Top 5 Features to Look for in a Pickleball Paddle

When I started playing pickleball, choosing a paddle felt overwhelming. But after testing (and sometimes regretting) several, I’ve figured out the key features you need to look for. Let’s break it down.

1. Weight

• Why It Matters: Paddle weight affects your control and power. Lighter paddles are easier to maneuver but sacrifice power, while heavier paddles pack a punch but can tire your arm.
• Sweet Spot: Beginners often benefit from a mid-weight paddle (7.5 – 8.0 ounces).

2. Grip Size

• Why It Matters: If your grip doesn’t fit your hand, you’ll struggle with control and might even hurt your wrist.
• Pro Tip: Measure your hand from the tip of your ring finger to the middle crease of your palm for the best fit.

3. Paddle Material

• Options:
  • Wood: Budget-friendly but heavy.
  • Composite: Offers great control and spin.
  • Graphite: Lightweight and powerful but pricier.

4. Sweet Spot

• What It Is: The area on the paddle face that delivers the best shot.
• Look For: Larger sweet spots for more forgiveness.

5. Edge Guard or Edgeless?

• Edge Guard: Protects the paddle but can reduce the hitting surface.
• Edgeless: Gives you more room to play but is less durable.

My Paddle Recommendations

• Best for Beginners: Selkirk Latitude Widebody Paddle. Affordable and beginner-friendly. Shop it here.

SLK Latitude Pickleball Paddle | Graphite Features G4 Face with P…

• 【 G4 CONTROL GRAPHITE FACE】 Built to deliver ultimate control, our SLK Latitude recreational paddle features a G4 graphi…
• 【POLYMER REV-CORE 】 Reliable and proven technology paired with the G4 Graphite face gives you a consistent hit and feel …
• 【 LIGHTWEIGHT PICKLEBALL PADDLES】 Only 8.0 to 8.4 OZ, this lightweight Pickleball paddle allows players to have quicker …

Buy on Amazon

• Top Pick for Pros: JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion. Advanced features for competitive players. Check it out.

JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS Pickleball Paddle – Carbon Surface w…

• OFFICIAL PADDLE SPONSOR OF WORLD #1 PICKLEBALL PLAYER BEN JOHNS & THE PPA TOUR: An innovator & global leader in table te…
• BEN JOHNS SIGNATURE PICKLEBALL PADDLE: JOOLA collaborated closely with the world’s #1 player to design his new picklebal…
• CARBON FRICTION SURFACE (CFS) IS THE NEXT BEST THING FOR SPIN: JOOLA’s CFS technology utilizes a more advanced, durable,…

$159.95

Buy on Amazon

Final Thoughts

The perfect paddle feels like an extension of your arm. Try different paddles if you can, and don’t shy away from asking other players for recommendations. You’ll find your match in no time!

Check out this YouTube video: “The BASICS to Pickleball Paddle Care” to learn how to maintain and care for your paddle properly to make it last.

For additional resources on gameplay techniques, buying guides, and product reviews and everything related to pickleball, be sure to check out our site.