10 Best Pickleball Paddles For Intermediate Players In 2024

Check out this guide for a detailed review of the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players and buying guides to help you select.

Pickleball is one of the most popular and fastest-growing sports around the world. It is similar to badminton. The only major difference between both sports is that pickleball uses paddles to hit the ball. A player’s performance mainly depends on a pickleball paddle.

In other words, a pickleball paddle plays a significant role in enhancing your performance. Various types of pickleball paddles are available in the market with specific features for beginners, intermediate, and professional players.

Are you an intermediate-level pickleball player looking for the best intermediate pickleball paddle to improve your performance? Don’t worry because the following article can help you in many ways. To help you find the best paddle for pickleball, I have created a list of the 10 best ones, along with the buying guide.

Best Pickleball Paddles For Intermediate Players

IMAGE	PRODUCT	RATING	PRICE
	SLK Evo Pickleball Paddle Features: G8-Flex Carbon Fiber Face, Rev-Soft Core Technology, Ultra-Comfort Grip Benefits: Polymer Core Provides Exceptional Balance & Largest Sweet Spot Best For Accuracy	9.8	Check on Amazon
	Paddletek Phoenix Paddle Features: Smart Response Technology, SRT ProPolyCore, Polymer Composite Honeycomb Structure Benefits: Fiberglass Epoxy Hybrid Playing Surface With A Large Sweet Spot Provides Spin, Consistency & Accuracy	9.7	Check on Amazon
	TMPR Sports GXT Paddle Features: Polymer Honeycomb Core, TMPR Vibration Dampening Technology, Carbon Fiber Surface Benefits: Aerodynamic Shape Increases maneuverability & Carbon Surface Great For Spin	9.5	Check on Amazon
	TICCI Pickleball Paddle Features: Cutting-Edge Technology, Polymer Honeycomb Core, Fiberglass Face Benefits: Fiberglass Surface Is Excellent For Spin, And Ergonomic Grip Provides Balance And Grip	9.5	Check on Amazon
	Engage Encore EX 6.0 Paddle Features: Rough-Textured Skin, ControlPro Polymer Core, Vibration Control Technology Benefits: Skin Dimensioning Technology Offers Players A Large Sweet Spot And Superior Control	9.3	Check on Amazon
	Champion Eclipse Paddle Features: Vibration Reducing Core, Reinforced Neck, Graphite Surface Benefits: Lightweight Paddle With Vibration Damping Core Excellent For Accuracy & Spin Control	9.6	Check on Amazon
	HEAD Pickleball Paddle Features: Graphite Hitting Surface, Extreme Spin Texture, Handle Stabilizer Technology Benefits: HEAD’s Latest Technologies Provides Soft Impact, Power, Control & Stability	9.1	Check on Amazon
	Gearbox GX5 Paddle Features: Aerodynamic Slim Design, Edgeless Frame Design, Massive Sweet Spot, Hyper Bite Spin Technology Benefits: Offer More Ball Spinning And Maximum Maneuverability Due To Hyper Bite Spin Technology	9.5	Check on Amazon
	PROLITE PowerSpin Paddle Features: 14mm PolyCore, Reactive Fiberglass With UV Protection Graphics, Low Profile Tapered Edge Benefits: Due To Highly Reactive UV Protected Fiberglass, It Provides A Blend Of Controllable Power	9.4	Check on Amazon
	ONIX Graphite Z5 Paddle Features: Nomex Honeycomb Core, Carbon Surface & Graphite Shaft Material Benefits: Provides Outstanding Control Of The Ball With The Largest Sweet Spot For Accuracy & Spin	8.9	Check on Amazon

1. SLK Evo Pickleball Paddle

I have used multiple types of pickleball paddles. Still, this paddle remains my favorite paddle because of its carbon fiber face, which is vital in improving your performance to a significant extent. If you are also looking for a carbon fiber pickleball paddle, look for none other than the SLK Pickleball Paddle.

It is the most popular paddle in the market because of its premium quality and exceptional performance. This best mid level pickleball paddle from SLK is available in three colors and two types of lens faces: carbon fiber and fiberglass.

It comes in one standard size and has a polymer material. Furthermore, it weighs around 7.6 ounces, making it one of the most lightweight paddles. The carbon fiber face combines with a large sweet spot and comfortable grip to offer excellent performance.

One of the paddle’s advanced features that caught my attention when using these paddles was its REV-SOFT CORE technology that absorbs impact, providing a plate with a soft feel to hit the ball with more power. The ultra-lightweight makes it easy to handle and helps players to maintain their control during the game.

Another significant feature that I love the most is its comfortable grip. It consists of a 4.25-inch grip circumference and a 5.25-inch length. In addition, the paddle’s premium-quality grip material can absorb sweat and impact significantly, reducing the risks of fatigue after long matches.

Lastly, the unique shape provides a large surface area, allowing the players to perform perfect shots while maintaining control and balance. Its large-sized shape makes it one of the best paddles for beginners and intermediate players.

Summary

Although it has many advanced characteristics that enhance your performance, it is slightly expensive because most intermediate players prefer to invest less than 100 USD in sports equipment. If you don’t want to compromise on quality and performance, keep this paddle your top priority.

2. Paddletek Phoenix Genesis Pro Paddle

This is a top-selling paddle on Amazon because it comes in different size options, allowing players to choose the one according to their requirements. Besides size options, it also comes in various color options.

One of its prominent characteristics includes its thin grip. It has a fiberglass material, and its shaft is carbon fiber. The advanced characteristics offer maximum comfort, stability, balance, and exceptional performance throughout the match.

Its large sweet spot allows players to hit the ball more effortlessly. In addition to its large sweet spot, this paddle has Smart Response technology and vibration control. The primary reason why this paddle is on my top favorite paddles list is because of its advanced polymer composite honeycomb structure that provides maximum forgiveness, allowing me to practice my shots and become a pro.

Another reason I love this paddle is its textured fiberglass Hybrid surface that improves spin control and shot placement, improving your overall performance in the game. Its standard 7.8 to 8.2 ounces weight makes it one of the most lightweight and easy-to-handle paddles. Lastly, the 4-inch circumference grip provides additional control.

Summary

This is expensive, like the previous paddle on the list. This is ideal if you can afford a pickleball paddle worth 120 USD.

3. TMPR Sports GXT Series Paddle

Are you looking for a pickleball paddle with multiple sizes, colors, and style options? Your search ends here because the third paddle I present fulfills all your requirements. This is slightly different from the previous paddles on the list because it has a graphite shaft material.

Moreover, this is ideal for all pickleball players, including beginners, intermediate players, and professionals. The paddle’s soft carbon fiber surface provides more control during the game. Besides its surface, its rounded shape is vital in improving the accuracy of your shots.

I use the best pickleball rackets for intermediate players with a round shape because such mid level pickleball paddles increase the sweet spot and decrease drag on my swings. Hence, the aerodynamic shape significantly improves your performance, allowing you to practice your shots.

I experienced soft, controlled shots when using this paddle during my game. Upon research, I discovered that its 13mm core has a honeycomb polymer material with a carbon fiber face that provides soft, controlled shots, which are ideal for a spin, too.

One of the advanced characteristics I was attracted to is its TMPR Vibration Dampening Technology. It contains advanced shock-absorbing components that help to prevent arm strain or other injuries.

Besides its styles and color options, this is available in different weight options. A lightweight paddle is ideal for players who prefer a faster swing rate. In contrast, the medium-weight paddle is perfect for fast swings with moderate power. In contrast to these weights, a heavy-weight paddle is vital in increasing the power of your shot.

Summary

If you are looking for a paddle that offers exceptional performance and is ideal for all skill-level players, look for none other than this paddle. The only drawback is that it does not have a customizable handle like other paddles from this company.

4. TICCI Pickleball Paddle

If you don’t want to spend around 100 USD on a pickleball paddle, I have a perfect paddle for you ranging from around 66 to 70 USD. When I purchased this paddle to practice pickleball, I found it one of the best available at an affordable price. The best part is that it comes in a kit containing a pair of paddles and four pickleball balls.

It comes in 18 colors, allowing the users to select the one according to their choice. Though I have become a pro in pickleball, I still use it sometimes during my matches because it is ideal for all skill-level players and is USAPA-approved.

Furthermore, its fiberglass material with graphite frame and shaft material enhances its durability and performance. Its fiberglass material offers additional stiffness to improve the pickleball ball strike.

This kit is a perfect blend of power and control. Although it is comparatively inexpensive than others on the list, it offers maximum durability with advanced technologies to enhance your overall performance during the match.

It contains an advanced polypropylene honeycomb structure that helps minimize amplitude and vibrations, enhancing the paddles’ strength. One of the highlighted characteristics includes its premium quality edge guard that protects against ground hits.

In addition, this is a premium quality ergonomic grip that provides maximum cushioning to your hand with the help of its non-slip design. Its standard weight makes it ideal for all kinds of pickleball players.

Summary

Although it uses many advanced features to enhance its durability, it fails to provide maximum durability to its handle. Its handle might break after several uses in the case of harsh and strong shots. You can invest your money in it being an intermediate player because it works best for beginners and intermediate players.

5. Engage Encore EX 6.0 Paddle

This paddle from EP is available in red color. With a total weight of 8.4 ounces, it is 16.26 inches long, 9.65 inches in width, and 1.38 inches in height. Moreover, its grip size ranges from around 4 ⅜ inches.

Though these paddles have a standard shape, I enjoyed using them during my matches because they are ideal for maintaining balance and enhancing power and control. It has many characteristics, but my favorite is its rough texture that delivers spin, unlike many other paddles.

These paddles contain Core and Skin Dimensioning technology with a large sweet spot for maximum forgiveness and additional control to prevent overswing. Like the previous paddle on the list, this is USAPA-approved. Hence, it is suitable for tournament matches.

Summary

Most paddles on my list are available in different sizes and color options so that the players can select the paddle according to their choice and requirements. Unlike others, it comes in a standard size and color.

6. Champion Eclipse Paddle

Champion is one of the most popular manufacturers of pickleball paddles. It comes with many advanced characteristics at an affordable price and is available in two colors and one standard size. This paddle’s grip size is around 4 inches, and the overall paddle’s weight is 0.47 lbs.

It is a perfect blend of materials, increasing durability and significantly improving performance. These paddles have a neoprene material, while their frame and shaft have a graphite material. This graphite paddle’s small grip and light weight make it ideal for all types of pickleball players.

As a professional pickleball player, I have encountered different types of paddles. When using this equipment, I noticed a difference between its grip type and others. Well, it was true, and there is a difference between the grip and other paddles. The small grip has a flared end cap to prevent slipping and a tacky material that absorbs moisture from your hand.

Another prominent characteristic is its velvet texture, which offers additional comfort and resists denting over time. In other words, its rigid texture makes this equipment more reliable and durable.

The soft polymer core makes them easy to handle during long matches and provides maximum power. Its lightweight plays a significant role in allowing quick reactions and minimizing vibration with the help of Vibration Dampening Technology.

Summary

Besides being one of the best intermediate pickleball paddles, this equipment might fail to meet the requirements of professional players. Hence, the paddle is ideal for beginners and intermediate players to practice their shots and become pros.

7. HEAD Pickleball Paddle

This sports equipment is available in two colors and style options. Its grip size ranges from around 4 ⅛ inches. In addition, it has a graphite material that increases its durability. As a pro pickleball player, I use these paddles for my tournament matches, but they also work best for intermediate players.

This lightweight paddle uses signature graphite hitting the surface of the HEAD to increase control. Furthermore, the unique texture provides a better grip. The distinctive flip design is vital in increasing power and forgiveness.

Besides the textured face, these paddles’ large sweet spot increases forgiveness and allows players to practice to become pros. The unique design makes them one of the best paddles available.

Summary

This is comparatively more costly. Consider purchasing this paddle if you can afford sports equipment worth 150 USD.

8. Gearbox GX5 Paddle

If you are looking for a pickleball paddle with a slim frame and fast response, your search ends here because this paddle from Gearbox meets your requirements. This is available in three colors and multiple size options.

These paddles entirely have a carbon fiber material, which plays a highlighting role in making this paddle more long-lasting. I have used various pickleball paddles, but this equipment was one of the quietest paddles I have ever played pickleball with. The upgrades in the advanced paddles provide a soft feel and minimize the sound.

Moreover, the upgraded version offers two options: control and power. You can choose the type according to your preference. This handcrafted sports equipment contains Fiber H7 technology, which features an elongated paddle face, allowing players more forgiveness.

Summary

It fulfills all the requirements an intermediate pickleball player looks for in sports equipment but is a bit more pricey than other paddles on the list. This should be your top priority if you don’t want to compromise on quality and performance.

9. PROLITE Crush PowerSpin 2.0 Paddle

In the early stages of my pickleball career, I used PROLITE paddles since they are the best for beginners and intermediate players. One of the factors that attracted me the most was its UV protection graphics. It is the best pickleball gift for intermediate players.

This best paddle for spin is available in multiple colors for under 100 USD. It has a 14 mm core and a reactive fiberglass material with UV protection graphics, making it the most long-lasting paddle online.

In addition, the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players under $100 have a standard grip type with an adhesive material that absorbs moisture from your hand. Another highlighted characteristic is that it is Noise approved by pickleball communities. Various components play a significant role in maintaining balance during the game to prevent injuries.

Summary

Though this has many benefits, it is comparatively less durable than other expensive paddles. It is an excellent option for intermediate players looking for a paddle under 100 USD.

10. ONIX Graphite Z5 Paddle

ONIX Pickleball Paddle has always been my favorite paddle for intermediate players. This is available in different colors with varying prices. When I was new at pickleball, I encountered these paddles on one of the courts. I borrowed these paddles and played one of my matches with them. These paddles have been my favorite since then.

They are available in one standard size with a grip of around 4 ¼ inches. As clear enough from its name, this has a carbon fiber material and a graphite shaft. With a weight of 0.51 lbs, it is one of the best paddles for beginners and intermediate players.

Though it is ideal for beginner players, its advanced characteristics also make it perfect for intermediate players. The handle shape resembles a tennis racket and offers maximum control during the match.

Onix z5 paddle contains an edge guard that protects the paddles against ground shots. Hence, the edge guard prevents your equipment from scratches and other damages. Its ideal medium weight maintains balance throughout the game.

Summary

Unlike other pickleball paddles, the surface is less rough. This surface can cause enough spin to improve the accuracy of your shots, but advanced paddles have a rough texture to increase grip and control.

Buying Guide

Material

Material plays a significant role in the performance of sports equipment. The same is the case with pickleball paddles. No matter your level in the game, you must use a premium-quality paddle.

Pickleball paddles come in different materials, but I prefer using paddles with carbon fiber, fiberglass, and graphite material because all these materials significantly enhance your paddle’s performance and make it long-lasting.

Surface

By reading the above guide, you must discover that various pickleball paddles are available on different surfaces. Some have a soft and less rough texture, while others have a rough texture to increase grip and enhance the player’s equipment control.

I prefer using a pickleball paddle with a rough texture and soft feel because such paddles play a key role in enhancing your performance to a great extent.

Skill Level

As I mentioned in the article, many paddles are available. Now, the question is, which one suits your performance the best? Pickleball paddles have three divisions based on skill levels: beginners, intermediate, and professional.

Being an intermediate player, you should prefer using a paddle with a large sweet spot because it reduces impact and increases forgiveness, providing a large surface area for the player to hit the ball more effortlessly. Hence, you must consider purchasing a paddle according to your pickleball skill level.

Price

Sports equipment costs more than others. The same is the case with pickleball paddles because their prices vary according to their quality, features, and skill types. An intermediate pickleball player should not cost more than 150 USD.

Premium quality paddles cost around 150 USD, while most have reasonable prices and cost around 60 to 70 USD. In short, compare the price range of several paddles and choose the best paddle according to your requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Pick A Pickleball Paddle For An Intermediate Player?

When choosing an intermediate pickleball paddle, invest your money in a paddle with a large sweet spot, rigid and rough surface, and high-quality material.

Is A Heavier Or Lighter Pickleball Paddle Better?

Heavier pickleball paddles can be challenging to handle in long matches, while lightweight paddles are reliable because they are easy to handle and maintain control.

Conclusion

The above guide contains a detailed review of the best pickleball paddles for intermediate players and their buying guide. Read the above guide to explore the features. The following three paddles are my top favorite items from the above list.

• SLK Evo Paddle has a comfortable grip.
• Paddletek Phoenix Genesis Pro Paddle has a large sweet spot.
• TMPR Sports GXT Series Paddle has different weight options.

 

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