginner pickleball paddle to help them perform at their best. Moreover, it is available in various colors and designs, so players can choose the one that best suits their preferences.
6. JOOLA Radius Pro Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 0.46 Pounds
- Face Material: Carbon Flex3
- Core Material: Polymer Honeycomb Core
- Paddle Type: Spin/Control
The JOOLA Radius Pro has plenty of features that can help you improve your game. This high-end paddle is extremely durable, so it will go a long way with you.
The JOOLA Radius Paddle features a carbon fiber face and a polypropylene honeycomb core to enjoy a good balance of power and control, regardless of your skill level. This is a must-have for beginners and professional pickleball players who want to take their game to the next level.
Even though I am not skilled enough at pickleball, thanks to its carbon fiber face, that helped me achieve better spin. Furthermore, the texture on the face provides great control over the ball. It has a lot that surprised me, like its Ergo Grip technology. This innovative design provided a comfortable and secure grip, reducing hand fatigue and improving my overall performance. Isn’t it amazing?
Its large sweet spot lets you hit every shot accurately. Furthermore, the thickness and noise-reducing edge guard help reduce the paddle’s sound when it comes into contact with the ball. So, if you get bothered by loud hitting ball sounds, this is your solution.
- Offers Better Grip
- Doesn’t Cause Any Discomfort
- Produces Less Noise
- Expensive
Summary
The JOOLA Radius Pro Paddle is built for players at the beginning level. A sleek, modern black and silver design paddle with plenty of qualities ensures players perform at their best.
7. Onix Composite Z5 Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 0.57 Pounds
- Face Material: Composite
- Core Material: Nomex Core
- Paddle Type: Spin
The Onix Composite Z5 is a popular and highly-rated paddle used in pickleball. To know whether it deserved the hype, I had to go out and try this out myself. The moment I hit the ball with this paddle for the first time, I realized why players want this paddle.
If you want a paddle that perfectly balances power and control over the ball, go for the Onix Composite Z5 Paddle. The reason behind this is its composite face and a Nomex honeycomb core. Furthermore, the textured composite face provides incredible grip. Guess what? This feature also helped me in getting better at spin and placement.
Another feature that always makes this paddle the best pickleball paddle for beginners is its wide body shape. This design gives players a larger sweet spot. So you can hit every ball accurately and precisely. Moreover, the grip is super comfortable, and you won’t feel exhausted even if you play the match for hours.
The most exciting thing about Onix Pickleball Paddle is that it is available in various colors and designs so that you can choose according to your preferences. This spinning paddle is popular for casual and competitive pickleball players thanks to its fantastic performance, durability, and comfort.
- Durable
- Reduce Hand Fatigue
- Cheap Price
- Heavyweight
Summary
The Onix Composite Z5 Paddle is a reliable and versatile paddle suitable for beginner pickleball players. Its power, control, and comfort combination make it popular among pickleball players of all levels.
8. PROKENNEX Pro Speed II Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 0.5 Pounds
- Face Material: Carbon Fiber
- Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
- Paddle Type: Spin
The PROKENNEX Pro Speed II is a high-performance paddle designed for players looking for power and precision on the court. Its carbon fiber face and polymer honeycomb core make it the best pickleball paddle for beginners.
This paddle made me live my dream of playing with speed without compromising power and control. The carbon fiber face is lightweight and stiff, which allows for increased power and speed in your every shot. The polymer honeycomb core is also lightweight, which makes the paddle easy to maneuver and control.
The best starter pickleball paddle has a unique shape with a tapered edge, which provides a larger sweet spot for hitting the ball. This helped me hit with accuracy and reduced my mishits, which can be especially important in games like pickleball. The Pro Speed II Paddle also features an ergonomic handle to reduce soreness and improve comfort during long matches. Moreover, the handle has a textured surface that provides a secure grip, even when my hands are sweaty.
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Offers Larger Sweet Spot
- High Priced
Summary
Overall, the PROKENNEX Pickleball Paddle is a high-quality paddle designed for players looking for a balance of power and control in a paddle. Its lightweight construction, unique shape, and ergonomic handle can make anyone get this at first glance.
9. PROKENNEX Kinetic Ovation Speed II Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 0.5 Pounds
- Face Material: Carbon Fiber
- Core Material: Carbon Fiber
- Paddle Type: Spin/Control
The PROKENNEX Kinetic Ovation Speed II Paddle is another high-performance paddle designed for beginners. What makes it the best beginner pickleball paddle is its PROKENNEX’s Kinetic Technology, which helps to reduce shock and vibration. Moreover, it keeps the players comfortable so they don’t feel tired by holding a paddle during long matches.
Power and control are two basic requirements of all pickleball players, which you will find in this paddle thanks to its carbon fiber face and a polymer honeycomb core. Moreover, the carbon fiber face is lightweight and stiff, which gave me increased power and speed on every shot. It is also lightweight, so maneuvering and control were child’s play for me.
The paddle has a unique shape with a tapered edge, which provides a larger sweet spot for hitting the ball. This paddle helped me attain mind-blowing accuracy and fewer mishits, which improved my game by many folds. My favorite feature of the best entry-level pickleball paddle is its ergonomic handle, designed to reduce fatigue and keep me comfortable in all matches. Furthermore, its textured surface keeps the grip non-slippery, even when my hands sweat like crazy.
- High-Performing Paddle
- Lightweight
- Absorbs Shock
- Expensive
Summary
Overall, the PROKENNEX Kinetic Ovation Paddle is a high-quality paddle designed to fulfill all the needs of a beginner pickleball player. Its unique Kinetic Technology, lightweight construction, unique shape, and ergonomic handle make it a perfect pick for beginners.
10. Adidas Adipower CTRL Paddle
- Paddle Weight: 0.51 Pounds
- Face Material: Carbon Aluminized
- Core Material: Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
- Paddle Type: Spin/Power
Looking for a pickleball paddle for beginners? Look no more because the Adidas Adipower CTRL Pickleball Paddle is everything you want. Its carbon fiber face and soft EVA foam core make it outshine other best beginner pickleball paddles.
The material of the face is why this paddle has a fast and responsive feel, while the soft EVA foam core provides cushioning and control for your shots. So, if you want tremendous power and control over the ball, this is for you. Moreover, its unique diamond shape with a wider hitting surface provides a larger sweet spot for hitting the ball. This is why my shots were accurate and hit the right spot effortlessly.
Its ergonomic handle provides extra comfort and reduces fatigue even if I play pickleball for long hours. Plus, the textured handle helps to hold the paddle firmly by providing an incredible grip even while your hands are sweating.
- Larger Sweet Spot
- Reduces Mishits
- Comfortable
- High Price
Summary
Those who value control and precision on the court should try the Adidas Pickleball Paddle. It is undoubtedly expensive, but it is worth every penny. The carbon fiber face, soft EVA foam core, unique diamond shape, and ergonomic handle everything about this paddle is perfect.
How To Choose The Best Pickleball Paddle For Beginners?
If you are new to the pickleball world, you may get your hands on the wrong paddles because of have little to no knowledge about them. Worry no more because we will help you understand good pickleball paddles for beginners and what qualities you should look for while buying a paddle as a beginner pickleball player.
Core Material
Pickleball paddle core material is a game changer. This is why experts emphasize picking it based on your skills. You will find the best pickleball rackets for beginners with various core materials, but for a beginner, you should choose a paddle whose core material is Nomex. For those who are wondering why Nomex? It is because it is dense, strong, and has more honeycombs, increasing its surface area so you can enjoy more power and control over the paddle.
Core Material Thickness
Another feature you should pay attention to while purchasing a pickleball paddle for beginners is the thickness of its core material. It would be best if you chose it according to your gameplay. A paddle with thick core material offers great control and produces less noise when the racket ball hits the paddle. Whereas paddles with thin core material offer power. A mid-weight or a paddle with medium thickness is perfect for beginners as it offers both control and power.
Sweet Spot
As a beginner, paddles with larger sweet spots always turn the game in my favor. Beginners need help with hitting the ball with accuracy. This is when larger sweet spot paddles turn the tables for you.
Handle Size
Pickleball is a game of hands, and keeping your hands comfortable even during long matches is essential. Long pickleball paddles are a big no as they slip easily, and chances of missed hits are very high with a paddle with long grip handles. I find small grip handles more comfortable and don’t cause any soreness. So check the handle size. If it feels comfortable, then go for it.
Price
Even if you love playing pickleball, going out of budget to get the best pickleball paddle for yourself is not a smart move. Therefore, set your budget first and look for the top pickleball paddles for beginners that suit your budget best.
Frequently Asked Question
How Do I Choose A Pickleball Paddle For Beginners?
Consider plenty of features when choosing a pickleball paddle for beginners, including the paddle’s weight. If you are a beginner, go for midweight paddles, which best suit their gameplay because it offers a perfect blend of control and power.
How Do I Know What Size Pickleball Paddle I Need?
You can apply a ruler test to pick the right size pickleball paddle for yourself. In this test, you must put a scale in the middle of your palm and measure it with your ring finger. Note the measurement. It gives you the size of a pickleball paddle that is perfect for your hands.
Does Your Paddle Matter In Pickleball?
One of the most important pieces of equipment in pickleball is its paddle. A good paddle can make you the star of the show, while a wrong one leaves you disappointed. Therefore, before investing your money, you should always consider all the features you need in a paddle.
Conclusion
Being a beginner pickleball player has many challenges, including picking the best paddle. To lessen your burden, we have compiled a list of the best pickleball paddles for beginners and discussed them in detail in this article. Here are the top recommendations.
- Onix Stryker 4 Paddle offers a larger sweet spot so that you can hit all the shots like a pro.
- SLK by Selkirk Paddles comes in various weights, so you can choose the one that suits your gameplay.
- GAMMA Sports 2.0 Paddle is extremely lightweight, so you don’t feel discomfort after your matches.
- Polypropylene Core & Graphite Surface
- Oversized Paddle, Large Sweet Spot, Lightweight
- Best For Power & Control
- Weight Is 0.5 Pound
- SX3 Honeycomb Core & G4 Graphite Surface
- Wide Paddle, Ultra Cushion Grip & Lightweight
- Best For Spin & Control
- Weight Is 0.6 Pound
- Aramid Honeycomb Core & Fiberglass Face
- Wide Paddle, Cushioned Grip & Medium Weight
- Best For Power & Control
- Weight Is 0.5 Pound
Take help from our guide if you need help choosing the best pickleball paddle. All the paddles mentioned in the article have merits and demerits. The choice is all yours. Go for the one that suits your needs. All the best.
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- Pickleball Rules And Scoring
- Paddle Tennis Vs Pickleball
- Rally Scoring In Pickleball
I, Jeena Noven, am a renowned pickleball expert and author with over 10 years of experience playing and coaching the sport. My passion and extensive knowledge of pickleball has made me a leading authority in the game, particularly in the field of footwear. I have written countless articles for https://pickleballcard.com/, a website dedicated to pickleball, sharing my insights and expertise on the best shoes for the sport. Through personal testing and reviewing countless different brands and styles, I have developed a deep understanding of the technical aspects of shoe design that make them suitable for the demands of pickleball. In my articles, I provide valuable information for both beginner and advanced players, covering everything from the basics of shoe fit and support, to advanced tips for maximizing performance on the court. As a dedicated pickleball player and expert in footwear, I am a valuable resource for players of all levels. My articles are not only informative but also engaging, making them a must-read for anyone looking to improve their pickleball game. I am constantly researching new products and trends in the industry and my readers can always count on me to provide the most up-to-date and accurate information on the best pickleball shoes available.
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