Are you new to pickleball?

People of all ages can enjoy the entertaining and frantic game of pickleball. If you're just getting started, it's crucial to select the appropriate pickleball paddle for your level of expertise.

We'll look at some of the best beginner pickleball paddles in our in-depth assessment. We'll go through the characteristics of each paddle and assist you in selecting the one that's best for you!

Read on to find the best one for you!

How We Choose the Best

It can be tough to know which beginner's pickleball paddle is the best for your needs when you’re just starting out.

It can be difficult to decide which paddle is best for you with the variety available on the market. Additionally, if you choose the incorrect paddle, you might not have as much fun playing as you could.

We take into account the following characteristics when assessing paddles for beginners: weight, grip size, face design and materials used. We considered a variety of manufacturers' picks, as well as user reviews and opinions in our assessment.

We've got your back. After reading through thousands of reviews on Amazon, we've found the best pickleball paddles that beginners should consider. Our research has included four important areas that you need to be aware of in which to make an informed purchase decision.

Weight

The majority of seasoned pickleball players concur that the weight of a paddle is the most crucial aspect to take into account when choosing a beginner pickleball paddle. Paddle weights will usually fall between 6 and 14 ounces.

The weight allows you to increase your shot power. The heavier the weight, the more power and less control it has. This also means lighter pickleball paddle weight brings less power, but more control and touch.

Grip Size

The grip circumference should be considered before making a beginner paddle purchase.

Not using the proper grip when playing might affect your stroke and perhaps result in tennis elbow or a sore arm, especially after playing for a while.

It's crucial to choose a paddle with a grip that fits your hand size if you want to be sure that you are ready to perform at your peak level. A smaller grip will give you more wrist action and, therefore, more spin on the ball and better control. Larger grips increase stroke stability and ease wrist strain, elbow strain, and shoulder strain.

You can always increase the pickleball paddle grip size of your paddle with an overgrip, but you can't decrease the grip size. It's best to get the correct size to begin with.

Paddle Core Material

Your paddle's core material is another important thing to consider when selecting your paddle. The three most common cores are Nomex honeycomb, aluminum, and polymer. But, don't forget a wooden paddle, as the whole paddle is the core material.

Paddles of Nomex construction are the hardest and loudest, providing more power. Aluminum paddles are generally lighter, providing less power but better control. Polymer paddles are softer and quieter, and they provide good power with good control. Wooden paddles are heavier, but a great option for beginners because of their low cost and a beginner's lack of "feel" for a paddle when playing.

Face Design

For starters, you should opt for a paddle with a textured surface. This will help you spin and control the ball better compared to paddles without any texture or pattern on their faces.

So...

We've done some careful research for you and come up with five top picks for beginner pickleball players. Each paddle has its own unique characteristics, and all of them offer exceptional quality, durability, and performance.

No matter which option you choose, we can guarantee that you'll love pickleball even more after playing with one of these paddles.

Good luck and have fun on the court!

Here Are Our Picks...

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We hope the list below helps you discover the item missing from your bucket list! Our editors independently picked each item. If you choose to purchase something after clicking on one of the links on this page, RatifiedReviews may receive a share of the proceeds (this is how we stay in business and make a living). Reviews have been condensed and made more concise. Have fun filling your bucket!As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle

Perfect for Competition and Recreation

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Why It's On Our List

The Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle is made with revolutionary new technology, combining a fiberglass face with a polypropylene X5 Core. This unique design delivers power and control with unvarying consistency, making it the perfect paddle for both competitive and recreational players alike.

Whether you're just getting started in the game or are looking for a paddle that can keep up with your skills as you improve, the Selkirk Amped Paddle is the ideal choice.

Other Useful Information

The Selkirk Amped Pickleball Paddle is made with a fiberglass face and a polypropylene X5 core, delivering power and control. Tested and approved by the USAPA for tournament pickleball play, this sweet spot-optimized paddle provides exceptional ball spin and torque suppression.

The length of the handle has been extended for added reach, while the flared shape of the handle provides ample surface area for a comfortable grip. Overall, the Selkirk Amped is an excellent choice for those who are serious about pickleball.

ONIX Graphite Z5

Best for Controlling Your Shots

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Why It's On Our List

The Onix Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is the perfect choice for players who want outstanding touch and ball control. The graphite face and nomex core give players a superior feel of the ball, making it easy to control your shots.

With its excellent performance and impressive durability, the Onix Graphite Z5 is the perfect choice for pickleball players who want a high-quality paddle that will help them improve their game.

Other Useful Information

Onix is one of the leading manufacturers of pickleball paddles, and the Graphite Z5 is their most popular model. The graphite face and Nomex honeycomb core provide excellent ball control and a sweet spot that is larger than most other paddles on the market.

In addition, the paddle's length and weight provide a perfect balance between power and control. The handle is designed to reduce wrist fatigue, and the torque suppression system helps to minimize ball spin. Overall, the Onix Graphite Z5 is an outstanding paddle that provides everything players need to take their game to the next level.

Thanks to its superior performance, it's no wonder that this paddle is so popular among pickleball enthusiasts.

Head Radical Elite

Best for Durability & Power

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Why It's On Our List

If you're looking for a paddle that provides great power and playability, the HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is a great choice. Featuring the Dynamic Power Shape for a large sweet spot, the Radical Elite provides excellent control and accuracy.

The thicker OTC honeycomb core adds to the paddle's durability, making it ideal for intense games. The Ergo grip ensures comfortable and precise handling, while the fiberglass surface provides superior power and ball control. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Radical Elite is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-performance paddle.

Other Useful Information

The Radical Elite is a great choice for beginners and advanced players alike. The sweet spot is large, and the handle is short, making it easier to control the ball. The ball spin is also good, making it easier to keep the ball in play.

The torque is low, meaning that the racket won't twist in your hand when you hit the ball. The surface area is also large, making it easier to hit the sweet spot. And the weight is just right, making it easy to swing the racket without feeling fatigued.

The new Radical color looks great, and the smooth fiberglass surface is lightweight and extremely durable. So if you're looking for a great all-around racket, the Radical Elite is a great choice.

Niupipo Pickleball Paddle

Best for Small Hands, Power, & Control

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Why It's On Our List

Looking for a high-quality beginner pickleball paddle that won't break the bank? Look no further than the Niupipo Pickleball Paddle.

This USAPA-approved paddle is made with a fiberglass face and protective cover, making it durable and built to last. The polypropylene honeycomb core provides excellent power and control, while the ultra cushion ensures a comfortable grip. And at just 4.5 inches wide, it's one of the most lightweight and maneuverable paddles on the market.

So whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, the Niupipo Pickleball Paddle is sure to take your game to the next level. Give it a try today and see for yourself!

Other Useful Information

If you're looking for a high-quality pickleball paddle, you can't go wrong with the Niupipo Pickleball Paddle. It's USAPA approved and features a fiberglass face, a protective cover, and an ultra-cushioned grip.

The paddle is also made with a polypropylene honeycomb core, which makes it lightweight and durable. The 4.5-inch grip size is perfect for small hands, and the carbon fiber frame provides excellent ball spin and control. With its 8.1-ounce weight, the Niupipo Pickleball Paddle is perfect for players who want a light paddle that still has a large sweet spot.

Thanks to its length and handle design, the paddle also provides plenty of torque and surface area, making it one of the best-performing paddles on the market. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, you'll be able to enjoy hours of pickleball fun with the Niupipo Pickleball Paddle.

SLK Evo Hybrid

Longer & Wider Sweetspot

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Why It's On Our List

Looking for a paddle that provides power and control? Look no further than the SLK Evo Hybrid Paddle. With a C6-Flex Power Fiberglass Face, this paddle is perfect for beginner to advanced players. Plus, it provides an unmatched performance so you can take your game to the next level. So why wait? Pick up an SLK Evo Hybrid Paddle today and start dominating the court!

Other Useful Information

If you're looking for a paddle that provides power and control, the SLK Evo Hybrid Paddle, which is USAPA tested and approved for tournament play, is a great option.

The C6-Flex Power Fiberglass Face provides a sweet spot that is longer and wider than other paddles on the market, making it easier to hit the ball with spin and power. The handle is also longer, providing more leverage for when you need to put some extra torque on the ball. And at just 7.9 ounces, it's one of the lightest paddles on the market, making it easier to swing without sacrificing surface area or weight.

So if you're looking for a paddle that can give you the best of both worlds, the SLK Evo Hybrid Paddle is a great choice.

FAQs for The Best Pickleball Paddle for Beginners

You're new to pickleball, so you have a lot of questions about the best paddle for beginners.

It can be tough to know which paddle is right for you when you're just starting out. Do you need a lightweight paddle? A composite paddle? What about a graphite or aluminum one?

Here, we've identified some of the most frequently asked questions about pickleball paddles to help you get more information.

What is the best pickleball paddle for beginners?

There are a lot of different pickleball paddles on the market, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. If you're just starting out, I would recommend going with a basic paddle that's not too expensive. You don't need all the bells and whistles yet, and you can always upgrade later if you decide pickleball is something you want to stick with.

That being said, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your first paddle. First, consider the weight and size of the paddle. You want something that feels comfortable in your hand and isn't too heavy or bulky.

Second, think about the grip. Most beginners prefer a rubber grip because it offers more control and accuracy.

Finally, take a look at the material used in the paddle's construction. Composite pickleball paddle materials are usually the best option for beginners because they offer great performance without being too expensive.

Is it important to have an edge guard on a pickleball paddle?

An edge guard is not necessary on a pickleball paddle, but it can help to protect the edge of the paddle from wear and tear. Ultimately, it's up to the player to decide whether or not they want to use an edge guard.

What pickleball paddle has a large sweet spot?

There are a number of pickleball paddles on the market that boast a large sweet spot. However, many experts agree that there is no one paddle that reigns supreme in this category. Instead, it's important to find the paddle that feels best in your hand and suits your playing style.

What is the most important factor when picking a pickleball paddle?

The most important factor when picking a pickleball paddle is the weight of the paddle. A heavier paddle will provide more power, while a lighter paddle will provide more control. Other factors to consider are the size of the grip and the length of the paddle.

How do I pick my first pickleball paddle?

Picking the right paddle is important, as it can make all the difference between enjoying the game and hating it. When choosing a paddle, you'll need to consider its weight, grip size, and surface texture.

Heavier paddles will offer more power but less speed, while lighter paddles will provide more speed but less power. Grip size is important because if it's too small or too large, your hand could become tired quickly or you may not be able to control the paddle as well. Surface texture affects how much spin you can put on the ball.

So when picking your first pickleball paddle, think about what sort of player you are and what type of shots you want to be able to play.

Is a heavier or lighter pickleball paddle better?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on personal preferences. Some people prefer a heavier paddle for more power, while others prefer a lighter paddle for greater speed and maneuverability. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide what feels best in their hands.

Do I want a lightweight or midweight pickleball paddle?

A midweight pickleball paddle is a good choice for most people because it provides more power and stability than a lightweight paddle but is still easy to maneuver.

If you are new to the game, or if you have problems with your arm or shoulder, then a lightweight paddle may be a better choice for you. A lighter-weight paddle will help you avoid fatigue and allow you to play longer without feeling tired.

When playing doubles, many players choose to use a lightweight paddle. Most players will choose a midweight paddle for singles.

Are graphite or composite pickleball paddles better?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as both graphite and composite pickleball paddles have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Graphite paddles are generally considered to be faster but less durable than composite paddles, and graphite paddles are usually more expensive.

Composite paddles, on the other hand, are known for their durability but can be a bit slower than graphite paddles. Ultimately, it is up to the individual player to decide which paddle type works best for them.

What's the difference between fiberglass and graphite pickleball paddles?

The main difference between fiberglass and graphite pickleball paddles is that fiberglass paddles tend to be a bit stiffer, whereas graphite paddles are more flexible. This makes graphite paddles better for generating more power, whereas fiberglass paddles are better for controlling the ball.

Are elongated pickleball paddles better?

It depends on your playing style.

If you're someone who likes to play a more aggressive game and put a lot of spin on the ball, then an elongated paddle might be a good choice for you. However, if you prefer a more defensive style of play or like to keep the ball in play more, a traditional paddle might be better suited for your needs.

Ultimately, it's up to you to experiment with different paddles and see which one gives you the best results.

How often should you replace your pickleball paddle?

There is no set answer, as everyone's playing style and paddle use will be different. However, a good rule of thumb is to replace your paddle every year or two, especially if you play frequently.

Over time, the paddle's surface will wear down, and it won't produce the same level of spin or power as it did when it was new. It can also be helpful to replace your paddle after a bad fall or collision; this way, you're sure that the paddle is still in good condition to provide top performance.

Are wooden pickleball paddles good?

Yes, wooden paddles are good. Wood is a natural material that is easily renewable and environmentally friendly. It also has a good texture for gripping and feels good in the hand. Wooden paddles typically have a slower rebound than other materials, making them ideal for beginners.

Here's Our Best Advice

So, there you have it! The best pickleball paddles for beginners according to customer reviews on Amazon. We hope this guide was helpful in your search for the perfect paddle.

As a beginner, you can’t go wrong with any of these paddles – they’re all great options to get started with pickleball.

If you’re still undecided, we recommend tapping the button at the bottom of our picks to check the prices on the top-rated products from our list and read more reviews from Amazon customers.

Thanks for reading, and happy shopping!

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