How to Choose the Best Pickleball Paddle for Your Playing Style
Find Your Perfect Pickleball Paddle Match
Every pickleball player has their own “signature style.” Some blast the ball like they’re swinging for the fences, while others thrive on finesse and dinking battles. And then there are the crafty players who don’t rely on raw power at all; they simply outthink everyone on the court.
The paddle you use should complement your strengths and help smooth out your weaknesses. With so many options on the market, it can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’re breaking it down so you can choose the best pickleball paddle for your unique style of play.
Best Pickleball Paddle for Power Players
If you love to smash overheads, drive hard serves, and hit winners past your opponents, you’re a power player. Your game is built on speed and aggression, so your paddle should support that.
What to look for in a paddle:
- Weight: Medium-to-heavy (around 8.0–8.5 oz) for more momentum and pop.
- Core: Polymer cores with carbon fiber or fiberglass faces maximize power.
- Shape: Elongated paddles provide extra leverage and reach.
💡 Pro Tip: A power-focused paddle can sometimes make touch shots tricky. Practice slowing down your hands at the net to keep volleys controlled.
Engage Pursuit Pro1 6.0 Pickleball Paddle
The Engage Pursuit Pro1 6.0 is built for raw power. Its carbon fiber construction gives you explosive drives and overheads while still offering control at the net.
Best Pickleball Paddle for Soft-Game Specialists
Soft-game players shine at the kitchen line. You’re all about dinks, drops, and resets, using precision to frustrate and outmaneuver opponents. Your ideal paddle isn’t about brute force; it’s about control.
What to look for in a paddle:
- Weight: Light to medium (7.5–8.0 oz) for quicker hands at the net.
- Core: Thick polymer cores absorb shock and give you a softer touch.
- Face: Textured graphite helps “grab” the ball for extra spin and placement.
💡 Pro Tip: A softer paddle helps you keep the ball in play longer, but you may sacrifice a little on drives. That’s okay, your finesse is what wins rallies.
Friday Pickleball Paddle
The Friday Pickleball Paddle is designed for precision players. Its thermoformed honeycomb core softens every touch, making it perfect for controlled dinks, resets, and drop shots.
Best All-Around Pickleball Paddle for Balanced Players
Some players don’t fit neatly into a single category. Maybe you like driving the ball when the opportunity is there, but you’re equally comfortable working the soft game. If you’re a “do it all” type, your paddle should give you a little bit of both.
What to look for in a paddle:
- Weight: Mid-range (around 7.8–8.2 oz) for a mix of power and control.
- Core: Hybrid polymer cores strike a balance between pop and softness.
- Face: Graphite for control, or fiberglass for a touch more punch.
💡 Pro Tip: Test a few options before committing. Balanced players benefit from demoing different paddles to see which side of their game they want to emphasize most.
ONIX MOD Z5 Graphite Pickleball Paddle
The ONIX MOD Z5 Graphite paddle is a fan favorite for all-around performance. It’s lightweight, responsive, and versatile enough to give you a solid balance of control and pop.
Best Pickleball Paddle for Beginners
If you’re new to pickleball, you don’t need the flashiest paddle on the market. You need something forgiving, comfortable, and versatile enough to let you explore your style.
What to look for in a paddle:
- Weight: Midweight (7.6–8.0 oz) to give both control and stability.
- Core: Polymer cores are great for reducing vibration and easing arm strain.
- Face: Composite paddles (a mix of materials) offer durability and consistency.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overthink it, your first paddle doesn’t have to be perfect. Start with a solid, beginner-friendly paddle, then upgrade once you know your game.
JOOLA Beacon Pickleball Paddle
The JOOLA Beacon is an excellent starter paddle. It’s lightweight, easy to maneuver, and built to give beginners a forgiving experience while they learn the ropes.
Best Pickleball Paddle for the Strategic Player
Some players don’t win with speed or strength; they win with brains. If you’re the type who studies opponents, sets traps, and wins with placement, you need a paddle that gives you maximum control and spin.
What to look for in a paddle:
- Weight: Midweight for stability but not too heavy.
- Core: Thicker polymer cores to soften shots and stay precise.
- Face: Gritty graphite or carbon fiber for maximum spin potential.
💡 Pro Tip: A control-focused paddle pairs perfectly with your ability to predict and redirect the ball. You’ll be able to place shots exactly where your opponent doesn’t want them.
Selkirk LUXX Control Pickleball Paddle
The Selkirk LUXX Control was made for thinkers on the court. Its thick polypropylene core and gritty face surface give you unmatched spin and placement to outsmart opponents.
Quick Pickleball Paddle Comparison
|
Player Type |
Ideal Paddle Weight |
Best Core |
Best Face |
Example Paddle |
|
Power Player |
8.0–8.5 oz |
Polymer |
Carbon/Fiberglass |
Engage Pursuit Pro1 6.0 |
|
Soft-Game Player |
7.5–8.0 oz |
Thick Polymer |
Graphite |
Friday Pickleball Paddle |
|
Balanced Player |
7.8–8.2 oz |
Hybrid |
Graphite/Fiberglass |
ONIX MOD Z5 Graphite |
|
Beginner |
7.6–8.0 oz |
Polymer |
Composite |
JOOLA Beacon |
|
Strategic Player |
7.8–8.2 oz |
Thick Polymer |
Gritty Graphite |
Selkirk LUXX Control |
Play Your Style
The best pickleball paddle isn’t about chasing trends; it’s about finding the tool that works for you. Whether you’re a hard-hitting power player, a soft-touch specialist, or a cerebral strategist, the right paddle should feel like an extension of your game.
👉 Ready to find your perfect match? Explore these top-rated paddles and see which one fits your style best.
