Are There Significant Differences Among Pickleball Paddles?

Fiberglass, graphite, carbon fiber—pickleball paddles are made with different materials that perform a bit differently in the midst of play. Beginner-to-intermediate paddles are usually made with fiberglass, while intermediate-to-advanced paddles are made with carbon fiber and graphite.

Is it better to have a lighter or heavier pickleball paddle?

A lighter paddle gives you more control but less drive. Conversely, a heavier paddle gives you less control but more power and drive. Perhaps most importantly, a heavier paddle can cause elbow strain and fatigue in your arm. You may want to start with a paddle that is not too heavy until you build up more strength.

What type of pickleball paddle is best for beginners?

The Halo line of paddles with T700 Raw Carbon is the paddle of choice for beginner to Pro level Pickleball players alike, who are looking for optimal spin and control in their paddle. This is the paddle of choice for several pro players including Parris Todd.

What shape pickleball paddle is best?

Wide Body — this is the most popular pickleball paddle shape and has a generous sweet spot. Oversized — Smaller, but has a more powerful sweet spot. Tear Drop — balanced, and comparable to racquet sport paddles. Standard — longer handle, more torque. Impact — increases reach and maximizes baseline power.

Do expensive pickleball paddles make a difference?

Typically, the cheapest paddles are wooden, and the most expensive are graphite. The effect and experience of overall performance are affected. If your budget allows for it, try to avoid purchasing a wooden pickleball paddle as they are clumsy and offer less benefit than the graphite and composite types.

Is graphite or wood better for pickleball paddles?

A paddle surface that is made from graphite is durable and powerful, so you will have an easier time hitting the ball. Graphite paddles are ultra-light and ultra-stiff. Players looking for control and more energy to get the ball across the net prefer graphite pickleball paddles.

What is the most popular pickleball paddle brand?

Selkirk Sport is the leading high-performance Pickleball paddle brand backed by the Pros.

Is carbon fiber or graphite better for pickleball?

Carbon fiber is incredibly stiff. And this stiffness makes carbon fiber the ultimate material for the facings of pickleball paddles because it gives you incredible control over where your ball goes.

Can a pickleball paddle be too light?

A light weight paddle will require you to put significant energy, swing and momentum into each contact with the ball, and there is less mass in the paddle to absorb energy and vibration. Players who use lighter paddles need to swing harder to put energy into their shots, putting more pressure on their joints.

How much should I pay for pickleball paddle?

The price is majorly dependent on the type of material used to make the paddle. Wooden pickleball paddles cost between $15 and $35. To get composite pickleball paddles, you will spend between $40 and $100. Graphite pickleball paddles cost between $90 and $200.